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.

“Mulberry Leisure played a key part in arranging asset finance for our capital equipment spend during a large and daunting business expansion. The Mulberry team took the time to visit and understand our needs, then provide a range of finance options to meet our budgets. We look forward to working with Mulberry Leisure in the coming years.”

Paul Reynolds, Owner, The Traddock

“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

“Mike at Mulberry Asset Finance worked incredibly hard and quickly to secure my first Hire Purchase deal. As a new company I was finding it difficult to obtain finance to grow my business. He provided me regular updates, which took a lot of the pressure and nerves out of the situation. With the finance clearing very quickly, I was able to put my GrandMA3 to work straight away - supporting The Eagles on their final EU tour. I will certainly use Mulberry’s services to continue growing the business.”

Rowan Bulman Ltd

“I have used Mulberry Asset Finance several times for the Hire Purchase of coaches. I have always found their speed of operation and personal attention very satisfactory and I would not hesitate to use them again in the future.”

Barry Pickthall (JB Pickthall Coach Operator)

“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

“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

“I have used Mulberry Transport for ten years. They provide an excellent service for my business and I can access finance to buy the various wagons, machinery and other equipment that I need to run my business. Finance is agreed and arranged within one week, I highly recommend Mulberry Transport.”

Jimmy Dickinson, Director, J Dickinson Transport Ltd

“Mulberry Asset Finance have helped significantly with the growth of our Artisan Bakery over the past six years. In the early stages when growth and access to finance is most difficult, they were able to help us acquire the equipment we needed. I am reassured that Mulberry Asset Finance will always get us the best deal without any fuss, allowing us to concentrate on the business and not have to worry about funding for new assets.”

Aidan Monks, Owner, Lovingly Artisan