Potato Review

14 POTATO REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 BP2021 C LIMATE change will dominate the news agenda this November as thousands of delegates descend on Glasgow for the UN’s COP26 climate summit. Meanwhile, 200 miles further south, BP2021 in Harrogate will share the Sustainability – BP2021 exhibitors put a new emphasis on their show offering. focus on sustainability – if not the political posturing and security circus. Show organiser Steve Wellbeloved said: “Sustainability has been a growing topic at British Potato events for many years, but 2021 sees it front and centre for many exhibitors from across the supply chain, and especially for those closest to the interface with consumers.” The leading player in the fresh and chilled sector, Branston, typifies this and, as well as being a gold sponsor, it will have its largest ever stand at the event to ensure there’s plenty of room for discussion on the range of issues facing the industry. “We always eagerly anticipate the biennial British Potato show and this year, even more than ever, we are looking forward to being able to catch up with so many of our growers. It’s a brilliant show and an excellent opportunity to see all aspects of the industry under one roof,” said Commercial Director Richard Clark. “Sustainability has been a long-standing theme for us at the event,” he added. “This year, we expect it to be key among the many subjects discussed, as businesses large and small take up the mantle of making clear and measurable commitments to managing and reducing the environmental impacts of their operations. “Of course, there’s a world of difference between making bold commitments and actually achieving meaningful progress, so our emphasis is very much on the practicalities of making changes. “People also want to know what we are doing ourselves to complement what we are encouraging our supplier base to do. So, as well as looking at work we are leading or supporting throughout our supply chain, we’ll also be sharing some of the initiatives within our own operations. This includes focusing on key inputs such as power generation and water recycling, through to minimising or “We’re anticipating a lot of productive discussion amongst growers on ways the potato sector can help to protect the planet for future generations.” Richard Clark, Commercial Director, Branston Looking to the future: Twenty years ago Branston’s stand at British Potato previewed the automation that’s followed! Now the focus is on sustainability initiatives that will help determine what the future holds.