We recently had the pleasure of hosting our first Grower Partner Event, welcoming growers, friends and colleagues to spend the day with us at the stunning Wootton Hall. 

With the sector abundant with challenge and opportunity, having industry peers in the same room sparked interesting conversations, with most centered around the uncertainties we face and how to push British farming forward – a shared goal for us all. 

Kicking off a series of talks, our managing director, Richard Arundel, shared his view on the industry and the market, explaining our supply and demand model and how we ensure the best possible return for our growers. Always at the forefront of industry trends, we took guests through what to expect from farming this year and our predictions for the sector as we move closer to 2024. 

With farming a crucial area of the AKP group, we spoke about the latest regenerative farming techniques and our grower joint ventures, the latter designed to add value and share the risk, while ensuring a trusted presence remains at grower’s side from planting to harvest. 

Then onto where it all truly begins, seed – sharing developments within Humble Potato Company and our collaboration with the very best seed breeders in the business.

To ensure balance and insight, the day ended with a talk from HSBC’s Head of Agricultural Banking, Martin Hanson, who shed light on what to expect from the sector and HSBC’s outlook on agricultural business for the years ahead. Culminating in a day of thoughtful discussion enjoyed over tasty Ploughman’s platters and refreshments served by our sister company, Edwards 1902 Vodka. 

This event was the first of many we hope to host, all with the view of bringing to the sector together to tackle issues head on and share knowledge. Thank you to all who attended, we appreciate your participation in what was a fantastic day.