In a sunlit field tucked away in rural England, young volunteers plant rows of pesticide-free carrots, their laughter mixing with birdsong and the rustle of wind through hedgerows. This tranquil scene, once a niche curiosity, now mirrors a national movement—one that’s growing deeper roots each year.
According to the Soil Association’s latest Organic Market Report 2025, the UK organic food and drink market has blossomed to an all-time high, reaching £3.7 billion in sales—doubling in size over the past decade. It’s more than just a spike in spending; it’s a cultural shift, powered by health-conscious choices, a craving for sustainability, and a new generation of consumers making mindful decisions.
The Numbers Behind the Movement
The report reveals a striking 7.3% year-on-year growth, with major supermarket sales of organic goods rising by 8%. But what’s more impressive is the rate of unit sales—organic products are being bought four times more often than their non-organic counterparts.
This isn’t isolated to the big chains. Independent retailers posted a 9% rise, topping £518 million, driven by shoppers seeking higher-quality food and personal service. Online platforms and home deliveries—previously experiencing a post-COVID lull—are back on the rise. Even foodservice, after a tough few years, reported a 6.5% uptick thanks to stabilizing inflation.
Georgia Phillips, commercial and marketing director at Soil Association Certification, remarked, “We saw strong growth in all food and drink channels and product categories. The signs are strong that this growth is here to stay.”
Driven by Gen Z—and Surprising Shoppers
New research from the Organic Research Centre and UK Organic found that 67% of consumers now “intentionally” buy organic, with younger buyers under 24 leading the charge. These shoppers aren’t just choosing organic occasionally—they’re making it a lifestyle.
Interestingly, it’s not just affluent consumers powering this trend. Lower and middle-income households are actually more consistent in buying organic across multiple product categories. Data from veg box specialist Locavore shows 28% of its customers earn under £30,000, and half of those earn less than £20,000 annually.
Their motivation? A growing awareness that organic means more than pesticide-free. It’s about transparency, fairness, and preserving the planet. These consumers are seeking not just nourishment, but peace of mind.
Producers Respond With Optimism
Suppliers are reporting significant growth, too. Fyffes CEO John Hopkins shared that 11% of all their banana sales are now both organic and Fairtrade. “The demand is there,” he said, “and it’s being met with robust retailer support and increased promotional activity.”
Joe Rolfe, Managing Director of RB Organics, echoed this positivity. “We’ve seen growth across all our retail customers. Retailers are once again showing strong interest during campaigns like Organic September. Our focus has been on ensuring consistent supply, solid promotion, and strong customer partnerships.”
The Paradox: High Demand, Low Supply
But amidst the celebrations lies a paradox. While demand soars, UK organic farmland remains worryingly static. Only 3% of the UK’s agricultural land is currently certified organic, creating a gap that has to be filled with imports.
This disconnect has prompted calls for urgent policy action. The Soil Association and allied NGOs are pushing for a government target—10% of UK farmland organically managed. The goal? To enable a domestic response to rising demand while delivering broad environmental benefits, from biodiversity to soil regeneration.
The good news: signs of progress are emerging. Land in transition to organic status under Soil Association Certification has nearly doubled since January 2024. If sustained, this shift could mark the beginning of a significant agricultural transformation.
Digital-first: The Online Organic Wave
Organic shoppers are also tech-savvy. Organic goods are twice as likely to be purchased online, with retailers like Ocado excelling in organic selections. Home delivery services now represent 15% of the organic market, thanks to their ability to offer local produce with unmatched convenience.
And this isn’t a short-term trend—it’s a new norm. With intuitive apps, subscription models, and AI-powered recommendations, more consumers are finding it easier than ever to align their values with their purchases.
A Global Movement Takes Shape
The UK’s organic renaissance is part of a broader global narrative. The Organic Trade Association in the United States reported organic food sales nearing $70 billion in 2023. Europe, too, is seeing steady gains—projected to hit over $130 billion by 2032, according to GlobeNewswire.
Organic growth is no longer just a metric; it’s a barometer of values. Across continents, consumers are calling for integrity in the supply chain, fairness for farmers, and foods that do good—not just taste good.
From Field to Fork: Human Stories Behind the Stats
One of the most inspiring examples comes from Riverford, a UK-based organic veg box service. After a strong year in 2024, the company announced a £1.3 million payout for employees—a tangible outcome of ethical business practices and loyal customer support. For workers, it meant more than money; it meant recognition in a system that so often overlooks the human element.
This story reminds us that buying organic isn’t just about avoiding chemicals—it’s about creating a food economy that uplifts everyone involved.
Why This Matters: Beyond the Shopping Cart
Organic growth matters because it’s not just a trend—it’s a tool for systemic change. Every pound spent on organic supports:
- Cleaner soil and water
- Higher animal welfare
- Fewer synthetic inputs
- Fairer supply chains
- Healthier communities
As we grapple with climate concerns, food insecurity, and mental health, organic food offers one small, consistent way for individuals to make a positive impact—three times a day.
What Lies Ahead?
The horizon looks bright. With policy shifts on the table, technology accelerating access, and younger consumers setting new standards, the organic sector stands poised to redefine food in the UK.
What was once a small, green seed of an idea has now grown into a sturdy tree—its branches reaching into homes, hearts, and habits across the nation.
And if the Soil Association’s projections are right, this is just the beginning.
Sources:
Fruitnet
Soil Association
Just-food
The Guardian
Globe News Wire
