Egg and Poultry Industry Conference: Top 10 reasons to go

“2020 Vision – safeguarding your business for the future” is the theme of this year’s Egg and Poultry Industry Conference, scheduled for 1 and 2 November at the Celtic Manor Hotel in south Wales.

Here are 10 reasons why you might want to attend:

1. Market intelligence. While last year’s event took a longer-term perspective based around sustainability, this year the focus is on the next five years. Speakers have been challenged to share their thoughts on how poultry businesses can succeed in a changing world.

2. Stunning surroundings. The move to Celtic Manor last year was not without its sceptics, but those who went agreed the location was a triumph – a genuine five-star hotel with ample space, high-quality facilities and courteous staff.

3. Top speakers – as ever, there is an impressive line-up. Defra secretary George Eustice is scheduled to address the conference, as is market commentator Justin Uruqhart-Stewart and chief executive of Noble Foods, Andrew Cracknell.

4. Networking opportunities. With around 300 delegates, there are few better opportunities to come face-to-face with friend (or foe) than during the two days that is Epic.

5. Fine food and drink. The pre-conference drinks and the White Meat Supper on the Sunday, and the conference banquet on the Monday, provide excellent opportunities to enjoy the quality food produced by the Celtic Manor’s many chefs.

6. Entertainment. Former Welsh rugby star Phil Bennett – architect of the “try of the century” in 1973 – will speak after the White Meat Supper. Rod Woodward – a “young Dave Allen” according to comedian Peter Kay – will take to the stage after the banquet. And Aubrey Parson, singer and entertainer, will keep the music going into the early hours.

7. Meet an award winner – both the BPC/ForFarmers Poultry Person of the Year and the Epic Young Poultry Person of the Year awards will be presented at the banquet. Will someone you know pick up the top prize?

8. Meet suppliers. With no Pig & Poultry Fair this year, the trade exhibition that is part of Epic provides one of the best opportunities to meet equipment suppliers and service providers under one roof. 

9. Time with the spouse – a number of rooms are available at a special conference rate of £132 for the Saturday night (30 October) for those who want to make the most of the hotel facilities – be it a round of golf, a day at the spa or an intimate meal in one of the hotel’s six quality restaurants.

10. Value for money. All this is available for a delegate fee of £187.50 (+VAT), with the White Meat Supper costing a further £36 (+VAT) and the Banquet £56 (+VAT).

What to do now?

Registration is now open online, by visiting the site www.epiconference.co.uk.

Hotel rooms (£114.33 for a single if booked before 25 September), need to be booked direct with the Celtic Manor by calling 01633 410 262, quoting the reference EPIC15.

Young Poultry Person of the Year

The search is on for this year’s Epic Young Poultry Person of the Year.

If you know someone under the age of 40 who is making a splash in the egg and poultry sector, then please let us know.

You should email a submission of about 500 words to philip.clarke@rbi.co.uk explaining what it is that makes them stand out and how they have benefited their business or organisation.

The winner will get a free place at Epic, including accommodation and a place at the banquet. Self-nominated entries are also welcome.