The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has announced an initiative aimed at developing young business leaders within the meat industry.
The initiative, which is titled the ‘Next Gen’ programme, has been set up in partnership with Nicholas Associates Group.
Delivered over an 18-month period, the programme will consist of six events, each chaired by an industry leader and covering a range of industry topics from international trade to recruiting and retaining staff.
Robert Sykes of Nicholas Associates Group commented: “Attracting and developing early careers is an increasing challenge across many sectors, and through the AIMS Next Gen programme we will provide future leaders with the opportunity to hear from the leaders of today who wish to help with the development of the leaders of tomorrow.”
AIMS said that Next Gen will be open to staff working for AIMS members who have at least five years’ experience in the meat and poultry sector, be that at farm, abattoir, processor or catering butcher level. Applicants must be under 40 years of age and there will be no more than 12 participants in each Next Gen intake.
Jason Feeney CBE, non-executive director at AIMS, stated: “The Next Gen programme is a unique opportunity for young professionals in our industry to learn more about the challenges and opportunities ahead, develop their personal skill set.
“I am very confident that all participants will find it interesting, developmental and enjoyable.”
AIMS Next Gen will commence in the Autumn, and AIMS is now accepting application via its website here.
The closing date for applications is Tuesday 30th June 2026.
AIMS welcomes CSB-System as new UK member
IT company CSB-System, which was established in 1977, has become a service provider member of AIMS in the UK.
The company provides services for the food industry, with its origins in the meat sector, and has now developed into an international provider serving businesses of all sizes. Within the meat industry, CSB-System supports companies such as Dew Valley, 2 Sisters Storteboom, Robinson Meats, Vion and Top Cut.
Mathew Simpson, UK & Ireland sales manager of CSB-System, commented: “Joining AIMS allows us to be closer to the UK meat industry and to actively contribute to the challenges companies are facing today.
“We see strong demand for better integration between systems, improved traceability and more efficient processes. Through AIMS, we look forward to sharing knowledge and supporting processors in their digital development.”
