UK discounter Lidl brought together over 130 farmers, food producers and industry leaders for its inaugural Grassroots British Farming Conference.

Held at Harper Adams University, Lidl said the two-day event provided a platform for “collaboration, innovation, and tackling the future challenges of British farming”.

The agenda featured discussions on agricultural policy, regenerative farming, livestock behaviour monitoring technology, and mental health, alongside hands-on demonstrations in key areas such as soil health and butchery.

‘Lidl in Dialogue’ – an interactive panel session – gave attendees a direct opportunity to engage Lidl’s sustainability and commercial teams and industry stakeholders, asking questions on the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector.

The discounter also said it was on track to invest £21 billion in the British food industry by the end of FY24, exceeding its original five-year commitment by 40%.

Richard Bourns, chief commercial officer at Lidl GB, opened the conference, reinforcing Lidl’s long-standing partnership with British farmers: “With two-thirds of our products sourced from British suppliers, we recognise the critical role agriculture plays in both our business and our customers’ shopping choices. Having strong family ties to farming myself, and over 15 years working closely with British suppliers at Lidl, I know first-hand the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

“For nearly five years, our Grassroots Farming Groups have played a crucial role in developing long-term, sustainable partnerships. Events like our Grassroots Conference allow us to foster open conversations, strengthen relationships, and ensure we continue growing together in the years ahead.”