Harrison & Hetherington Investing in the Future of the UK Dairy Sector

Harrison & Hetherington, the UK's largest livestock trading company, continues to expand its presence in the dairy sector, responding to increasing demand and a commitment to future-proof the industry. Katie Davidson, joins the team as Dairy Sales Advisor, and Alfie Benbow, steps into the role of Trainee Dairy Auctioneer.

 This investment is a testament to Harrison & Hetherington's ongoing commitment to support the next generation of livestock professionals and developing its service offering to clients within the UK's dairy sector. With a clear succession plan in place and an eye on long-term industry sustainability, Katie and Alfie will be learning the ropes under the leadership of Glyn Lucas, Senior Dairy Sales Manager.

 Dairy sales are a key part of Harrison & Hetherington's operations at its Borderway Sales Centre in Carlisle.  Being located centrally in the second-largest milk field in the UK, Cumbria and southwest Scotland, there is a thriving and growing dairy marketplace on the doorstep. Fortnightly sales at Borderway regularly see between 300 and 500 head of dairy cattle put forward, while specialist youngstock sales are gaining momentum, often attracting over 500 head.

 Commenting on the appointments, Glyn Lucas said, "Both Katie and Alfie are fantastic additions to our team. Katie brings invaluable knowledge, experience and energy, and it's a privilege to have someone of her calibre onboard. Alfie is starting on the first rung of his career ladder, and I look forward to supporting him as he learns the craft. This is all part of our commitment to building a strong future for the dairy sector – both at Harrison & Hetherington and for the industry as a whole."

 Katie Davidson is exceptionally well known throughout the industry, bringing with her extensive expertise and a lifelong connection to dairy farming. Raised on her family's farm, home to Halmyre Urr Ayrshires and Glen Urr Ice Creams, she has dedicated the past 18 years to the sector, working across a variety of roles in the UK and internationally – including Canada, the US, Australia, and New Zealand.

 Katie has also been recognised for her achievements in showing, having won various awards and in recent years has supported various breeders to national success across the UK. In her new role as Dairy Sales Advisor, she will work closely with buyers and vendors to support all aspects of the dairy sales process and continue to champion the industry.

 "I'm thrilled to be joining the team at Harrison & Hetherington, particularly at such an exciting time for the dairy sector. Having grown up in the industry, it's something I'm incredibly passionate about, and I'm looking forward to using my experience to support customers, promote quality stock, and help grow the dairy sales here at Borderway even further," said Katie.

 Alfie Benbow is beginning his career and is stepping into the auctioneering world with a strong family legacy behind him as his grandfather having established the renowned Gornal Herd. With dairy farming in his DNA, Alfie will be mentored by experienced auctioneers at Harrison & Hetherington, gaining hands-on experience and support to develop his future within the business and the wider industry.

 In taking up his role, Alfie said: "It's a real privilege to begin my auctioneering career with such a respected company. I've grown up surrounded by dairy cattle and sales rings, and joining Harrison & Hetherington gives me the perfect opportunity to learn from the best in the business."

 For the company the Dairy Sector is set to continue to grow in scale and reputation, reinforcing Harrison & Hetherington's status as the UK's number one source for dairy cattle.