Upcoming Trade Shows in UK for Agriculture

British farming plays a pivotal role in feeding the nation, providing 61% of the food consumed in the UK. What's more, 66% of all farm businesses in England also engage in additional enterprises such as farm shops, wedding venues, and B&Bs. These diverse activities contributed £680 million to the UK economy in the period 2017-2018. These might be surprising numbers to hear given the UK’s status as a financial hub in Europe. Agriculture has always been the backbone of its economy and continues to be of vital importance. Farming also takes on an essential role in managing the UK's environment, overseeing over 70% of its land area. This stewardship is crucial for preserving the nation’s biodiversity. The current trends in farming lean towards adopting technologies, processes and solutions that are sustainable and less invasive in order to prevent soil exhaustion without sacrificing yield or quality. Smart farming, defined by the use of modern technology to enhance productivity and optimize labor, is increasingly becoming the norm in the UK. The government's £270 million Farming Innovation Programme is financing ambitious projects aimed at boosting productivity, promoting sustainable practices, improving animal welfare and enhancing food quality. Automation and robotics are also in the spotlight, identified as key growth drivers for the sector in the National Food Strategy. The survey by finance company Propel indicates that 76% of UK farmers are exploring high-tech equipment, with renewable energy technology ranking high on their purchase lists. Despite the challenges posed by Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK's agritech industry is persevering. Over 75% of farmers are looking to acquire assets in the next 12 months. High-profile initiatives, such as the net zero farming center in North Wales, are pioneering digital, precision agriculture and renewable energy technologies, cementing the UK's position as a global leader in the field.