Findings from McCain's Farmdex report, which show that 51% of British farmers are considering leaving the industry, "highlight the stark realities of farming in 2025", the National Farmers' Union (NFU) has said. The figures align with record-low confidence levels reported in the NFU's own farmer confidence survey.
The Farmdex report, based on a July survey of 200 British farmers, combines data and personal accounts to assess the current sentiment across the sector. It found that 95% of respondents expect a decline in family farms over the next decade if current conditions continue.
© NFU
Mental health concerns were also widespread, with 61% of farmers reporting that their work negatively impacts their wellbeing. McCain said this was largely due to financial pressures, uncertainty about the future, and overwork.
The report identified government policies, rising costs, and limited investment as the top three threats to the long-term sustainability of British farming. At the same time, over two-thirds of respondents said investment in technology is vital for the sector's future, while 71% reported already adopting sustainable on-farm practices.
Responding to the findings, NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: "The results of this survey are not surprising and highlight the stark realities of farming in 2025. Farmers and growers are continuing to face huge challenges from price volatility, extreme weather, uncertainty around the future of environmental schemes, and changes to inheritance tax, which are hugely impacting on mental health and leaving confidence within the sector at a record low."
He added that a lack of confidence has also affected investment. "Our own farmer confidence survey revealed that the current state of farming has, for the first time ever, resulted in investment across the board drying up, with farmers not able to make investments in key areas such as machinery, infrastructure, and energy efficiency, creating a significant barrier to growth."
"With the Autumn Budget just weeks away, our message to government is clear – look at the alternatives on offer to the family farm tax and deliver policies that will help build resilience, profitability, and productivity in the farming sector and allow farmers to invest. In turn, we can continue to produce more sustainable, climate-friendly food, meet our domestic environmental targets, and deliver national food security," Bradshaw said.
James Young, vice-president of agriculture at McCain GB, said that collaboration across the industry will be key to addressing the challenges highlighted in the report. "Industry bodies, the government, and businesses must work together to heed the warning signs in the Farmdex and take action to support farmers," he said.
© NFUFor more information:
Jo Rector
NFU
Tel: +44 (0) 2476 858 686
Email: [email protected]
www.nfuonline.com
