We’ve committed to getting out to meet farmers face-to-face. Over the summer we attended more than 60 farmer facing events, and in October we hosted more than 100 members at a series of events in Devon, Staffordshire, Bedfordshire and Yorkshire. We plan to visit more areas across the UK to continue these conversations. If you want us to visit your region, please let us know.
A commitment to listening and learning
These meetings weren’t easy, they involved frank, sometimes tough conversations, but also a shared commitment to listen, learn and shape meaningful change together.
Farmers asked our team, that included Chair Alistair Mackintosh, Deputy Chair John Pain, and several Sector Chairs, lots of questions and highlighted challenges. The conversations were honest, practical, and full of insights that will directly inform how standards develop.
“These sessions were about collaboration – building understanding and shaping Red Tractor’s future together,” said Alistair.
A huge thank you to everyone who took part.
Common topics of discussion
Assessor consistency and competency
One concern raised was that different assessors interpret the same standards differently. We understand that inconsistency can create a lot of frustration and have been working with certification bodies to make sure assessors have the right background, practical farm knowledge, and up-to-date training. We hope to see the impacts of this work coming through your experiences. Please look out for an email requesting anonymous feedback from us after your assessment.
Cereal imports
Arable farmers were very clear in their thoughts that UK cereal growers are being held to high assurance and environmental standards, while imported cereals don’t always have to meet the same requirements. This concern is a priority for the Red Tractor Crops Sector Board, working with AHDB, AIC and processors to understand how we can support fairer recognition for assured British farmers.
Audit points
Some members said that parts of the audit process can feel unnecessary or overly complicated. Some checks don’t seem to add real value, yet they still take time and add stress. The upcoming review of Red Tractor standards will require every requirement to make sure that it is necessary and justified.
Use of farmers’ data
There was concern expressed about what happens to all the data farmers provide through all assurance schemes. We want to reassure you that Red Tractor is certified as Farm Data Safe by the Farm Data Principles. In fact, data collected by assessors is held by your certification body and we do not have access to individual farm data.
The value of assurance
Members felt that while being part of an assurance scheme is often essential to sell their produce, the benefits beyond that aren’t always obvious. We’re committed to demonstrating clearer value of Red Tractor, including improved market access, recognition for good practice, and upholding the industry’s reputation.
Share your feedback
Red Tractor is working with agricultural experts, Grounded Research, to listen to and better understand the views of assured farmers. Look out for an email from Red Tractor Research to make sure your views are heard.
You’ll also receive an email from us after your assessment asking for feedback on the process. All surveys are anonymous, but there’s an option to share your details if you’d like to tell us more about your experiences.