On 16 June, Dudley Peverill Associates LLP was delighted to welcome farmers, landowners, and professionals to Squab Hall Farm for our first-of-its-kind Rural Diversification Live event, delivered in partnership with Emlyn Evans, co-owner and director of Squab Hall Farm and his new venture, The Diversified Farmer. With increasing pressures on traditional farming businesses and a growing need to build resilience for the future, diversification continues to be one of the most important conversations taking place across rural businesses. The turnout and level of engagement throughout the day demonstrated just how relevant this topic remains for farming businesses of all sizes.
Exploring the Case for Diversification
The event opened with a keynote session exploring the fundamental question many landowners are asking themselves; Why diversify, and how?
Attendees heard from Antony Pearce, Managing Partner of Dudley Peverill Associates, about the key drivers influencing diversification decisions across the UK, including changing agricultural economics, policy shifts, the need for income stream diversity, risk management, overall resilience, and the opportunities created by evolving consumer demand.
Importantly, the discussion focused not only on identifying opportunities but also on understanding the complex project process required to transform an idea into a viable and profitable business venture. From tourism and hospitality to commercial property, renewable energy, events, retail, and rural services, delegates gained insight into the breadth of opportunities available and how to differentiate between good opportunities from great ones.
Moving From Project to Profitable Business
While launching a diversification project is a significant achievement, maintaining long-term success requires a different skill set. Our second keynote explored what it takes to run a successful diversification enterprise once it is established. Topics included creating a clear vision, defining leadership responsibilities, managing family involvement, implementing effective business structures, and using performance measures. One of the strongest themes emerging from the session was that successful diversification is rarely about simply creating a new income stream; it is about building a sustainable business with clear, aligned objectives, strong management, and ongoing review.
Valuable Conversations and New Connections
The networking lunch, kindly sponsored by Natwest Bank, provided attendees with an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow landowners, rural professionals, and occupiers. Throughout the day, conversations reflected the diverse range of opportunities being considered across the sector, from those exploring their first diversification project to businesses already managing multiple enterprises.
Real-World Insights Through the Live Business Clinic
A particular highlight of the day was the live panel discussion drawing on advice from Tony Langford (Owner of Pitchcott Farm Café and client of Dudley Peverill Associates), Becky Bone (Grow Walkies and AT Bone), Joe Evans (Director of Whitbourne Estate and CLA Deputy President). The interactive session allowed attendees to put forward real-life questions and challenges directly to industry experts, diversified farmers and business specialists. Discussions covered topics ranging from planning considerations, funding and finance, through to managing growth and balancing operational demands. The practical nature of the session reinforced an important message: every diversification journey is unique, but many of the challenges faced are shared. Learning from others who have already travelled the path can significantly reduce risk and improve outcomes, as can ensuring the right people are on the journey with you.
Key Takeaways for Attendees
Through discussions with attendees, the following trends emerged with regard to key insights and takeaways.
- Diversification Should Be Strategic, Not Reactive
- Not Every Opportunity Is Right for Every Farm
- Planning and Due Diligence Are Essential
- Strong Management Drives Success
- Collaboration Creates Opportunities
- The Future Belongs to Adaptable Businesses
Thank You
We would like to extend our thanks to everyone who attended, contributed and helped make the event such a success. Thank you to our speakers, panel members and industry experts for sharing their knowledge and experiences so openly. Thank you to our partners at The Diversified Farmer and Squab Group for helping bring together such a valuable programme and audience.
Most importantly, thank you to all the landowners, rural business owners and other professionals who joined us. The challenges facing rural businesses are significant, but so too are the opportunities. We hope attendees left with greater clarity, renewed confidence, more contacts, and practical next steps to help shape a profitable and sustainable future.
We look forward to continuing the conversation, supporting rural businesses and planning for the next Rural Diversification Live event, next year!
If you have any questions, please get in touch to start a conversation.