Now in it’s 60th year, the Cup is awarded for the advancement of agriculture in Northern Ireland. What makes this Cup extra-special is that it is fellow industry professionals who nominate and choose the winner of the Cup.
In 1997 Mr Brennan led the team which acquired Devenish and in the early years his drive, determination, courage and intellect were vital in making Devenish the largest independently owned manufacturer of premix, creep and speciality feed products in the UK. The Group has expanded rapidly in the last 17 years, growing from a turnover of £5m with 23 staff to a turnover in excess of £150m and 300 staff. The Group has 6 manufacturing sites across the UK, Ireland and US as well as offices in Dubai and India and is exporting to over 25 countries worldwide.
The company’s commitment to research and innovation is backed up by a significant and ongoing investment in order to develop solutions to challenges faced by the industry today and tomorrow. A team of over 20 PhD’s and experts in develop¬ing products regularly collaborate with universities and external centres of excellence including QUB, UCD, Harper Adams and AFBI to develop product and services for their customers and the wider industry.
Despite his many business commitments he continues to give generously of his time and talents to several industry bodies, having served as President of the NI Grain Trade Association, as Chairman of the Livestock and Meat Commission and currently serving on the Agri Food Strategy Board.
Pictured above are (l-r) Michelle O’Neill, Agriculture Minister, Owen Brennan, Executive Chairman, Devenish, Phil Hogan, EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development and Ian Marshall, UFU President.
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