UK: Packed programme at Fruit Focus 2012
The event is already a key diary date for 1100 growers and industry professionals keen to catch up with the latest agronomy, machinery and technology developments and business advice on offer from 120 exhibitors.
"Fruit Focus provides a unique opportunity for established and new growers alike to
update on the latest technologies and industry developments," says event director
Jon Day of Haymarket Exhibitions.
"It is also the ideal venue to exchange views and network with fellow producers. Fruit Focus 2012 is shaping up to be the most informative event yet."
Visitors to the event, which takes place at East Malling Research, Kent on 25th July,
will be able to listen to some of the best speakers available to gain a valuable insight into the rapidly changing political and technical challenges facing the UK
fruit sector.
Farm minister Jim Paice will be joining NFU president Peter Kendall on the Fruit
Forum platform to discuss progress made by the Fruit and Vegetable Taskforce and
looking more closely at the government’s agenda for securing a successful
horticulture industry in Great Britain.
The forums, sponsored by NFU and Syngenta Bioline, also include an important
debate on the impact of CAP reform for the UK horticulture sector, with NFU senior
CAP and international affairs adviser, Gail Soutar and the new pest threat Drosophilia suzukii and its potential impact on the UK, with Fera principal entomologist Dr Ray Cannon.
A first for 2012 will see melons included in the Fruit Focus Research tours run
by event host East Malling Research. Fruit Focus principal sponsor Mack, the
specialist fruit supplier to multiple retailers, has been carrying out trials for two years and says British melons are in demand from supermarkets and consumers alike.
Mack returns as principal sponsor for the second year running. Executive chairman,
Chris Mack, said last year’s success fully justified the firm’s continuing support.
"Fruit Focus is a key attraction for leading growers and we wanted to be a core part
of it. We met plenty of new people last year and we look forward to meeting even
more in July.
"Our three-year commitment to the show is intended to demonstrate our long-term
ambitions in this area, and our determination to build sustainable, mutually beneficial partnerships that last."
Other marketing companies including Berry Gardens and Norman Collett will also be
represented at the show.
Key areas of Fruit Focus 2012 include fruit research tours, where East Malling's experts will explain the latest work; a demonstration arena - machinery and equipment being put through its paces; fruit forums – debate and discussion on topical industry issues; Vines to Wines - the only grower-focused business-to-business event for still and sparkling wine production in the UK; Vines to Wines seminars - a full seminar programme featuring a practical
workshop from Wine Skills.
Tickets for Fruit Focus 2012 cost £10 including VAT and are available from
www.fruitfocus.co.uk/ticketing
For more information:
Robert Harris
Robert Harris Communications
Tel: +44 (0)1424 883383
Mob: +44 (0)7768 402850
[email protected]
or visit www.fruitfocus.co.uk