Potato confidence buzzes at major event
A buoyant and buzzing potato industry has gathered in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, for British Potato 2007 (BP2007), the key industry event of the year. Attendance over the two days (November 28 and 29) was up, according to event organisers the British Potato Council (BPC), and the event has been hailed by exhibitors as one of the best the industry has ever witnessed.
"With 3,500 attending the first day alone, it's clear that anyone who is serious about a future in growing potatoes has come to this event," commented BPC chairman David Walker. "There's a great atmosphere, a really positive feeling and sense of true confidence in the future that you can feel as you move through the trade stands. It's been great for business and hugely rewarding for the immense amount of effort BPC staff and exhibitors have put into making this event truly worthwhile."
Despite a difficult growing season with high levels of wastage, relatively strong UK potato prices and a buoyant global commodities market have contributed to the mood of confidence at the event, continued Mr Walker. "We've had five tough years, particularly in the processing sector. But potato growers are a resilient lot and their commitment has been rewarded – they now feel they're on the cusp of better things."
Event exhibitors reflected the confident mood. "Our stand has been absolutely buzzing," commented Graeme Beattie, managing director of BP2007 sponsor Branston. "This has been a great opportunity for the entire industry to get together under one roof and do business. Everyone's here, from growers to retailers and the mood has been really positive – it's a wonderful thing to experience and the industry needs it."
For BPC conference sponsor McCain Foods, it has been an excellent opportunity to meet growers. "We've had a very busy couple of days talking to current suppliers and meeting new ones," said associate director of agriculture Graham Finn. More than 120 delegates attended the conference on the afternoon of November 28 and heard how climate change is changing not only how potatoes are grown, but how they are perceived by consumers. "It really was thought-provoking and encouraging to hear from speakers such a positive outlook for a progressive industry. We had some interesting discussions and everyone who attended enjoyed it," noted Mr Finn.
More than 400 growers, processors and other industry representatives gathered at Harrogate's Majestic Hotel on the evening of November 28 for the industry dinner. And for machinery manufacturer Grimme it was a chance to celebrate. "We had a cracking first day, which included selling one of our GL42T planters," reported sales director Barry Baker. "This is the best potato event we've been to – we've had plenty of positive enquiries from the large number of interested growers through our stand. The customers we have seen have come here for a reason: everyone who's in potatoes is here."
