AHDB Potatoes Next Generation participants voted for McCain Foods as their ‘Best Industry Host’

Delegates of AHDB Potatoes first ever Next Generation Programme overwhelmingly voted McCain Foods as their ‘Best Industry Host’, presenting the award at their final session at AHDB Headquarters, Stoneleigh Park, last month.

Matthew Stubbings, trainee fieldsperson for McCain Foods (GB) Ltd (also on the programme as a delegate himself), accepted the award on behalf of the company at the concluding day of the course on 7 March.

AHDB’s Next Generation Programme was launched in 2015 with the aim of developing the future leaders of the Great British potato industry through exposure to all areas of the supply chain.

Looking back over the series of 9 technically-focussed industry visits over the past year, the delegates rated the programme as valuable, engaging and thought-provoking overall. 100% stated they were on board to continue being an ambassador and spokesperson on industry issues going forwards.

Graham Finn, agricultural policy advisor for McCain Foods and AHDB skills champion received the award in-hand back at McCain Foods GB Headquarters in Scarborough.

Graham Finn:

“We’re delighted that the delegates found their time at McCain of interest and that it had such an impact.”

“Dynamic and vibrant, the potato industry is both technologically advanced and environmentally responsible with attractive and rewarding career prospects, offering a wide range of talents and skills.”

“We strongly support the Next Generation initiative which serves to nurture and encourage talented individuals to step up and continue to drive the industry forwards, and ultimately ensure the £4.8bn GB potato industry remains competitive and sustainable in the long-term.”

“If the programme is to deliver real value, then all participants, delegates and hosts have to give it 100%, and we’re glad to hear that came across when we gave the processing perspective in Scarborough last June.”

Patrick Elliott, a farmer's son growing 220 acres of potatoes for I D & F K Elliott in Pembrokeshire reflected:

“I feel very fortunate that I was able to be involved in the programme.”

“It was definitely a valuable experience for young entrants like myself, providing new information and inspiration for how to make our businesses more successful.”

“I have come away really motivated and looking forward to what the future brings.”

The programme also offered a forum for networking.

Bryonie Cundy, field manager for Nene Potatoes in Lincolnshire:

“It’s been a real opportunity to meet like-minded individuals with a clear passion for potatoes. It’s allowed us to come together to share our challenges but also our ideas for progression.”

The successful programme commences its second year on 20 May at AHDB in Warwickshire with 15 fresh, up-and-coming industry innovators who came through a highly competitive video application process to be awarded a place on the programme.