Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB)

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) plays a pivotal role in the UK's agricultural landscape, with a strong focus on the dairy sector. Based at Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, AHDB operates a network of facilities and research farms dedicated to advancing the industry's capabilities.

Financial Indicators

AHDB is a levy-funded organization, accruing around £60 million annually from stakeholders across the supply chain, including farmers and growers. This funding model supports substantial reinvestment into key areas such as research, market development, and knowledge transfer initiatives essential for industry growth and innovation.

Significant Events

In 2024, AHDB recorded a 4% increase in organic cow's milk sales in the 12 weeks leading to May 18, followed by a further 5% increase in the next 12 weeks, reflecting rising consumer demand for organic dairy products.

The GB Dairy Calf Strategy, launched in 2020 in partnership with the National Farmers' Union (NFU), continues to enhance dairy calf welfare across the UK. This initiative underscores AHDB's commitment to animal welfare and sustainable farming practices.

In the first half of 2025, UK dairy exports surged by 20%, driven by growing international interest. AHDB's participation in global events like Anuga has been critical in promoting British beef, lamb, pork, and dairy internationally. A significant achievement includes organizing a dairy export mission to the Middle East, co-funded by the UK's Department for Business and Trade, under the UK Dairy Export Programme.

Company Plans

AHDB is committed to supporting the dairy sector through various sustainability and productivity enhancement initiatives. It plays a crucial role in the new steering group for the Dairy Roadmap, focusing on maintaining competitiveness within the EU market.

To support farmers in optimizing their operations, AHDB offers tools like genomic evaluations and the Herd Genetic Report, assisting in identifying top-performing females. Additionally, AHDB is involved in the UK Dairy Carbon Network project, which aims to identify emission sources and reduction opportunities.

The 'Let's Eat Balanced' campaign has been successful, generating £28 in retail sales for every £1 of levy invested, emphasizing the nutritional benefits of British dairy and promoting eco-friendly farming practices.

AHDB is also focused on boosting British dairy exports, particularly in North America, while emphasizing heritage and provenance. Notable activities include a partnership with Lulu Hypermarket for a British Dairy Promotion and initiatives to promote British dairy products in Kuwait.

A new Farm Data Exchange project is being piloted with 18 farm businesses to improve data control and sharing in the beef and dairy sectors, addressing environmental reporting challenges while ensuring data control remains with the farmers.

By the end of 2025, British farmers reported producing over 7% more milk compared to the five-year average, demonstrating the sector's robust production capabilities and AHDB's effective support strategies.

The AHDB has highlighted the increasing opportunities for UK dairy and sheep meat exporters. AHDB's participation in Gulfood played a significant role in connecting UK exporters with buyers. They organized a dairy breakfast event and collaborated on a dairy promotion in Kuwait.

AHDB is actively working with industry and government to maximize export opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa.

Modified: 2026/02/17