GB Potatoes launches industry development programme

Developed in partnership with the British Potato Trade Association (BPTA), the three-part initiative aims to fill a gap in structured professional training for those building careers throughout the potato supply chain. The programme is designed to equip future industry leaders with a whole-system understanding of the sector as it faces growing commercial, regulatory and environmental challenges.

During the first phase, participants from across production, agronomy, research, policy, manufacturing, trading and procurement took part in a three-day programme of visits and sessions with leading businesses. These included McCain Foods, Branston, AKP and Haith Manufacturing, where participants explored how quality systems, processing, storage, machinery and trading interconnect across the supply chain.

GB Potatoes chair Alex Godfrey said the initiative responds to the need for structured development since the end of AHDB’s former Next Generation Programme: “The potato industry is made up of many highly skilled people working across a wide and complex supply chain. Since the loss of AHDB’s successful Next Generation Programme, what has been missing is a structured way for new entrants to step back and see how those different parts fit together.

“Working with the BPTA, our aim was to create a programme that takes participants from high-grade seed through to the finished product, showing how each part of the chain functions and connects, helping to develop leaders who can meet the future demands of the industry.

Godfrey praised the calibre of the inaugural group, describing their enthusiasm and insight as 'a reflection of the strength of talent coming through the sector'.

Among those taking part are Abbie Maclean (Meijer Potato UK), Alexandra Cismas (AKP Ltd), George Cole (RS Cockerill), Hannah Sadler (Fylde Fresh and Fabulous), Harry Watkins (Scott & Newman), Holly Turner (Branston Potatoes), Jake Caston (Produce Solutions), James Webster-Rusk (The Andersons Centre), Laura Stevens (Defra), Louise Greenhill (Agrico UK), Lucinda Smith, Mark Robson (HK Timbers), Megan Singer (Cygnet PB) and Tim Allen (Patrick Dean Ltd).

Participant Megan Singer, breeding programme trials officer at Cygnet PB, said the course had already had a big impact: "I came away from the England trip feeling energised and inspired, I loved hearing different perspectives from people involved in all parts of the industry. I got a lot out of the discussions and site visits, especially hearing how others are approaching similar challenges and it opened my eyes to different perspectives. I really look forward to getting together again in June gaining and sharing more valuable knowledge with new friends."

The programme runs through 2026, with the second phase to be held in Scotland in June, focusing on seed, breeding, plant health and regulation, and the final phase in London in November, centred on policy, lobbying and industry representation.

For more information, contact Graham Bannister at gb@grahambannister.co.uk .