Diversification Options In Farming

Farm diversification is when a farm creates new revenue by extending their activities or services offered. These projects could work on a full or part-time basis alongside the existing farm or could completely replace the business model. Farms that successfully diversify are often able to put their existing farm assets to use.

Advantages of diversification

Capitalise on physical resources
Revamp existing skills
Intermix with local economy

Choosing your options

The ways to diversify are as endless as your ambitions! But you can typically go down an agricultural route or enter a non-agricultural sector.

Diversified agricultural activities include livestock products such as: producing cheese, growing different crops and setting up a petting farm.

Non-agricultural diversion activities typically involve creating retail/catering outlets or tourism attractions. Popular projects include the introduction of independent camping sites (eg. tipi's, pods, glamping etc) or bed and breakfasts on your land where you can add your own personal quirky touches to make your business stand out from the crowd. With an increasing demand for artisan produce and upward trends in locally sourced food, launching a farm shop is a great way to sell your own farm produce and support that of other local producers. Some farms even choose to close their farms completely and start a whole new business project on their land!

Things to consider

Diversifying into other forms of agricultural activity does not usually require planning permission but it’s always recommended to contact your local authority as they will be able to help you.
If you choose to move into a non-agricultural sector, planning consent may become necessary for new buildings or changes of use for existing ones.
Non-agricultural industries bring their own regulatory framework, understand your requirements and obligations.

It’s clear that diversifying can be a great way to create an additional income for farms and uses the assets that you already own. But should you require any additional finance to complete your diversification plans, Mulberry Asset Finance are here to help. To discuss diversification finance or any other finance solutions that may be available for your farming business, contact 07791555431.

“The first person I call when I need to buy new plant is Mulberry Asset Finance. I have been working with them throughout the development of Hawkshead Brewery and have learned that they are the only call I need to make because Mulberry always delivers, with the best rates and the minimum of fuss.”

Alex Brodie - Managing Director Hawkshead Brewery Ltd

“As a company we have been dealing with Mulberry Asset Finance for the past 10 years. We have found them to be so easy to deal with, they make things so simple and effortless, leaving us to concentrate on the day to day running of our business. Their help and advice have been instrumental in our growth and development of the business. Long may it continue!”

Mike Cooke, Managing Director, Breed Clean Ltd

“D. Cain & Sons have had the pleasure in dealing with Mulberry Asset Finance for the past 10 years. We as a company have built a great relationship with Mike Robinson at Mulberry Asset Finance. Mike always goes above and beyond to provide his customers with an incredible service. D.Cain & Son would recommend Mulberry Asset Finance for all your financial enquiries.”

Darren Cain, MD, D Cain & Sons Ltd

“Mulberry Asset Finance have looked after my business loan and finance requirements for quite a few years now - and I trust them implicitly to find me the best deal they can, in the shortest time and with the least amount of hassle to myself. We've financed whole pub refurbishments through to small kitchen equipment and many things in between. There has never been a hitch or a delay and everything is conducted with the utmost professionalism and with a genuine interest in my business. I really can't recommend Mulberry Asset Finance highly enough... ”

Paul Spencer, MD, The Plough Inn at Lupton

“I use Mulberry Asset Finance because I know that they will look at my needs and efficiently advise me of the best options available for my business. Always my first choice.”

Peter Fryer, Managing Director, English Lakes Ice Creams Ltd

“I am always grateful for the honest advice that I receive from Mike Robinson at Mulberry Asset Finance & his straightforward approach. It is refreshing to deal with a company that can communicate clearly & who genuinely wants to do the right thing for my business. I will definitely use Mulberry Asset Finance again & I highly recommend their services.”

Scott Burton, MD, Scott Burton Timber Harvesting

“We have used Mulberry asset finance on a couple of occasions as we continue to invest in processing equipment for our company, we have always been more than happy with the service provided by Mike and the team. The process is always hassle free and Mike is always in contact throughout. We will definitely be using Mulberry again in the future.”

James Hill, Director, Enviro-metals Lancaster Ltd

“Dundee Tyres Ltd is a tyre recycling company based in Carlisle, we needed a new machine to continue our expansion and Mike Robinson from Mulberry Asset Finance was on hand to assist. Our needs were specific and complex as the machine was sourced from overseas and was bespoke to our needs. The purchase went smoothly, and I would not hesitate in recommending Mulberry Asset Finance to any other Cumbrian Businesses.”

Simon Pluckrose, Managing Director, Dundee Tyres Ltd