FARMA conference set to be a block-buster

The upcoming National Farmers’ Retail & Markets Association conference is set to break records for the annual event, organisers say, reflecting the growing number of farmers diversifying into direct sales to the consumer.

The event takes place at the Majestic Hotel, Harrogate, on 8 and 9 November and has already attracted more delegates than last year’s event.

“With over a week to go,” says FARMA managing agent, Gareth Jones, conference organiser, “we are expecting – and can handle – a lot more bookings.”

The conference covers a wide range of topics, from innovations in growing, production and design to developing the leisure aspects of farm retailing.

More than 25 speakers mix the personal experiences of farmers, such as Bob Kennard of Graig Farm Organics who talks about managing the quality standards of the co-operative that supplies his home delivery scheme, with expertise from outside the sector.

Nottingham-born Pete Luckett has two sessions in which he offers up trade secrets that have made him the most famous greengrocer in Canada, his adopted home. 

There is also an industry first – a farmers’ market symposium targeted at farmers’ market management.

The Tuesday evening banquet includes the presentation of the FARMA national awards.

The event is open to members and non-members, a discount applies for members.

Visit www.farma.org.uk or call 0845 45 88 420 for more information, or see FWi‘s events section.