Half of UK farmers consider quitting, McCain survey finds

More than half of British farmers are considering leaving the industry, as mounting financial, environmental and mental health pressures threaten the future of UK farming, according to new research from McCain Foods.

The inaugural McCain Farmdex report (PDF) – a nationwide survey of 200 farmers across livestock and arable sectors – reveals that 51% of farmers have thought about quitting, while 74% feel pessimistic about the future of British farming. The survey was taken from 14-18 July 2025.

The study highlights the human impact behind the statistics: 61% of respondents say their work negatively affects their mental health, and more than a third (36%) report working more than 70 hours a week during peak seasons.

See also: Farmer confidence hits record low, NFU survey finds

Meanwhile, 95% fear that family-run farms will decline over the next decade without greater support.

NFU president Tom Bradshaw said he was “not surprised” by the survey’s findings, adding that they 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 impacting hugely on mental health and left confidence within the sector at a record low.” 

Confidence survey

“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,” said Mr Bradshaw.

With the Autumn Budget just weeks away (26 November), the NFU sent a clear message to government.

“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,” said Mr Bradshaw.

“In turn, we can continue to produce more sustainable, climate-friendly food, meet our domestic environmental targets and deliver national food security.”

Hope and resilience

Despite the challenges, the report also contains signs of hope and resilience.

More than two-thirds (71%) of farmers have adopted sustainable practices, including regenerative farming, crop rotation and reduced tillage, while 68% believe investment in technology is vital to ensure long-term viability.

Many farmers are also branching out into renewable energy and agritourism to stay afloat, though high costs and complex regulations remain barriers.

McCain is calling for urgent collaboration between government, policymakers and industry leaders to secure Britain’s food future. Its recommendations include greater investment in regenerative agriculture, clarity on agricultural policy, and measures to safeguard family farms and fair trade deals.

The Farmdex will be published annually as a barometer of farmer sentiment, aiming to inform policy and strengthen support for those at the heart of the nation’s food supply.

Farmers Weekly has contacted the government for a response.