The technology powering Britain’s blueberry boom as growers invest to meet soaring demand

British blueberry growers are enjoying a strong season, with advanced technology helping them meet growing consumer demand for larger, flavourful berries.

From drones and precision growing techniques to AI-powered optical grading systems, blueberries have become one of the UK’s most technologically advanced crops. Drones are being used to protect crops from extreme summer heat, while optical graders photograph each berry multiple times after picking to ensure consistent quality.

Nick Marston, Chair of British Berry Growers, which represents 95% of UK soft fruit growers, said: “Blueberries have quietly become one of Britain’s smartest crops. Behind every punnet is extensive innovation, from precision breeding and drone technology to optical grading systems that inspect every berry before it reaches consumers.”

British Berry Growers reports strong growth in the category, with blueberry sales up 73% compared with the same point last year (week 27). Overall sales are up 27% year on year, while UK blueberry production has increased by 40% over the past five years.

At WB Chambers, one of the UK’s leading blueberry growers, every berry is handpicked before passing through AI-powered grading lines that assess colour, size, shape and quality in fractions of a second.

The business now grows 100% of its blueberry crop under polytunnels, using drones to apply a protective whitewash coating that helps regulate temperatures and maintain fruit quality during hot weather.

George Beedell, Head of Business Development at WB Chambers, said: “Technology plays a huge role in helping us grow the very best British blueberries. Polytunnels protect the crop early and late in the season, while drones help manage temperatures during hot weather. Combined with optical grading systems that inspect every berry, these innovations help us deliver consistently sweet, high-quality fruit.”

Blueberries require around 30% more heat and light than strawberries to produce fruit, making protected growing increasingly important. This year’s combination of cooler spring temperatures, warm days and cool nights has created ideal conditions for flavour development.

George added: “Everything is coming together for a great British blueberry season. The slow, steady spring weather has helped build sugar and flavour in the fruit, and we’re expecting excellent size and quality this year.”