darlingtonandstocktontimes.co.uk

'Beef Expo' event to be held in town at 'critical juncture for beef production'

Returning for its 2026 edition, the event will take place at Melton Mowbray's historic cattle market on Saturday, May 30, under the theme 'Beefing Up Food Security.'

Neil Shand, chief executive of the NBA, said: "We are at a critical juncture for beef production in the UK, whether it’s suckler or dairy bred beef.

"At Beef Expo next year, we will not hold back in pressing our politicians on the undeniable importance of supporting home-produced food.Ben Harman, Neil Shand & Hugh BrownBen Harman, Neil Shand & Hugh Brown (Image: Supplied)

"They continue to preach that food security is national security, yet we need to see tangible proof of this commitment."

Mr Shand said the event will serve as a crucial gathering for those invested in securing the future of British beef.

He said: "With current pressures increasing on the British beef industry, Beef Expo has never had a more vital role in bringing together breeders, farmers, and business stakeholders to demonstrate the strength and vitality of this critical aspect of the country’s home-grown food production.

"In 2026, Beef Expo will give us a platform to host a major political seminar once again, but that’s not all.

"We’re introducing a special livestock health and welfare hub to address pressing issues and provide vital resources.

"And on a positive note, we’ll be introducing the ‘Best Beef Burger Competition’ to showcase the incredible quality of our beef.

"It’s time to unite and demand the support our industry deserves, and it couldn’t be more fitting to hold Beef Expo at such an important centre for the livestock industry as Melton Mowbray."

The Expo will feature the National Commercial Cattle Show, expert-led seminars, and discussions on industry challenges and future strategy.

It will also include a new livestock health and welfare hub and the launch of the ‘Best Beef Burger Competition.’

Melton Mowbray’s town centre livestock mart, which has been in operation for more than 1,000 years, has grown significantly since 2017 and is now one of the UK’s leading livestock markets.

It attracts commercial and pedigree sellers from across the country and has helped earn the town its reputation as the ‘UK’s Rural Capital of Food.’

Hugh Brown, CEO of Melton Mowbray Mart, will serve as joint chair of the event alongside NBA chair Ben Harman.

Mr Brown said: "We are absolutely delighted to be hosting the NBA Beef Expo next year with its timely focus on food security and resilient supply chains, which we and other marts form a key part of.

"We look forward to welcoming visitors, exhibitors, sponsors and speakers to Beef Expo, the Market, the Stockyard and this lovely town next year."

The event will highlight the importance of supporting UK beef production and raise public and political awareness of the challenges facing the sector.

It will also showcase the best commercial beef cattle in the UK through competitive show classes and practical demonstrations.

Further details, including sponsorship and exhibition opportunities, are available on the National Beef Association’s website at www.nationalbeefassociation.com/beef-expo.

Read full news in source page