The importance of UK farms being and remaining competitive in the market place and more connected in supply chains is the focus of an AHDB conference in Dorset.

Aimed at farmers and growers, the day will focus on supply chain, cost of production and consumer trends to help drive agricultural businesses forward and support growth.

The key note speaker is Harriet Wilson, senior agricultural manager from Co-op. Harriet will explain their strategy to source solely UK meat and the importance of a connected supply chain, supply standards, consistency and volumes through two-way retail farmer relationships.

Jack Watts, AHDB lead analyst (cereals and oilseeds), will highlight the importance of knowing cost of production in order to quantify and negotiate the value of products and hence the margin that can be generated in a supply chain.

Mr Watts said: “It is supply chains and not individual businesses that increasingly compete in a global market and knowing where to target effort in order to compete will be vital for farmers and growers.”

Steven Evans, AHDB consumer insight manager, who will focus on current and predicted consumer trends, why farm businesses need to be aware of them and the challenges and opportunities in meeting the needs of the modern consumer.

The conference will take place on November 27 at the Kingston Maurward College in Dorchester. For more information and to book your place visit eventbrite.co.uk/o/ahdb-8647761536