Building better business conference set to boost UK farm retail sector

Farm shops and farmers’ markets have experienced ten years of unprecedented growth, with a reputation built upon quality, trust, service, innovation, value for money, and a refusal to compromise on these core values. Now as the credit crunch bites, farm retailers must work harder than ever to ensure customers continue to ’vote local’ with their wallets.

This year’s ’Building Better Business’ conference from the National Farmers’ Retail and Markets’ Association (FARMA), 9 - 12 November, is the only annual conference tailored specifically for the farm direct retail sector, giving businesses the chance to develop their fundamental values, increase their retail and management skills, to strengthen the sector and take it forward in today’s business environment.

’Building Better Business’ will consider key skills and concepts to ensure farm shops and farmers’ markets continue to be market leaders when it comes to offering fresh local food, from sustainable, animal-friendly and environmentally responsible sources. A series of seminars and workshops led by sector experts will incorporate management tools, including marketing, benchmarking, teambuilding, and customer service, plus targeted sessions on butchery and catering.

The FARMA conference offers tremendous networking opportunities, plus the opportunity to take part in the tailor-made farm retail tours. Delegates will visit the region’s top farm shops, where the owners themselves will share their insights. Two of this year’s tours focus specifically on butchery and catering; increasingly vital components of the farm shop diversification.

The conference also features the only sector-specific trade show in the UK. With over 60 suppliers, it is designed to help farm retailers source the products and services to help take their business to the top.

To book your place, call FARMA on 0845 45 88 420. Alternatively visit www.farma.org.uk to view the conference brochure and book online.