GB Potatoes Opens Applications for 2027 Potato Industry Development Programme

GB Potatoes has launched the second year of its Potato Industry Development Programme in partnership with the British Potato Trade Association (BPTA), offering new entrants an opportunity to develop their knowledge, skills and professional networks across the UK potato sector. 

Following the success of the inaugural 2026 programme, applications are now open for the 2027 intake. The programme is designed for people at the early stages of their careers who want to gain a comprehensive understanding of the potato industry, explore the latest developments and connect with leading companies, researchers, scientists and industry professionals. 

The 2027 programme will take place across three sessions covering England, Scotland and London, giving participants exposure to potato production, processing, seed, research, science, innovation and agricultural policy.

Three Phases Across Three Regions

England, 15–18 February 2027

The programme will begin in Scarborough with a focus on potato processing and production. Participants will visit leading industry organisations and brands including McCain, Branston and Tayto, alongside potato processing machinery specialist Haith Manufacturing.

The first session will provide participants with an understanding of how potatoes move through the production and processing chain, while giving them the opportunity to engage directly with businesses operating across the sector. 

Scotland, 15–17 June 2027 

The second session will begin at the James Hutton Institute and will focus on commercial seed potato breeding, potato growing, blight and potato cyst nematode (PCN). 

Visits will include GenTech Propagation, McCain Seed, a seed grower and SRUC, providing participants with insight into seed production, research, crop management and some of the key challenges facing potato growers.

Parliamentary Visit, November 2027 

The final phase will take place in London and will focus on agricultural policy and political engagement. 

Participants will gain an understanding of how agricultural policy decisions are made, how the industry can influence those decisions through lobbying and why engagement with policymakers is important for the future of the potato sector.

Participants Gain Industry-Wide Experience

Louise Greenhill, Contracts Manager for Agrico and a participant in the inaugural programme, highlighted the value of seeing different parts of the industry first-hand.

Louise Greenhill, Contracts Manager for Agrico and a participant in the inaugural programme:

"I’ve really enjoyed being part of the Potato Industry Development Programme, from visiting processing factories and farms in England to seeing the research, science and innovation taking place in Scotland."

"It’s been fascinating to see how all the different parts of the industry connect, and meeting other young people in the industry has been just as valuable. I’m looking forward to the remaining legs and hopefully playing a part in the future of the industry."

GB Potatoes Highlights Need for Future Industry Leaders

Alex Godfrey, Chair of GB Potatoes, said the strong response to the inaugural programme demonstrated the demand for structured development opportunities for people entering the sector.

Alex Godfrey, Chair of GB Potatoes:

"When we first developed this programme, back at the start of 2026, we wanted to support those who were at the start of their career and looking to grow their skills and knowledge. We were overwhelmed by the number of the responses, and the impact we are already seeing with the current cohort, has highlighted the need for a structured programme, that supports the development of our future leaders and encourages long-lasting connections."

Godfrey also stressed the importance of continued investment in skills and training as the potato sector faces growing challenges.

Alex Godfrey:

"With the sector facing many challenges, not least the current drought, it is more important than ever that we continue to invest in skills and training, so we continue to drive resilience, innovation and effective communications with our consumers."

Encouraging prospective applicants to participate.

Alex Godfrey:

"I would encourage anyone looking to grow their career to consider applying for the next programme and would like to express my thanks to the BPTA for partnering with GB Potatoes to deliver this incredible opportunity."

Programme Cost and Applications

Accommodation, meals and minibus travel are included as part of each study visit. Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for their own travel to and from the starting and finishing points of each visit.

The programme costs:

• £1,200 for GB Potatoes members 
• £1,700 for non-members

Places are limited and strong interest is expected following the response to the first programme. Applicants are therefore encouraged to submit a well-considered application.

The programme is aimed at helping the next generation of potato professionals build practical knowledge, understand the connections across the industry and develop relationships that can support the sector's future resilience, innovation and growth.