The AgriNext Awards & Conference 2024 proudly recognizes David Bell, CEO of J.C. Bell Ltd and Fairfield Farms, with the prestigious “Excellence in Value Chain Management Award”. This accolade celebrates his unparalleled contributions to the agricultural value chain, which have set benchmarks for innovation, sustainability, and excellence.

About David Bell

David Bell runs two distinguished family farming businesses in East Central Scotland, blending tradition with forward-thinking strategies. A multi-award-winning farmer, David has already earned titles like Cereal Grower of the Year 2024 and Farm Manager of the Year 2022 at the National Arable and Grassland Awards. His dedication to agriculture and astute management skills have elevated his operations to industry-leading status.

Under David’s leadership, J.C. Bell Ltd and Fairfield Farms have built strong partnerships with key players in the food and beverage industry. He supplies Aberdeen Angus beef to leading brands such as Marks & Spencer, Aldi, and McDonald’s. His record-breaking barley yield of 14.3 tons per hectare is used in crafting iconic whiskies like The Macallan and Johnnie Walker. Additionally, his farms’ potatoes make their way to the shelves of major retailers like Tesco, exemplifying his impact on the value chain.

Beyond his on-farm successes, David contributes significantly to the agricultural sector through his non-executive roles. He has represented the industry with AHDB, the UK’s statutory levy board, and contributed his expertise to SRUC, a leading research institution in Agriculture, Food, and Veterinary Sciences. Additionally, David collaborates with Scottish Quality Crops, Europe’s foremost organization in farm produce food safety. His ability to bridge innovation with collaboration has made him a thought leader in the industry.

About AgriNext Conference

The AgriNext Conference 2024, held in Dubai, brought together global thought leaders to discuss the future of agriculture and its challenges. Building on this success, the second edition of the AgriNext Awards & Conference will take place in London on 15–16 May 2025, further recognizing trailblazers like David Bell who redefine agricultural excellence.

David Bell’s achievements underscore the transformative power of effective value chain management in modern agriculture. His vision, dedication, and innovation continue to inspire the agricultural community, setting a gold standard for success.

Congratulations to David Bell on this well-deserved recognition!