The Future of UK Farming: New Models for Local Food Systems

Are there new, emergent, relocalised models for local food systems that can challenge the current orthodoxy and revitalise local markets? Our panelists explored this question and more during a session on New Models for Local Food Systems during The Future of UK Farming conference this April 2018. Adrian Dolby, Head of Agriculture at Buccleuch in Southern Scotland, explains how one of the largest privately owned land holdings in the UK, at over 82,000 ha provides farm tenants with opportunities to develop their farming potential and maintain economic viability. Caroline Grindrod, co-founder of Primal Meats - an on-line meat business selling organic 100% grass fed meat, explores how and why she combines holistic management, regenerative agriculture and environmental conservation for the benefit of human health and by default the health of her farm animals and the land. Farmdrop’s Ben Pugh sets out how the ethical grocery company came to be and the challenges they continue to face, whilst Darina Allen, founder of Ballymaloe Cookery School explains how her school does it’s utmost to ensure that they remain sustainable both environmentally and culturally. This film captures the discussion in full and includes a series of thought-provoking audience questions.


Chair: Patrick Holden, SFT

Panel discussion:
Adrian Dolby, Buccleuch Estate
Ben Pugh, Farmdrop
Caroline Grindrod, Primal Meats
Darina Allen, Ballymaloe Cookery School