Kite Consulting

John Allen, Becki Leach

Kite Consulting provide business services to the entire food supply chain, from farmer to retailer and are widely recognised as one of the UK’s leading dairy consultancy companies.

  1. 13 HR AGO

    Securing the Future of Our Food: Attracting Young People to UK Agriculture

    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.

    44 min
  2. 23 JAN

    SEMEX Dairy Conference Wrap Up: Markets, Tech & Farming Insights

    Following Chris’ milk market report this week, Will and Ben are joined by Wigtownshire dairy farmer Rory Christie, Chair of the 2026 Semex Conference, and podcast producer Becki Reay. They look back at standout moments from the SEMEX International Dairy Conference in Glasgow last week and discuss current trends in the milk market, including how these may affect businesses over the coming months. The mindset throughout the conference was focused on “seeing through the issues – solving the issues – and being robust, efficient and resilient.” The group also reflects on the session chaired by Rory, which featured contributions from Serge Moly, Milk Supply Director at Lactalis; Paul Batchelor, Head of Milk Supply and Balancing at Lactalis; Paul Vernon; Tom Bradshaw; Christopher Lafougere; and Chris Walkland. The discussion offered strong support for farming, explored different angles on the market, and highlighted a positive long term outlook. There was also an interesting conversation around protein – how consumer diets are shifting and the growing demand for higher protein products. They touch on recent trade deals and the impact of global trade on producers. Manuel Soares, CEO at Milc Group, also provided insights into AI in farming and smarter livestock management to the economics behind protein demand and the resilient farming communities driving progress 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.

    39 min
  3. 16 JAN

    Resilience and Opportunity: Insights from the OFC 90th Anniversary

    In this episode, we begin with Chris Walkland’s latest milk market report before celebrating the 90th anniversary of the Oxford Farming Conference with insights from OFC Director Ali Capper and dairy farmer Tracey Roan, who is based in Dumfries and Galloway. We delve into the report “UK Farming: Grasping the Opportunities,” led by Dr. Louise Manning, which explores the future of UK agriculture and the key interventions needed to help farming businesses thrive. We also highlight how any family business looking ahead should consider involving independent people to strengthen long term decision making. Throughout the discussion, Becki Reay joins the conversation, offering reflections and perspective as we unpack the conference’s core themes, including the sector’s resilience and the value of strong networks within the farming community. 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.

    45 min
  4. 19/12/2025

    Mental Wellness at Christmas

    As we approach the end of the year, we find ourselves in our final episode, just days away from Christmas. This festive season is often filled with gatherings, laughter, and indulgence in food and drink with loved ones. Yet, for some, Christmas can bring about feelings of loneliness, especially for those facing challenging family situations. It's a time when many reflect on the past and ponder the future. We likely know someone who may be struggling during this season, and today, we will focus on the importance of supporting one another during Christmas and how to navigate the heavier emotional burdens that may arise. Joining us for this important conversation are rural life coach Jo Speed, first-generation dairy farmer Lucia Slack from Cumbria, podcast producer Becki Reay, and the ever-insightful dairy market analyst Chris Walkland. 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.

    44 min
  5. 05/12/2025

    Ireland's Nitrate Derogation: Balancing Dairy Production and Water Quality

    In this episode of the Kite Podcast, hosts Ben Eagle and Will Evans take a closer look at Ireland's dairy sector in light of the recent European Commission proposal to extend the nitrate derogation for another three years. They are joined by Joe Patton, Head of Dairy Knowledge Transfer at Teagasc and Emily Stafford, a Dairy Consultant with Kite, to discuss the implications of this decision for farmers both in Ireland and the UK. The conversation covers the importance of the derogation for Irish dairy farmers, the ongoing political debates surrounding water quality, and the conditional requirements that come with this licence. Chris Walkland also shares his latest milk market report, providing insights into the current state of the dairy market amidst challenging conditions. 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.

    47 min

About

Kite Consulting provide business services to the entire food supply chain, from farmer to retailer and are widely recognised as one of the UK’s leading dairy consultancy companies.

You Might Also Like