Irrigation, emerging trends and future customers on the agenda at National Potato Conference

The National Potato Conference, an event organised by Teagasc, the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) and Bord Bia, will take place on Tuesday, November 17.

Centred on the theme of ‘Building a Resilient Potato Sector’, the event taking place in the City North Hotel, Gormanston, Co. Meath, K32 W562 and commencing at 9am, will focus on emerging trends in the potato sector while also looking at the customers of the future.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Teagasc Potato Specialist, Shay Phelan said: “Farmers and growers who have reinvented their businesses to capitalise on emerging trends in the sector will address the conference.”

Presentations provided by Kantar; Michal Slaawski, Bord Bia; Berta Redondo, Europatat; Mick Kelly, GIY; and Con Trass, The Apple Farm and IFA, will cover the respective areas of market analysis, consumer identification, the impact of the 2026 season and future challenges, opportunities to Grow it Yourself, and diversification at a grower level.

“After a challenging year with drought, the afternoon session will examine the future role of irrigation. Andy Whelton, Vegetable and Potato Advisor at Teagasc, will discuss irrigation and its impact. Gavin Prentice, SRUC, will examine irrigation systems for the future, while Jim Moriarty, EPA will also outline the licencing requirements for water extraction.

“Denis Griffin, Teagasc will also examine emerging varieties for the future, while Tom Murray of O’Shea Farms will look at opportunities to grow alternative markets,” Shay Phelan added.

For the full agenda and to register to attend the National Potato Conference, visit here.