QMS's Future Thinking on Red Meat Conference 2026

Arrive, register, and set yourself up for the day ahead with a tasty roll. This informal start provides the opportunity to meet peers, renew relationships, and set the scene for a day of discussion, insight, and future-focused thinking.

QMS Chair Kate Rowell opens the 2026 conference, setting out the ambition for the day and highlighting the importance of collaborative leadership across the red meat sector.  

The global shortage of cattle and other red meat species in major producing regions has affected markets all over the world in recent years. This theme will cover the key causes, impacts and opportunities to stabilise and grow the herd to meet strong consumer demand for beef, lamb, and pork.

International perspective - Dr Phil Hadley, Secretary General of the International Meat Secretariat

Meating Our Potential (next steps for Scotland) - QMS Chief Executive, Sarah Millar

Panel Q&A with members of the Scottish Red Meat Resilience Group (SRMRG) – facilitated by QMS Chief Executive Sarah Millar

 

 

 

Senior Scottish Government representative

A named individual for the keynote address will be shared closer to the event date. This pivotal speech will unite the hundreds of attendees across the Scottish red meat supply chain, cement the sector’s important role in supporting Scottish Parliament aims and generate excitement for afternoon’s programme.

A chance to continue conversations and reflect over lunch. Delegates are invited to network with speakers, industry leaders, and colleagues while considering the insights shared during the morning sessions.

 

 

Keeping up with the wants and needs of red meat customers and consumers is paramount to the success of our businesses and overall agriculture economy. This theme offers a ‘state of the red meat market’ overview and opportunities for the Scotch brand at home and beyond.

‘State of the market’ overview – Lesley Ann Gray, Strategic Insight Director Scotland, Kantar - AWAITING BIO + IMAGE

Retailer perspective – Richard Wood, Director of Meat, Fish, Eggs and Poultry, Tesco - AWAITING BIO + IMAGE

Scotch at home and beyond – QMS Business Development Director, Tom Gibson with food service customer (TBC)

Fireside discussion with speakers – facilitated by QMS Chief Executive Sarah Millar

 

 

 

Refreshments will be served as delegates reconnect and continue discussions sparked throughout the day. This networking break provides valuable time to share perspectives, explore collaboration, and reflect on emerging themes shaping the future of the red meat supply chain.

In our final theme we consider critical areas to support a successful future across the red meat supply chain. From collaboration and reputation to engaging the next generation. attendees will leave inspired and galvanised to work towards shaping a positive future for our sector.

Working collaboratively - Neil Wilson, Food and Agriculture Stakeholders Taskforce (FAST) Chair and Executive Director of Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS)

3.45-4.05pm - Red meat reputation (evidence to storytelling) - QMS Board Member, Carrie Ruxton and QMS Director of Communications and External Affairs, Holly McLennan

4.05pm-4.25pm - Next generation - Nicola Wordie AKA Livestock FarmHER

4.25pm-4.45pm - Food for thought – Anna Jones, Freelance Journalist and Broadcaster, and Founder of Just Farmers

 

 

 

 

 

Kate Rowell returns to close the conference, drawing together key messages from the day and reflecting on the insights, challenges, and opportunities discussed.

Join fellow delegates, speakers, and partners for a networking reception to continue conversations in a relaxed setting.