The English red meat sector has delivered around £5.5 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy in 2023, new data analysis has found.
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) said that the figure underlined the UK red meat sector’s “critical role” in supporting jobs, communities and a wide range of public goods.
The AHDB report, which looked at the economic valuation of England’s red meat supply chain, estimated that in 2023, the sector generated an output value of £20.5 billion. It said that this supported employment equivalent to 120,000 full-time roles, creating around £2.5 billion in labour income.
In addition to its economic contribution, AHDB said that English red meat production delivers “environmental and social benefits” – from managing landscapes and supporting biodiversity to sustaining rural communities.
“Alongside its economic strength, the sector plays a vital role in environmental stewardship and animal welfare.”
Hannah Clarke, AHDB
Hannah Clarke, AHDB lead analyst (red meat), said: “These figures demonstrate that English beef, lamb and pork production is not just about food – it is a cornerstone of the rural economy, a provider of livelihoods, and a contributor to the public goods that benefit us all. Alongside its economic strength, the sector plays a vital role in environmental stewardship and animal welfare.”
The data highlighted how the sector’s reach extends beyond farms and processors, sustaining thousands of associated businesses across logistics, retail, foodservice, and veterinary services.
With continued focus on sustainability, productivity, and consumer engagement, AHDB says the red meat industry is “well-positioned to maintain its economic impact” while meeting evolving societal expectations.
The full report can be accessed here.
