The characteristics of top performing farms against a backdrop of the removal of subsidies and the introduction of 'public money for public goods' have been highlighted in a new report.

AHDB, in collaboration with the Andersons Centre, has revisited and updated data from 2017 and 2018 for Beef and Lamb, Dairy and Cereals and Oilseeds, to reflect the current farming landscape and highlight the factors that have the most significant impact on performance.

It's Characteristics of top Performing Farms 2024 analysis matched pairs of similar farms from the top 25% and the bottom 50% of performers in each sector, to shape the reports and pinpoint some of the measures farm businesses could apply to help improve their bottom line.

The report analysis, which covers England only, revealed the factors that most influence general farm business performance varies by sector, but common themes include managing overheads, attention to detail, attitude to change and setting goals and budgets. It highlighted the following differences in farm business income between top performers and the bottom 50%:

• Cereals farms: £104,060
• Beef and Sheep farms: £49,200
• Dairy farms: £126,500

Sarah Baker, AHDB Head of Economics – Analysis, said: "The farming landscape has changed significantly since we last examined the characteristics of top performing farms, with the removal of subsidies and the introduction of 'public money for public goods'.

"We felt it was time to revisit and update the data, highlighting the factors that have the most significant influence on farm business performance. The report highlights the stark difference in income between the top and bottom performers for each sector covered, after matching for farm size, sector and geographical features. While there are nuances for each sector, the key point to note is that the factors identified are within farmers' control to address and potentially improve their farm business performance.

"Our aim is to provide farmers with tools and services to help identify where they may be able to make some changes to their businesses with a view to improving performance and having a positive impact on their bottom line. While the analysis covers England only, the findings are equally applicable across the UK."

* Full reports for can be found on the AHDB website here.