200 years of innovation and transparency marked on special anniversary for the modern livestock auction mart system
More than two centuries of innovation and transparency were marked throughout 2017, as the livestock auction mart industry celebrated the bicentenary of the UK’s first registered livestock auction.
A new brochure was launched, charting the history of livestock auction marts since the first registered auction was held in Hawick back in 1817, and the Livestock Auctioneers Association (LAA) led celebrations with a series of events and receptions across the country.
Speaking at the launch of the celebrations in 2017, George Eustice MP, then the minister of state for agriculture, fisheries and food, spoke of his appreciation of the industry.
“I am delighted to congratulate the livestock auction industry on this special anniversary, and to recognise the important contribution auction markets make to the rural economy,” said Mr Eustice.
“Over two centuries livestock auction markets have provided a consistent, stable and transparent method of selling livestock.”
Chris Dodds, executive secretary of the LAA added, “Along with our colleagues at the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers of Scotland (IAAS), we continue to support, develop and promote the crucial role of the livestock auctioneer, helping to deliver an open, transparent and competitive marketing forum for the red-meat sector and the wider rural economy.
“We can draw on our proud history to address and tackle new challenges and opportunities facing the industry,” continued Mr Dodds.
Concluding, George Eustice MP said, “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the livestock auction industry for its dedicated approach to driving the livestock industry and rural economy forwards.”