CEREALS aims to quantify what Brexit will actually mean for farm businesses and how they should manage the many changes that it will bring. Uncertainty is a key element in farmers’ thinking, but the organisers say that at the event they will find many answers about how to ensure their businesses are as resilient and Brexit-proof as possible. From concerns over trade deals to questions over available chemical treatments, there’s no doubt that Brexit will have a huge impact on the industry. While the future is uncertain, what is guaranteed is that there is a unique opportunity ahead, according to the event’s organisers. This year’s event will have a ‘Brexit-proof your business’ knowledge trail’, flagging up the most relevant exhibitors and seminars to visit. Event organiser, Jon Day, said: “This year we’ve introduced Knowledge Trails to flag up exhibitors relating to a specific theme and show them on a map – allowing visitors to make the most of their Cereals experience.” Lloyds Bank will feature on this year’s Knowledge Trail, offering advice to farmers on how to prepare for what is ahead. “Our No 1 tip is don’t put your head in the sand. Think now how Brexit might affect your business,” said the firm’s Ben Makowiecki. “Particularly look at aspects like commodity prices, subsidy payments, labour and finance costs.” From a practical perspective, farmers need to budget for the worst-case scenario then consider what steps need to be taken to improve the situation, he added. The Arable Conference will play host to two Brexit-themed debates. On Wednesday, June 14, a panel session on ‘Brexit, what does the future hold?’ will include the Secretary of State and NFU president, Meurig Raymond, as well as representatives from the Agricultural Industries Confederation (David Caffall) and Agricultural Engineers Association. Wednesday will also see a practical session at the Arable Conference, looking at how evidence-based production could play a critical role as UK farming builds for a more sustainable future. AHDB will also be hosting a series of debates to explore the threats and opportunities facing the arable sector. Among those will be a ‘Are you ready for 2020?’ discussion (12:30, both days), headed up by AHDB’s lead analyst, Jack Watts. He will look at some key resilience-building steps that businesses can take ahead of the UK leaving the EU. The debate will feature alongside a ‘Brexit bucket list’ exhibit to raise awareness of key questions to be considered by farming businesses ahead of Brexit.