Emma Reynolds MP, Secretary of State, DEFRA joined Ulster Bank corporate customers, business leaders, and agriculture stakeholders at a lunch event during the 157th Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank.
Before lunch was served, guest enjoyed a panel discussion, ably compered by podcaster and founder, Jim Fitzpatrick. Joining Jim on the panel was Nick Whelan, CEO Dale Farm; Professor Lynsey Hollywood, Ulster University and Ulster Bank’s Head of Agriculture, Cormac McKervey.
The discussion focused on emerging trends within the agrifood sector and called on government at all levels to support agrifood businesses to unlock full potential and become truly globally competitive.
Kenton Hilman, Head of Corporate and Property at Ulster Bank, who hosted the lunch event, said the event was a welcome opportunity for Ulster Bank to connect with colleagues and stakeholders who are driving this vital sector forward, right across the UK economy.
“This event at the Balmoral Show is all about bringing together all elements of the supply chain and showcasing Ulster Bank’s support for the agri-food sector, which extends far beyond our sponsorship of Balmoral.
“The agri‑food sector generates £7.3 billion in economic value and supports almost 109,000 jobs, making it one of the most strategically important sectors in Northern Ireland’s economy.
“Despite accounting for less than 3% of the UK population, Northern Ireland produces around 8% of UK food output by volume and over 10% by value, with particular strength in high‑value, protein‑rich foods such as dairy, beef, poultry, and eggs, and so it is no exaggeration to day the sector plays a vital role in food security and in driving balanced regional growth.
“Thanks to Nick, Lynsey and Cormac for taking part in today’s insightful conversation and to Jim for hosting the event.”
The Ulster Bank lunch at Balmoral Show is now in its 17th year and has previously welcomed speakers including Joe Manning, Tesco, Duncan Spencer-Brown, Director, Foods Connected, Beth Harte, VP at McDonald’s, Trevor Lockhart, CEO of Fane Valley, and Professor Grainne Allen, Head of Product Development at Marks and Spencer.
Ulster Bank has a long history of being involved with the Balmoral Show and became principal sponsor of the event in 2009. Further information about Ulster Bank’s support for the sector is by searching Ulster Bank Agriculture.