Category

Events

Aug 07
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Industry Gears Up for 2026 Onion & Carrot Conference

By Company News, Events

The British Carrot Growers Association (BCGA) and British Onions Producer Association (BOPA) are delighted to announce that registrations are now open for the 2026 Onion & Carrot Conference, taking place on Thursday 26 November 2026 at the Leicester Tigers Conference Centre.

A key event in the UK vegetable growing calendar, the conference brings together growers, researchers, agronomists, breeders, suppliers and industry professionals from across the onion and carrot supply chains. It provides an invaluable opportunity to share knowledge, explore the latest innovations and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.

The one-day conference will feature a comprehensive programme of expert speakers, delivering the latest updates on crop production, research, innovation, market developments, policy and the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. Alongside the conference programme, delegates will have the opportunity to visit a bustling trade exhibition showcasing the latest products, technologies and services from leading industry suppliers, while enjoying valuable networking opportunities throughout the day.

The organising committee is also pleased to confirm that support from the industry has once again been exceptional. Sponsorship packages have been met with overwhelming demand, demonstrating the continued commitment of businesses across the supply chain to supporting the UK’s onion and carrot sectors. A strong exhibition is also taking shape, with exhibitors representing every aspect of crop production and supply.

Thanks go to all of this year’s sponsors for their generous support:

  • Main Sponsor: Elsoms Seeds Ltd & Bejo
  • Networking Lunch Sponsor: Hazera UK
  • Carrot Technical Sponsor: BASF Nunhems
  • Onion Technical Sponsor: Syngenta UK Ltd
  • Conference Programme Sponsor: Infield Innovation Ltd
  • Networking Beverages Sponsor: Allium Crop Solutions Ltd
  • Gala Dinner Sponsor: TOP The Onion Group
  • After Dinner Speaker Sponsor: Stourgarden Ltd
  • Gala Dinner Wine Sponsor: Moulton Bulb Co
  • Gala Dinner Drinks Reception Sponsor: Sakata UK Ltd

Main Sponsor Elsoms, together with co-sponsor Bejo, is proud to support this year’s conference. Chris Bettinson, Crop Manager – Alliums at Elsoms, said: “At Elsoms, we are delighted to sponsor the Onion and Carrot Conference alongside our partners, Bejo. As the UK’s largest independent seed company, we are committed to supporting the long-term success of the Onion and Carrot sectors through investment in plant breeding innovation, seed treatment technology and active support of the associations that represent growers’ interests.

The conference plays an important role in bringing the industry together, creating opportunities for valuable dialogue, knowledge sharing and collaboration. It also provides a platform to support the work of the crop associations, helping to ensure they have the resources needed to act swiftly on behalf of growers when critical issues, such as emergency authorisations, arise.

Whether through investment in new technologies, strategic research partnerships, or close collaboration with growers, Bejo and Elsoms remain committed to delivering the next generation of varieties and seed technologies helping UK growers meet the current and future challenges.”

Networking doesn’t end when the conference closes. Delegates are invited to continue the conversations at the Onion & Carrot Gala Dinner, providing a relaxed setting to catch up with colleagues and forge new industry connections.

This year’s Gala Dinner Sponsor, TOP The Onion Group, commented: “As a fully integrated grower, processor and exporter, TOP The Onion Group is proud to support this event as the main sponsor of the Gala Dinner. We are committed to contributing to a strong, sustainable and innovative future for the industry.”

The Gala Dinner will also feature after-dinner speaker Tom Youngs, former Leicester Tigers and England international rugby player, who has traded the rugby pitch for the farming field. Tom will entertain guests with stories from his time in professional rugby before sharing how life has changed since hanging up his boots and returning to agriculture, giving delegates the opportunity to hear how he’s getting on in the field after getting off the pitch.

The event is also proud to be supporting Movember, raising funds to help tackle men’s health issues, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health. A charity raffle will be held during the Conference and Gala Dinner, building on the fantastic support received at the 2024 conference for the Farming Community Network (FCN).

The organising committee is now inviting businesses to support the raffle by donating prizes. Whether it’s a hamper, voucher, experience or product, every donation will help maximise the funds raised for this important cause.

Whether you are a grower, agronomist, researcher, supplier or industry stakeholder, the 2026 Onion & Carrot Conference offers an excellent opportunity to stay informed, discover the latest innovations, strengthen industry connections and contribute to discussions on the future of UK onion and carrot production.

Registration is now open, and delegates are encouraged to book early to secure their place. Visit www.onionandcarrotconference.co.uk

If your business would like to donate a raffle prize, become a sponsor or exhibitor, please contact events@britishgrowers.org.

Jul 17
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British Carrot Growers Association Demo Day 2025

By Company News, Events, Industry News

The British Carrot Growers Association (BCGA) is delighted to confirm that its flagship event, the 2025 Demonstration Day, will take place on Thursday 2nd October 2025, near Honingham, Norfolk. Our sincere thanks go to this year’s host, Tompsett Growers.

Renowned across the industry as a key event in the UK agricultural calendar, Demo Day provides a unique opportunity for growers, agronomists, and industry professionals to view and compare over 80 carrot plots, featuring both well-established and innovative new varieties.

New for 2025, BCGA will also be running a parsnip trial at a nearby location, offering further insight into root crop developments. Attendees can expect to gain valuable knowledge on the latest breeding innovations, while developing a deeper appreciation of the diversity and resilience of the UK carrot industry.

The day also features a comprehensive exhibition area, designed to foster networking, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing across the sector.

We are proud to announce this year’s Demo Day sponsors:

  • Elsoms – Networking Breakfast
  • BASF | Nunhems – Networking Lunch
  • Hazera Seeds – Event Programme

Sponsor Testimonials

Justin Solly, Vegetable Sales and Marketing Director at Elsoms, said:

“At Elsoms, we’re incredibly proud to be a trusted partner in the UK carrot industry. Our work with carrot varieties is driven by innovation, quality, and the needs of growers—but our support doesn’t stop at the seed. We’re committed to standing alongside the crop associations that champion the future of the industry.

By contributing to the funding pool, we’re investing in the long-term resilience and success of UK carrot production. Collaboration is key, and alongside Bejo, we’re proud to be playing our part.”

Naz Ahmed, Customer Marketing and Value Chain Manager at BASF | Nunhems, said:

“We’re excited to be sponsoring this year’s British Carrot Growers Association Demo Day – a highlight in the UK’s root crop calendar and a fantastic celebration of the people, passion, and progress behind British vegetable production.

It’s also a great opportunity to showcase Ambyance, our newest carrot variety – a versatile, high-yielding Nantes type designed to meet tomorrow’s needs.

We’ll also be presenting our latest crop protection innovations, including a new virus management solution and a Revysol-based fungicide.

We’re proud to support UK growers and to be part of a community that’s growing the future of food.”

Celebrating British Carrot Day – 3rd October 2025

This year’s Demo Day will lead directly into British Carrot Day, returning for its second year on Friday 3rd October following a successful 2024 launch.

British Carrot Day celebrates one of the UK’s most loved vegetables and aims to raise awareness of the carrot’s nutritional value, role in animal feed, and importance to British agriculture. It also highlights challenges faced by growers, such as low returns on a high-risk crop, and the need to boost carrot consumption across UK households.

Everyone is encouraged to join the celebration by sharing their favourite carrot dishes on social media using the hashtag #TheLoveOfCarrots.

Get Involved

Exhibition opportunities are still available for the event. For more information, please contact Holly Jones at holly.jones@britishgrowers.org.

Ticket Information:

Join us this October to support British carrot growers and celebrate all things carrot!

Jan 30
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Young Horticulturist of the Year Competition 2025 Launch

By Events

We are thrilled to be launching the 2025 Young Horticulturist of the Year Competition (YHoY) run by the Chartered Institute of Horticulture, with the online Round 1 opening for entry on Saturday 1st February 2025, the link can be found on our website and socials.

The competition is open to anyone across the UK and Ireland, who is under 30 on 31st July 2025. Whether you are a student, apprentice or working in the industry, this is a fantastic opportunity to test your horticultural knowledge and network with a wide range of individuals from across the industry.

The winner of the competition gain’s the prestige title of ‘Young Horticulturist of the Year’ and will receive a £2,500 travel bursary from The Percy Thrower Trust, generously provided by the Shropshire Horticultural Society. The winner can undertake a trip, anywhere in the world, to study, complete work experience or embark on visits related to their chosen field of horticulture
The Grand Final will be held on Saturday 10th May 2025 and we are pleased to announce this year’s Grand Final will be held at the Historic Royal Palace Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, in Northern Ireland.

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens serves as the official home of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and as a residence for the Royal Family. The historic house, built by Wills Hill, has played an important role in Northern Ireland’s history, including hosting talks that led to the formation of the Good Friday Agreement. The historic gardens, developed from the 1760s onwards, offer intriguing contrasts between formal gardens, woodland and meadows.

The National Organiser said “I can’t wait to get to Northern Ireland!! This year’s entrants are extremely lucky to have the opportunity to not only win a £2500 travel bursary but also an expenses paid trip to an exceptional Royal venue!”

To find out more about the competition and how to take part, visit the Young Horticulturist of the Year page.

If you are interested in sponsoring the 2025 competition, please contact the Chartered Institute of Horticulture – Email: yhoy@horticulture.org.uk

Dec 27
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Explore, Connect, Celebrate: The 2025 Brassica and Leafy Salad Conference

By Company News, Events

The Brassica and Leafy Salad Conference will take place on Thursday, 30 January 2025, at the Leicester Tigers Conference Centre. This event promises an engaging day of innovation, collaboration, and celebration within the brassica and leafy salad industries.

We are thrilled to announce BASF Nunhems as the Main Conference Sponsor. Their invaluable support ensures the success of this event.

Naz Ahmed of BASF Nunhems shared, “It gives me immense pleasure that BASF Nunhems is the main sponsor of this upcoming event. We are dedicated to fostering innovation and collaboration and look forward to sharing ideas around quality, reliability, uniformity, and consistency. We are excited to support this initiative and eagerly anticipate an unforgettable experience!”

 We extend our heartfelt thanks to our other generous sponsors for their support:

  • Bayer Crop Science Ltd – Networking Lunch Sponsor
  • Elsoms Seeds – Technical Session Sponsor
  • H L Hutchinsons – Conference Programme Sponsor
  • Hazera – Networking Beverages Sponsor
  • Sakata UK Ltd – Gala Dinner Drinks Reception Sponsor
  • Enza Zaden UK Ltd – Gala Dinner Table Wine Sponsor

Would you like to join this fantastic line up of sponsors? Contact admin@britishgrowers.org to find out more.

An Agenda Packed with Insights and Networking

 The conference will feature a full-day program of thought-provoking sessions and presentations, followed by a Gala Dinner in the evening. Attendees can look forward to:

  • Agtech advancements presented by Autonomous Agri
  • Consumer insights from Kantar
  • Crop Protection: Past, Present, and Future by Horticulture Crop Protection
  • Issues Management with Dieter Lloyd Marketing Consultancy
  • Cutting-edge research updates from Professor Rosemary Collier of the University of Warwick

These and many more sessions will provide valuable insights into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the industry.

The conference will also provide an invaluable platform for networking with industry peers and leaders in our large exhibition hall at Leicester Tigers.

Evening Gala Dinner

 After the conference, members of the Brassica Growers Association or British Leafy Salad Association will have the chance to tour the iconic Leicester Tigers Stadium while the venue transforms for the Gala Dinner.

The evening will begin with a drinks reception, followed by a delicious three-course meal. Highlights of the evening include the presentation of the prestigious David Piccaver Award for outstanding contributions to the Leafy Salad industry and the Geoff Philpott Award for exceptional achievements in the Brassica industry. The evening will conclude with our after-dinner speaker, which we are delighted to announce is former England rugby player and Leicester Tigers captain, Tom Youngs.

Renowned for his resilience and adaptability, Tom’s illustrious rugby career included 28 caps for England, a role on the British & Irish Lions’ 2013 tour to Australia, and leading Leicester Tigers to success, including their 2012-13 Premiership triumph.

Join us as Tom shares his remarkable journey—from the rugby pitch to the fields—along with invaluable lessons on perseverance, transformation, and cultivating success in every field of life.

Secure Your Spot

 Tickets for the Conference and Gala Dinner are available now on Eventbrite. Ticket sales close on 15 January 2025—book early to avoid disappointment!

For sponsorship or exhibition enquiries, please contact us at admin@britishgrowers.org. Your support is instrumental in making this event a success, and we are immensely grateful to all sponsors and exhibitors.

On behalf of the organising committee, we eagerly anticipate welcoming you to the 2025 Brassica and Leafy Salad Conference on Thursday, 30th January.

Nov 21
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British Leafy Salads Demo Day – 21st June 2023

By Events, Company News, Industry News

The British Leafy Salads Association (BLSA) is thrilled to announce the Weeding Demonstration Day, scheduled to take place on the 21st of June 2023 at PDM Produce in Newport, Shropshire. This event aims to provide valuable insights and practical knowledge about efficient weed management techniques in the leafy salads industry.

The Weeding Demonstration Day is made possible by the generous support and sponsorship of Stout Industrial Technology, Agriseed (UK) Ltd, and Planttape. Their commitment to the advancement of weed management in the leafy salads industry is instrumental in making this event a success.
In addition to the main sponsors, the BLSA is delighted to have Oper8 and Edwards Farm Machinery as the Lunch Sponsor, ensuring that attendees will be provided with a delicious meal during the event. Hazera Seeds have also come forward as sponsors of the event booklet, providing attendees with valuable resources and information.

Event Highlights:
Weeding Demonstrations: Industry-leading specialists will showcase the latest advancements in weed management techniques, including innovative machinery, precision technologies, and sustainable practices.

Industry Talk: Brian Antle, from Tanimura & Antle in the US, will address salad trends in America and innovation in producing field scale salad crops, offering valuable insights into global industry perspectives.

Networking Opportunities: Participants can interact with peers, industry professionals, and representatives from various organizations, facilitating the exchange of ideas and best practices.

Exhibition Area: Leading suppliers, technology providers, and agricultural companies will showcase their latest products, services, and solutions in weed management.

The Weeding Demonstration Day is a must-attend event for farmers, growers, researchers, industry professionals, and anyone involved in the leafy salads sector. By harnessing the latest advancements in weed management, the industry can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure the delivery of safe, nutritious, and high-quality leafy salads to consumers.

The event is open to both BLSA members and non-members, with tickets available at £20 for non-members. However, BLSA members can attend free of charge by using a special discount code provided exclusively to them. Furthermore, students can benefit from a discounted ticket price to encourage their participation in this educational and industry-focused event, email admin@britishgrowers.org for your discount code (students will also be asked to provide evidence of their of student ID).

Details of the Event:

Date: 21st June 2023 Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Location: PDM Produce, Chadwell Park Farm, GREAT CHATWELL, Newport TF10 9BN

To purchase or register your ticket for the event, click here. Alternatively, contact the BLSA Team at admin@britishgrowers.orgadmin@britishgrowers.org