Farming for Profit & Food Security

The 6th joint BCPC/Farmers Club Seminar focusing on the delicate balance of profitable farming, food production and protecting the environment, considers how the UK agricultural industry can adapt to the challenges which lie ahead, based on facts, not fiction or bias.

The event takes place on 1 June 2023. Delegate numbers are restricted and consequently registration will be dealt with on a first come, first served basis.

Because this is a unique joint event with BCPC and the Farmers Club, you will be unable to book online through the Club website. To book places please contact Craig Godfrey, memexpmanager@thefarmersclub.com. Please note payment can be made via BACS . Delegate price is £63 inc VAT.

Programme

10.30 – 11.00 Registration and coffee

11.00 Chairman’s introduction

Stephen Howe, BCPC Advisory Board –  Event Programme

11.10 Paper 1: The future of global food security

What are the impacts of climate change, a growing world population, still estimated to reach more than 10bn by 2050, and changing dietary demands on global food demand and supply?

Tim Benton, Research Director, Chatham House. Click here to view presentation

11.45 Paper 2 Balancing farming, food production and government policy

According to DEFRA, farmers are at the heart of the rural economy producing the food on our tables as well as being the custodians of the land it comes from. Farmers are at the sharp end of that sentiment, but farming is a long-term business, not based on short-term rhetoric. So, how best to lay the foundations to achieve future positive cash-flow and profitability?

George Badger, Partner, Ceres Rural. Click here to view presentation

12.30 – 1.30 Lunch

1.30 Paper 3: Adapting to the changing priorities

What are the practical implications of adapting a successful farming business to meet the long-term challenges of food security, biodiversity, climate change and the environment?

Andrew Robinson, Farm manager, 1,150ha, Herne Manor Farm, Toddington, Beds. Click here to view presentation

2.05 Paper 4: Food processor’s view for success

A leading processor’s view of how to maintain the supply of produce to balance changing customer demands and the challenges facing farmers.

Huw Thomas, CEO Puffin Produce and Pembrokeshire Creamery. Click here to view presentation

2.40 Paper 5

Ian Matts, Arable Director, Brixworth Farming. Click here to view presentation

3.10 Discussion

3.20 Tea