As harvest approaches, farmers are under pressure to maintain grain quality and minimise losses, especially in the face of ongoing weather challenges and reduced government support.

Technology plays a key role in this, so this year’s Cereals Event, on 11-12 June, will shine a spotlight on the latest developments in grain testing, drying, handling, and storage.

“The importance of grain quality doesn’t stop at the combine,” says event director, Alli McEntyre. “This year we are joined by a huge range of companies in a dedicated grain handling area offering farmers the tools and advice they need.”

Here’s a flavour of what visitors can expect to see.

Griffith Elder

The ability to weigh grain accurately is vital for farmers to monitor crops confidently. Griffith Elder will be focusing on two different options: Full size weighbridges and portable weigh beams.

“Our main aim is to provide different types of weighing solutions that are both easy to use and simple to install,” says managing director Peter King. “Having the right weighing system in place helps growers know exactly what they’ve harvested, prevents overloading vehicles, and ensures what’s sold is what’s delivered.”

Post-harvest, farmers can assess yields and understand exactly what’s in their sheds — which is crucial for sales and planning, says Mr King. “But it’s also important before harvest, as inputs should be weighed, too.”

The fixed full-size weighbridge, Weighbus Agri Pro, provides accurate weighing both into and out of the grain store. “This is our most accurate solution for weighing grain movements,” says Mr King. “It can also automate the weighing process, which really speeds things up over the busy harvest period.

“What’s really exciting is that the driver doesn’t even need to leave the cab,” he adds. “The system can be operated remotely by the tractor driver, and reports can be customised to the farmer’s needs, whether that’s daily or weekly summaries, sent automatically.”

For those looking for flexibility and affordability, portable weigh beams offer a lightweight alternative to a full-size weighbridge. Ideal for weighing tractors and trailers, they’re particularly well suited to smaller farming operations.

“Weigh beams are a very good option for smaller farms,” says Mr King. “They’re more affordable and still provide accurate, reliable weighing data.”

Griffith Elder can be found on stand 1018.

Plug&Cool

Pedestals and grain cooling fans are essential tools for managing the temperature and moisture of stored grain, helping to prevent mould growth. Plug&Cool will be at Cereals to discuss its easy-to-use cooling systems designed to protect grain throughout storage.

Pedestals are sited in the grain store before loading and positioned so grain fills evenly around them. A cooling fan sits on top of each pedestal and draws cool air through the crop. Made from high-quality plastic, the pedestals are strong, durable, and virtually indestructible, meaning they won’t rust or get damaged by machinery, making them a long-term investment, says Rael Bearman at Plug&Cool.

 “Our pedestals come in three different sizes, so farmers don’t have to compromise with a one-size-fits-all option,” he explains. “They’re also slightly larger than many alternatives, offering improved airflow and faster cooling.”

For smaller farms or isolated hotspots, the Air Spear offers a compact, affordable alternative. The spear screws directly into the grain and is ideal for targeting problem areas quickly and efficiently.

For the first time at Cereals, the company will also be introducing its Outdoor 2.2kW fan, developed specifically for underfloor cooling systems with fans mounted externally. Engineered to withstand direct rain and harsh weather, it provides powerful airflow with built-in durability, which makes it ideal for long term usage.

“We understand it’s a challenging time for many farmers,” says Mr Bearman. “That’s why we offer a range of solutions at different price points, so there’s something to suit every scale of operation and every budget.”

Plug and Cool will be on stand 536.

Alvan Blanch

Grain dryers are essential for reducing moisture content post-harvest, helping to maintain quality and reduce losses. “Our grain dryers can be fully bespoke, making them suitable for both large-scale and smaller farms,” explains Simon Shaw MEng AMIAgrE, Head of UK Sales at Alvan Blanch. “Everything is manufactured in the South West of England,, so we have the ability to tailor each product without compromising on quality.”

This year the DF6000 will be the stand’s main attraction. “Compared to other drying systems the DF6000 is a much lower fire risk,” says Simon. “This is due to there being fewer hot spots and good accessibility to every part of the drier via hinged doors.”

The dryer will dry any crop, in any condition, with no need for emptying and pre-cleaning between crops. Built-in precision and process control ensure that the exact amount of moisture is removed from the crop, with advanced sensors and controls. “Flexibility is a huge benefit,” explains their Global Marketing Exec, Isha Deshpande. “The DF6000 keeps operations running smoothly without extra downtime.”

Alvan Blanch will be exhibiting on Stand 543.

• The Cereals Event takes place on 11-12 June 2025, at Heath Farm, Leadenham, Lincolnshire, LN5 0QE. Tickets are priced at £15 for both days of the event or £20 on arrival. For more information visit cerealsevent.co.uk.