Chaired by Philip Pearson, chair of the TGA technical committee and NFU horticulture board member, this year’s new online format, attracted over 400 delegates from 14 countries. Delegates listened to a range of expert speakers over this one-day event, including NFU chief horticulture adviser Lee Abbey, AHDB board and horticulture sector chair Hayley Campbell-Gibbons, and NFU Energy technical director Jon Swain.
Talking all things labour, trade and Brexit, Lee Abbey spoke to delegates about the end of the EU withdrawal period on 31 December 2020, and what proposed plans currently mean for UK growers. He delved into the UK government’s current proposals for a future immigration policy, movement of goods across borders from January, as well as potential trade impacts and tariffs. Mr Abbey also talked about COVID-19, its impact on the sector, the work of the NFU and managing outbreaks on farm.
Following on from this session, Hayley Campbell-Gibbons introduced the AHDB’s 2020-2025 strategy and what this means for horticulture. She went on to outline the results of Defra’s request for views and grower feedback on the work of the AHDB, along with the organisation’s five commitments within their new strategy.
Further sessions throughout the morning included Kantar’s Rikesh Panchmatia exploring this year’s extraordinary year for retail, outlining consumer behaviour, tomato buying trends and market opportunities for the future. Jon Swain also gave a fascinating insight into the new normal of the world of energy and opportunities for tomato producers.
The day went on to look at tomato growers’ biggest threat when it comes to pest and diseases, the Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus. Sessions looked at dealing with the virus, tracking outbreaks and growers’ experiences, along with lessons learnt and a Q&A session for delegates.
Finally, the day rounded off with the conference’s keynote speaker, Professor David Hughes, Imperial College, London. A renowned international speaker on global food and drink industry issues, David looked at challenges and opportunities for fresh tomatoes, and how to exploit the health and wellbeing consumer mega-trends across modern-day society.
With talks and introductions from sponsors throughout, and virtual trade stands to visit during breaks, where sponsors showcased industry innovation and opportunities for growers, the British Tomato conference remained again a conference not to be missed.
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