Trinity Grain, the farmer-owned grain storage and marketing cooperative, welcomed farmers and industry leaders to a well-attended speaker event on February 5th. The evening, themed “Helping Yourself and Helping Each Other,” provided a forum for open discussion on the challenges facing UK agriculture, with a strong emphasis on the power of collaboration as a means of securing a sustainable future.
Alongside representatives from Trinity Grain, a panel of respected industry figures, including former NFU President Minette Batters, Velcourt CEO Nick Shorter, Evolution ABS Director Dan Knight, and Openfield CEO James Dallas, explored key issues such as policy uncertainty, market volatility and the need for transparency and fairness. Discussions underscored the importance of collective action in strengthening farmers’ negotiating power and influencing decision-makers.
Reflecting on the success of the evening, David Evans, Managing Director of Trinity Grain, commented:
“Trinity Grain members and invited industry guests were fully engaged, eager to collaborate, and embraced the cooperative spirit – demonstrating that our strength truly lies in working together.
“Beyond the panel discussions, the event provided an invaluable opportunity for members and invited guests to connect, exchange ideas and build relationships. Seeing so many engaged in meaningful conversations reinforced the importance of events like this in fostering collaboration and driving positive change in the industry.”
The evening also provided an opportunity for Trinity Grain to outline its strategic direction. Evans highlighted the cooperative’s commitment to affordable grain storage, expert pool marketing and risk management solutions designed to protect members’ interests and maximise returns. He emphasised the importance of strong governance, strategic leadership and professional management in delivering long-term success in an increasingly challenging sector.
Chairman Richard Williamson addressed the broader difficulties facing UK farming, acknowledging the mounting pressures on farm profitability and the importance of continued advocacy on issues such as imported food quality standards and fairer market conditions. Despite the challenges, he reinforced a message of optimism:
“Beyond legislative changes, it was highlighted that maintaining profitable farming businesses is becoming increasingly difficult. It is crucial that attention and advocacy extend to other pressing challenges, such as the quality standards of imported products.”
“However, despite these challenges, there remains a strong sense of optimism. Farming communities must sustain hope, resilience and progress.”
“Our thanks go to the panel and everyone who attended and contributed to making the evening such a success. We look forward to continuing these discussions and working together to shape a brighter future for UK farming.”