Tributes paid to ‘dairy industry giant’ Ian Potter

Tributes have been paid to the respected dairy analyst Ian Potter, who has died suddenly aged 62.

Mr Potter passed away on Monday (27 February) after a short illness.

A family statement said: “It is with immense sadness that Carole, Harriet, Jack, and Lydia Potter announce Ian’s sudden passing on Monday 27 February 2023, due to medical complications after a short illness.

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“Ian was a giant of the dairy industry for three decades – be it as a quota broker, a columnist in Dairy Farmer magazine for 25 years, a commentator and reporter through his own weekly bulletin, and as a farmer in his own right.

“Throughout his career, he had the interests of dairy farmers at heart, and loved what he did, and the industry that he worked in. He was also instrumental in the smooth running of NFSCO [National Fallen Stock Company].”

Paying tribute, dairy industry commentator Chris Walkland said: “Ian was a larger-than-life character and a giant of the dairy industry.

“His death was completely unexpected. The dairy industry is in complete shock.”

Mr Potter was well known in the dairy industry having set up his own company, Ian Potter Associates, in 1986.

He was one of the most innovative and noted milk quota brokers in Europe, as well as a renowned dairy commentator with a keen eye for detail.

In 2010, he was presented with the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers’ Princess Royal Award for his outstanding services to the industry.

An online book of condolences is being opened for people to leave their personal tributes, and contributions are welcomed via condolences.ianpotter@ipmsltd.co.uk.