Two new events have been developed by the UK's Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) to educate and arm the industry in terms of tackling the challenges faced in all areas of the supply chain.
"We all saw this coming," explains FPC's chief executive, Nigel Jenney. "As many have echoed, it's largely the result of a perfect storm of events and circumstances. "But what we can't do is be complacent," he continues. "There's never been a more demanding time for the fresh produce industry: Labor shortages, the lorry driver crisis, and now escalating energy bills have all created unprecedented challenges. "So, we all need to step up! It's time for change!"
"FPC has spent months developing these crucial events for the industry, and we urge not only our members, but everyone with an involvement in the fresh produce supply chain, to participate in finding the necessary solutions for their business and for the industry as a whole." The events, both of which are free to attend, will be jointly held at Lincolnshire Showground on 4 November and have been developed in partnership with the University of Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Technology (LUIAT). They each tackle different challenges uniquely faced by the industry.
FPC Future
FPC Future has been created to be the agritech event for the fresh produce and flower industry and will house an exhibition, conferences, and tours.
"This much-needed event will educate and showcase all that is new right now, as well as exploring what the future promises," explains FPC event manager Cristina Melenchon. "Visitors will be able to see how new technologies can help them become more efficient, increase productivity and help their workforce," she added.
The conference program is an extensive one, with eight conference sessions covering pre and post farm robotics and automation, data-driven technologies, plastics and packaging, supply chain waste, carbon supply chains, vertical farming, and sustainability.
There will also be a dedicated theatre, where exhibitors can present their latest offerings to a captive audience. This, coupled with the facility for working displays, gives exhibiting companies a unique opportunity to ensure their products and services are seen.
"FPC Future is the perfect platform for companies wishing to showcase their next-generation technology and product lines to the growers, packers, importers, exporters, retailers, wholesalers, and service providers," explains FPC's Business Development Manager Linda Bloomfield.
"Innovation will drive the future commercial success of the sector, and this is a great opportunity for those in agritech to take part as an exhibitor in order to showcase their solutions, forge new contacts and ultimately pick up new business," she adds.
FPC Careers
FPC Careers has been developed to connect today's up-and-coming talent with the food chains' best employers. Alongside the opportunity to meet face-to face-with representatives from major fresh produce companies and specialized recruitment agencies, industry experts will be available throughout the day to provide attendees with free advice, mentoring, and guidance.
"Our industry desperately needs new employees, and this is a fantastic opportunity for companies to showcase their businesses and career possibilities to students and other young job seekers at a time when they are considering the first or next steps that they wish to take with their careers," explains Bloomfield.
"As well as the many face-to-face opportunities on the day, there'll be a dedicated CV clinic, and our official photographer will be on hand to take a free headshot photo for attendees' professional social media pages," adds Melenchon.
"Exhibiting at a specialized event like this is a cost-effective and efficient way of engaging with younger job seekers interested in joining our sector, as well as forging connections with the specialized recruitment agencies who will also be taking part, concludes Bloomfield."
To register at FPC Future, please click here.
To register at FPC Careers, please click here.
To enquire about becoming an exhibitor or sponsor contact linda@freshproduce.org.uk
For more information:
Cristina Melenchon
Fresh Produce Consortium
Tel: +44 1733 405791
www.fpcfreshtalkdaily.co.uk
www.freshproduce.org.uk