Farm tech uptake grows despite cost barriers, Tesco survey finds
Farmers are increasingly adopting agricultural technology, yet many say the costs and financial risks keep them from expanding their use. A Tesco-linked survey indicates growing interest in innovation but ongoing barriers related to funding and return on investment remain significant for many producers.
What changed
A Tesco-commissioned survey of 151 farmers in its supply chain found that 58% had introduced an innovation in the past year, up from 46% in a previous year. Despite this, 76% describe getting new technology onto farms as challenging or very challenging, suggesting enthusiasm outpaces the ability to invest.
Key facts from the survey
- Improved adoption: 58% implemented an innovation in the past year.
- Perceived difficulty: 76% say bringing tech to farms is challenging.
- Funding concerns: 72% want more government and retailer financial support for agri-tech.
- Trial access: 48% want subsidised opportunities to trial systems before committing.
Who is affected
The findings come from farmers in a retailer’s supply chain, meaning those who sell crops or livestock to major supermarkets. The report reflects attitudes across a range of farm types but is framed around experiences of larger buyers and processors that are connected to Tesco’s network.
Practical next steps for farmers and policymakers
- Seek targeted funding: Look for government grants or retailer-led finance aimed at technology trials and scalable solutions.
- Pilot programmes: Advocate for subsidised pilot projects to test technologies before large commitments.
- Evaluate returns carefully: Compare upfront costs, maintenance, and potential productivity gains to determine value.
- Share experiences: Collaborate with peers to assess reliability and support structures for new tech.
Limits and questions
Details are based on a single retailer's supply-chain survey and may not capture all regional or farm-type differences. The report highlights perceived barriers but does not provide a full cost-benefit analysis or specify technologies involved. Further independent research could clarify which innovations deliver net gains and under what conditions.
Which sources did Setup in Bahrain review?
Setup in Bahrain reviewed the following source material before preparing this explanatory article.
The links remain visible so readers can inspect the evidence, compare dates and context, and confirm current requirements with the relevant authority.
- farminguk.com — evidence source reviewed for this article.
Information and responsibility notice: This article is general information based on the cited material available when published. It is not legal, tax, immigration, medical, financial, banking, or investment advice; it does not create a professional-client relationship; and it is not a guarantee of outcome, availability, accuracy, or eligibility. Rules, schedules, prices, and third-party information can change. Confirm material decisions with the relevant authority and an appropriately qualified adviser before acting.