‘Brexit-proof your business’ at this year’s Cereals Event

The organisers of this year’s Cereals Event have promised to help farmers get to the core of Brexit.

Next month’s event will introduce a ‘Brexit-proof your Business’ knowledge trail, flagging up the most relevant exhibitors and seminars to visit.

“We’re proud of the fact there’s so much to do at Cereals, but visitors often say it’s hard to see everything they want to in just one day,” said event organiser Jon Day.

“This year we’ve introduced Knowledge Trails, to flag up exhibitors relating to a specific theme and show them on a map – allowing visitors to make the most of their Cereals experience.”

Lloyds Bank is just one business to feature on the Knowledge Trail, offering advice to farmers on how to prepare for what is ahead.

“Our number one tip is don’t put your head in the sand; think now how Brexit might affect your business,” said the firm’s Ben Makowiecki.

“Particularly look at aspects like commodity prices, subsidy payments, labour and finance costs.”

From a practical perspective, farmers need to budget for the worst-case scenario then consider what steps need to be taken to improve the situation, he said.

“We advise to really think about existing finances: What happens if the base rate increases?

“It’s also worth considering what debt farmers may need to expand or change their business post-2020.”

The Arable conference, in association with De Lacy Executive, at this year’s event will also play host to two Brexit themed debates, while AHDB will also host a series of debates to explore the threats and opportunities facing the arable sector.

AHDB lead analyst Jack Watts said: “EU market access, import competition in the domestic market, and post-Brexit farm support policy are all key themes for the UK arable industry.

“Given all the uncertainty, businesses may be tempted to take a ‘wait and see’ approach.

“But there are proactive steps businesses can take to put them on the front foot and in a stronger position to cope with, and even capitalise on, change.”

The Cereals Event takes place on June 14 and 15 at Boothby Graffoe in Lincolnshire.