Craft Butcher LIVE review and Richard Douglas installed as new President at NCB AGM

Craft Butcher LIVE review and Richard Douglas installed as new President at NCB AGM

The National Craft Butchers (NCB) Annual General Meeting, held on June 30th at the Nottingham Belfry, started off the day of what was a celebration, education, and inspiration for the craft butchery industry. The event highlight was the installation of Richard Douglas as the new National President, following a handover from outgoing President David Gigli.

Members from across England and Wales met to adopt the 2024 Executive Council Annual Report and review NCB’s accomplishments. Highlights included the continued success of the relaunched Product Awards, the introduction of a butchery-specific Trading Standards Manual, and impressive member satisfaction rates—over 91% of members reported being “very” or “highly satisfied.” This success has translated into a 2.5% membership growth in 2024, with 54 new members joining.

The election of the 2025–2027 Executive Council was also confirmed, with members including David Gigli, John Mettrick, Craig Thomas, Sam Papworth, Stephen Hill, and Gerwyn Harries. George Debman stepped down from the council but remains a valued advisor.

The AGM was followed by Craft Butcher LIVE, an energetic and informative event packed with insight from six leading industry experts. Attendees received updates on topics ranging from challenges posed by Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) and Health & Safety guidelines, to the value of Butchery Apprenticeships and the upcoming Employment Law updates.

Paul Hobbs of Horsham District Council discussed the need for regulatory clarity through Primary Authority Advice, especially as new EHOs enter the field with less specialised training. Mike McGale emphasised practical health and safety basics, while Terry Fennell of FDQ outlined how butchery apprenticeships can attract up to £10,000 in government support.

The afternoon featured market intelligence from AHDB, with livestock analyst Tom Spencer revealing that 2025 beef prices have reached historic highs. Charlotte Forkes-Rees added consumer insights on the future of meat counters, noting shoppers still value seeing their butcher, selecting cuts, and understanding sourcing—an encouraging sign for the trade.

The day also featured a supplier showcase which offered advice, inspiration, information, tasters, new ideas, samples, a friendly face and a chat to all our members on the day. Thanks to Verstegen for providing lunch that showcased a number of ingredients from suppliers.

Thank you to everyone who made the day the event it was!