The Beef & Lamb Sector Board took place on Thursday 20th February.
I would like to share some important updates and discussions that will significantly influence our work and strategy in the coming months.
We recently received the Farm Assurance Review report, the first of its kind in 30 years. This comprehensive report offers a detailed and thorough analysis of farm assurance schemes across the UK, providing valuable insights into the current landscape. The Sector Board carefully reviewed its findings, paying particular attention to the implications for Red Tractor and the broader beef and lamb sectors. During our discussions, we explored how to address the recommendations outlined in the report, many of which will require close collaboration with other assurance schemes and key stakeholders. We will provide you with further details on this following the publication of the main AFS Board’s response on the 20th March.
Outside the discussions about the Farm Assurance Review report the sector board discussed the importance of closer cooperation across the entire supply chain to strengthen Red Tractor’s role and enhance its overall effectiveness. Collectively we acknowledged that fostering better collaboration between producers, processors, and retailers is essential for Red Tractor to remain relevant and responsive to the needs of the sector.
An identified opportunity for Red Tractor is to enhance engagement with the Halal sector, a vital and expanding market for the lamb industry. A recent discussion with a key industry stakeholder highlighted potential collaboration opportunities. Looking ahead, we will offer to collaborate with the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board’s (AHDB) Halal Stakeholder Forum to evaluate synergies and explore ways we can support the lamb sector through this significant market.
The board also discussed Red Tractor’s recognition and reputation in key international export markets. While France remains a vital destination for UK lamb exports, we acknowledge that the Red Tractor logo is not as widely recognised there as it is in the UK. This prompts consideration of whether Red Tractor should take a more proactive and strategic role in promoting British meat globally, particularly in markets with increasing demand for high-quality, responsibly produced meat.
We extended a warm welcome to Sarah Haire, who has joined the Board as a representative of the processing sector. Sarah brings a wealth of experience in the industry, with a strong background in processing operations and stakeholder engagement. Her expertise and insights will be valuable and we look forward to her contributions.
As always, the team and I value your ongoing engagement and feedback. Your insights are crucial as we navigate these changing times, and we are committed to keeping the lines of communication open. If you have any questions or thoughts, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Kind regards,
John Dracup,
Chair, Red Tractor Beef & Lamb Board
Members of the Beef and Lamb board:
David Morgan – NFU
Samantha Charlton – AHDB
Alice Liddle – BRC/Food Service
Zanna Dennis – Livestock Auctioneers Association
Bryan Griffiths – National Sheep Association
Sarah Haire – Processor
Phil Hambling – British Meat Processors Association
Henry Blain – Multiple Retailer
Natalie Smith – Multiple Retailer
Andrew Crutchley – BCVA
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