Pages

October 13, 2022

AIC Agribusiness Conference’s diverse speakers will deliver unmissable insights on emerging challenges

The 2022 AIC conference on 16th November is set to bring together influential industry voices to weigh in on the vital questions of 2022 and beyond, and tickets are on sale now.

A sustainable, productive food supply chain is a cornerstone of a successful economy, but recently the UK has seen unprecedented turbulence, reaching far and wide and into the future. Successfully weathering such storms depends on an understanding of the economic outlook, market analysis, emerging opportunities and the direction of government policy – and that's exactly what this year's conference is set to deliver. 

The one-day programme 'Managing disruptive shocks in the agri-food supply chain' is packed with rich insights and debate from diverse, high-calibre speakers ready to share their perspectives and experience. The Conference Chair will be BBC Radio 4's Farming Today presenter Anna Hill, who for over 25 years has presented complex countryside issues to a wide audience, covering major supply chain disruptive issues. Robert Sheasby, AIC Chief Executive, will be providing his take on the big issues, and how AIC is adding value to its membership, based upon the extensive policy and cross industry work he undertakes alongside his colleagues. 

Delegates will also hear from HSBC's Head of Agrifoods Allan Wilkinson, who will give an insight on funding for the UK agri-food supply chain, as well as the economic outlook. This is especially relevant during the turbulent financial times. Gavin Hodgson, Sainsbury's Director of Agriculture, Horticulture & Aquaculture, will speak about the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on managing the agri-food supply chain. With over 20 years of agriculture experience, including building supply chain resilience and sustainability, Mr Hodgson's observations are bound to be of great value to anyone in the sector.  

Tom Bradshaw, NFU's Deputy President, will talk about how UK farmers are navigating the barrage of issues facing the sector today. Mr Bradshaw runs two farms with his family and has diversified those farms' operations, so he has direct experience of building resilience for the future.

A section of the day will, crucially, focus on the political priorities impacting the industry, and agriculture-portfolio politicians will discuss what's top-of-mind for agricultural policies. Speakers will include Mairi Gougeon MSP, who is Scotland's Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs & Islands, and there will be a debate and an opportunity for questions.

Delegates will also have chance to hear from experts on the market – what's ahead and how to face it. The Financial Times' Consumer Industries Correspondent Judith Evans will be speaking on future trends of the agri-food supply chain, and Brent Babb, Regional Director of the United States Soya Export Council will describe how the US agri-food industry is managing key shocks and opportunities.

John Kelley – Chief Operating Officer says, 'The speakers' impressive collective experience and knowledge, combined with the return to an in-person event for the first time in three years, means this conference will be a great networking event'. Tickets are in demand but are still available, including live-streaming tickets which will ensure this year's deep dives on the future of the sector will reach even more industry players.

There is also an opportunity to truly make the most of the occasion by joining AIC for their Pre-conference Supper on the evening of 15 November at Orton Hall, and supper tickets can be purchased alongside conference tickets. Bill Young, CEO of the Addington Fund, will be the keynote speaker at the Pre-conference Supper. The Addington Fund provides housing and disaster relief to farmers in need across England and Wales, and Bill is keen to share perceptions from his role in supporting farmers through tough times. Again – a great networking event.

Tickets are available to buy online now, including live-streaming, conference-only and conference-and-dinner options.

For more information visit the AIC website, HERE 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

No comments:

Post a Comment