New Forest Fruit Co. Ltd. on the 23rd September 2015,

‘Twelve members attended our visit to the New Forest Fruit Co. Ltd. on the 23rd September 2015, who are specialist fruit growers situated at Newhouse Farm, East Boldre.

Sandy Booth, the Managing Director, gave us a detailed account of his business, specialising in strawberries and blueberries.

The Company on site, grow, pack and distribute 2,100 tonnes of fruit per annum, to UK supermarkets over an 8th month period of the year. We had a conducted tour of the glasshouses and polytunnels where the strawberries are grown over the seasons. We were also shown other fruits the Company produces.

Employing over 300 workers plus supervising staff, of varying nationalities, the Company trains its staff in their native tongue and provides full accommodation and are paid good money and bonuses.

We all tasted ten varieties of strawberry, produced on the farm and were all treated to a sample punnet to take home.

All in all, a very educational and interesting afternoon.’
Diane & Frank
Visit arranged by Ann