‘Formula for family business success’ the focus of latest Lovewell Blake/NFU farmers’ evening

Natural England’s head of agriculture Peter Craven will be talking about how family farms can go from good to great, drawing on his Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust report ‘The Formula for Family Business Success’, published in November 2023.

The report emphasised the importance of building trust and communicating openly, honestly and fairly within a family business, and proposes the concept of a Family Charter to ensure the whole family is ‘united on one page’.

‘Family farming businesses navigate a complex landscape,’ says the report.  ‘By focusing on family unity, forward-looking strategies, and the principles of successful family businesses, wrapped up in a Family Charter, farming families can adapt, thrive and continue their legacy in an ever-changing environment.’

Raised on a family farm in South Lincolnshire, Mr Craven studied Agribusiness Management at Wye College before returning home to specialise in potato and daffodil production alongside nature.  After completing the IAgrM Leadership Programme last year, he joined Natural England as head of agriculture.  He collaborates with farmer organisations, industry groups, eNGO’s and policymakers to integrate sustainable practices, ensuring resilient and productive agriculture that supports nature recovery.

Lovewell Blake agricultural partner Ryan Lincoln, who will be chairing the event, said, “Family farms are very much in the spotlight at the moment, facing many challenges beyond those presented by the changes in Agricultural Property Relief announced in the autumn Budget.

“In the face of significant policy changes and the reduction of farm subsidies, the unity, innovation, and dynamism of farming families as both business partners and family members is being tested to the limit.  So it will be fascinating to hear a new take on how they can achieve success through cultivating family relationships, collaborative decision-making, and future planning together.”

The event takes place at Halesworth Golf club on Wednesday 7^th May at 7.15pm, and the presentation will be followed by a buffet supper.  Attendance is free, but places need to be booked in advance.