Brits grow food for the fun of it - not the savings

12:55 23rd September 2010

With the country currently celebrating British Food Fortnight 2010, one expert has claimed that garden and greenhouse enthusiasts do not simply grow fruit and vegetables to save cash.

The event is running until October 3rd and will see thousands of activities taking place around the country in celebration of the UK's grub.

Brits are increasing taking an interest in growing their own food and Garden Works spokesman Kevin Waters explained that the feeling of achievement is what makes it such an attractive hobby.

Speaking at the Glee 2010 event in Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre, he said that while saving money is a benefit, it is not the main driving force behind the trend.

"It is managing to put potatoes on the Sunday dinner plate that you have grown yourself. It is that experience that people are buying," Mr Waters explained.

The expert encouraged garden and greenhouse retailers to focus on promoting the end product and the lifestyle rather than the materials themselves.

He noted that Brits often buy things on impulse and that such goods were not normally considered impulse buys, making it difficult for sellers to engage with customers.