Potato Review

www.potatoreview.com POTATO REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 11 PREVIEW: BP2019 F ew seem ready to call whether this November’s BP2019 show in Harrogate will be following hard on the heels of Britain’s departure from the EU, or if the issue will still be rolling on. But what’s abundantly clear is the potato industry is doing what it always does and looking to get business done, according to show organiser Steve Wellbeloved. “ is will be the largest BP show yet, with the most exhibitors and numerous new product and service launches,” Steve said. “Overall one in ve exhibitors are taking space for the rst time, adding further to the new things to see. “Interestingly, mainland European companies are heavily represented among these newcomers, so that’s testament to the importance attached to the GB potato indus- try and the determination to maintain links regardless of what political and regulatory arrangements may be in place by the time next year’s crop goes in the ground.” Initial visitor registration data is also con- rming strong overseas interest. “ e event Trade and competitiveness high on agenda at BP2019 New innovations, international opportunities and support for growers to be highlighted at biannual show. has always drawn a healthy cross section of visitors from across Europe and key econo- mies like Australia, China, India, Japan, North America and Russia,” says Steve. “ is is built on Britain’s reputation as a leader in potato agronomy, handling and retail presentation, but of course you’d also have to acknowledge that the current position of the pound against many currencies is making it an excellent year to travel to Harrogate.” Inevitably, trade and competitiveness themes will be much in evidence and as part of this, the organisers are developing the Trade & Innovation Hub piloted at the last show. “Follow-up surveys showed the most popular aspect of the hub was the informal drop-in “We anticipate many will want to hear directly from the Government about what the future may hold and what initiatives are being put in place to sustain Britain’s leading position in potatoes.” sessions where visitors could talk about issues face-to-face with experts from across all sec- tors. So we’re looking to maximise the opportu- nity for this,” said co-organiser Carla Lowndes. e UK industry’s key trade organisations - British Potato Trade Association, Fresh Potato Suppliers’ Association and Potato Processors’ Association – will have informal mini-booths in the hub and representatives will be around the show taking the opportunity to discuss topical issues. Advice on exporting Experts from the Department for Internation- al Trade will be found on a dedicated stand in the Hub. Given the Government’s fast ➜ As always, the BP show will reflect the international nature of the potato industry.