We don’t yet know what policies will be in place to support arable farmers in post-Brexit Britain but, even without a crystal ball, it’s pretty clear what a successful operation will look like.

Farmers have traditionally been price takers not price makers; from now on it will be the farm business that evolves into a consumer-focused, environmentally friendly brand, differentiating itself in the marketplace, that is set to thrive. 

Dynamism and diversification are important attributes now – in the future they will be at the very heart of a flourishing enterprise and, alongside ‘farmer’, a long list of titles from wildlife champion, leisure manager and logistics director to commercial developer and residential landlord will be added to the job description. 

The successful farm will have adopted the most efficient and productive technologies and farming systems, taking full advantage of the Government’s expressed willingness to support funding for technology in this area. Perhaps sensors will be deployed in every field, freeing up time spent driving around to check whether conditions are too wet, dry or windy to carry out tasks such as spraying. Data will be harvested and analysed to inform decision making. 

Collaboration will be a key component of success with farms working together for mutual benefit be it over machinery, ideas, input purchasing, marketing or, importantly, labour. Attracting sufficient numbers of trained, motivated, incentivised people to work in agriculture is a major challenge. Success breeds success, however, and the farm that builds a reputation for excellence will be the one that employees will gravitate towards.

How a farm sells its produce, why, when and to whom will be essential questions for the business. Doing something because that’s how it has always been will no longer be the answer.  Some farmers have already accepted the challenges of the future. For others, a sea change in outlook and lifestyle now will be crucial for Brexit and beyond.

Further information

Savills Food and Farming team will be on stand 339 at Cereals in Duxford, Cambridgeshire on 13 and 14 June – do come and see us.