AHDB Potatoes has launched its first-ever ‘next generation’ programme.
Fifteen high-fliers, who successfully completed a robust selection process competing with applicants across all regions and market sectors, gathered for the first time at Stoneleigh Park, in Warwickshire on 11 May.
The group will complete nine comprehensive business and technical days that will run until March 2016, with the intention being that they will provide exposure to the whole supply chain.
Somerset-based Branston graduate trainee Amber Cottingham said: “It’s great to be around so many other like-minded young people who are clearly very passionate about potatoes.
“We need to inspire the public to fall back in-love with potatoes once more. I’m keen to make a positive impact on our industry.”
An AHDB survey identified that 60 per cent of farming companies and supply chain businesses find it difficult to secure employees of the right calibre, with the majority believing they’ll have a resource gap over the next five years.
John Reid is a partner in a family business growing 200ha of potatoes and 400ha of combinable crops in Angus, Scotland.
He said: “I was drawn to the sector initially by the level of mechanisation and complexity involved in producing the crop. But now it is the potential financial returns that can be achieved from producing the crop to a high standard that appeals.
“I’m proud to be part of a group who are enthusiastic about the future of our industry. By broadening my knowledge I aim to adapt our own business to cope with the challenges that inevitably lie ahead.”
In June, the group will be hosted by McCain Foods and RS Cockerill in Yorkshire.
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