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
Image

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.

“We have worked with Mike and his team at Mulberry Asset finance for over 5 years. During this time, they have provided us with the specialist finance which has allowed us to develop and expand our Free Range Egg Production and Egg Packing business. Our recent investment in additional packing equipment has seen our Through Put ability increase and as a result, has helped our business increase its turnover by over 30%. Mike and his team are always keen to understand our business requirements and have a professional, straightforward approach which makes the whole process an efficient, cost effective source of finance. I would strongly recommend Mulberry Asset Finance’s service.”

Paul Arthur, Owner, P.S. Poultry

“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

“We have been dealing with Mulberry Asset Finance for over 10 years and have always found them to be efficient, courteous, professional and above all very pleasant to deal with. On top of that, they have always enabled us to obtain the type of finance deal that we have been seeking whether it be for capital investment or vehicle purchase.”

Mark Whitehead MBE, Hawkshead Relish Company 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

“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

“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

“Cubby Construction is a client of Mulberry Asset Finance and have always found the team to be obliging, highly efficient and willing to go that extra mile in order to help us achieve our goals.”

John Cubby, Managing Director, Cubby Construction Ltd
Funding Circle FSB Member NACFB Chamber of Commerce