Strong line-up of speakers at 2026 conference

The 2026 conference debate, which addressed today’s red meat challenges and opportunities, featured an exceptionally strong line-up of guest speakers.

Kate Adams, Senior European Policy Adviser to the British Agriculture Bureau, gave delegates a detailed analysis of Europe’s livestock outlook, focusing on EU policy and production developments and their specific implications for Scotland. Commenting on the EU’s banning of ‘Products of Animal Origin’ from Brazil, for example, she pointed out that Brazil exported 83,000 tonnes of fresh and frozen beef to the EU in 2025, products that will now be ‘looking for a new home’.

Andrew Connon, President of the National Farmers Union of Scotland, examined Scotland’s livestock outlook, highlighting the challenges, opportunities and road ahead for the Scottish industry.  He stressed the need for all sectors of the livestock chain to work together, urging delegates to ‘talk up’ the industry.

SAMW Conference speakers (l-r) Alan Brown, SAMW President; Andrew Connon, NFUS President; Sarah Millar, Quality Meat Scotland Chief Executive; Kate Adams, British Agriculture Bureau Senior European Policy Adviser; Scott Walker, SAMW Executive Manager.

Sarah Millar, Chief Executive of Quality Meat Scotland, explored the potential for building value, confidence and future growth in relation to Scotland’s red meat industry. She drew attention to the value of the Scotch red meat brand as a ‘powerful tool’ for the industry while also celebrating the emergence of a new generation of engaged and active producers who are focused on moving the industry forward.

Ashley Cooke, Deputy Director of Food & Drink at the Scottish Government, outlined the Scottish Government’s proposals for capping the price of essential foods. Stating that a public consultation process on the proposals is currently open and will run until November 24, he urged delegates to get involved and to make their views known.

“We’re looking to get views on the feasibility of the scheme,” he said. “Ministers are seeking solutions so please help us to build a full picture. We are in listening mode.”