New analysis from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) revealed that the English red meat sector delivered around £5.5 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy in 2023, underlining its critical role in supporting jobs, communities, and a wide range of public goods.
The report estimates that in 2023, the sector generated an output value of £20.5bn and supported employment equivalent to 120,000 full-time roles, creating around £2.5bn in labour income.
In addition to its economic contribution, English red meat production delivers environmental and social benefits – from managing landscapes and supporting biodiversity to sustaining rural communities.
Hannah Clarke, AHDB’s 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 highlights 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 said the red meat industry is well-positioned to maintain its economic impact while meeting evolving societal expectations.
The full report is available to read, by clicking here.
