Securing the Future of Our Food: Attracting Young People to UK Agriculture
Fri Feb 06 2026
In episode 285 of the Kite Podcast, Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Arla Foods UK Managing Director Baz Padberg, Kite Consultant Becca Oakley, and producer Becki Reay as they delve into a new cross‑industry initiative created by Arla alongside partners from universities, further education, retail, policy and food producers. They discuss why young people often overlook the huge opportunities available in UK agriculture, reflect on the industry’s current demographics, explore the initiative’s three key recommendations, and consider what needs to change to attract, develop and retain the next generation of talent. The discussion brings fresh insight into the people and career pathways that will drive the future of UK agriculture. Dairy market analyst Chris Walkland is also on hand, opening the episode with his usual milk market report. Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been
prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute
advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no
representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or
otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products
during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy
Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter
are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The
contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.
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In episode 285 of the Kite Podcast, Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Arla Foods UK Managing Director Baz Padberg, Kite Consultant Becca Oakley, and producer Becki Reay as they delve into a new cross‑industry initiative created by Arla alongside partners from universities, further education, retail, policy and food producers. They discuss why young people often overlook the huge opportunities available in UK agriculture, reflect on the industry’s current demographics, explore the initiative’s three key recommendations, and consider what needs to change to attract, develop and retain the next generation of talent. The discussion brings fresh insight into the people and career pathways that will drive the future of UK agriculture. Dairy market analyst Chris Walkland is also on hand, opening the episode with his usual milk market report. Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.