The Turfgrass Growers Association (TGA) has issued a warning about rising turf prices in 2025, citing increasing operational costs and persistent weather challenges. Representing 50 companies responsible for producing around 70% of the cultivated turf in the British Isles, the TGA urges stakeholders to prepare for continued price volatility.
Mounting Pressures Driving Price Increases
Over the past few years, turf growers have faced escalating costs due to extreme weather patterns and rising expenses. 2024 was particularly challenging, with prolonged wet conditions, heightened disease management requirements, and the lingering impact of the previous winter’s adverse weather. These factors have significantly driven up the cost of turf production, affecting the entire supply chain.
Adding to these challenges, the UK government’s recent changes to National Insurance contributions, effective from April 2024, have further strained the industry. Employers’ contributions have increased from 13.8% to 15%, while the threshold for employer contributions has dropped from £9,100 to £5,000. As a labor-intensive sector, turfgrass production is heavily impacted by these rising payroll costs.
Expert Insights: Industry Concerns & Adjustments
Richard Owens, Chair of the TGA, emphasized the growing financial strain on turf producers:
“2024 was another particularly challenging year for the turfgrass industry. Alongside continued weather-related disruptions and increasing operational costs, government-mandated fiscal changes are adding further pressures. Price adjustments are essential to ensure the industry’s viability and ability to meet future demand.”
The anticipated price rises for 2025 build upon the challenges highlighted at the start of 2024, when the TGA had already warned of price increases due to extreme weather conditions, rising fertilizer and fuel costs, and supply chain disruptions.
The Role of Climate Change in Turf Production
Climate change has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of the turf industry. Frequent extreme weather events, from prolonged rainfall to unexpected dry spells, have created unpredictable growing conditions. Turf growers have had to invest in enhanced irrigation systems, advanced disease management strategies, and more resilient turf varieties, all of which contribute to increasing costs.
How the Industry is Responding
Despite these challenges, the TGA remains committed to supporting its members by:
- Promoting best practices to improve efficiency and sustainability.
- Advocating for industry needs at both local and national levels.
- Exploring innovative solutions to mitigate financial and environmental pressures.
While the industry seeks to navigate these difficulties, stakeholders—including landscapers, sports facilities, and property developers—are urged to anticipate cost fluctuations and plan accordingly for upcoming projects.
Looking Ahead: What Turf Buyers Should Expect
With economic pressures mounting and climate concerns intensifying, turf buyers should prepare for:
- Higher prices across all types of cultivated turf.
- Potential supply chain disruptions due to unpredictable growing conditions.
- The need for long-term planning and budgeting adjustments.
The TGA’s warning serves as a crucial reminder of the pressures facing the UK’s turf industry. As production costs continue to rise, industry players must adapt to the changing landscape. Buyers and stakeholders should remain informed and proactive in their planning to mitigate the impact of price increases in 2025.
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