VISITORS TO Dairy-Tech on Wednesday, February 5, can look forward to interactive, forward-thinking speakers and a whole host of new products and innovation.

Whilst we know dairy is a vital source of nutrition, the industry is under more pressure than ever from veganism and environmentalists and this is only likely to continue, pointed out independent nutritionist, Claire Baseley.

At the event, she will use the platform to explain how we can use evidence to navigate the anti-dairy narrative we are facing – separating the facts from the myths.

Continuing this theme, the event’s ‘Dairy Hub’ will also host Arla Foods’ Graham Wilkinson and Morrison’s Nicola Spalding, who will discuss the latest consumer insights and how these differ from processor to supermarket.

Earlier in the day, Tom Gill, head of sustainability at Promar International, will focus on busting the myths around dairy emissions – one of the most newsworthy topics currently facing the sector – and explain that ‘it’s the how, not the cow’ that is responsible for emission reduction.

Elsewhere, with more than 300 exhibitors, there are more new products, services and concepts than ever before says RABDF managing director, Matt Knight. “Many of these are signposted in the official show guide and definitely worth a visit, as you’d expect, the Innovation Hub is packed with presentations on new ideas and products – with additional sessions looking at what’s on the horizon for the industry in a fast moving, technology driven world.”

Duncan Forbes, from the Agri-Epi Centre, will speak alongside some of the centre’s members and look at how agricultural technology is key if we are to continue feeding the ever-growing population with reducing resources.

Innovation Hub chair and RABDF vice-chair, Robert Craig, added: “If you’ve ever wondered about the positive effect of satellite mapping on grass growth or how innovation can help when it comes to meeting net zero targets then check out the hub timetable as it is packed full of inspiring and fresh content.”

Miracle-Tech, Herdwatch and Zoetis are the finalists in this year’s Royal Dairy Innovation Award, sponsored by CIEL (Centre for Innovation Excellence in Livestock). Each company will pitch their product to the judges on the Innovation Hub after the official show open with the winner announcement taking place later in the day.

Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased at www.dairy-tech.uk/visiting/buy-tickets with concessions in place for RABDF members and students. Tickets cost £17 in advance and £20 on the day but pre-booking is advised to avoid unnecessary queues.

Dairy-Tech facts:

  • Site address: Stoneleigh Park, Coventry, CV8 2LG
  • Opening times: Wednesday 5th February 2020, 08.00 to 17.30
  • Road Access: Stoneleigh Park is located 1 mile east of the A46 dual carriageway road between Junction 15 of the M40 and the A45 dual carriageway (Birmingham to Coventry, Rugby and the M1 Junction 17). The A46 to the north, links with Junction 2 of the M6, beyond Coventry. Stoneleigh Park is on the B4113 road between Leamington Spa and Coventry. However, visitors in cars will be routed on to the site by Event Signs, using the B4115 road, which runs parallel to the A46, between the A452 and the B4113, near Stoneleigh village.
  • Rail access: The nearest train stations are Coventry, Warwick Parkway and Leamington Spa. There are rail connections to these stations from London Marylebone Station, Birmingham New Street and Birmingham International (at the airport). There is bus access from Coventry Station to Stoneleigh Park and from Leamington Town Centre and the Taxi distance is about three miles.