Savills : Immersive workshop aims to future-proof farm retail

Entrepreneurial farmers have the chance to meet their peers and discuss the future for farm retail with specialist consultants at a two-day workshop on 5 & 6 March called 'The Gathering'.

Co-hosted by Australian retail guru John Stanley and farm diversification expert Michael Mack of Savills, the event will be held in Norwich and will examine the challenges facing the sector from influences such as innovative new players and Brexit. It will also feature guest speakers, including Rob Ward of The Grocery Accelerator.

Places are limited to just 20 delegates and it is hoped the event will attract participants from Ireland, Canada and the USA as well as the UK.

Michael Mack comments: 'This is a challenging time for farm retail businesses but it's also a springboard for opportunity. Marketing and merchandising strategies that have worked well in the past will not necessarily succeed in the future and it's vital to adapt or risk being left behind.

'The Gathering is aimed at owners and managers who are passionate about what they do. The scale and nature of the delegates' enterprises are less important, their eagerness to learn and drive their businesses forward is far more important. We will be pushing them to explore how their plans are going to be affected by change and how they can harness it to have a positive impact.'

The two day workshop will be held at Savills Norwich office, Hardwick House, NR1 3FS. The cost is £950+VAT which covers one night's accommodation at a Norwich hotel, all meals and the workshop sessions. A £100 discount is available to FARMA members and Savills clients.

For more information please contact Michael Mack, Savills Norwich, [e-mail], 01603 229229