Potatoes in Practice: a growing success

Potato growers, researchers, sellers and enthusiasts gathered for the annual Potatoes in Practice (PiP), event, hosted by the National Potato Innovation Centre (NPIC), in partnership with SRUC and Agrii, at The James Hutton Institute’s Baldruddery Farm, on Thursday 7th August. 

A total of 58 exhibitors demonstrated cutting-edge research, products and services, and four enlightening seminar sessions presented knowledge from leading names of the potato industry and research. 

Under the theme, 'Future-proofing the potato industry' , the topics of discussion were the issues facing the UK’s second most essential food crop, from the fight against blight, potato leaf roll virus and climate change exacerbated heat and drought stresses. 

The enormous successes achieved by potato breeders and researchers since PiP 2024 were also celebrated, such as the breeding of virus and nematode-resistant potatoes, like Elland and Buster, and their introduction to our supermarket shelves and dinner tables.

Ingo Hein, Professor, head of potato genetics team at Hutton:

"This year’s event showcased the importance of crop genomics, demonstrating how a basic understanding of the potato’s genomic organisation has become a powerful tool for translating research into practical solutions."

"By linking genomic insights to markers for biotic and abiotic stress tolerance, breeders can now apply state-of-the-art approaches to develop more resilient potato varieties."

Professor Ingo Hein highlights the power of potato genomics in developing resilient, disease- and climate-tolerant varieties at PiP 2025

Live demonstrations throughout the day showcased exciting new technological advancements in crop spraying and pest management, including an agricultural drone designed for precision spraying. 

Commercial breeders displayed their latest varieties, agronomists demonstrated the latest developments in crop protection, researchers discussed their most recent findings, and there was a great deal of sharing of valuable knowledge. 

The event was a success for growers, researchers and the public alike. Those who attended left with an insight into the value of potatoes as a national and global food source, as well as the importance of research into sustainable farming and the fight against potato pests and diseases.

Ian Toth, Professor, Director of NPIC:

"Potatoes in Practice is an important event in our calendar as it brings together those from science and the potato industry in a friendly and informative environment.  As well as exchanging information and ideas, perhaps its greatest asset is the space it provides for people to meet, 'chew the fat', and develop new contacts and collaborations. Roll on PiP 2026."

Potatoes in Practice was sponsored by PotatoPro and the British Potato Review.

Resilient new potato varieties showcased at Potatoes in Practice 2025