AHDB United Oilseeds OSR Conference | United Oilseeds

Posted: 13 Feb

A Decade of Challenges, a Future of Opportunities

Joint AHDB & United Oilseeds OSR Conference 2025 Draws Industry Experts and Farmers

Over 70 farmers, agronomists, and industry stakeholders gathered at Northampton Saints Cinch Stadium in early February for the highly anticipated AHDB & United Oilseeds OSR Conference 2025. Titled A Decade of Challenges, a Future of Opportunities, the event provided a crucial platform for discussions on the important role of oilseed rape (OSR) in the UK agricultural landscape.

The conference, part of the ongoing national OSR Reboot campaign, boasted an impressive lineup of expert speakers, each addressing key topics. Attendees gained insights from leading industry professionals, including a perspective from the UK’s largest crush plant, ADM Erith, alongside updates on the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) and the latest advancements in the Recommended List (RL).

Key Highlights:

ADM Crush General Manager Rory Blacklock provided a valuable processor’s perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing UK oilseed rape in the current market.
GSC Grays & United Oilseeds Director Robert Sullivan explored how the Sustainable Farming Incentive can help mitigate risks associated with OSR cultivation.
United Oilseeds Commodity Trading Manager Nick Hobson highlighted the financial benefits of OSR as part of a diverse farm portfolio.
AHDB Monitor Farmer Julian Gold shared practical on-farm strategies for optimizing OSR production, drawing from his experience at Hendred Estate.

Following a networking lunch, the conference continued with a dynamic panel session which saw leading experts discuss the latest advancements in crop protection and cultivation. AHDB Lead Crop Protection Scientist Sacha White kicked off the discussion with an insightful overview of recent research, setting the stage for NPZ UK Managing Director Chris Guest, who delved into the latest findings on optimal planting dates. NIAB’s Break Crop Specialist Colin Peters then explored the importance of post-harvest cultivation, sharing key strategies for improving crop resilience.

United Oilseeds Managing Director James Warner rounded up the event with a comprehensive summary and audience questions.

The AHDB & United Oilseeds OSR Conference 2025 reinforced the vital role of oilseed rape in UK agriculture, showcasing innovative strategies and industry collaboration to navigate challenges and seize future opportunities. With OSR remaining a cornerstone of arable farming, events like this continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the sector’s sustainable growth.