Rooted in Suffolk’s rich agricultural heritage, the Boxford Group stands as a testament to resilience and adaptability in the face of modern challenges. A family-owned business since its inception by founder Devora Peake in 1938, the Boxford Group has grown from an 120-acre apple farm to a multifaceted enterprise, encompassing fruit farming, energy production, and hospitality.
In early 2024, Susanna Rendall, the Group Managing Director, shared valuable insights into the diverse activities and successes of the Boxford Group.
The Boxford Group’s operations
The Boxford Group kicks off its agricultural season in March with asparagus, followed by strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and cherries through the summer season, and concluding with apples in the autumn. This extensive fruit-growing operation is supported by a robust packing division that markets produce for both Boxford and other local growers.
Recently, the Boxford Group launched a sustainable energy supply, converting its by-products into electricity to support all areas of the business.
© Boxford Group
Another significant sector of the business is its hospitality services at Stoke by Nayland, which include a luxury resort featuring a hotel, two golf courses, and various lodges.
Facing Recent challenges: Brexit and Covid-19
The past few years have been particularly challenging for the Boxford Group, marked by the disruptions of Brexit and COVID-19.
Susanna spoke of the immediate aftermath of Brexit, which saw a significant portion of their European workforce leaving the business. This was particularly difficult during the harvest season which is dependent on the influx of seasonal workers from Europe. The hospitality sector faced similar challenges throughout the pandemic, with multiple lockdowns making it difficult to retain staff, many of whom were furloughed.
Despite these challenges, the Boxford Group has demonstrated remarkable resilience. With support from the Suffolk Chamber, the Boxford Group were invited to strategic meetings to influence policy decisions. It also allowed the company to meet other businesses facing similar issues, encouraging greater collective work on common issues.
Susanna spoke of her role on a select committee which presented to MPs on the introduction of a seasonal agricultural workers scheme. The scheme has since been introduced to support seasonal workers from Europe into the UK, and has recently been extended in its operations until 2029.
This advocacy, combined with strategic shifts in their hospitality business to attract more leisure visitors, has been crucial in navigating the uncertain landscape post-Brexit and during the pandemic.
Resilience and Innovation into the future
A key factor in Boxford Group’s enduring success is the diversified nature of the business. The integration of fruit farming, energy production, and hospitality has provided a buffer against sector-specific downturns. During the pandemic, while the hospitality sector struggled, the fruit farming operations continued to provide essential support. Conversely, the hospitality sector is now helping to offset challenges faced by the agricultural side due to rising employment costs and energy prices.
Innovation has also played a vital role in Boxford’s resilience. By developing their own energy solutions from agricultural by-products, they have managed to reduce costs and increase sustainability. Their commitment to reducing pesticide use through natural predators – one of the only fruit growers in the country to do so – and using fertilisers created from their energy operations further underscores their forward-thinking approach.
As Boxford Group looks to the future, the company remains cautiously optimistic. The family’s deep-rooted commitment to the business and their innovative spirit continue to drive Boxford Group forward, making it a shining example of Suffolk’s vibrant and resilient business community.
© Boxford Group
With thanks to Susanna Rendall for sharing the Boxford Group’s story with the Suffolk Chamber’s C140 project—honouring 140 years, shaping tomorrow, and celebrating diversity.
