Kite Consulting

Hosted by Becki Reay

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Episodes

308

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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About the show

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.

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60 recent

August 28, 202639 min

Tenants Farmers Association supports rent reviews with landlords

In Episode 308 of the Kite Podcast, Will Evans is joined by George Dunn, Chief Executive of the Tenant Farmers Association, and podcast producer Becki Reay to discuss the challenges facing tenant farmers and the growing need to review and renegotiate rental agreements. George shares how the TFA is supporting and encouraging tenant farmers to engage with landlords as many businesses come under increasing financial pressure. The discussion goes on to explore how many tenant farmers are operating under highly insecure agreements, making it difficult to plan for the future. With the average length of farm business tenancies now just over three years, the stability needed to build resilient agricultural businesses is becoming increasingly elusive. This precarious situation is further compounded by restrictive tenancy agreements, which can limit opportunities for diversification and business growth. Chris Walkland is away this week but still managed to send us his usual milk market update. 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.

August 21, 202645 min

Arla Workforce Shortage Discussion

In this week's Kite Podcast, Will Evans is joined by Paul Dover, UK Agricultural Director at Arla Foods, dairy farmer Tim Dale and podcast producer Becki Reay to discuss one of agriculture's biggest challenges: attracting the next generation of talent. Drawing on findings from Arla's recent farmer survey, which found that 65% of farmers believe better education and training is the key to attracting more people into the industry, the team explore the causes of ongoing skills shortages and what can be done to address them. The conversation explores the role of education in creating clear career pathways, with Paul calling on industry and government to take action in highlighting the diverse opportunities available across modern agriculture. Paul and Tim share their thoughts on inspiring young people, improving perceptions of farming and building a skilled workforce for the future. As always, Chris Walkland joins the team with his latest milk market update. 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.

August 14, 202639 min

Drought proofing dairy - harvest decisions, feed extension & management strategies

In Episode 306 of the Kite Podcast, hosts Will Evans and Ben Eagle tackle the pressing issue of feed and forage management amidst the ongoing dry conditions affecting the UK. With the hottest day of August upon us, they are joined by technical consultant Becky Hewlett from Kite and Dorset farmer Jake Symms to discuss strategies for adapting to these challenging circumstances. The conversation delves into the implications of the current drought on long-term feed strategies, the potential for an autumn cut and the prospects for maize harvests. With maize harvest already underway in some areas Becky gives practical advice on assessing when to harvest droughted & dying maize crops to maximize nutritional value, which are not the same as in a normal harvest year. Becky also provides insights into the urgent need for farmers to assess their forage stocks and devise feeding strategies that prioritise the highest quality feed for milking cows. The panel discusses the impact of insufficient rainfall on grass growth and maize crops, sharing practical advice on how to navigate these unprecedented conditions. Jake shares his firsthand experience of the drought's effects on his farm, highlighting the importance of flexibility in managing forage supplies. Additionally, Chris Walkland delivers his market report offering a global perspective on dairy prices and market dynamics. 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.

August 7, 202647 min

Bluetongue in Focus: Signs, Strains, Vaccines and Farm Preparedness

While Chris Walkland may be away this week, but he still joins the programme with his latest milk market report, we then kick off in episode 305 of Kite Podcast by discussing a very important subject, Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Rebecca Cavill of Torch Farm Vets and Laura Roberts of Sandstone Vets, alongside Devon farmer Jenny Hookway and producer Becki Reay. The conversation explores the signs and symptoms of Bluetongue, the differences between virus strains, the impact on farms and livestock movements, and why vaccination remains the most important tool in reducing disease spread. Rebecca highlights the significant number of affected holdings seen by her practice and explains how vaccinating cattle, the main carriers of the virus, can help reduce infection levels and limit transmission by midges. The panel also shares practical advice for farmers on preparing for the months ahead and supporting each other through a challenging period. The discussion also covers the signs farmers should be looking out for in both cattle and sheep, the impact on livestock movements, shows and sales, and what to do if you suspect infection on your farm. With vaccine demand increasing and supplies coming under pressure, the message from the panel is clear: if you're considering vaccination, don't delay. 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.

July 31, 202636 min

Milking 10,000 Cows in 10 Days

In Episode 304 of the Kite Podcast, Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Marie Stephenson, who is taking on the remarkable challenge of milking 10,000 cows in 10 days as she travels from Scotland to Cornwall in support of RABI. The challenge has attracted significant interest across social and national media, creating a valuable opportunity to promote British agriculture in a positive light and showcase the people and stories behind the sector. Alongside fourth-generation dairy farmer Colin Price, Marie discusses the inspiration behind the challenge, the logistics of visiting dairy farms across the country, and why the campaign has captured the imagination of so many. Colin reflects on the pride, resilience and strong sense of community within farming, highlighting the importance of using opportunities like this to strengthen public understanding of agriculture and celebrate the industry's many successes. The episode also features the latest milk market update from Chris Walkland, with insights into current milk volumes across Europe, making for an uplifting conversation about community spirit, positive PR for farming and the best of British agriculture 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.

July 24, 202643 min

Dairy Under Pressure: Managing Heat Stress This Summer

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.

July 10, 202645 min

What Can UK Dairy Farmers Learn from the US?

Episode 302 of the Kite Podcast begins with a much more positive milk market report from Chris Walkland. Will and Ben are then joined by podcast producer Becki Reay and Kite Technical Consultant Amy Watson, who recently attended the Cornell Advanced Dairy Nutrition and Management Course in the US. Amy shares some of the key insights from her trip, exploring the differences between US and UK dairy systems and the lessons UK farmers can learn. The discussion covers heat stress and cow comfort, highlighting the importance of proactive management as higher temperatures become increasingly common. The conversation also delves into protein, amino acids and calcium management, questioning whether current feeding strategies are keeping pace with advances in dairy genetics. Amy discusses the value of looking beyond crude protein levels and taking a more targeted approach to nutrition and transition cow management. 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.

July 3, 202643 min

Dutch Nitrogen Rules: What does this mean for future of dairy?

In this week's episode of the Kite Podcast, Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Erik Elgersma, Founder and Director of Strategic Analysis Services BV, and podcast producer Becki Reay, as they head to the Netherlands to examine the Dutch government's latest nitrogen reduction plans and what they could mean for the future of dairy farming. Proposed measures include tighter restrictions on farms located near Natura 2000 environmental protection sites. Erik explains the background to the plans, the challenges facing Dutch agriculture, and the Dutch government's ambitious targets to reduce nitrogen emissions by 2035. Together, the team explores what these changes could mean for Dutch milk production, whether they could lead to a smaller dairy sector, and if they might set a precedent for other countries across Europe. They also discuss why UK farmers should be paying close attention to these developments. Chris Walkland returns with his usual Milk Market Report and shares his insights into how the recent heatwave is affecting milk production levels and wider dairy markets. 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.

June 26, 202639 min

Kite Podcast Episode 300: Heat, El Niño and the Global Farming Outlook

Join us as we celebrate the 300th episode of Kite Podcast! Following on from Chris Walklands milk market update, Ben Eagle and Will Evans are joined by Torin Nicholson from Kite, James Bolesworth, Managing Director of CRM Agricommodities and podcast producer Becki Reay. With it being a record-breaking week for June heat here in the UK we are perhaps inevitably talking about the weather, as well as the wider impacts of climate patterns such as El Niño on UK and global agriculture, and what this means for crop development, feed supplies and forage potential. The group explore how crops and grass growth are progressing across the UK, the status of silage and grazing management, and the outlook for maize and forage stocks after last year’s challenges. The conversation also looks beyond the UK to global growing conditions, including developments in the US, South America and China, and considers how international trade dynamics may affect UK farmers; throughout, the experts offer practical insight into how farmers can manage risk and maintain resilience if hot, dry conditions persist. 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.

June 19, 202647 min