Innovation in the UK’s agriculture and food industries is set to reach new heights with the launch of the UK’s largest agri-tech body, the UK Agri-Tech Centre. The agri-tech sector is poised to play a crucial role in driving growth, with more than half of UK food businesses and a quarter of agriculture leaders highlighting the adoption of new technologies as a key priority for the next five years.
The findings from the Future of Agri-Tech report, commissioned to mark the launch of the UK Agri-Tech Centre, indicate a strong emphasis on innovation and investment across the agri-food supply chain. The research surveyed 200 R&D and technology decision-makers, shedding light on the priorities of agri-food businesses and informing strategies to propel agri-innovation.
With growth and expansion as the top business priority for 58% of agriculture and food business leaders, the report underscores a collective focus on sustainability, new technologies, and resilient food systems. Access to funding emerges as a significant hurdle for the development and implementation of new technologies, with R&D leaders identifying it as a key challenge.
The UK Agri-Tech Centre, established by Innovate UK, offers comprehensive support to drive agri-tech innovation through cutting-edge facilities, expert knowledge, and business assistance. Case studies at the Centre, such as the Breed for CH4nge project and initiatives tackling labor shortages and climate change, exemplify the transformative potential of agri-tech in addressing major industry challenges.CEO Phil Bicknell emphasizes the role of agri-tech in overcoming food security challenges and driving economic growth, underscoring the Centre’s commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration across sectors.
With its focus on innovation for resilient systems, sustainable production, one health, and intelligent agriculture, the UK Agri-Tech Centre is poised to secure the UK’s food supply chain and stimulate economic development. Through strategic partnerships and a systems-wide approach, agri-tech stands as a key driver of progress in the agriculture and food sector.
