A recent industry report emphasizes the urgent need for cohesive action to address growing workforce shortages in the UK agriculture sector. The report warns that without significant intervention, the nation’s food security and the affordability of British produce stand in jeopardy.
Commissioned by Arla Foods in collaboration with the School of Sustainable Food and Farming at Harper Adams University, the findings assert that a robust and expanded pipeline of skilled labor is essential for the long-term productivity and resilience of the UK’s food and farming system.
Challenges in Attracting Young Talent
One of the key insights from the report highlights a significant gap between young people’s interest in agricultural careers and their understanding of the industry. While only 4% of young individuals are currently employed in the food and farming sector, a notable 38% express interest in a career in this field.
However, many lack adequate information about available roles, perceive other industries as more attractive, or feel unsure about how to enter the sector. The report identifies three major challenges: a lack of awareness about agriculture jobs, an unattractive image of the sector, and barriers to access. Despite valuing agriculture’s purpose and its connection to nature, young people still associate the industry with strenuous labor, long hours, and insufficient pay—factors that dissuade them from pursuing careers in agriculture.
Food Security Under Threat
In light of geopolitical instability, environmental changes, and rising living costs, the urgency for a stable food supply has intensified. Bas Padberg, managing director at Arla Foods, states, “At the heart of all of this is people. If we don’t succeed in bringing in more people and addressing current shortages, there are evident threats to the UK’s food security, and consequently, the affordability and accessibility of food.”
Currently, the sector is grappling with staffing issues. A survey of Arla’s 1,900 UK farmer members revealed that approximately 84% of farmers seeking to fill vacancies are encountering a lack of qualified applicants, an increase from 79% in 2021.
Three Essential Calls to Action
To tackle these challenges and cultivate a workforce fit for the future, the report proposes three key recommendations for stakeholders in the industry, educational institutions, and government:
1. Launch a National Careers Campaign: A nationwide initiative is vital to highlight the variety, rewards, and advancements in agricultural careers—including fields like robotics, data analysis, sustainability, and animal health.
2. Strengthen Agricultural Education: The report stresses the importance of integrating food and farming into school and college curricula, ensuring young people gain early and accurate exposure to the sector.
3. Build Clear Career Pathways: Employers require support to create structured entry routes into the industry, encompassing training programs, apprenticeships, and talent development initiatives.
According to Alex Hardie from the School of Sustainable Food & Farming, young individuals are not rejecting farming; they are simply seeking clearer career pathways. “By enhancing awareness and access, agriculture has a tremendous opportunity to inspire the next generation to engage in this thriving industry.”
A Collective Responsibility
David Christensen, an Arla farmer, emphasized the importance of collaborative action, stating, “Attracting young talent is not a challenge that farmers can resolve independently. To build a resilient and competitive agri-food sector, we must invest in those who will produce our food.”
Engagement efforts by farmers are already underway, with Arla farmers conducting over 120 school visits in 2025. To further support outreach, Arla plans to release new educational materials aimed at helping young people grasp the wide range of jobs available on modern farms.
A Crucial Moment for UK Agriculture
The report concludes that the agriculture sector is at a critical juncture. With united efforts from government, education, and industry, the UK can develop a workforce prepared to meet national demands for food security, climate responsiveness, and rural prosperity.
The message from young people is unmistakable: the interest exists if the pathways are clear.
For a comprehensive overview, read the full report here: Read the full report.
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