Beef sector changes discussed at Business Week event

Jim Brown, whose family runs Gaindykehead Farm near Airdrie, in North Lanarkshire, reflected on changes within the consumer marketplace and how they will impact on beef farming

Scores of farmers gathered to gain expert insight into the beef sector as part of Clydesdale Bank’s Business Week.

More than 100 guests attended the session featuring award-winning beef farmer and Scottish Farmer columnist Jim Brown. The event was held at Threave Garden and Estate in Castle Douglas on Tuesday 10 November.

During his talk, Jim, whose family runs Gaindykehead Farm near Airdrie, in North Lanarkshire, reflected on changes within the consumer marketplace and how they will impact on beef farming.

David Hannon, Head of Agribusiness at Clydesdale Bank, said: “Welcoming Jim Brown has been an honour and a pleasure. Jim has gained a wealth of experience during his career as one of Scotland’s leading beef farmers and we are grateful that he joined us to share his views.

“I also wish to thank everyone who attended the event. Business Week offers customers an opportunity to connect with each other and share ideas and experiences. Sometimes hearing about the challenges and successes of another business owner can be just the catalyst you need for new ideas.

“Agriculture is a key sector for Clydesdale Bank, and we’re committed to supporting the industry and the professionals who service it.”

The theme for Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks’ Business Week is ‘Growth through innovation’, a positive and forward thinking approach to inspire businesses across the UK. Over 200 events took place across the country, from breakfast meetings to flagship events, with an impressive line-up of innovative speakers including Jo Fairley, co-founder of Green & Blacks, and Will Whitehorn, former president of Virgin Galactic.

In Scotland, key speakers included influential columnist and broadcaster Guy Browning discussing the innovations that can improve productivity and Stuart Patrick, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce. A major event at the Falkirk Wheel showcased leading food and drink businesses including Isle of Arran Distillers, Highland Spring and Harviestoun Brewery.