Exploratory mission for Dutch organic products to the United Kingdom

Exploratory mission for Dutch organic products to the United Kingdom

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From 11 to 14 May 2025, Phaff Export Marketing organized an exploratory mission to London on behalf of and in cooperation with the LVVN Council for the United Kingdom. The mission was aimed at Dutch companies, research institutes, and organisations active in the organic sector, with a focus on fresh produce, dairy, meat, poultry, and processed products.

A key part of the program was a visit to the Natural and Organic Products Expo (NOPEX) in London.

UK organic market: an opportunity for Dutch companies

The Dutch Organic Action Plan aims for strong growth: from 4% organic farmland in 2023 to 15% in 2030. To achieve this, it’s essential to better understand the demand for organic products in nearby markets, such as the United Kingdom.

To map this demand, the Dutch Embassy in London commissioned a market study in 2024, carried out by Promar International. The study confirms that the UK is an important market for sustainable products, with clear opportunities for organic fresh produce, dairy, and meat. UK retailers and foodservice companies still depend heavily on imports and are looking for reliable partners for their organic assortment.

Now is the time for Dutch exporters to respond strategically to this trend and strengthen their position in the UK market.

The mission gave participants the opportunity to explore the UK market up close, gain insights into regulations and market access, and connect with potential partners.

Target group

This mission was aimed at Dutch companies and organisations working in the organic sector. Although the focus was on fresh produce, dairy, meat, and processed products, companies in other relevant segments were also welcome to join.

Why participate?

By joining this exploratory mission, participants: 

  • Gained insights into market opportunities, regulations, and key developments in the UK organic sector.

  • Met important local organizations and stakeholders.

  • Built valuable contacts with potential partners.

  • Networked with other Dutch entrepreneurs active in the UK market.

  • Visited the Natural and Organic Products Expo (NOPEX).

Program

The program took place in and around London and included:

  • A visit to NOPEX.
  • A retail tour introducing organic products in UK supermarkets.
  • Thematic sessions with sector experts.
  • A networking event with relevant stakeholders.
  • Field visits to organic farms or markets. 

Participants

The mission was organised on a small scale, with space for a minimum of 8 and a maximum of 15 organisations. One participant per organisation was preferred; a second participant was possible depending on availability.

After the registration deadline, participants were selected based on their fit with the mission's goal.

Online information session

About 2.5 weeks before departure, an online briefing was held. During this session, the program, objectives, and expected outcomes were explained, and Promar International presented the main findings of the market study. 

Organizers

This Exploratory Mission was organised by Phaff on behalf of and in cooperation with the LVVN Council for the United Kingdom. The msision was  supported by Promar International, who shared valuable market insights and expertise on the UK organic sector.

Want to know more?

Please do not hesitate to contact Agnes Huetink (agnes@phaff.com) if you have any questions or would like to receive the full market report.