Understanding what customers want spotlighted at NBA Beef Expo 2015 Major focus on changing lifestyles and demands at industry showcase event

Helping farmers and processors to boost their bottom line by getting to grips with the changing lifestyles of modern consumers, will be a key element of this year’s National Beef Association (NBA) Beef Expo.
The showcase industry event at York Auction Centre, on Thursday May 21, will be putting the spotlight on what shoppers want, in addition to offering beef farm tours and exhibiting the very best in pedigree and commercial cattle at the National Spring Spectacular Show.
The presentation on meeting the changing lifestyle of today’s consumer is designed to provide the beef sector with a better understanding of end users, and to help it to better meet customer expectations. It will include changing consumer fashions and world cuisine as well as the continuing growth of ready meals, fast food and dishes that are quick and easy to cook.
In addition, there will be a butchery competition and demonstration, plus a cookery demonstration from celebrity Yorkshire chef and consultant for all things food, Steph Moon.
Chairman of NBA Beef Expo Richard Tasker, said: “Understanding what people want when they go to their local butcher or supermarket, and then satisfying that demand, is a crucial component in creating a more profitable business.
“If you are a beef farmer or processor, our consumer seminar will be a must-attend part of Beef Expo 2015 if you are looking to create a sustainable enterprise for the future.”
The consumer focus is a new element to this year’s event, which is a red letter day in the beef industry calendar. However, NBA Beef Expo retains the traditional elements that have made it the showcase annual event for the sector, including the £5,000 prize fund National Spring Spectacular Show. The programme brings together the cream of British beef breeding alongside classes for novice exhibitors and Young Handlers in the Future Beef Farmer Challenge.
NBA Beef Expo is also an opportunity to meet breeders and find out more from breed societies which will be attending, and to learn about the industry’s latest technical developments. Three seminars will be focusing on key changes and how farmers can introduce them on-farm: EID benefits to the Beef Industry; VIA the future of grading; and remote cattle management. Plus, a packed trade stand area will bring together the latest nutritional developments and new equipment.
Visitors are also invited to book a place on the farm tours which take place on Wednesday May 20, the day before the main Expo event. East Yorkshire farms will be welcoming visitors to find out more about their pedigree and commercial cattle enterprises. Tickets for the tours are strictly limited to 300, with tickets priced at £25.00. There is also the opportunity to buy the tickets in conjunction with the tickets for Beef Expo 2015 and these are priced at £30.00 for NBA members or £35.00 for non-members.
Richard said: “NBA Beef Expo 2015 is shaping up to be a tremendous Beef showcase event, and we are looking forward to welcoming what we hope is a huge crowd to York Auction Centre.
“There will be something for everyone involved in the beef sector, whether your interest is in pedigree breeding and showing, or making the most from your commercial herd. This is the best opportunity of the year to network, meet potential new customers and take home new ideas than can help add profits to your business.”