Agri-Forum

Themes for 2026

The Dairy Show Agri Forum returns with thought-provoking discussions for farmers and rural businesses. This year’s programme will explore the potential of anaerobic digestion as a new income stream for farms, alongside a panel discussion examining the impact of inheritance tax changes on the future of farming.

10:30 – Pressure Points in Dairy Businesses: Contracts, Cashflow and Conflict

Providing a practical discussion around the commercial, financial and operational challenges facing dairy businesses today, helping farmers identify potential issues early and understand how to build more resilient business relationships.

The panel:

Esther Woolford, Clarke Willmott (Chair)
Ian Harvey, NFU Dairy Board Chairman
Amy Peacey, Clarke Willmott
Bradley Causey, Old Mill
Laura Mackain-Bremner, Clarke Willmott
Max Sealy, Director, FCG WhiteAvon

11:30–12:15 — PANEL Discussion: From Slurry to Income: Is an Anaerobic Digester Right for Your Farm?

With increasing pressure to improve sustainability, reduce waste, and create new income streams, anaerobic digestion is becoming an attractive option for many farming businesses. But is investing in an anaerobic digester the right move for your farm?

Join our expert panel as they examine the opportunities and challenges of turning agricultural waste, slurry, and crop residues into renewable energy and additional revenue. The discussion will explore the financial considerations, environmental benefits, planning and regulatory requirements, and the practical realities of operating an anaerobic digestion system on farm.

Whether you are actively considering an AD project or simply want to understand the potential for diversification and energy generation within your business, this session will provide valuable insights, real-world experiences, and the opportunity to put your questions to industry specialists.

13:30–14:15 — PANEL Discussion: The Cost of Change: Inheritance Tax and the Future of Farming

With agricultural policy, taxation and succession planning high on the agenda for farming businesses, this timely panel discussion will explore the potential impact of inheritance tax changes and what they could mean for the future of family farms.

Join experts from NFU Mutual, CLA, Clarke Willmott and PKF Francis Clark as they discuss the latest developments, practical implications for farming families, and the steps businesses can take to protect their future. The panel will provide valuable insight into succession planning, business resilience, legal considerations and tax strategies, offering attendees the opportunity to hear from specialists and ask their own questions.

Whether you are planning for the next generation or seeking clarity on recent policy changes, this session is not to be missed.

Find out more about the panelists

Esther Woolford is Head of Agriculture at Clarke Willmott, a leading rural litigator and trusted adviser to farming businesses

Amy Peacey is a commercial contracts specialist, advising dairy producers and processors on milk contracts, supply agreements and Fair Dealing Regulations.

Laura Mackain-Bremner is an agricultural disputes specialist, advising dairy farmers on contracts, agri-tech, farming finance and business disputes.

Ian Harvey is Chair of the NFU Dairy Board and a Cornish dairy farmer, championing fair supply chains and sustainable dairy farming

Bradley Causey is an ICAEW accredited Chartered Accountant that specialises in farms, and he takes the lead from an Old Mill perspective on the Milk Cost of Production Report.

Max Sealy is a dairy farmer, consultant and NFU Dairy Board member, championing succession, milk contracts and resilient farm businesses.

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