FDBusiness.com

Tesco has launched the Future Farmer Foundation to support the next generation of British farmers. The Foundation has been established to help bright, talented, determined young people make their own start in the world of agriculture, whether that is taking over the family farm, embarking on a new business venture, or entering the industry for the first time.

In its first year, Tesco will offer a minimum of fifteen young people a bespoke package of leadership training, business planning advice, mentoring, supply chain experience and networking opportunities.

Funded by Tesco and free for participants, the Foundation is unique in its tailored, candidate-led approach. Successful applicants will be able to choose a programme suited to their own aspirations and business needs, and it’s hoped the Foundation will also be able to offer training and support to dozens more young farmers during the application process itself.

Richard Marris, commercial director of fresh foods at Tesco comments: “We’re committed to the success of British agriculture, and we want the next generation of farmers, with all their energy, talent, and dedication, to be working with us for decades to come. Whether it’s guidance on succession planning, advice on financial management, or providing access to a world-leading supply chain, we’ve developed the Future Farmer Foundation to be a strong base from which the farmers of tomorrow can launch themselves onto their chosen paths.”

Beth Bennett, aged 20, doesn’t come from a farming background, but now manages a 16,000 hen free range egg production unit. She piloted the supply chain experience element of the Foundation, and found it invaluable: “The scheme can help you develop yourself as a person to be able to achieve what you want in agriculture. Looking into the supply chain, it’s been very beneficial to be able to go to the processing plant, and to go to Tesco’s headquarters to talk to the technical managers and buyers, to understand what the customer wants.”