New profitability review offers hope for struggling farm businesses
By Chris Wright, Consultant and ARA specialist
Farmers across the country have been offered a glimmer of hope, following the Government’s announcement of a new independent review into farm profitability.
Led by Baroness Minette Batters, former president of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), the six-month review will explore the financial challenges facing British farmers and develop a roadmap for long-term sustainability and competitiveness in the sector.
The review is part of Defra’s broader ‘new deal for farmers’ and forms a key element of its wider ‘plan for change’, a policy agenda aimed at delivering rural economic growth and ensuring national food security.
Focus on practical, long-term solutions
Baroness Batters, known for her strong advocacy during a time of major change in UK farming, has promised to “leave no stone unturned” in her search for answers.
She will engage with farmers, growers, and stakeholders across the industry, supported by Defra’s newly established profitability unit.
Her recommendations will include both Government actions and steps for the farming industry to take, covering short-, medium-, and long-term goals.
Importantly, the review will also feed into the Government’s development of a new food strategy, a farming roadmap, and a national land use framework, all of which are likely to shape policy and funding for years to come.
What does this mean for farmers and landowners?
While the review won’t deliver immediate financial relief, its outcomes could shape future policy, subsidies, and support mechanisms, especially in light of recent cuts to Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) funding and the sudden closure of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) to new applications.
Hopefully, this review will bring more clarity and, ultimately, a more stable framework for agricultural business planning.
In the meantime, support is available to help review financial resilience and adapt business strategies in line with emerging policy and market changes.
For further advice on farm budgeting, restructuring, or tax planning, contact us today.