Welcome to this Farming Scotland AgriScot preview AgriScot will take place on 9th February 2022 at the Royal Highland Centre Ingliston. It feels great to write that! By Robert Neill, AgriScot Chairman
Robert Neill, AgriScot Chairman
We have not been able to hold a live, in-person AgriScot since November 2019 and all the feedback I receive suggests it sure has been missed in the farming calendar. I could focus here on the importance of AgriScot as a business event, packed with over 240 tradestands and a full programme of seminars and workshops – something for every farming sector. However, I can’t help but also think about the importance of events like AgriScot as a focal point for social interaction, AgriScot provides “business”, “networking”, and “continuous professional development” opportunities but we’re keenly aware that discussions with friends, neighbours, contacts, acquaintances and like-minded individuals have been sorely missed over the past 26 months. In short, I believe that even a business orientated event like AgriScot can be good for mental health and well-being if it allows time off from the farm, time to catch up and especially if it also provides inspiration and motivation to take away and move forward positively. Anyone with any involvement in farm shows or events will appreciate that they cannot get off the ground without the backing of sponsors, tradestands and business supporters. AgriScot relies on these organisations even more so because we do not charge admission to our visitors. I am humbled by the support shown for our efforts to ensure that AgriScot will go ahead in February. We started 2021 with a determination to hold AgriScot, but a huge uncertainty as to how it would look. Our sponsors and trade stand businesses have stuck with us throughout – including when we were forced to make the difficult decision to postpone from our original November date. We really are so, so grateful for all the support received. All that remains for me to say now is Happy New Year – I wish you and yours a safe, healthy and prosperous 2022 – and I very much look forward to welcoming you to AgriScot on 9th February. All Best Wishes. Robert Neill, AgriScot Chairman www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com
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