Organised by the Royal Agricultural Society of England and partnered by ABN, the event at Stoneleigh Park will once again help farmers seek out business opportunities by showcasing the latest technologies, research and success stories, with a strong line-up of exhibitors.

The fair will also see the launch of the ‘Champion Pork and Poultry Initiative’, a drive to get producers, processors and suppliers to help boost sales of home-grown pig and poultry products.

The headline debate will identify how British producers can add value to their food by getting it onto the menus of schools, hospitals and restaurants. And while it’s tough for UK meat to beat imports on price, Karen McQuade of supply business The UK Food Hall says it is possible to compete on other fronts.

“We need to make bespoke products which give customers a reason to buy British,” she said.

Chaired by NFU President Peter Kendall, debate panellists Andrew Saunders of Tulip UK and Prime Meats' Mark Staton will also discuss which products the food service sector is looking for, particularly when it comes to British. According to Mr Staton, UK pig and poultry farmers are in an excellent position thanks to the long-term price and quality consistency of their products.

“British pork and poultry is a great alternative to beef and lamb, which has seen a lot of price volatility lately,” he said.

“They tick a lot of boxes in terms of consumer interest in provenance, flavour and tender meat.”

The headline debate will be held on Tuesday 15 May at 11.30am. Other forums and workshop sessions will cover a variety of issues including planning, market outlooks, raw materials purchasing, renewable energy projects and animal health and welfare.

The British Pig & Poultry Fair is FREE to enter, however visitors must complete a registration form to gain entry. To avoid the queues and gain fast-track entry on the day you can register online now.