Event timings
Open to the public: 09:00
Closed to the public: 15:30
Welcome speech – 09.30 - Ian Toth, Director of the National Potato Innovation Centre (NPIC)
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Event Highlights
- Industry led seminars - This year’s seminar programme supports the theme future-proofing the potato industry, and brings together leading researchers, industry experts and growers to share knowledge, address the key challenges and opportunities facing the sector and help drive progress. View the full seminar programme here.
- Exhibitor showcase - Discover a wide range of exhibitors from across the supply chain presenting new products, tools, and services tailored to current challenges.
Working demonstrations - Observe live machinery and field demonstrations, including new variety trials and precision agriculture technologies in action. View the full live demonstration programme here.
SPOT
The working demonstration from the National Robotarium’s dog robot, SPOT is sure to be of interest to many. Watch him in action as he auto walks through the plots. As well as seeing his autosurvey and monitoring activities in action, there will be ample opportunity to chat to the team from the National Robotarium about this data-driven approach to farming that can reduce costs and minimise negative environmental impacts and how agricultural robots can fit within systems to assist human effort.
K9 Manhunt & ScentWork Scotland
Meet the K9 Manhunt & ScentWork Scotland team who are exploring whether their dogs could help identify potato samples with potential disease or infection by
detecting changes in plant scent signatures, supporting rapid screening before laboratory testing.
They will bring two experienced demonstration dogs, alongside two young dogs, aged approximately 10 months and 10 weeks, showcasing different stages of canine development and training. During each 20-30-minute session, visitors will learn how scent detection dogs work, watch practical demonstrations and have the
opportunity to ask questions.
- Static machinery - Explore the latest range of static machinery from leading dealers.
- BASIS Knowledge Trail - Visitors to Potatoes in Practice 2026, who are members BASIS or NRoSO, can enhance their professional development and earn up to 6 CPD points at the event. Visit the BASIS stand on the day to pick up your stamp cards and for more information.
- Social marquee – A dedicated networking hub created to bring exhibitors and attendees together in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Whether you're looking to make new connections, exchange ideas, share industry knowledge, or explore potential business opportunities, the social marquee is the perfect place to connect throughout the event. Free tea and coffee provided by Nicattos.
- Live cookery demonstration - For the first time, Potatoes in Practice will include a live cookery demonstration by Sarah Rankin, former MasterChef finalist and now a well-established food writer, broadcaster and private chef. A passionate advocate of local produce and food made with love, Sarah’s potato-based dishes promise to inspire visitors and highlight the versatility and value of this staple crop.
