A conference in Leeds next month is set to concentrate on the region’s food industry’s involvement in issues relating to supply chain security, climate change and energy management.

The Farexchange Programme's annual conference in Leeds takes place on October 6 under the tagline Yorkshire Food in a Challenging World.

The free event will be offering practical and innovative solutions for companies feeling the pinch from the worst economic downturn for a generation.

Patrick Farnsworth, the Lord High Sheriff of the East Riding of Yorkshire and chairman of the Regional Food Group, will chair the meeting, which will feature prominent speakers from the most innovative companies operating within the food and farming sector, including Asda, Northern Foods and DHL.

The Farexchange Programme, now entering its second year of operation, has already initiated a number of supply chain projects within the Yorkshire region, and this year promises to be just as busy with the industry facing the challenges of supply chain security, climate change and energy management.

Attendees will learn about innovative new ways to help their business become more profitable, as well as take part in workshops addressing supply chain logistics and the impact of biofuels. There will also be a presentation by the Centre for Food Robotics and Automation on the advantages of robotics and automation.

Farexchange's operational manager Paul Rhodes said: "The last 12 months have been tough for all companies as a result of the recession and the credit crunch. But Farexchange can help the region's food and drink industry weather the storm through improved supply chain efficiency. Secure supply chains cut costs and reduce waste, in addition to safeguarding land for food use."

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