The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) is celebrating 25 years of representing the UK meat industry.
The organisation was founded following the Foot and Mouth Disease crisis of 2001 and is now the UK’s largest post-farmgate trade body, representing abattoirs, licensed meat and poultry processors, egg packers, pet food manufacturers and catering butchers.
Established at a time of profound uncertainty for independent processors and suppliers, AIMS was created to give the industry a strong, informed, and credible voice. Its establishment reflected a need for practical support and constructive engagement with Government during one of the most challenging periods in modern agriculture.
From the outset, the organisation was shaped by the vision and leadership of Norman Bagley, whose commitment to professionalism, independence and fairness continues to define AIMS today.
Over the past 25 years, AIMS has grown alongside the sector it serves. It has played a central role in representing members on regulatory reform, inspection charging, export certification, border controls and market access, while supporting businesses through major challenges including Brexit, COVID-19 and rising operating costs.
Today, AIMS stands as an influential voice across the supply chain, engaging directly with policy makers, regulators and industry partners at national and international level. It continues to champion proportionate, risk-based regulation, practical compliance, and innovation in assurance and trade systems.
“AIMS has remained focused on practical solutions, high standards, and constructive engagement.”
Dr Jason Aldiss, AIMS executive director
Dr Jason Aldiss BEM, AIMS executive director, commented: “Twenty-five years ago, AIMS was born out of crisis, but it was built on principle. From the beginning, the aim was to ensure that independent businesses had a serious, credible voice at the table. Thanks to Norman’s vision and the commitment of our members, AIMS has grown into a highly respected and trusted organisation.
“Throughout Brexit, COVID, regulatory reform, and ongoing cost pressures, AIMS has remained focused on practical solutions, high standards, and constructive engagement. As we look ahead, our priority is to ensure that regulation remains proportionate, exports are supported and British businesses are able to compete fairly at home and abroad.”
