Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) – the voice of UK agri-supply businesses – has elected Chris Guest as its Chair at a critical time for the industry.

As Managing Director of LS Plant Breeding Ltd and active member of the AIC Board, Cambridgeshire-based Mr Guest brings a wealth of industry knowledge and experience to the role.

"I'm pleased to be elected as Chair of the AIC, the UK's leading agri-supply trade association," said Chris. "Given the current economic and political turmoil, it is paramount that our industry's voice is heard by Government and other relevant bodies with strength and conviction.

"As the industry continues to experience exceptional change and disruption, I know the AIC is working extremely hard to ensure members' interests are represented and I am committed to doing all that I can in this regard.

"AIC members form part of the bedrock of UK agriculture, supporting arable and livestock producers with invaluable knowledge and expertise along with inputs and merchanting support. This has never been more vital as we collectively strive to deliver a modern, commercial and sustainable agriculture."

Chris takes over from Angela Booth, Director of Responsibility at AB Agri, who has completed her two-year term as AIC Board Chair. As the immediate past Chair, she will continue to serve as a Board member for a further year.

Robert Sheasby, Chief Executive of AIC, said: "I welcome Chris to his new position and look forward to working together to promote the agri-supply industry as a cornerstone of thriving and sustainable UK food production.

"Chris has been a prominent member of the AIC Board for four years, and I have no doubt that he will work tirelessly to promote members' interests across UK agriculture and beyond.

 "I must thank Angela Booth for her exemplary leadership over the last two years as Chair. She has been a source of great strength and wisdom as the AIC negotiated the unprecedented challenges of coronavirus and the UK's departure from the European Union to name just two.

"As our industry faces an increasingly turbulent and complex landscape, the AIC is steadfast in its mission to provide members with dependable insight and represent their interests in discussions with Government, NGOs, and other stakeholders."