Irish National Potato Conference Set for Thursday, 21st November

The National Potato Conference and Trade Show 2024 will take place in the City North Hotel, Gormanston, Co Meath, (K32 W562) on Thursday, 21st November, with registration open from 9am. 

The conference theme is ' Potatoes—Looking to the Future ', and it is organised by IFA in association with Teagasc and Bord Bia. 

IFA National Potato Chair Sean Ryan said the challenges for growers producing potatoes have increased substantially in the past two years with increased costs, regulatory burden, and land and seed availability. 

A retail expert will address the topic of consumer trends and the outlook of potatoes. Kantar will give an update on consumer trends and Bord Bia will explore marketing opportunities for potatoes. 

The conference will also discuss the trade negotiations impacting seed potato availability and delve into blight control for the upcoming season. 

The first session will give growers an insight into the emerging lifestyle trends and trends in potato purchasing habits. The afternoon sessions will address the issue of seed potatoes availability and critical agronomic challenges such as blight EU-43. 

Following presentations, a trade show will be ongoing throughout the afternoon.