Dear Member,
I am pleased to provide an update on the recent Pigs Sector Board meeting which took place in London on 25 June 2025.
Consultation on tiered standards
Much of the meeting was spent discussing responses to the recent consultation on tiered standards for pigs. The Pigs Board considered responses in detail and had lengthy discussion about the feedback from 122 individuals from across the supply chain, including producers responsible for over 200,000 sows.
As a result, it was agreed that Red Tractor should progress work on making modules for farmers operating outdoor-bred systems, including straw-based and free-range finishing, available by the end of the year, subject to more work on proposed labelling and transition arrangements to maximise the benefits for the whole supply chain, particularly farmers.
There was consensus amongst the Pigs Board that Red Tractor should support producers to meet potential future changes in legislation relating to the transition away from conventional farrowing systems. However, more time is needed to reflect on the feedback from the consultation before determining the most appropriate way to do this.
The Pigs Board thanked everyone who provided input into the consultation for their thoughtful contributions which will inform future standards. A summary of the consultation response will be published in due course.
Progress against Farm Assurance Review (FAR) commitments
The Pigs Board considered a revised Terms of Reference and a draft policy which sets out the principles for future standards development. These were agreed by the Pigs Board and following completion of this round of Sector Board meetings will be presented to the Red Tractor Standards Committee and the AFS Board for final approval. The Board also discussed development of a sector strategy which will inform direction of travel over the next 5 to 10 years.
Communications Strategy
The Pigs Board welcomed the new communications strategy presented by Jo Miller, Director of Communications and Engagement. Identifying that recent communications updating on progress against the FAR recommendations and Red Tractor’s 25th Anniversary had provided an opportunity to reset communications. The Board emphasised the importance of demonstrating two-way communication and stakeholder engagement.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement with Red Tractor. If you have any questions or feedback, please contact us.
Kind regards
Stewart Houston
Chair, Pigs Sector Board
