In May, Swansea County Court ruled that S&A Davies & Daughters Ltd was not found to have employed anyone in contravention of UK immigration laws.

Siôn and Audrey Davies, who run Coomb Farm in Carmarthenshire, said they are “delighted” with the result.

The Davies family were advised throughout by immigration specialists, Lynne Adams, legal director at HCR Law, with support from Paula Ursu, solicitor at HCR Law, and Satinder Gill, barrister at Five Paper.

Aled Owen, partner at HCR Law, who has represented the Davies family for more than 25 years and who was instrumental in supporting the family throughout, warned that farmers are facing unprecedented scrutiny over their use of foreign labour.

“This kind of work by the Home Office’s immigration team in targeting employers has become increasingly farm-focused.

“There have been around a dozen other cases in West Wales recently, three of which have resulted in prosecution. This is the first case which has come to court,” he explained.

‘Wholly disproportionate and incredibly intimidating’ situation

The Davies family’s ordeal began when immigration officers alleged that eight Romanian workers on their farm were employed there illegally.

Describing the investigation, Audrey Davies said it came as an “absolute shock” and has caused immense stress.

Mrs Davies added: “The way that the immigration team dealt with the situation felt wholly disproportionate and was incredibly intimidating.

“Twenty to thirty police officers and immigration officers descended on the farm, arresting eight out of the twelve people who had been doing work for us.”

Aside from concern over a huge potential fine, the farm was also left short of labour.

Mr Davies explained: “We have 800 cows to milk and 2,200 head of cattle on the farm in total – finding alternative contract labour at such short notice was impossible.”

Despite their court victory – which was heavily supported by the National Farmers Union (NFU) – legal experts at HCR law are warning other farmers to review their employment practices urgently as enforcement activity continues.

Lynne Adams, immigration specialist and legal director at HCR Law, said: “We’re very pleased that the Davies family has been cleared of any wrongdoing, but this is a stark reminder to farmers of their obligations when using foreign labour.”

She advises farmers operating in the dairy, arable or horticultural sectors who are using foreign labour, to review their practices and check that they are compliant.

Mrs Adams concluded: “It’s a complex legal area, and it’s therefore worthwhile seeking expert help to ensure you don’t inadvertently fall foul of the law.”

Read more farm business news.

The post Welsh farmers win case against HO following accusations of employing illegal workers appeared first on Farmers Guide.

The government has recently set out its ten-year plan to “make the UK the best country to invest in worldwide”, with its new Industrial Strategy highlighting agri-tech as a key area for growth with £200m to target innovation.

The Industrial Strategy includes targeted support for the areas of the country and economy that have the greatest potential to grow, while introducing reforms that will make it easier for all businesses to get ahead.

The strategy targets eight key sectors and technologies that can drive economic growth, with agri-tech highlighted as a ‘frontier’ industry within advanced manufacturing. It also recognises the opportunities for precision breeding as part of engineering biology within the digital and technology sector.

‘Win-win for the nation’

The government has announced it will allocate £200 million for the Farming Innovation Programme (FIP) between now and 2030, offering targeted funding to drive innovation in agriculture.

In addition, a new Agri-Tech Export Accelerator Programme will help high-growth agri-tech businesses identify the best international markets for their products and give them the tools and support they need to succeed overseas and build strong supply chains.

DEFRA confirmed that developments in these areas will help boost the profits of farmers and growers, and improve the sector’s resilience for the future.

Farming minister Daniel Zeichner said that driving innovation and growth in agri-tech is a “win-win for the nation”.

“Not only can we create jobs, strengthen economic resilience and ensure food security is maintained, we can boost the profits of farmers and growers through innovation. The Industrial Strategy, a key part of the government’s Plan for Change, sets out a clear long-term plan for the nation to get Britain’s future back,” he continued.

The UK agri-food chain contributes £147 billion in in economic value to the country. The number of agri-tech start-ups in the UK has increased approximately 40-fold in the last decade, employing more than 30,000, DEFRA said.

The modern Industrial Strategy aims to make the UK the best country to invest in and grow a business — including in agri-tech — by supporting the development and commercial use of new technologies to help farmers grow more food, increase profits, and protect the environment.

‘Harming has the potential to be a key driver in future growth’

The NFU said it lobbied government departments, including the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), to get agriculture included to help boost its value to the country even further.

The union explained that having agri-tech and precision breeding technology as areas of focus within the growth sector plan means there should be greater opportunities for farmers and growers to contribute to the government’s growth agenda, increasing their ability to create jobs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, boost productivity and drive investment in sustainable food, fibre and energy production.

NFU deputy president David Exwood said: “Since winning the election almost a year ago, the government has repeatedly said it wants to deliver growth. As the backbone of the food and drink industry – the UK’s largest manufacturing sector – farming is in a great position to contribute to this.

“The UK agriculture sector is world-class with innovative and tech-hungry farm businesses. With the right investment, farming has the potential to be a key driver in future growth, and that’s why we have been pushing hard for it to be included in the Industrial Strategy. We already have proposals within our Blueprints for Growth to support the government’s goals and intend to feed these in as part of next steps.

“This focus on agri-tech should help farming businesses become more productive, sustainable and resilient and ultimately deliver even more for the British people and the government’s growth ambition.”

Read more political news.

The post Agriculture included in government’s Industrial Strategy appeared first on Farmers Guide.

UK Agricultural Finance supports these transformative initiatives with dedicated farm diversification finance options. This specialised financial support enables farmers to broaden their business scope, adapting traditional farming operations into dynamic, multi-functional enterprises that can thrive in today’s diverse economic landscape.

The UK Agricultural Finance team was recently approached via a broker by a multi-generational dairy farm known for its prize-winning Holstein Friesian cows.

They were seeking a loan to restructure existing debt and support new investment in both a farm diversification project and infrastructure upgrades, both of which would improve the farm’s profitability. Located in stunning countryside while also benefiting from good connections to regional hubs, the farm was well positioned to attract tourists.

Previously, the farm sold their milk via a local cheese producer, but they had recently moved to a more lucrative contract with a well-known ice cream brand, significantly boosting its profitability.

The farm is owned and run by a father-and-son team. The son joined the family business following the retirement of his grandfather, returning to the farm armed with fresh insights from agricultural college. He now spearheads these profitability initiatives.

With plans to expand their current tourism business with the addition of glamping pods, the borrowers aim to further diversify and enhance the farm’s revenue streams, continually exploring new opportunities within their farming network.

Traditional farming alongside diversification

Traditional dairy farming continues to be a substantial part of the borrower’s business, complemented by strategic diversification efforts. The farm’s primary income stems from producing 10,000 litres of milk annually and is supplemented by selling high-quality, champion cows and A-grade embryos, with a waiting list for cows in operation due to their reputation.

Contractual arrangements with notable brands, such as their ice cream contract, require grazing under specific conditions. They sustain and expand their herd internally, growing most of the feed on-site by leveraging their well-draining soil, which maintains field quality despite variable weather.

The farm also cultivates maize, used both as silage and a starch-rich, cost-effective feed for their lactating and finishing cattle during leaner months. Additionally, the farm has established a lucrative connection with Pitstop, which supplies premium quality meat directly to McDonald’s.

These mixed income streams not only stabilise their financial base but also highlight the farm’s adept manoeuvring through the economic challenges of traditional farming, setting a solid foundation for its diversification into glamping and other ventures, UK Agricultural Finance explained.

Glamping as diversification strategy

Glamping, a luxurious form of camping, was chosen by the farm as a diversification strategy to complement their traditional farming activities and tap into the growing market for unique, rural tourist experiences.

Recognising the farm’s picturesque setting and existing infrastructure, the decision was made to develop glamping facilities that could attract a different clientele than their usual agricultural business. Initial steps included leveraging an existing caravan and campsite area that accommodated up to 11 caravans.

Plans are underway to enhance this offering by installing a new block with shower facilities, which will allow them to increase fees and enhance the guest experience. This development not only diversifies income but also maximises the use of their land throughout the year.

Utilising financial support from UK Agricultural Finance and grants

UK Agricultural Finance played a pivotal role in enabling the farm’s transition to more profitable and sustainable practices.

The financial support provided allowed for significant infrastructure enhancements, including the installation of solar panels and upgrading to a three-phase electrical system, substantially reducing energy costs. Additionally, leveraging a 25% grant helped in implementing these energy solutions economically.

Further financial aid was utilised for the renovation of the calf house, supported by a 40% grant, enhancing operational efficiency.

This grant, coupled with the tailored loan, facilitated debt consolidation and funded the development of glamping facilities, which expanded the farm’s revenue streams without disclosing precise financial terms. This strategic use of grants alongside loans underscores how external financing can effectively support agricultural diversification and infrastructure development, the company explained.

Impact and benefits of glamping on farm

The farm owners said that the introduction of glamping has significantly enhanced the farm’s financial landscape, introducing a lucrative new income stream and attracting a high volume of visitors.

This diversification strategy has not only increased the farm’s profitability but has also improved sustainability by maximising land use and reducing off-farm work reliance. By involving family members, such as adult children and spouses, glamping allows for the creation of integrated family roles, reducing the need for external employment.

This setup provides a practical example for other farms considering diversification to bolster resilience and adapt to the evolving agricultural sector, the UK Agricultural Finance team said.

Future outlook and farm diversification expansion plans

The future outlook for the farm’s diversification into glamping is promising, with plans to expand the existing facilities to accommodate more guests and enhance their experience. The farm’s strategy includes adding more luxurious amenities and potentially exploring eco-friendly practices that further align with sustainable tourism trends.

Furthermore, there is enthusiasm for introducing additional recreational activities, such as nature trails and farm-to-table dining experiences, which would not only increase guest engagement but also promote local agriculture.

The success of this farm’s diversification into glamping underscores the vital role of diversification in sustaining modern farming operations.

The UK Agricultural Finance team said that they stand ready to support such transitions, providing tailored financial solutions that help farms transform their operations and embrace new opportunities.

Read more farm business news.

The post Embrace farm diversification and improve farm profitability appeared first on Farmers Guide.

The numbers of new stocks and shares Junior ISAs (JISAs) opened with NFU Mutual in the first three months of 2025 rose by 115% compared to the first quarter of 2024, the insurer said. 

The number of existing stocks and shares junior ISAs which have had additional funds added also almost doubled in the same period.  

NFU Mutual said that the average sums invested rose from £2,400 for new junior ISAs in the first three months of 2024 to £4,100 in the first quarter of 2025. The number of one-off top-ups to existing ISAs have also risen from an average of £2,700 to £3,900 in the first quarter of 2025.  

The renewed focus on junior ISAs comes after the government’s 2024 Autumn Budget, which revealed plans to reform inheritance tax, including changing agricultural property relief and proposing that unspent private pension wealth should be counted as part of an estate for inheritance tax purposes from April 2027.  

This is likely to have prompted more people to re-examine their finances so they can avoid a large inheritance tax bill for their families – with some spending more money now or gifting money to their children and grandchildren, the insurer explained.  

READ MORE: ‘Madness’ of IHT reforms revealed, says farming community

‘Investing for a child’s future’

The government confirmed in its spring statement that it “is looking at options for reforms to Individual Savings Accounts that get the balance right between cash and equities to earn better returns for savers, boost the culture of retail investment and support the growth mission.”   

David Nottingham, personal finance expert at NFU Mutual, said: “More and more of our rural customer base are turning to junior ISAs with parents and grandparents using them as a tax-efficient way to invest for a child’s future – particularly as they are considering the implications of proposed inheritance tax changes.  

“The junior ISA allowance more than doubled in 2020 to £9,000 each year, and since then there has been extra interest in the savings product, which has enabled families to shelter more from HMRC.” 

“Junior ISAs are a great way to save for a house deposit or university fees in a tax-efficient environment, but many families are missing out on potentially higher long-term returns by sticking with cash-based junior ISAs rather than investing in a stocks and shares ISA.   

“The majority of junior ISAs are not invested in stocks and shares, as many families prefer to play it safe and keep money in cash savings.” 

Junior ISAs must be set up by a child’s parents or guardians, but once open, anyone can contribute up to £9,000 per year tax-free. No money can be withdrawn until the child turns 18, but they can take control of the account when they reach 16 years old.  

The average national subscription to a junior ISA in 2022-2023 was £1,220, according to the latest government data, which also shows that £1.5 billion was subscribed to junior ISAs that year, of which around 42% was in cash.  

READ MORE: Latest IHT report paints ‘catastrophic’ picture of family farming businesses

READ MORE: UK government denies answering key IHT questions

Read more farm business news. 

The post Rural families invest in junior ISAs ahead of inheritance tax changes appeared first on Farmers Guide.

Attara, which specialises in providing commodity hedging and currency solutions, says it’s looking forward to meeting the UK farming community once again at Cereals 2025.

The company works closely with farmers across the grain, dairy and fuel sectors to build hedging strategies that bring more certainty to farm finances, commenting:

“Every plan we build is bespoke, designed to reduce risk, stabilise performance, and help you take more control over your margins in an ever-changing and uncertain market.”

Global events have had a major knock-on effect.

Since the global pandemic, we’ve seen inflation, changing trade agreements, and new tariffs pushing up input costs and driving pricing swings across key commodities, trickling down to the agricultural sector domestically.

Meanwhile, global grain prices remain sensitive to supply chain disruption.

Whether it’s geopolitical tensions or shipping delays, global supply chain shocks continue to cause weekly price fluctuations, all of which have a direct knock-on effect for British growers and producers, making it difficult for farmers to track their input/output costs.

“That’s where we come in,” the company says. “

Attara works directly with farmers to build tailored risk management strategies that work for you.

Helping you protect against price swings, lock in value and plan ahead with more confidence. Because in an unpredictable world, what comes off your field should still add up.”

Strutt & Parker (Farms) managing director Charles Buckley, comments: “Strutt & Parker (Farms) has benefited from the hedging services provided by Attara.

“These simple financial products enable us to achieve improved financial visibility and cost certainty in commodities that are otherwise volatile and uncertain.”

You can visit the stand at Cereals 2025 and talk about:

• One-to-one consultation on hedging strategies
• Discussions on arable and wider commodity markets
• Navigating the impact of macroeconomic change on your farm
• Real examples of how other farmers are securing better financial outcomes.

Whether you’re a grower, landowner, or rural business manager, Attara says it would love to help you build a stronger, more secure future.

Cereals stand number: 135

Read more cereals and business news.

The post Learn how to secure better financial outcomes appeared first on Farmers Guide.

The Investor Partnerships competition is part of Defra’s Farming Innovation Programme, delivered in collaboration with our partners, Innovate UK.

Defra said that the competition is unique because it combines public and private funding. It helps agri-tech businesses scale and commercialise innovations that are ready to be used on farms.

Through the ‘Investor Partner Pool’, grant funding from Defra is matched with equity investment from private investors in the pool.

The Investor Partner Pool includes more than 150 trusted investment organisations. These have been selected for their track record, expertise, and interest in backing innovative, high-growth businesses.

This model encourages private investment and supports the growth of UK agri-tech businesses, the government said.

Eligibility

To be eligible, you must be a micro, small or medium-sized business with an experimental technology close to market. You should be looking for late seed or Series A stage investment.

Defra said that eligible projects must:

• demonstrate clear benefits to farmers, growers and agricultural businesses in England.

• cost between £750,000 and £3,000,000.

• last up to 18 months.

• carry out all project work in the UK. 

Grant funding will cover:

• up to 45% for micro or small organisations.

• up to 35% for medium-sized organisations.

Application process

Applications open on Monday 2nd June 2025, and close on Wednesday 2nd July 2025.

To apply, you must:

• aim to finalise a late-stage innovation.

• show potential to grow and scale with investor support.

• set out a clear and coherent project plan that aligns with your business strategy.

• address a farm-focused challenge in areas such as livestock, plants, novel food production systems, or the bioeconomy of agroforestry.

Applications will be assessed by independent experts from business and academia.

If your project meets the threshold, you will be notified in early August. You will then have until December to agree on heads of terms with a lead investor, Defra explained.

Successful applicants will be notified after that.

You should apply through Innovate UK’s Innovation Funding Service.

READ MORE: What farming grants are coming up?

Learn more

Together with UKRI, Defra will hold a webinar and Q&A session on Thursday 5th June.

In the session, they will:

• explain the application process and what assessors are looking for.

• go over eligibility criteria and funding rules.

• give an overview of the Investor Partner Pool.

Sign up to attend the webinar. The webinar will be recorded for those who cannot attend it.

READ MORE: Defra retracts SFI closure for thousands of farmers

Read more farm business news.

The post Check out how to apply for Farming Innovation Investor Partnership competition appeared first on Farmers Guide.

After much uncertainty over the future of farming grants, the government has provided further information on the FETF and other available funding. 

FETF

The last FETF round closed in May 2024 and no further rounds were announced last year, following the general election in July.

Under the recently announced FETF round for 2025, £46.7 million has been made available for three types of grant worth up to £25,000 each. These allow farmers to invest  in day-to-day equipment to boost productivity, manage slurry or improve animal health and welfare.  

The grants cover over 160 pieces of eligible equipment across the three themes – examples include slurry separators, livestock ventilation systems, cattle and sheep handling systems, direct drills, and forestry and irrigation equipment, assuming they meet the criteria.

The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund will open on 29th May and close on 10th July.

For the full list of eligible items and how to apply, visit: www.gov.uk/government/publications/farming-equipment-and-technology-fund-2025  

FIP

Meanwhile, the £5m Investor Partnerships programme will blend government grant money with private investment to bring cutting edge technology to market, giving farmers and food producers faster and more widespread access to state-of-the-art innovations.  

A successful pilot has so far brought high-yield broccoli harvesters and new seed cleaning technologies to market. 

FIP Investor Partnerships will open from 2nd June to 2nd July. 

READ MORE: Olly Harrison launches petition to delay inheritance tax changes
READ MORE: How will the US trade deal affect UK farmers?

ADOPT

Additionally, the Accelerating Development of Practices and Technologies (ADOPT) fund, is a new grant launched by DEFRA in April 2025, as part of the Farming Innovation Programme. 

Delivered by Innovate UK, the fund will provide grants of between £50,000–100,000, to help farmers trial new technologies and practices on their farms through farmer-led research projects, advises Penelope Edgar, head of agriculture & rural affairs at Thomson Snell & Passmore.

Projects funded through ADOPT will need to focus on improving one of the following: 

• Productivity and profitability
• Resilience to challenges i.e. climate change
• Reducing the environmental impact of farming.

Two types of grants available: 

• A full ADOPT grant for ‘on farm trial and demonstration projects’, of between £50,000 and £100,000
• An ADOPT facilitator support grant of £2,500 for a farmer ‘to engage an external project facilitator to support with submissions’.

Applying for the grant is a competitive process, and not every application will be successful.

For more information: Competition overview – Full ADOPT Grant: Round 1 – Innovation Funding Service.

Other available funding

Defra has also recently announced that the Sustainable Farming Incentive 2024 scheme would be reopened for around 3,000 applicants. 

Those who had started an application within two months of 11^th March 2025 but had not yet submitted their application will now be able to complete it. However there are restrictions on who can apply and what they will be able to claim. 

The move comes after a group of NFU-backed farmers threatened a legal challenge over the decision to close the SFI without notice.

Other grants announced this year include the improved Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier scheme – currently available by invitation only.

Meanwhile the Capital Grants scheme is set to reopen in the summer and farmers in England’s protected landscapes can apply for funding from the Farming in Protected Landscapes programme until March 2026. 

There was also an update to the Animal Health and Welfare Review in February, meaning farmers can apply for funding for more than one species.

Read more business news.

The post What farming grants are coming up? appeared first on Farmers Guide.

While traditional agricultural income can fluctuate due to market pressures, policy changes, and climate unpredictability, landowners may have an untapped opportunity to diversify their income by unlocking the development potential of their land, advises Tritax Big Box Developments.

With the surging demand for industrial and logistics spaces, particularly from retailers, manufacturers and e-commerce giants, farmland in strategic locations could provide a viable alternative revenue stream.

Why industrial and logistics development?

As online shopping and supply chain efficiencies drive demand for logistics hubs, land near major roads, cities, or existing commercial developments is in high demand.

Industrial and logistics buildings now play a crucial role in the UK economy, with major operators like Amazon, Tesco, and DHL requiring large-scale warehouse space to support their operations.

For farmers, this represents an opportunity to secure a reliable financial return from land that may not be suitable for long-term agricultural use.

Whether through outright sales, partnership agreements, or long-term leasing structures, industrial development can be a smart diversification strategy.

How can farmers benefit?

Selling or developing land for industrial and logistics use can be highly lucrative, but it requires careful planning.

Here are five key factors farmers should consider:

1. Explore diversification without giving up farming
   Development agreements, such as option agreements or phased land sales, allow farmers to generate additional revenue while continuing agricultural operations on remaining land. Understanding these options is key to making an informed decision.
2. Seek impartial advice
   Engaging experienced land agents, solicitors, and advisers is essential to safeguarding your interests and maximising returns. Many developers, including Tritax Big Box, may cover professional fees as part of an agreement.
3. Understand land valuation
   Land with planning permission typically holds significantly higher value than land without it. Exploring options such as securing planning approval before selling can substantially increase potential returns.
4. Consider long-term impacts
   Selling or leasing land for industrial development is a long-term decision. Farmers should assess the potential impact on their remaining holdings, infrastructure, and local community relationships.
5. Work with reputable developers
   A strong track record in obtaining planning permission and delivering high-quality developments is crucial. Choose a developer with established relationships with planners and local authorities.

Unlocking the best deal

Tritax Big Box Developments has a long history of working closely with landowners to unlock the full value of their land while ensuring sustainable, high-quality development.

The company specialises in strategic land promotion, securing planning permissions, and delivering logistics hubs that create jobs and economic growth.

With evolving market conditions and with recent tax changes, farmers looking to diversify their income should assess their options carefully.

If you’re considering how your land could generate a stable, long-term revenue stream, now is the time to explore your options.

For more insights on unlocking land value, visit www.tritaxbigbox.co.uk/landowners.

Read more business news.

The post Logistics industry brings new opportunities to landowners appeared first on Farmers Guide.

Among those looking forward to meeting fellow farming folk at the spring county shows is Ben Wood from specialist agri-lender Rural Asset Finance.  

Mr Wood said: “County shows have an atmosphere all their own. I just love spending the day meeting people who might come from different types of farming backgrounds but who all have that shared passion for the countryside.” 

There’s a reason why Mr Wood enjoys that connection. He, like his colleagues at Rural Asset Finance, comes from a farming family. 

“I love looking at all the tractors, the machines, all the new tech – there are some amazing bits of kit out there, some of the gadgets are incredible,” Rural Asset Finance’s head of sales added.

“But what I love most of all about these days is the people. You make new friends, you catch up with old ones – talking farming with farmers is my happy place!” 

Mr Wood will get plenty of opportunity to do just that, as Rural Asset Finance once again sponsors the CLA marquee at the Suffolk, Norfolk and Lincolnshire shows through May and June.

Mr Wood said farmers will appreciate that the team at Rural Asset Finance speaks their language. 

“I love talking to farmers, but I think they like the fact that we are lenders who are genuinely interested in their businesses on a farming level, and understand what they do.

Because we all come from farms, we understand the day-to-day of what that looks like, the challenges, the issues, the idea that no two days are the same.” 

‘We get it’ 

The RAF team said that this understanding enables them to offer finance solutions that are farmer-led. They created bespoke packages to suit individual situations and requirements.

The team also understands that in the current uncertain climate, farmers need support, whether it is to shore up their traditional food production or expand into diversification through tourism, countryside management, renewable energy or any other innovative alternative revenue streams that can be based on the farm. 

“I think the farmers we meet genuinely appreciate not just that we speak their language, but ‘we get it’, we know what they go through, because our own families have likely faced similar uncertainties and challenge.

“But it’s not just about the challenges – it’s knowing what it feels like when things go well, too, and being delighted for them when their projects and ideas are really successful.

That’s why I love talking to farmers and I can’t wait for the shows, to hear those stories. Now all we need is for the sun to shine,” Mr Wood concluded. 

Rural Asset Finance is sponsoring the CLA marquee at the Suffolk Show on 28^th and 29^th May, Lincolnshire Show on 18^th and 19^th, as well as the Royal Norfolk Show on 25^th and 26^th June. 

Visit the Rural Asset Finance website for more information.

Read more farm business news.

The post Rural Asset Finance to meet farmers at numerous shows this season appeared first on Farmers Guide.

For the first time, the National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) has asked its members if they put up their prices annually by a percentage to reflect increasing costs and, if so, what percentage rise they would be introducing to cover inflation and labour increases this year.

The average increase is 5.7%, although there was a wide variation of predicted rises from 2-12%. The NAAC survey has shown a range of price changes reflecting a similar margin, in a general upwards trend.

Jill Hewitt, NAAC CEO, said: “A trusted partnership between a professional contractor and farmer will be essential this season, to successfully and safely look after the soil, environment, livestock and cropping in increasingly turbulent weather conditions.

“Working with a professional contractor gives the exciting opportunity to use everyone’s experience to maximum benefit. Many contractors will have vast knowledge working on different soil types, with different cropping and cultivations, they will have invested in machinery, staff and technology and can bring huge benefit on farm.

“However, professionalism comes at a price, and the 2025 prices have generally gone up to take account of inflation and employment costs, but carefully calculated costs on both sides of a partnership will ensure everyone can benefit.” NAAC Members have been encouraged to calculate their individual costs using the NAAC’s costing tool to ensure that quotes are accurate and sustainable.

As machinery expenditure continues to climb, it is vital that prices are calculated to ensure businesses can keep pace with depreciation and replacement costs.

Read more farm business news.  

The post Agricultural contractors may increase their charges by almost 6% appeared first on Farmers Guide.