Professor Ursula Lavery MBE, Chair of the Northern Ireland Food & Drink Association and R&D Director at Pilgrim’s Europe, takes a look further into 2026 and what it might hold for business & the economy here…..
2025 was marked by a strong push for greater policy alignment and a shared vision for agrifood. One that prioritises sustainability, health, food security, and economic growth. That matters. But vision alone is not enough. 2026 must be the year of delivery.
For our business, and Northern Ireland’s food sector as a whole, the challenge is clear: only sustainable growth will give us the means to invest in continuous improvement, in jobs, and in the communities that define Northern Ireland.
Our region already punches above its weight. It is a pillar of UK food security and has the potential to lead the world in sustainable food production. That is within reach – but only if we remove the barriers that hold us back.
Consumers want more than quality and value. They expect environmental responsibility, healthier choices, and convenience. Meeting those expectations demands investment – in innovation, infrastructure, and skills. It demands confidence in planning and regulation, and it demands collaboration across the entire supply chain.
Planning reform is urgent. Continued delay and uncertainty are choking progress. We need a system that enables investment, supports sustainable growth and safeguards rural livelihoods. Our economy and local farmers need to be empowered, and our natural environment protected. We need to be brave in putting forward ideas that will truly shift the dial on outcome measures.
Innovation is non-negotiable. Feeding a growing population while reducing environmental impact requires new thinking and new tools. Our teams are driving advances in sustainability, nutrition, and on-farm technology – balancing efficiency, animal welfare, and emissions reduction. We need the confidence to continue to invest boldly in research and development to secure food resilience for decades to come.
Collaboration will define success. Industry, academia, farming and government must work together to tackle shared challenges – from disease management to productivity gains. Research partnerships are not optional; they are the foundation for progress. We must work together to turn policy into practical action through evidence and partnership.
As a global business, Pilgrim’s marks 80 years’ this year. At Pilgrim’s Europe, we are immensely proud of our Northern Irish farming roots and look forward to celebrating with our people, farming and supply chain partners across the region. We are committed to working together to make 2026 the year that delivers – enabling our local rural economies to thrive, ensuring a resilient agriculture sector and safeguarding a sustainable agrifood future.