Annual Business Conference highlights FUW successes

The FUW Group held its Annual Business Conference in Aberystwyth on 18 and 19 June, bringing together more than 100 staff members and senior officers from the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) and FUW Insurance Services Ltd to network, celebrate the successes of the past year and prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The conference programme featured a diverse mix of presentations, interactive sessions and panel discussions, focusing on the strategic priorities of both the Union and FUW Insurance Services.

The conference was opened by FUW Group Chief Executive, Guto Bebb, who reflected on the development and growth of the business over the past 12 months. He also outlined key priorities for the future as the Union implements its new membership structure and as FUW Insurance Services responds to an increasingly competitive and challenging insurance market.

A panel discussion, chaired by the Union’s Head of Communications, Aled Morgan Hughes, featured contributions from Ian Rickman and Ann Beynon OBE. The panel explored a range of topics relating to business development, leadership and the opportunities facing the agricultural sector in the years ahead.

The conference also welcomed two guest speakers. Hywel Ifans, owner of technology company BCCIT, shared his insights on the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence, while businessman Gari Wyn, owner of Ceir Cymru, delivered an inspiring address on the importance of innovation, adaptability and maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

As part of the conference, FUW Insurance Services staff also participated in a dedicated ‘speed dating’ session with a range of insurer partners, providing a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas and discuss current market trends, challenges and opportunities across the insurance sector.

Awards

The event also provided an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contribution of staff across the FUW Group, acknowledging their dedication and hard work in supporting members, customers and the wider agricultural sector.

Among the award winners, the Communications Team, comprising Aled Morgan Hughes, Nia Wyn Davies-Jones and Angharad Evans, received the Group Team of the Year Award. Meanwhile, Kath Shaw, Brecon and Radnor Member Services Manager, was presented with the Slaymaker Award, which is awarded annually to the county branch that has done most to promote the interests of members and the FUW.

FUW Insurance Services Senior Account Executive John Price received the Business Development Award, while Meinir Davies and Sian Powell were recognised with the Best Managed Portfolio Award. Theresa Phelps was named Account Handler of the Year, while Nia Evans received the inaugural FUW Insurance Services Culture Champion Award.

The FUW Group’s longstanding Finance Manager, Wyn Lewis, was presented with the Meurig Voyle Award, which recognises a member of staff who has demonstrated exceptional commitment, loyalty, support and enthusiasm towards the organisation over many years.

There was also special recognition for outgoing FUW Farmer Director, Darren Williams, as he leaves the role after 9 years in the role. 

Guto Bebb, FUW Group Chief Executive, said:

"The Annual Business Conference is an important highlight in our calendar, giving colleagues from the Union and FUW Insurance Services the opportunity to come together to celebrate our successes, share ideas and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.

The atmosphere throughout the two days was extremely positive and constructive. It was particularly encouraging to see so many colleagues taking part in meaningful discussions and taking advantage of the opportunity to network, reflecting the strength of the collaborative spirit that is at the heart of our success.

Our staff are the backbone of the organisation, and it was a privilege to recognise their special contributions through the awards ceremony. We are extremely proud of all the winners and, indeed, of every member of our team who continue to contribute to the growth and success of the business, while serving the needs of members and rural communities in Wales on a daily basis."

The FUW Annual Business Conference was proudly sponsored by GEO, a valued insurance partner of FUW Insurance Services. The conference dinner was generously sponsored by MSIG Europe, while the awards ceremony was sponsored by Intact. The support of all three organisations played an important role in the success of the event and is greatly appreciated.

Commenting, Karen Royles, FUW Insurance Services Operations Director added:

“We’re particularly grateful for the sponsorship and support of so many of our valued insurer partners in making this event possible. Their continued commitment to our business and our customers is greatly appreciated, and the conference provided an excellent opportunity to strengthen those relationships, share insights and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing our industry.

The support of our partners plays a vital role in our success, and we value the chance to engage with them in person, celebrate our achievements together and look ahead to the future with confidence.”

Farmers’ Union of Wales (UAC Cyf.FUW Ltd) is not regulated by the FCA. FUW Insurance Services is a trading style of FUW Insurance Services Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registration number 615251. Registered Office: Llys Amaeth, Plas Gogerddan, ABERYSTWYTH, SY23 3BT. Registered in England & Wales number 07981993