A new report by food manufacturer McCain confirms that British farmers are under growing strain from economic uncertainty, shifting policies, and erratic weather, with 74 per cent pessimistic about the country’s farming future.
The McCain Farmdex provides a platform for farmers across the UK, from livestock to arable, to voice their perspectives and give insight into aspects of their personal and professional lives. By measuring the emotional toll of their job, family life and exit intent, Farmdex aims to paint a holistic picture of life on British farms today.
The report reveals that 51per cent of farmers have considered leaving the industry in the past year due to financial strain, while only 4 per cent believe current government support is adequate. Alarmingly, 95 per cent expect family-run farms to decline over the next decade if the current trajectory persists.
The report also highlights the vital role of family in farming, with 83 per cent of farmers working alongside relatives and 60 per cent relying on family support to keep their businesses running. Yet, 95 per cent fear this tradition could disappear without stronger backing. The pressures are already evident- 61per cent say their work harms their mental health, and more than a third (36 per cent) work over 70 hours per week during peak seasons.
McCain’s Farmdex report also highlights resilience, adaptability and optimism with farmers embracing innovation and technology as they look for ways to build a sustainable future.
More than two-thirds (68 per cent) view investment in technology as essential for the sector’s future, and 71 per cent have already adopted sustainable practices such as crop rotation, reduced tillage, and precision farming. Many are also diversifying into agritourism and renewable energy, though high upfront costs and regulatory barriers remain significant obstacles.
In light of the Farmdex findings, McCain is calling for cross-sector collaboration and urging the government, policymakers, and industry leaders to:
- Support regenerative agriculture to boost food security and farmer profitability
- Prioritise long-term food security
- Provide clarity on government policy direction and funding
- Ensure the long-term viability of family farms
- Guarantee fair trade deals that support domestic agriculture
“Farming is the foundation of Britain’s food system, and its importance to our economy and national food security cannot be overstated. Farmers across the UK are facing a number of complex challenges, and yet they continue to showcase unwavering resilience,” said James Young, VP of Agriculture at McCain GB&I.
“As a company founded by farmers, we’re proud to stand alongside our 250 growers across the UK, and we are committed to playing our part to help ensure the long-term sustainability of British agriculture.
“We support our growers in a number of ways, which includes investing an additional £100m into our grower base since 2020. However, we can’t do it alone. It is crucial that industry bodies, the government and businesses work together to heed the warning signs in the Farmdex and take action to support farmers.”