The economic impact of the English red meat sector

This analysis illustrates the economic contribution of the red meat sector in England (beef, lamb and pork). It goes on to consider the main opportunities and challenges that will impact the sector going forward.

An analysis of the economic impact of England’s red meat sector was carried out by Pareto Consulting in 2025. This online summary is supported by the full report, which can be accessed at the end of the page.

• Provide an economic assessment of the English red meat (beef, lamb and pork) sectors, from birth through to point of sale, for our levy payers, policymakers and others
• Demonstrate the importance of the English red meat sector in supporting employment and adding value to the national economy
• Reinforce the significance of the red meat sector’s role in contributing to national food security as well as public goods related to culture and the environment
• Inform policy decisions and industry strategy

The English red meat supply chain is complex and spans a multitude of businesses, from farms to feed merchants. This is underpinned by diverse livestock populations, which are spread far and wide across the country. 

The English red meat sector provided c.£5.5bn of value to the UK economy in 2023, as well as supporting significant levels of employment.

The sector contributes further by providing a raft of vital (but often less tangible) environmental and social public goods.

As part of the research, industry stakeholders were asked to identify the main opportunities and risks facing the sector.

Maintaining a critical mass of livestock is a key concern to enable the sector to capitalise on opportunities domestically and internationally.

Useful links

Balancing health and sustainability: the role of red meat in the UK diet: A summary and the full version of this 2025 report are available.

Beef and Lamb 2030 series: The long-term outlook for domestic GB cattle and sheep production: In this analysis likely scenarios for future cattle and sheep numbers are presented and the factors that underpin production are explored.

Our Exports section has resources for both experienced exporters and those just starting out.

Read our analysis on how the structure of the beef and lamb processing sector has changed over time

Prospects for UK agri-food exports: Our analysis of export opportunities globally.

Find out more about net zero and carbon in agriculture