The growth plan sets out how, with the right conditions for investment and innovation, the South West can play a central role in delivering food security, supply chain resilience, productivity growth and net zero whilst creating skilled jobs and supporting rural communities.
The South West region (Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Devon, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire) accounts for 11% of England’s agricultural output and has more than a third of England’s dairy farms. Across the food chain, agriculture generates more than £10 billion in gross value added and supports around 320,000 jobs.
Driving investment
The plan was formally launched at a House of Commons reception, with contributions from parliamentarians, business leaders, and academic partners, including former NFU President Baroness Minette Batters.
The Great South West Partnership is a private/public sector partnership which helps to drive investment, deliver major projects, test new ideas and ensures the Great South West’s opportunities are understood by the Government.
Karl Tucker, chair of the Great South West Partnership and chair of Yeo Valley, said: “The Great South West already plays a critical role in how the UK feeds itself, from primary production through to processing, innovation, and export.
“This Agrifood Growth Plan sets out how the region can go further, strengthening national food security and building greater resilience into UK supply chains. It captures the region’s core strengths and the priority actions needed, rooted in the realities of the food system, and shaped by extensive research and consultation with partners.
“With the right investment and policy alignment, the Great South West can continue to be a cornerstone of a more secure, sustainable, and competitive food economy.”
Working with government
The Westminster launch was supported by sponsors Wyke Farms, the University of Plymouth (Centre of Research Excellence in Intelligent & Sustainable Productive Systems), and Rodda’s.
The Great South West Partnership will now work with government, investors, and delivery partners to translate the Agrifood Growth Plan into action, ensuring the region plays a leading role in securing the future of UK food.