Bord Bia will hold its inaugural horticulture seminar at the Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge, Co. Kildare, next week.

Themed 'Futureproofing Irish Horticulture', the event on November 4, will bring together growers, industry stakeholders and experts.

It will provide a dedicated forum for Ireland’s horticulture sector to examine the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping its future.

Presentations and discussions will explore market developments and consumer behaviour, alongside Bord Bia supports and emerging opportunities for business growth.

Networking will give growers and industry stakeholders opportunities to share knowledge and strengthen connections.

Horticulture

The seminar comes at a pivotal time for the sector as growers continue to navigate rising input costs, labour availability challenges and changing market conditions.

Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) with special responsibility for forestry, farm safety, and horticulture, Niall Collins said:

"Irish horticulture makes a vital contribution to our food supply and rural communities.

"Irish growers continue to deliver for consumers and the wider economy through their commitment, innovation and determination, demonstrating remarkable resilience despite a difficult operating environment in recent years.

"Ensuring the sector’s long-term viability means recognising these significant challenges and pressures while supporting opportunities for innovation, collaboration and sustainable growth."

The minister outlined that a competitive and resilient horticulture industry is essential to continuing to deliver high-quality Irish produce for consumers.

The seminar is seen as an opportunity for growers and industry stakeholders to work together, share knowledge and explore practical ways to strengthen the sector.

Seminar

The seminar will focus on the future of the sector and highlight positive developments, including the recently launched Irish Horticulture Grower-Retail Charter, the Horticulture Future Leaders Programme, and the increasing engagement of the sector with Bord Bia services and supports.

More than 250 growers operate across Ireland’s horticulture sector.

The seminar will showcase the sector’s breadth, strength and potential, with practical insights to support growers’ future business success.

Speaking ahead of the event, chief executive of Bord Bia, Jim O'Toole said: "Futureproofing Irish horticulture is about recognising both the challenges and the opportunities facing the sector.

"While there are real pressures on growers, there are also encouraging developments taking place across Irish horticulture, from stronger industry collaboration to new leadership and learning initiatives."

Bord Bia has said that attendees can expect:

Market and consumer insights relevant to the horticulture sector;
Perspectives from industry experts and leading growers;
Updates on Bord Bia initiatives and supports;
Networking opportunities with industry stakeholders;
Discussion on future opportunities for growth and competitiveness;
Insights into sector developments, innovation and collaboration.