Countdown to Pig and Poultry Fair

Producers keen to make the best of their businesses still have time to sign up for fast track entry to the British Pig and Poultry Fair 2012.

The free, two-day event at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire on 15 and 16 May will offer a wealth of advice and information for active pig and poultry farmers.

Organised by the Royal Agricultural Society of England and supported by Fair partner ABN, more than 300 exhibitors will be showcasing their latest products, services and developments.

With an expected 9,500 visitors, those attending the country’s biggest pig and poultry event will be treated to a full timetable of forums and workshops to help them make their businesses more profitable.

Visitors will also be able to be able to pick up tips on how to strengthen their existing markets through the launch of the Fair’s “Champion Pork and Poultry Initiative”.

Supported by Red Tractor, the NFU, BPEX and the NPA, the Initiative aims to boost sales of home-grown pork, poultry and eggs by encouraging producers to tell consumers why they should choose British.

The Initiative suggests 10 ways to communicate with consumers about the high welfare, excellent quality produce British farmers have to offer.

Backing the Initiative, NFU president Peter Kendall said it was important consumers knew what a great job British pig and poultry producers do.

“The best people to champion the industry and dispel some of the misconceptions surrounding pig and poultry production are the farmers themselves,” he said.

“Educating and enthusing consumers so they make a conscious decision to choose British food and support its good production methods is vital if we are to ensure the pig and poultry sectors can grow to meet demand in the future.”

David Clarke, Red Tractor Assurance chief executive, added: “Red Tractor assured pork and poultry farmers are committed to good farming methods to ensure their livestock have healthy lives.

“This Initiative is a fantastic opportunity for farmers to help drive understanding amongst consumers about where their food comes from and the great job that Red Tractor assured farmers do to produce it.”

• For more details and information about the Fair, visit www.pigandpoultry.org.uk