I repeatedly tell my students that change always brings opportunity and this unprecedented period in UK agriculture is no exception. Political change, population growth, climate change and the rise of consumer issues are among the challenges that provide us, as an industry, with a clear set of opportunities. 

The 2019 Conference has the title ‘Building the Brand to Promote Our Uniqueness’ with the aim of highlighting these opportunities - whether they be the high health status of our herds, our branding opportunities, our diverse production methods or the enthusiasm and knowledge of those involved in the industry - and how we make the best possible use of them.

The range and experience of speakers for the 2019 Conference, which include NFU president, Minette Batters, and UK Chief Veterinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss, demonstrate that others share our vision on these opportunities. We are also bringing speakers from both hemispheres and from countries that have already experienced huge changes in their markets and learnt to perform in a global market.

It is through the generous support of our sponsors, for both the BCBC and the conference, that we can continue to develop this exceptional event which brings together the cattle breeding industry, farmers, scientists and students to share knowledge, debate issues and move the industry forward. I would also like to thank the club committee and club secretary, Heidi, for all the hard work that goes into providing a conference of this calibre.

I look forward to welcoming you to Telford in January 2019 and seeing what we can do to grab these opportunities and build our brand.