The British Pig and Poultry Fair will showcase new technology and business tools as a straw poll by the Royal Agricultural Society of England showed that all farmers asked were planning to invest in their business this year.

Alice Bell is organising the fair and said: “Technology is moving at a fast pace and it is vital that producers remain at the forefront of change. Meeting the suppliers of that technology and networking with industry leaders is a perfect opportunity for producers to source what they need to improve. There are clearly some challenges ahead, but it’s encouraging that so many farmers are optimistic and embracing the latest technology and advice on offer.”

The fair is to take place on May 15-16 2018 at Stoneleigh in Warwickshire.

A previous fair marked a turning point for Richard Knox, partner at Tor Pigs, Devon said: “When I was looking to move from an outdoor unit to indoors, I met an experienced manager at the fair who told me to focus on profitability and put in the tried and tested slatted system so I could closely predict performance. If I had not had that conversation, I probably would not be in pigs now – it was a key turning point for me and a worthwhile investment.”

Based on the straw poll, the most common investments this year are likely to be in erecting new or modifying existing buildings. Roger Gent of Beedon Common Farm in Berkshire, is planning on putting up a new 16,000 bird multi-tier shed this year but is concerned that his flat decks will not comply with Freedom Foods’ perching requirements.

He said: “I can’t have the perches above feeders, so I hope to pick up ideas at the fair to solve this problem.”

It is that collaborative approach, combined with innovation, which is key to the future of the British pig and poultry industries, says Danny Johnson, Head of Commercial at ABN, which is partnering the event. “The British pig and poultry sectors both have a bright future ahead of them. Whether producers are looking to install a completely new system or make small improvements to nutrition, equipment or management practices, they will be able to get it all in one place at the fair.”

To find out more and register for free entry to the fair visit pigandpoultry.org.uk.