Fast developing agri-tech, from robotic pickers to fitness trackers for cows, has the potential to make UK farms more profitable while benefiting the environment, but a new report from NFU Mutual warns that political uncertainty and worries over future government support for agriculture is holding back investment in the latest technological developments. It offers advice to farmers considering investment.
A chance e-mail from a young couple passionate about wine created an exciting opportunity for a traditional Norfolk farm to diversify. Flint Vineyard had its first harvest in 2019 diversification . Ben and Hannah Witchell shared their plans for producing quality wine in the UK and very soon Flint Vineyards was up and running. The vineyard had its first harvest in 2019, which promises to be a vintage year for English wines. Ben will talk about the journey in the February 2020 Pollinator.
Change provides an opportunity for innovation. This month we explore how the rapid growth of Controlled Environment Agriculture is driving change in food production and stimulating the emergence of platform technologies. Also how the increasing popularity of English wines is boosting interest in this alternative crop.
CEA is attracting significant global investment, creating huge opportunities for innovation – as well as divergence in business model.