Fire at AHDB HQ delays Market Intelligence reports

The publication of some key AHDB Market Intelligence reports has been delayed after a small fire broke out at its Midlands headquarters.

The AHDB said the majority of its services are still running as normal and it was working hard to get the reports up and running “as soon as possible”.

See also: Australian bushfires could hit global meat and sheep market

Jane King, CEO of the levy board, said an electrical fire at its headquarters at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, was contained on Monday (20 January).

She added: “Our business contingency planning means we have been able to offer a close-to-normal service in most areas. However, a few of our key Market Intelligence reports have been delayed. We are working hard to get these back up and running as soon as possible.

“Damage to the building is very localised but key electrical circuits were affected, restricting power to the building. This means some key systems are not accessible at the moment. We also need to ensure that the building is properly ventilated to make the environment suitable for staff to return.

“I am very grateful to the fire service, utility companies and especially our staff for dealing with this incident in such a professional manner, limiting the impact of the fire on the building and our business services.”

Anyone experiencing a problem booking an AHDB  event is asked to email ke.events@ahdb.org.uk or call 01904 771 218.

A spokesman for Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “At 9.28am on 20 January, Warwickshire Fire Control received a 999 call to a building fire in Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth. 

“Two fire engines were mobilised from Leamington and Kenilworth fire stations. Once in attendance, it was confirmed this was a two-storey building used as industrial offices. 

“Fire was located in an electric substation. Firefighters extinguished the fire using four breathing apparatus, a positive-pressure ventilation fan, carbon dioxide and dry powder extinguishers.”