FUW celebrate 70 years at successful Annual Business Conference

This year, the Farmers’ Union of Wales marks its 70th anniversary, a significant milestone celebrated at their Annual Business Conference (ABC), held in Aberystwyth on June 12th and 13th..

Over a hundred staff and senior officials from both the Union and FUW Insurance Services gathered to network, reflect on the past year, and commemorate seven decades since the Union's establishment in 1955.

The conference agenda included a presentation from the Farmers’ Union of Wales Group Chief Executive Guto Bebb reflecting on the business’ growth over the year. A panel discussion, featuring FUW Insurance Services’ Chair, Ann Beynon OBE, and Board Member, Louise Coulton, as well as FUW President Ian Rickman and Farm Director, Gareth Lloyd also delved into the challenges and opportunities facing the business and the broader agriculture sector.

The ABC received strong support from over twenty business partners, with FarmWeb - one of FUW Insurance Services' insurer partners - sponsoring the conference. Meanwhile, MSAmlin sponsored the conference dinner, while Close Brothers Finance sponsored the pre-dinner drinks reception.

Awards

As well as an opportunity to reflect on the year, the ABC also provided an opportunity to recognise and highlight the work of FUW and FUW Insurance Services’ staff throughout the year, with an award presentation sponsored by specialist motor insurer, ERS.

The Farmers’ Union of Wales’ Finance Department was awarded the FUW Best Team Award. The award recognised the staff’s hard work and dedication in effectively managing the FUW’s finances, with the team’s careful and effective work frequently gaining plaudits from external auditors.

Joyce Owens, Administrative Assistant in FUW’s Carmarthen office was awarded the Meurig Voyle Award, which is presented to a staff member who has shown commitment, loyalty, support and enthusiasm towards the union. Joyce has worked for the FUW for over 20 years, working effectively as a key link between the union and its membership in Carmarthenshire. 

It was a double success for Joyce, as the FUW Carmarthen team were also awarded the Owen Slaymaker Award, given annually to the county branch that has best promoted the interests of members and the FUW. As well as serving the membership in Carmarthenshire, the team has also effectively supported members across Glamorgan over recent months. The award was particularly timely this year, as the FUW celebrates 70 years since its establishment in Carmarthenshire. 

FUW Insurance Services’ staff were also presented with awards in a presentation sponsored by specialist motor insurer, ERS.

Senior Account Executive, Sam Evans won the Business Development Award recognising the largest growth of an individual portfolio. Over the past year, Sam has generated a significant amount of growth through the exceptional level of service that he offers current and new customers. Sam dedicated his award to his late friend and colleague, Will Beynon, who passed away earlier this year. 

The Llanrwst-based duo of Sophie Pritchard and Lowri Williams were also recognised for their work, with Sophie winning the Best Managed Portfolio for an Account Executive award, and Lowri Williams winning the Best Managed Portfolio for an Account Handler award. The awards recognised their efforts in managing their portfolio with precision, meeting key performance indicators and being top of the league in every audit.  All of this whilst hitting a level of sales growth that was impressive.

Finally, Lampeter-based Heulwen Thomas won the Account Handler of the year award. Heulwen is an integral part of the Lampeter team, where she is extremely conscientious and works to the highest standards. Heulwen is somewhat of an unsung hero of the company working quietly and calmly in the background so it was fitting that her contribution was acknowledged.

Commenting following a successful conference, Farmers’ Union of Wales President, Ian Rickman, said:

"This year's Annual Business Conference was a truly special occasion, marking 70 years since the inception of the Farmers' Union of Wales. It was a fantastic opportunity to bring together our teams from both the Union and FUW Insurance Services, reflecting on our achievements and looking ahead to the future of agriculture. 

The commitment and hard work of our staff are the backbone of our success, and it was a privilege to acknowledge their exceptional contributions through the awards ceremony. We're immensely proud of all our winners and indeed, every member of our team who continues to drive our growth as a business, and work tirelessly in serving the needs of rural Wales."

FUW Insurance Services Chair, Ann Beynon OBE added:

"The success of our Annual Business Conference would not have been possible without the incredible support of our valued business partners. We are immensely grateful to FarmWeb for their sponsorship of the conference, and to all our other partners that supported the successful two days. Their continued commitment to our event underscores the strong partnerships we've built which allows the business to continue to grow from strength to strength.

The atmosphere throughout the two days was incredibly positive. I found it particularly inspiring to see so many colleagues engaged in meaningful discussions and networking, reflecting the strength and collaborative spirit that drives our collective success."

FUW Insurance Services is a trading style of FUW Insurance Services Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Firm Reference Number (FRN) 615251. Registered firm and address : FUW Insurance Services Limited, Llys Amaeth, Plas Gogerddan, Penrhyncoch, Aberystwyth, Dyfed, SY23 3BT. Registered in England & Wales 07981993.