Farmers urged to become more competitive

Facing increased competition both at home and abroad, farmers in the North East are being offered help to plan their assault on the marketplace.

Joining forces with the Institute of Grocery Distribution, the NFU is running two intensive workshops designed to help farmers focus on precisely what they need to do to become more competitive.

“Gaining a competitive advantage is an increasingly real issue for local farmers,” said food and farming adviser with the NFU, Louise Cole.

“EU enlargement, foreign imports and in particular, recently announced changes to the way farmers will be funded through the common agricultural policy, are all forcing farmers to become more market focused.

“In the future farmers will have to constantly assess the market they are in, develop a detailed understanding of their customer and consider all their options for adding value to their produce to achieve the best return.

“These workshops are designed to help farmers make the transition as smoothly as possible and ensure a profitable future both for themselves and their industry.”

Issues covered will include gaining a better understanding of the food chain and learning to recognise consumer needs.

Two dates are available: Tuesday 30 March at NFU regional office in York and Wednesday 31 March at the Toby Lodge, Newcastle.

Both workshops are being provided at the highly subsidised rate of £50 plus VAT.

Anyone wanting more information or to book a place please contact Louise Cole or James Ede at NFU regional office on 01904 451550.