THE IMPORTANCE OF DATA FOCUS OF LATEST FARMERS’ EVENING
The importance of data in farming is a key theme of the next joint Lovewell Blake/NFU Farmers’ Evening of 2025, which takes place at Halesworth Golf Club on Wednesday 12th November.
James Lane, digital services specialist at digital farming company Omnia, will talk about how data can be measured on farm, and how it can be used, especially in arable production. He will also touch on financial reporting and stock value, and how these factors can be used to generate margin information on crop in field level.
Meanwhile, three speakers from Hectare Trading, an online digital marketplace and app that connects arable farmers and verified buyers to trade combinable crops, will explain how online trading can help farmers secure the best price for their grain.
Lizzie Blower, Georgina Kynaston and Robbie Jameson will explain how the digital platform works, give an overview of the kind of buyers using the system, and provide insights and local market data.
Lovewell Blake agricultural partner Ryan Lincoln, who will be chairing the event, said, “Data plays an increasingly important role in agriculture, and measuring, recording and making the best use of data can really enhance productivity and profitability.
“This fascinating evening promises to put what some farmers regard as an IT issue into perspective, demonstrating that understanding data is both an essential skill and one which is within reach of most farmers.”
The event takes place at Halesworth Golf club on Wednesday 12th November at 7.15pm, and the presentation will be followed by a buffet supper. Attendance is free, but places need to be booked in advance, by visiting https://www.lovewell-blake.co.uk/events.
James Lane – digital services specialist at Omnia
James Lane grew up on a horticultural glasshouse holding in Essex but has been involved with arable farming since graduating from Writtle College with a degree in Agricultural Engineering in 1999. With a wide range of experience in sales, marketing, journalism and support within the machinery and latterly the digital farming/precision agriculture sectors, James’ speciality is getting data out of or into a control box or machine. As the Omnia digital farming specialist in East Anglia, he works with over 35 colleagues in two agronomy teams to help deliver Omnia sales and support, works directly with growers and managers plus other stakeholders to ensure Omnia works on farm.
Lizzie Blower – head of trading at Hectare Trading
An experienced agricultural industry professional, Lizzie is passionate about helping farmers adopt cutting-edge Agtech. As head of trading, she focuses on cultivating strong, lasting partnerships to benefit Hectare Trading’s sellers and buyers.
Georgina Kynaston – senior relationship executive at Hectare Trading
With family roots in dairy farming and as a graduate of Harper Adams, Georgina has a genuine passion for farming and the agricultural community. In her role at Hectare Trading, she is building strong, supportive partnerships and helping farmers thrive.
Robbie Jameson – commercial executive at Hectare Trading
Robbie's passion for agriculture is rooted in his family's farming background in Zimbabwe. As a commercial executive, he speaks with farmers every day, sharing the benefits of Hectare Trading and guiding farmers as they get started.