NFU Scotland is calling on businesses across the Highlands and Islands to build closer links with farmers and crofters as agriculture faces growing economic and environmental pressures.
The organisation has launched a professional membership drive across the region aimed at businesses that work with, supply or provide services to Scotland’s agricultural sector.
NFU Scotland says greater collaboration across the agricultural supply chain could help farmers and crofters deal with challenges including volatile markets, disease outbreaks, extreme weather and shortages of skilled workers.
The Highlands and Islands are a particular focus of the campaign because of the importance of farming and crofting to the region’s economy and communities.
Around 10% of the regional workforce is engaged in farming and crofting activities, while 25% of the land mass is under crofting tenure.
The Highlands and Islands also account for more than 30% of Scotland’s total agricultural area.
John Davidson, Chief Executive of NFU Scotland, said:
“We need the whole supply chain to work together to tackle current challenges, while seizing opportunities to establish a thriving, sustainable agricultural sector in Scotland.
“Professional members are crucial to this effort, offering expertise, knowledge, goods and services that can help Scottish farmers and crofters navigate the demands of modern agriculture and build a more resilient future.
“Through conversations with our members and our work across Scotland, we have identified opportunities to strengthen our professional membership network in a number of regions.”
NFU Scotland professional membership is open to businesses and individuals working with or supplying agriculture, including veterinary practices, accountants, fencing contractors and agronomists.
Stuart Head, NFU Scotland Regional Manager for the Highlands, said:
“Holding more than 30% of Scotland’s total agricultural area, and spearheading the rise in organic farming, the Highlands and Islands represent a significant opportunity for businesses looking to work with, support and contribute to Scottish agriculture.
“That’s why we’re calling on businesses across the region to join our network, support local farmers, share their expertise, and reap the rewards that come with being part of a connected agricultural community.
“Whether providing financial, legal or technical advice, supporting innovation, or advising on regulatory change, their professional insights can give farmers, growers and crofters the confidence and information they need to adapt to today’s evolving agricultural landscape.”
Professional members receive access to regional and national networking events, industry information, sector news and NFU Scotland reports, as well as opportunities to promote their businesses to the organisation’s farming and crofting membership of more than 9,000.
Davidson added:
“When Scottish farmers, crofters and businesses are connected, the wider agricultural supply chain is strengthened, supporting rural economies, food production and the long-term future of Scottish agriculture.”
NFU Scotland hopes the campaign will bring more of the businesses serving Highland agriculture into its network and strengthen connections throughout a sector that remains deeply important to communities across the region.
Businesses and professionals interested in joining NFU Scotland as a professional member can find out more and register here: https://joinnfus.org.uk/professional-members/
