With less than two weeks to go, the organisers of the British Pig & Poultry Fair have outlined the top five reasons to make your way to the NEC in Birmingham for the two-day event.
Being biennial means it is an ‘unmissable’ date in the diary for many producers and a unique chance to catch up with friends and colleagues, learn about the latest research and advice, and try out new products, all under one roof, they said.
So how can visitors make the most of their time at the Fair?
1 – Meet suppliers
More than 330 exhibitors come together for the Fair, offering solutions, advice and ideas. Whether it’s nutritional guidance when switching from white to brown laying hens, or labour-saving straw spreading machines, there is sure to be something for everyone to take home.
“In 2024, some 77% of visitors planned to make changes to their business following their visit – showing they found a range of useful information and products to suit their farm,” said event organiser Alice Bell at RASE. “Feedback was extremely positive, with one visitor noting: ‘I saw technologies and companies I never knew existed’.”
2 – New products
Farming never stands still. Fresh ideas, new products and the latest research all combine to ensure that production systems are constantly evolving, improving animal welfare, efficiencies, and environmental impact. There are more than 60 new products on show at the Fair, ranging from simple, effective ideas to cutting-edge artificial intelligence.
For example, for pig producers, Livestock IQ from Blackston Coopers offers a new farm management system with structured workflows and alerts.
3 – Debate hot topics
Adding value, protecting against disease threats, and boosting efficiencies are at the top of many producers’ agendas. And such topics will be firmly in the spotlight in the Forum programme, with expert speakers taking to the stage to explore how farmers can make the most of their units.
In the specialist Forums, visitors can hear about the market outlook for eggs, poultry meat and pork, including national and global trends. Hot topics include strong consumer demand set against tightening welfare restrictions, as well as the potential for value-added exports.
African Swine Fever and fairness in the supply chain will be three areas of focus, as will a discussion on how the pig sector should address the ongoing communications battle and tell its own story.
4 – Latest thinking
Innovation comes in many forms, and the Innovation Theatre aims to connect producers with the ideas that shape their tomorrow.
Biosecurity and health are two key themes, examining issues like how automated micro-climate control in sheds can improve pig growth rates and health. Other topics include targeted microbial management to reduce ammonia emissions, and advanced micro-encapsulation of essential oils and organic acids to improve pig and poultry performance.
In 2024, some 92% of visitors rated their time at the Fair as valuable to their business, with one of them adding: “It’s the perfect opportunity to catch up with the latest innovations.”
5 – Meeting up
With more than 8,000 visitors expected, the Fair is a perfect opportunity to catch up with producers and suppliers from across the UK, Europe and further afield.
For those who are starting out or changing direction, there is a special guide on the website signposting important membership organisations and career opportunities.
“Whether you’re new to the sector and exploring the opportunities, or firmly established and seeking fresh ideas, the Fair is the place to be,” said Ms Bell.
“Supported by ABN, the Fair strives to be always advancing, always improving – and in 2024, 86% of attendees rated their visit as excellent or good. One delegate said: “It’s great to meet people in the sector face-to-face. I met the whole industry in one day.”
- The British Pig and Poultry Fair takes place on 13-14 May at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information and to register for your FREE ticket visit pigandpoultry.org.uk.