Introduction – The Current State of Play: Olive Oil in the United Kingdom
The olive oil market in the United Kingdom is undergoing a major shake-up in 2025. This isn’t just a slight change—it’s a turning point. Thanks to a mix of global trade shifts, recovering harvests, and evolving consumer preferences, the UK market is adapting fast. And if you’re sourcing or selling olive oil, keeping up with these changes isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
Let’s start with the big headlines. The U.S. slapped a fresh 20% tariff on European olive oil in April 2025. That’s triggered a redirect of EU supply toward the UK market, temporarily boosting availability and shaking up long-standing trade routes. Meanwhile, Europe’s olive oil production is bouncing back—Spain alone is expected to produce 1.26 million metric tons, a 48% increase from last year.
On the demand side, British consumers are leaning more toward premium and organic oils, driven by health trends and better awareness about quality. Prices, which were sky-high in 2024, are now expected to fall sharply, bringing some relief to retailers and consumers alike.
In this fast-moving environment, businesses must stay agile. Platforms like Freshdi are proving vital—offering real-time insights, supplier verification, and trend tracking that help buyers make informed decisions quickly.
Trade Policy Developments – Tariffs, Brexit, and Global Realignment
U.S. Tariffs Shake Things Up
In April 2025, the U.S. imposed a 20% tariff on olive oil imports from the EU. This move sent ripples through the global supply chain, pushing European producers to look for alternative markets—like the UK. With the UK no longer bound by EU trade protocols post-Brexit, it’s in a prime position to benefit from this redirect.
Spain, Italy, and Greece are now eyeing the UK more closely. The upside? More options and potentially lower prices for UK buyers—at least in the short term.
Post-Brexit Flexibility
The UK’s new trade independence means it can explore deals with non-EU countries like Tunisia, Morocco, and even Australia. These regions are ramping up olive oil production and can fill gaps left by EU producers caught in trade turbulence.
Supply Chain and Production – The Big Bounce Back
European Harvest Recovery
Let’s talk numbers. The EU is expecting a 31% jump in olive oil production for the 2024/2025 season. That’s about 2 million metric tons of olive oil flooding the market. Spain is leading the charge with a 48% increase in output, and countries like Greece and Portugal are also seeing strong harvests.
This rebound is thanks to better weather and smarter farming—think precision irrigation and AI-driven crop monitoring.
Price Relief is on the Horizon
With supply on the rise, prices are expected to drop. Extra virgin olive oil, which reached record highs of over £16 per liter in 2024, is projected to fall to around €5 per liter in early 2025. That’s music to the ears of both importers and consumers.
Weather and Agricultural Factors – From Drought to Deluge
Europe’s olive oil woes over the past few years were largely weather-related—droughts, heatwaves, and unpredictable frost. But 2025 is looking much better. Consistent rainfall and moderate temperatures have helped revive olive groves across Spain, Italy, and Greece, which collectively supply over half of the UK’s olive oil.
Still, climate instability remains a threat. That’s why sustainable farming and resilient crop planning are becoming the norm.
Demand Trends – UK Consumers Are Getting Picky (In a Good Way)
Health-Conscious and Premium-Focused
British consumers are becoming more selective. They’re trading up to extra virgin and organic olive oils, driven by health awareness and the Mediterranean diet trend. This is pushing suppliers to innovate and elevate product quality.
Market Growth Stats
The UK olive oil market is currently worth about $1.07 billion and is projected to grow at a 6.4% CAGR, reaching $1.55 billion by 2030. Volume-wise, consumption is expected to increase to 32.4 million kg by 2028. It’s a slow climb, but it’s consistent.
Deep Dive – What’s Making Headlines in 2025?
While tariffs and weather dominate the news, there are other headlines shaking things up:
- New tech in production: From satellite monitoring to blockchain traceability, suppliers are stepping up their game to ensure quality and transparency.
- EU anti-fraud initiatives: The EU is cracking down on mislabeling and counterfeit olive oil. That means better quality for UK buyers.
- Digital platforms like Freshdi: These are helping streamline sourcing, vet suppliers, and identify real-time RFQ (Request for Quotation) trends, giving buyers a competitive edge.
Top 4 Verified Olive Oil Suppliers in United Kingdom in Q2 2025
These suppliers were selected based on their export track record, customer feedback, certifications, and active engagement on Freshdi. If you’re sourcing in today’s volatile market, these are the names to watch.
1. Flexi Trade Ltd.
- Known for: High-quality extra virgin olive oil
- Certifications: ISO, HACCP, Organic
- Market Focus: UK, EU, and expanding into North Africa
- Freshdi Insight: Among top requested suppliers in Q2 2025
2. Olive Grove International
- Known for: Cold-pressed and flavored olive oils
- Certifications: BRC, Kosher, Halal
- Market Focus: UK and EU foodservice sector
- Freshdi Insight: High supplier rating for consistency and packaging
3. GreenHarvest Oils
- Known for: Organic and fair-trade olive oils
- Certifications: Soil Association Organic, Fair for Life
- Market Focus: UK retailers and organic food chains
- Freshdi Insight: Noted for sourcing transparency and ethical practices
4. Britannia Olive Co.
- Known for: UK-bottled Mediterranean blends
- Certifications: IFS, ISO 22000
- Market Focus: UK supermarkets and boutique stores
- Freshdi Insight: One of the top 5 suppliers by RFQ volume in Q2
Dynamic Ranking Note: Rankings may shift month to month. Platforms like Freshdi frequently update “Suppliers of the Month” and “Top Exporters” based on RFQ activity, buyer ratings, and verified transactions.
Market Navigation – How Businesses Can Win in Today’s Olive Oil Landscape
Opportunities on the Horizon
- Supply Diversification: If you’re still relying solely on Spain or Italy, it’s time to rethink. Countries like Tunisia, Turkey, and Morocco have upped their game and are exporting more than ever.
- Premiumization: The demand for extra virgin, organic, and specialty oils is rising. Retailers should expand their premium product lines to meet this shift.
- Private Label Growth: With falling prices, private label olive oils are gaining traction. This is a golden opportunity for UK retailers to boost margins.
Challenges to Watch
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Even with a harvest rebound, logistics remain a challenge. Delays at ports and rising freight costs can still hit margins.
- Fraud Risks: Adulterated oils are still a problem. Stick to verified suppliers and platforms like Freshdi that offer supplier vetting and quality assurance metrics.
Sourcing Strategy Shifts
- Go Beyond Europe: Start building supplier relationships in North Africa and the Eastern Med.
- Focus on Transparency: Use traceability tools to prove product authenticity—consumers are asking, and regulators are watching.
- Monitor Prices Weekly: With potential price drops looming, timing your orders could save thousands per container.
Conclusion – Key Takeaways for Businesses in a Fast-Moving Market
The UK’s olive oil landscape in Q2 2025 is full of twists—and opportunities. Falling prices, rebounding production, and shifting trade routes are reshaping the market. But with these changes come risks: fraud, supply chain delays, and consumer scrutiny.
Here’s your quick checklist:
- ✅ Diversify your supplier base beyond traditional EU sources
- ✅ Focus on premium and organic product lines
- ✅ Vet all suppliers for authenticity and certifications
- ✅ Use platforms like Freshdi to track RFQ trends and market updates
- ✅ Stay alert to tariff changes and weather-related disruptions
Platforms like Freshdi not only connect buyers with verified suppliers but also offer real-time data on RFQ volumes, price trends, and supplier performance—giving you the edge in a market that’s changing by the week.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the UK olive oil market will likely continue its upward growth, supported by health trends, product innovation, and smarter sourcing. But success will depend on how quickly businesses adapt to news-driven shifts. With climate still a wildcard and trade policy in flux, agility and data-driven sourcing will define the winners of 2025 and beyond.
FAQs
1. Why are olive oil prices expected to drop in 2025?
Thanks to a rebound in European production—especially from Spain—global supply is increasing, which is easing the pressure on prices.
2. How are U.S. tariffs affecting the UK olive oil market?
The new tariffs on EU olive oil are causing European exporters to redirect their oils to the UK, increasing local supply and competition.
3. What should buyers look for when choosing a supplier?
Authenticity, certifications (like ISO, Organic, BRC), and supplier transparency are key. Platforms like Freshdi help verify these aspects.
4. Are non-EU countries reliable olive oil sources?
Yes. Countries like Tunisia and Morocco are becoming strong alternatives with consistent output and growing export infrastructure.
5. How can I stay updated on olive oil market trends?
Use digital platforms like Freshdi for real-time RFQ data, supplier performance scores, and alerts on global trade or production shifts.
References
- Olive Oil Trends in 2025 – USETORG
- Brexit and Olive Oil Exporters – Olive Oil Times
- UK Olive Oil Prices 2020 – Olive Oil Times
- UK Olive Oil Market Forecast – Grand View Research
- EU Olive Oil Policies – USETORG
- Global Olive Oil Prices Falling – EIN Presswire
- UK Olive Oil Market Volume – ReportLinker
- Tariffs on European Olive Oil – Olive Oil Times
- EU Producers Brace for Disruption – UkrAgroConsult
- UK Olive Oil Market Growth – Data Bridge Market Research
