Building a Stronger Future for Harrison & Hetherington

In more than four decades of experience in the livestock auction industry, Robin Anderson, the newly appointed Managing Director of Harrison & Hetherington , has built an unrivalled reputation for his leadership, business acumen, and his deep understanding of the agricultural sector. 

Now taking the reins at H&H, the UK’s largest livestock trading company, Robin steps into this key role at a time when the business is looking forward with both ambition and focus. As the company celebrates its 100th anniversary, his appointment reflects a strategic commitment from the H&H Group to evolve, adapt, and lead the way in an industry facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities.

Robin has a genuine passion for the industry and the people who keep it alive, “The livestock industry is dynamic and challenging, and we’re at a crossroads both for the sector and for our own business where a strong legacy meets a future of enormous potential.  

“I’m honoured to take on this role at this time,” he says, “and with the support of our excellent team, I’m confident we can continue to provide the highest levels of service to our clients.  For me, the focus is not about being the biggest but being the best. It’s about streamlining operations, driving innovation, and making sure H&H continues to set the standard – not just for today, but for the future.”

Robin now oversees the full Farmstock business, taking on responsibility for staff, operations, and financial performance. For Robin, what comes next is more than just about livestock. It’s about the H&H brand, the people, and the communities that H&H serves. The business remains deeply rooted in the needs of the entire diverse range of our farming customers whilst recognising the rapidly changing landscape of agriculture. 

“You can’t lose sight of what makes H&H special,” he says. “It’s the community we create, not just the commerce. That’s never been more important. Whether it’s providing a safe and supportive workplace for our teams, or ensuring we’re always present for our customers – not just as auctioneers, but as partners in their livelihoods.

The priorities for the new H&H MD are centred on building a business that is modern, inclusive, and above all, resilient. “That means continuing to innovate across all areas, adopting up-to-date technology, and ensuring we operate a business that is fit for the future. Across our strategic network of 7 auction centres here in Cumbria, the Borders and Northumberland, we’re committed to providing a happy, healthy, and safe working environment for all. This is fundamental to both our internal culture and our ability to serve our customers with excellence.

“We also recognise that wherever you go, the H&H experience should feel consistent. Whether you’re buying or selling at Borderway or any of our other marts, the professionalism and care our customers receive must set the benchmark for the industry. As a business, we’re working to be more inclusive both in how we represent ourselves and in how we attract and engage with the wider rural and farming communities. We want to be recognised not just as a forward-looking livestock auctioneers, but as a champion for the industry, and for the farmers and traders we serve.”

Robin is also inspired by the youthful energy within the business. “The age profile of our auctioneers and managers at H&H is the youngest it has ever been, which is a deliberate policy, but to be truly fit for the future, we don’t just need a young team, we need young people who are well trained, mentored, and learning from those who’ve been part of H&H for years. It’s about blending fresh ideas with real experience and investing in people’s careers from day one.”

That investment extends to customers too. Robin is clear that excellence in service is non-negotiable, whether in-person or online. “It’s not just about standing in the rostrum anymore,” he says. “Marketing, selling, customer engagement, it’s all changing incredibly quickly, and H&H has been leading the way in key areas of change such as global online auctions and headline livestock shows. The team is already looking at the next stages in livestock trading and exploring new markets.”

The new MD is not in the slightest deterred by the challenges ahead: “The two most pressing risks are debt and disease. The primary drivers remain value and volume, but perhaps the biggest challenge of all is managing expectations – those of our staff, our customers, our Board and our Shareholders. Meeting these expectations takes open communication, a clear vision, and a strong commitment to delivering results.

The industry is seeing a decline in livestock numbers and fewer young people entering agriculture. Competition is intensifying. Robin is realistic – but also optimistic. “Of course there are always challenges,” he recognises, “but challenge creates opportunity. My goal is to ensure that H&H not only navigates those challenges but continues to thrive in spite of them.”

Rationalisation across the sector appears inevitable, with fewer businesses likely to remain. But Robin sees this as a chance to stand out. “Fewer players isn’t necessarily a bad thing,” he notes. “As long as those who remain are strong, agile, and future-focused – and that’s exactly what H&H aims to be.”

Looking ahead, Robin is optimistic. With a strong leadership team beside him, an ambitious strategy in place, and a profound sense of purpose, he’s ready to lead H&H into its next chapter by ensuring that as a business it is fit for the future. “This company has been around for over 100 years. Now it’s up to us to build on that legacy and make sure the next 100 years are just as successful, if not more so.”