Cold and wet weather in Harrogate did nothing to dampen the mood at British Potato 2005, with exhibitors describing it as one of the most successful shows to date.
Around 6,000 people flocked to the Yorkshire Showground and many exhibiting said they were happy with the turnout. “We were really pleased with the number and the quality of the enquiries,” said Barry Ledger, sales manager at Tong Peal Engineering. “We felt there was a lot of interest in what we were exhibiting and were able to welcome a lot of international customers.”
“I thought it was excellent,” said Steve Brackenbury from Brackenbury Engineering. “I can’t fault the show - normally there’s some criticism, but the mood was really good. It was well organised and this year it was put on at the right time. The show has happened in September in recent years, but that’s meant farmers aren’t always there. They’re busy harvesting if it’s fine weather.”
British Potato Council chairman, David Walker, said: “We are delighted by the upbeat mood at the event and its overall success. The decisions to move to a new time of year, a new venue and to modernise the format have all proved very worthwhile.
“Crucially, early analysis of visitor registrations confirms that those responsible for the vast majority of the UK potato acreage, and the subsequent handling of the crop, have all attended. That has to be excellent news for exhibitors and is also healthy for the industry, as better communication and co-operation are key to improving UK competitiveness,” he said.
As well as the many companies exhibiting, several seminars took place, with presentations and meetings covering a wide range of subjects, from irrigation to marketing, providing good opportunities for delegates to take away some practical advice to help propel their business, and the sector as a whole
