The 2016 Dairy Development Group, made up of 12 dairy farmers from across the country, will gain an exclusive and unique insight into the dairy supply chain and get an opportunity to speak directly to major dairy processors, manufacturers and retailers.
At the heart of the programme is business networking and members of the group will meet with senior staff at the NFU, AHDB, NML, Red Tractor and Dairy UK. There will be the opportunity to speak to MPs and Defra during a visit to Westminster where the group will learn more about our core lobbying and political activities.
The first meeting was held today (Tuesday) at NFU HQ, Stoneleigh, where the group was given an introduction to the NFU with presentations by NFU President Meurig Raymond, head of food and farming Phil Bicknell and media adviser Mike Thomas. Amanda Ball, AHDB Dairy Strategy Director, and Assured Food Standards Chief Executive David Clarke also attended.
Meet our Dairy Development Group here.
Addressing the group, Mr Raymond said: “It’s important for you to be vocal. Become involved in the industry and carry not only your message but those of your fellow dairy farmers.”
NFU dairy board vice chairman Tom Rawson, who was a member of the Dairy Development Group in 2010, said: “We have selected a group of farmers all with different personalities and characteristics who will each bring something different to the table. They believe passionately in a thriving future for the dairy industry and more importantly want to step forward and take action to see that happen.
“Having input from the next generation of dairy farmers is vital if we are to be effective - many of the decisions dairy farmers make today will have a major impact on our industry for years to come. Despite the challenging times we all face now, the dairy industry has a bright future and our Dairy Development Group is proof of that.”