Now's the time for the industry to change

"We all saw this coming," explains FPC's chief executive, Nigel Jenney.  "As many have echoed, it's largely the result of a perfect storm of events and circumstances.  "But what we can't do is be complacent," he continues. "There's never been a more demanding time for the fresh produce industry: Labour shortages, the lorry driver crisis and now escalating energy bills have all created unprecedented challenges. "So, we all need to step up! It's time for change!

"FPC have spent months developing these crucial events for the industry and we urge, not only our members, but everyone with an involvement in the fresh produce supply chain, to participate in finding the necessary solutions for their business and for the industry as a whole." The events, both which are free to attend, will be jointly held at Lincolnshire Showground on 4 November and have been developed in partnership with the University of Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Technology (LUIAT).They each tackle different challenges faced by the industry in a unique way. 

FPC Future

FPC Future has been created to be the agritech event for the fresh produce and flower industry and will house an exhibition, conferences,  and tours. 

"This much-needed event will educate and showcase all that is new right now, as well as exploring what the future promises," explains FPC event manager Cristina Melenchon. "Visitors will be able see how new technologies can help them become more efficient, increase productivity and help their workforce" she added.

The conference programme is an extensive one, with eight conference sessions covering pre and post farm robotics and automation, data driven technologies, plastics and packaging, supply chain waste, carbon supply chains, vertical farming and sustainability. 

In short, there's something for everyone!

There will also be a dedicated theatre, where exhibitors can present their latest offerings to a captive audience. This, coupled with the facility for working displays, gives exhibiting companies a unique opportunity to ensure their products and services are seen.

"FPC Future is the perfect platform for companies wishing to showcase their next generation technology and product lines to the growers, packers, importers, exporters, retailers, wholesalers and service providers," explains FPC's Business Development Manager Linda Bloomfield.

"Innovation will drive the future commercial success of the sector and this is a great opportunity for those in agritech to take part as an exhibitor in order to showcase their solutions, forge new contacts and ultimately pick up new business," she adds.

FPC Careers

FPC Careers has been developed to connect today's up and coming talent with the food chains' best employers. Alongside the opportunity to meet face-to face-with representatives from major fresh produce companies and specialised recruitment agencies, industry experts will be available throughout the day to provide attendees with free advice, mentoring and guidance. 

"Our industry desperately needs new employees and this is a fantastic opportunity for companies to showcase their businesses and career possibilities to students and other young jobseekers at a time when they are considering the first or next steps that they wish to take with their careers," explains Bloomfield. 

"As well as the many face-to-face opportunities on the day, there'll be a dedicated CV clinic and our official photographer will be on hand to take a free headshot photo for attendees' professional social media pages," adds Melenchon.

"Exhibiting at a specialised event like this is a cost-effective and efficient way of engaging with younger jobseekers interested in joining our sector, as well as forging connections with the specialised recruitment agencies who will also be taking part, concludes Bloomfield "

To register at FPC Future click here.

To register at FPC Careers click here.

To enquire about becoming an exhibitor or sponsor contact linda@freshproduce.org.uk

Source: Goedemorgen