Agrovista has appointed Joe Shepherdson as head of commercial horticulture following the retirement of Mike Bannister. Joe joined Agrovista in July 2024 as glasshouse team manager, working closely with Mike. He brought with him eight years of experience in glasshouse horticulture sales and a further six years working for a vegetable breeder.
Joe said: "It is a huge honour to pick up where Mike has left off. When joining Agrovista, many described Mike as the 'backroom' of the Agrovista Glasshouse team. Having spent the past 18 months working alongside him, I feel it better to describe Mike as the 'engine room' of the team.
© AgrovistaJoe Shepherdson
"He is held in high regard by grower customers and partner businesses across the sector. His commitment to ensuring the industry is best served is unfathomable. I and the team will look to build on Mike's many achievements over the past 15 years and I am sure our market leading position will continue for the years to come."
Mike spent 40 years in the horticulture sector, the last 15 with Agrovista. He played a key role in helping the company achieve its market-leading position in the protected salads sector during his time with the company, building the business year on year.
"I can confidently say that we deal with 100% of the growers in our sector, most of them having Agrovista as their main or sole supplier," Mike said.
© AgrovistaMike Bannister
"Thanks must go to my team colleagues, Roger Beard, Des Dalton and latterly Joe Shepherdson for their conscientious hard work and dedication during my tenure. They and the various support teams have all been integral to the team's success."
Mike said Joe had brought a wealth of knowledge experience and a fresh approach to the team. He added: "Joe is forward thinking, relishes a challenge and makes the most of opportunities, which will stand him in good stead to take the business forward."
For more information:
Agrovista
Email: [email protected]
agrovista.co.uk/
