Michael Higgins Honoured By Potato Council
The presentation of the 2009 British Potato Award to Michael Higgins, the founder and Chairman of The Higgins Group, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the potato industry, constituted a fitting end to a year of celebrations in this, the companys 50th Anniversary year.
On presenting the award, Potato Council chairman, Allan Stevenson, documented Michaels career, highlighting his expansion into Europe and the establishment of a French office [Pommies] as one of the industrys great success stories. He acknowledged him as being at the forefront of innovation and change, pushing at the boundaries of potato marketing.
Michaels son, David, Managing Director of the Higgins Group, says about his fathers achievement: My fathers success has been brought about by his recognition of the key role played by our potato growers, appreciating them as partners as well as suppliers, and his willingness to make bold decisions when necessary.
As a result of his influence, the Higgins Group is now involved in every aspect of the potato supply chain, from seed cutting and mini-tubers, through the multiplication process, growing, storage, distribution and marketing throughout the world.
The last word goes to Allan Stevenson, who said: Mr Higgins has been instrumental in creating a stable and secure market for potato growing by developing fixed-price contracts, long term storage regimes and new market opportunities for UK potatoes. A well deserved award.
Image shows Michael Higgins [left] receiving his award from Allan Stevenson, Chairman of the Potato Council
The Higgins Group has an annual turnover of around 40m, handles 300,000 tonnes of potatoes a year, and at any one time stores up to 100,000 tonnes of potatoes in warehouses ready for transporting to food manufacturers. [www.higgins.co.uk]