The decision will be effective from 19th August, with the current CEO, Graham Wilkinson, departing on 22nd August.

AHDB said that the appointment will allow for a necessary break in employment for Mr Wilkinson as he moves to a pork sector levy payer.

Ms Swadling brings more than 35 years of senior leadership experience across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. As a former independent board member of AHDB, she has a strong track record in governance, strategic leadership, and organisational transformation.

Her previous roles include interim chief executive of Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and inaugural CEO of The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture (TIAH).

As interim CEO, Ms Swadling will provide continuity and focus for AHDB as the organisation moves forward with the recruitment of a permanent chief executive, the board said.

Promise of ‘smooth and stable transition’

Emily Norton, chairwoman of AHDB, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Janet Swadling as our interim chief executive. Her deep understanding of AHDB and her wealth of leadership experience make her ideally placed to guide the organisation through this period of transition.

“I want to thank Graham for his commitment and achievements during his time with us and wish him all the very best for the future.”

Janet Swadling added: “It’s a privilege to return to AHDB in this capacity. I look forward to working with our colleagues, levy payers and stakeholders to maintain momentum on key priorities and ensure a smooth and stable transition as the search for a permanent CEO continues.”

The recruitment process for AHDB’s permanent chief executive is already well underway, with a high-quality field of applicants currently being considered.

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Tom Chapman has just launched a wool collection business from his new base at one of Staffordshire County Council’s farm holdings in Standon Bowers. He took on the 50-acre farm in October 2024 and now shepherds around 200 sheep.

Having grown up on a dairy farm in Warwickshire, with parents from farming families, Tom always knew he wanted to follow in their footsteps.

The 34-year-old farmer said: “What I love the most is being able to share it with my three children as they grow up. I spent most of my childhood in a lambing shed and around sheep and just became absolutely obsessed with them, really.”

The wool from Tom’s farm is collected, processed and made into carpets and a range of other wool-based products.

‘Any chance you get, you should take it’

Since moving to the farm last year, Tom has already quadrupled the size of his flock.

Tom said: “To get onto a council farm as a starter farmer, it’s one of the only real ways to get there. There’s a lot less estates that have tenanted farms now.

“The councils held onto their farms, which Staffordshire has done really well. That’s really good for the next generation, because there’s not many opportunities and the land prices are really high. It’s really hard to start off, and any chance you get, you should take it with both hands.”

Staffordshire County Council’s farms estate consists of 63 equipped tenanted farms, along with additional rural properties and land, covering approximately 6,500 acres.

These holdings are made available both to new entrants and to those looking to progress in their farming careers. The majority are dairy units, with others focused on beef and sheep rearing and a small portion in arable production.

Tenants are encouraged to farm sustainably and contribute to environmental and biodiversity goals while also developing successful and innovative rural enterprises.

‘Opportunity to build a sustainable future in agriculture’

Martin Murray, Staffordshire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for economy and skills, said: “Supporting the next generation of farmers is a key priority for us. Our county farms estate gives people like Tom the opportunity to build a sustainable future in agriculture – something that’s becoming increasingly difficult without access to land.

“We’re proud to continue investing in this historic service, which not only helps young farmers get started but also supports local food production, rural skills and environmental stewardship across Staffordshire.”

Staffordshire County Council has been offering rented farms since 1908, with a focus on stock rearing and dairy production. The estate expanded after the 1919 Land Settlement Act, which aimed to provide returning servicemen with a fresh start through agricultural opportunities.

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R W Crawford Agricultural Machinery Ltd. was founded by Bob Crawford in October 1980 and initially focused on the buying and selling of used farm machinery in Essex.

Over the years, the business has grown into Crawfords Group, a multi-branch business specialising in the sales, servicing, and parts support of machinery and 4×4 vehicles across the South and South East England.

Crawfords Group has just announced the retirement of its founder and chairman, Bob Crawford.

Managing director Wes Crawford said: “On behalf of the Crawford family and the entire Crawfords team, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to my father for his years of dedication, vision, and support.

“Bob’s leadership has shaped the culture of the business from day one – grounded in passion, trust, family and respect. With a strong customer focus and a genuine passion for the land-based sectors that we serve.

“His mentorship has left a lasting legacy that will continue to guide the business for years to come.”

‘More than just a business’

Commenting on his retirement, Bob Crawford said: “What started as a small venture from a yard in Essex has grown into something I’m incredibly proud of.

“Crawfords has always been more than just a business to me – it’s been a family, a team, and a way of life. I’m grateful to everyone who’s been part of the journey, past and present, from loyal customers and suppliers to the dedicated team who continue to drive the business forward.

“It’s now time for me to step back, knowing the company is in safe hands with a bright future.”

The company’s team said that Mr Crawford’s retirement marks the “end of an era”, but his values and vision remain deeply rooted in the Crawfords Group as it continues to grow and evolve in the years ahead.

Mr Crawford plans to have his last day within the business on Friday, 11th July.

READ MORE: Crawfords Group becomes distributor of Komatsu equipment

Read more machinery news.

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The cooperatives said that the merger will substantially strengthen the position of both businesses with a combined membership of over 4,000 and annual turnover of £100 million serving farmers and crofters in an area from East-Central Scotland to Sutherland in the north, Skye and Argyll.

The new combined operation will retain the Ringlink Scotland Ltd name, with two HBS directors joining the Ringlink board.

Overall management will be the responsibility of Ringlink’s managing director, Graham Bruce, with the present HBS team continuing to run operations in HBS’s existing trading area on a day-to-day basis from their present office at Glaikmore, Tore.

Administration will be linked to Ringlink’s main computer at Laurencekirk, and Ringlink will retain their existing regional offices at Cupar, Coupar Angus, Oldmeldrum and Elgin.

Members of HBS are set to be asked to give formal approval to the merger plans at special general meetings to be held on 24th June and 11th July, the businesses said.

The proposals will require the approval of at least two-thirds of members present or voting by proxy at the first meeting and half at the second meeting. Subject to the approval of members of HBS, it is proposed the merger will take place on 1st August 2025.

‘More comprehensive and efficient service’

Ringlink chairman James Porter said: “Both rings have worked closely together over the last few years, and the proposed merger is the next logical step forward in the machinery ring concept in the north of Scotland.

“The combined ring will be able to offer a more comprehensive and efficient service and will allow further development of the core business, along with the labour and training divisions which are an integral part of the business.”

HBS chairperson Anne Rae Macdonald added the merger would provide members with enhanced buying power and services in what she describes as the “challenging times” which lie ahead for farmers and crofters and in light of support payment reforms.

“The plans are a significant step forward in our development and will allow both rings to pool resources whilst still optimising local centres, contacts and knowledge.

“The merger will enable the joint business to build on existing resources, help find new opportunities for our farming and crofting businesses, provide on-going support for staff and reduce costs in areas such as administration, computer software and professional fees,” Ms Macdonald continued.

Ringlink, originally known as Mearns and Angus Machinery Ring, was the second machinery ring to be formed in the UK in 1988.

The name was changed to Ringlink (Scotland) Ltd following a merger with the North East Machinery Ring in 1998, which was followed by the merger with GBMR in 2004.

Machinery rings were originally established in the UK to help farmers reduce capital costs by the sharing of machinery on an organised basis. The concept has since been expanded.

Both organisations said they believe that rings have an important role to play in reducing overall farm costs and in making farming and crofting enterprises more resilient going forward.

Graham Bruce added: “Through the development and expansion of the existing labour pools, where the two rings have been placing over 450 workers with member businesses every day, the merged business will provide the opportunity for a significant increase in this capability.

“The bottom line is that the enlarged co-op will safeguard and create jobs in farming and rural communities and help the industry to retain and adapt the skills it will need to maintain competitiveness in the future.

“This is a merger for growth and reflects the important business generators that ring businesses have become and their outstanding potential. The directors are to be commended for taking this important step forward.”

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Mr Wilkinson, who joined AHDB in March 2024, will leave his post towards the end of 2025.

Speaking about his departure, he said: “I am extremely proud of the team and what we have achieved together on behalf of levy payers. The organisation is energised with a new vision and strategy that is laser-focused on delivering value.

“Since joining AHDB, we have launched a groundbreaking baselining project which will bring clarity to the role that our industry plays in benefiting the environment. We have also seen another very strong year for exports and have ramped up our marketing to promote red meat and dairy to the next generation.”

Mr Wilkinson added that AHDB’s cereals and oilseeds research and development programme is also growing to provide ever-important independent evidence and insight for farmers.

He continued: “I’m proud of what we have achieved in promoting and protecting the reputation of our industry and championing levy payers.”

AHDB’s new chairwoman

AHDB has recently announced that Emily Norton was appointed by Defra ministers as the new chairwoman of the AHDB.

Mr Wilkinson said: “Emily Norton will have my full support over the coming months in her new role as chair of AHDB, and I remain fully committed until I leave towards the end of the year.

“For now, it’s business as usual. My leadership team and I will continue to deliver the ambitious plans that we have set out for levy payers.”

Outgoing AHDB chair Nicholas Saphir added: “Whilst the board and I are naturally disappointed that Graham will be leaving AHDB, it is clear the organisation is well placed to continue delivering real benefit for levy payers.

“Graham has driven significant and beneficial progress within AHDB, helping to deliver for its levy payers at a time of significant change for our industry. With the arrival of Emily Norton as the new chair and a strong leadership team in place, AHDB will continue the momentum that it has built whilst a successor is sought.”

‘CEO that truly leads’

A spokesperson for the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) said that the announcement has come as a shock to the association’s members.

“During Graham’s short tenure, we found him to be highly approachable and willing to take on board our processor levy payers views. AHDB functions best when it has a CEO that truly leads.

“The quality of the work and support given to AIMS over the last couple of years has demonstrated to us what a well-motivated team Graham has built, and we thank him for his hard work, and we wish him the very best of luck for his next challenge,” they concluded.

READ MORE: Defra appoints new AHDB chairwoman during ‘pivotal time for British agriculture’

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Ms Norton, who has 25 years of experience in the food and farming sector, will take on the role for three years from 1st June 2025. She will succeed Nicholas Saphir, who is stepping down after more than five years in the role. 
 
Appointments to the AHDB Board are made by Defra ministers, with the approval of ministers in the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland Governments. 

Ms Norton will be supported by board member Stephen Briggs, who has been appointed as deputy chair. 
 
Farming minister Daniel Zeichner said: “Emily Norton’s leadership and extensive experience in a diverse range of sectors will bring fresh perspective and strategic insight to AHDB. I look forward to working closely with her as we continue to champion our world-class farmers and food producers – driving rural economic growth and strengthening food security. 
 
“I would also like to express my gratitude to Nicholas Saphir for his dedication, drive and expertise throughout his tenure.” 

‘Pivotal time for British agriculture’

Outgoing AHDB chair Nicholas Saphir added: “I have served as AHDB chair for the last five years, during which time it has been an honour and a pleasure to have worked with some amazingly dedicated and knowledgeable board members and staff. Together we have delivered a significant change in the way in which AHDB serves our levy payers. 
 
“I leave AHDB, the board and team well positioned to play their part in providing ‘the key that unlocks the future of British agriculture’. 
 
“I’m delighted that Emily Norton will be stepping into the role as Chair of AHDB. Emily brings a wealth of experience through her background in running a family farming business as well as her work as a highly respected strategic and policy advisor.” 

Emily Norton, new AHDB chair, said: “I am proud to take on the role of chair at such a pivotal time for British agriculture. 

“My professional focus has always been on strengthening the resilience, sustainability, and prosperity of the UK’s food and farming sectors. I look forward to working with stakeholders across the industry to deliver on that mission as part of the AHDB.” 

Read more farm business news. 

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Following graduation from Reading University in 2007, achieving a BSc First Class Degree in Rural Environmental Science, Mr Yewbrey worked as a field trials technician at the Cambridge University Farm. He then became the trials officer at Velcourt.

Mr Yewbrey commented on his new position: “I am really excited to be joining NPZ UK at this time when it is well-positioned with a very strong and successful portfolio – and has a great pipeline looking into the future.

Current NPZ UK managing director Chris Guest said: “Tom is well known and respected within the industry, and therefore is an excellent fit for NPZ UK to continue building the company and taking it forward towards key targets and market share aspirations across our portfolio of species.”

Read more arable news.

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Due to step down from his role later this month, Mr Clark joined Branston in 1989 as a trader with a background in farming, having worked on his family farm for a number of years.  

He progressed quickly through the business and expanded his skill set to encompass planning and budgeting in addition to managing grower relationships before eventually becoming commercial director.  

Mr Clark said: “Every day at Branston is different, and I have had a wonderful time over the last three decades learning everything I can about potato supply and contributing to the growth of the business.  

“Branston was very different when I joined back in 1989, and the market is continuing to evolve, but understanding the whole industry has been key to my career longevity, and I’m privileged to have had many opportunities to learn and grow at Branston.  

“Another career highlight has been building our fantastic teams. I have worked with many talented people throughout my career, both internally and externally, and building these strong relationships has been extremely rewarding.” 

Mr Clark added that after “three decades of potatoes”, he is now looking forward to spending some time travelling with his family. 

Dedication and hard work

Jim Windle, Branston CEO, said that Mr Clark’s dedication and hard work over the years have been invaluable. 

“We’re immensely grateful for everything he has done to help us grow Branston as a business. It’s been a pleasure to work with Richard and experience his passion for the industry, and we all wish him, and his family, well for the future.  

“The longevity of Richard’s career is testament also to the breadth of opportunities and depth of real relationships this sector has to offer.  

“It is possible to have an incredibly versatile career in produce and added value food categories, not least because in these sectors it is critical that you are able to look up and downstream in equal measure and be as close with your supply base as you are with your customers. Very few industries offer or demand this.  

“People often aren’t aware of the progression or breadth of roles available in what is a very challenging but enjoyable sector to work. At Branston, we’re committed to investing in people and supporting our team in long-term careers like Richard’s.  

“His expertise will be missed, but we’re equally looking forward to welcoming and growing the next generation of talent, which is well underway.” 

Read more farm business news. 

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Robertshaw’s Farm Shop will be located on the same site as the former Keelham Farm Shop, which closed its doors in 2024.

The new Skipton store is due to open on 26th March, creating more than 100 full and part-time jobs. The site will also include a café/restaurant, takeaway and children’s play area.

Local business owner James Robertshaw, who owns and manages Robertshaw’s Farm Shop in Thornton, is behind the venture and has been working in the sector for more than a decade.

James Robertshaw, managing director of Robertshaw’s Farm Shop, said: “It was really important to us to make sure we were in as strong a place as possible before opening the site in Skipton, so we are delighted to be in that position now.

“We know the local community are as excited as we are about our Skipton outlet.”

Important role to play in communities

Mr Robertshaw added that the NatWest team has played a “vital role” in helping the business to get to a position where it could purchase and open the Skipton site.

“Throughout the last year as we have come to this point, they were forward-thinking and approachable, and we could rely on their expertise as part of our decision-making,” he concluded.

Mark Forsyth, senior relationship manager at NatWest who led on the deal, said: “Congratulations to James and the Robertshaw Farm family as they prepare to open the site near Skipton.

“As the biggest bank for business in the UK, we know that businesses like Robertshaw’s Farm Shop have an important role to play in their communities through jobs creation and investment, and we wish them every success with the opening of the new site.”

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Organised by the Farm Retail Association, which has nearly 300 members nationwide, the Farm Retail Awards celebrate the cream of the crop in this thriving industry, showcasing an incredible array of farm retailers from across the UK.  

They are the only awards judged by fellow farm retailers and celebrate the best farm shops, cafés, restaurants, farmers markets, pick-your-own operators and trade suppliers. 

This year’s awards were hosted by food and drink broadcaster and champion, Nigel Barden, and sponsored by Fieldfare. The event was held at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham as part of the FRA’s annual conference. 

The FRA was formed 46 years ago to support the industry and offers its members support, training, workshops and open days. 

Check out the winners 

The 2025 award winners are: 

• Large Farm Shop of the Year, sponsored by Fresh Retail: Darts Farm, Devon 

• Small Farm Shop of the Year, sponsored by Cress Co: Castle Farm, Kent  

• Farmers Market of the Year, sponsored by Moseley Farmers’ Market: Lenham Country Market run by M Farmers Market, Kent  

• Pick Your Own of the Year: Garson Farm, Surrey 

• Farm Café/Restaurant of the Year: The Farm Table at Darts Farm, Devon  

• Farm Shop Butchery of the Year, sponsored by Angel Refrigeration Ltd: Millets Farm Butchers, Oxfordshire 

• Rising Star of the Year, sponsored by Fieldfare: River Cottage Kitchen and Store, Devon 

• Associate Member of the Year: Cress Co, Fife, Scotland 

• Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by COOK: Jo Mounce, Strawberry Fields, Devon 

Importance of supporting local

FRA chairwoman Emma Mosey said: “So much hard work goes into running an independent business, and we are incredibly proud of the brilliance demonstrated by all of our members.  

“The Farm Retail Awards highlight the exceptional standards within our industry and showcase the dedication and innovation that makes farm retailers such a vital and thriving part of local communities.” 

Nigel Barden, host of the Farm Retail Awards, added: “It’s been a huge honour to host the Farm Retail Awards this year. The passion within the farm retail sector is truly inspiring. These awards not only highlight individual success but also shine a spotlight on the importance of supporting local and the remarkable businesses who are shaping the future of the industry.” 

The award ceremony was part of a three-day annual FRA conference which includes farm shop tours, an AGM, expert guest speakers and topical workshops.  

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