AS farmers find their income falling many are fixing their eye on the lucrative camping market.
Covid and Brexit have led to many Brits holidaying in this country, leading to a surge in rural tourism ventures across the South West.
Latest figures reveal farmers across the region received just 33 per cent of their income from diversified business activities in 2020.
Total income for the region’s farmers fell by £135 million last year to £509 million, according to the DEFRA, with just £166 million coming from diversified business activities.
With farmers now facing the loss of direct payment subsidies – as the tourism sector accelerates its recovery from Covid – it’s believed 2022 will be year they reinvent their businesses.
‘The vast untapped business opportunities for the sector are clear, with diversification last year making the smallest contribution to South West farming output,’ said rural insurance broker Rupert Wailes-Fairbairn.
‘Many will be planning now to protect their financial futures over the next 12 months.
‘To help them achieve this, a range of new business activities are likely to be embarked upon, from the hosting of experience days to putting non-productive land to revenue-generating use with the introduction of glamping pods, tent pitches, shepherd huts or yurts.’