Top 20 Agriculture Companies in UK

by Nicolae Buldumac
· 19/01/2024 12:39 · 8 min read
Top 20 Agriculture Companies in UK

Embark on a journey into the heart of the United Kingdom's agricultural landscape, where innovation, sustainability, and a deep-rooted connection to the land define the top Agriculture Companies. These industry leaders play a pivotal role in shaping the nation's agribusiness sector, contributing to the food supply chain and championing practices that harmonize productivity with environmental stewardship. 

From the rolling hills of traditional farms to the cutting-edge technologies driving precision agriculture, the UK's top agricultural companies showcase a diverse tapestry of expertise. With a commitment to addressing the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry, these companies leverage advanced machinery, data analytics, and sustainable practices to optimize yields and minimize environmental impact. 

In this exploration, we delve into the stories of resilience, innovation, and dedication that define these agricultural powerhouses. From agrochemical giants to providers of cutting-edge agricultural technologies, each company plays a distinctive role in shaping the future of farming in the UK. Join us in uncovering the dynamic landscape of agriculture, where tradition meets modernity, and companies strive for a greener, more sustainable tomorrow. 

 

1. COFCO International ($53.3B) 

COFCO International stands as a global agri-business, embodying a vision, values, and culture committed to leadership in the global grains, oilseeds, and sugar supply chains. Centered in Geneva, Switzerland, our ambition is evident through a responsible approach to providing the world's essential food resources. Boasting a workforce of over 11,000 individuals across 35 countries, our expansive portfolio spans the Americas, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific region. Facilitating trade with over 50 nations, we uniquely connect farmers directly to the burgeoning Chinese market, underscoring our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of a changing world. 

 

2. Finlays ($10.3B) 

As the premier independent B2B supplier of tea, coffee, and botanical solutions globally, Finlays stands at the forefront of the beverage industry. With an extensive global presence and unparalleled expertise, Finlays is uniquely positioned to unlock the full potential of natural beverages for brand owners, seamlessly bridging the gap from bush to cup. 

Distinguished by its commitment to connecting humanity through natural beverages, Finlays harmonizes tradition and innovation to contribute to a healthier, happier, and better world. The company's vision encompasses profitable and sustainable growth, solidifying its role as the trusted leader in supplying tea, coffee, and botanical extracts to beverage brand owners worldwide. At Finlays, the dedication to quality and sustainability paves the way for a future where every sip reflects a blend of excellence and responsibility. 

 

3. Hutchinson ($4.78B) 

Hutchinson, a renowned global provider of tailored materials and integrated solutions, addresses the diverse needs of its worldwide clientele across terrestrial, aerial, and maritime domains. As a frontrunner in vibration control, fluid management, and sealing system technologies, the company boasts a multifaceted market portfolio, leveraging expertise across various domains to deliver synergistic and value-enhancing solutions. With reported revenues of €4.4 billion in 2022 and a workforce of over 38,000 employees spanning 25 countries, Hutchinson is dedicated to advancing future mobility by fostering safety, comfort, and responsible practices. 

 

4. Frontier Agriculture ($1.9B) 

Frontier Agriculture, established in 2005 through a joint venture between Associated British Foods and Cargill plc, holds the distinction of being the UK's foremost crop production and grain marketing enterprise. With a robust annual turnover of approximately £1.5 billion, Frontier is celebrated for fostering close relationships with farmers and efficiently managing the arable supply chain. Boasting 46 sites across the UK and a workforce exceeding 1,000, the company's influence extends from Perth to Ross-on-Wye. Frontier operates comprehensively in arable crop production and grain marketing, delivering seeds, crop protection, fertilizers, and expert agronomy advice through a team of 140 agronomists. The grain marketing division secures farmers unparalleled access to key end markets, with additional specialized divisions like SOYL and Kings providing targeted advice on precision crop production and diverse crops, reinforcing Frontier's mission to be the preferred partner for UK farmers and the premier employer in UK agriculture. Certified™ as a great place to work, Frontier is dedicated to excellence across the agricultural spectrum. 

 

5. ANDREW MARR INTERNATIONAL ($1.76B) 

Boasting a century-long legacy, Marr is an emblem of progress and ingenuity in the seafood industry. This globally recognized entity encompasses a diverse portfolio, spanning logistics, sourcing, trading, and distribution. Marr's steadfast commitment to the seafood and commodities sectors fuels its continuous evolution. Renowned for its history and ever-expanding global footprint, Marr remains dedicated to enhancing its business, actively seeking new alliances and partnerships to propel the industry forward. 

 

6. Openfield ($849M) 

Openfield stands out as the sole national grain marketing and arable inputs co-operative in Britain, reflecting a rich history dating back to 1907 with the Southern Counties Agricultural Trading Society. Since its formation in November 2008, Openfield has thrived, owned by a collective of 4000 farmers entrusting the co-operative with the marketing of their arable crops. As a British-owned entity without overseas investors, Openfield is a powerful and efficient farmer-owned business committed to providing the highest service standards. The co-operative's dedication to innovation, technology, and direct connections between farmers and the British food and drink industry solidifies its status at the heart of agricultural businesses, generating value through service excellence. 

 

7. McCain Foodservice ($669.3M) 

McCain Foodservice, a stalwart in the industry for over 50 years, stands as the UK's premier purchaser of British potatoes. Fostering strong ties with 300 farmers, we proudly support the Red Tractor Assurance Scheme, ensuring our chips are not just made from 100% British potatoes but are also delectable. Collaborating with distributors, chefs, and caterers nationwide, we craft delicious solutions for diverse settings – from pubs to hospitals. Nestled in the Yorkshire countryside, our commitment extends beyond food production to environmental responsibility, community support, and nurturing the next generation through educational initiatives. At McCain, it's not just about business; it's about family, sustainability, and the future of food. 

 

8. G's Group ($630.7M) 

G's, a pioneer in cultivating premium salads and vegetables, is dedicated to delivering the finest produce. From beetroot to lettuce, our expansive range graces the shelves of major UK and European retailers. Embodying a family business ethos since Guy Shropshire's founding in 1952, we have expanded our footprint to Spain, the Czech Republic, Poland, Senegal, and North America. Our success lies in unwavering commitment – collaborating to meet customer needs, anticipating trends, and ceaselessly innovating. Rooted in East Anglia, G's continuous investment and focus position us as leaders, ensuring the supply of fresh, tasty, and healthful produce to markets worldwide. 

 

9. Mowi Scotland ($562.32M) 

Mowi, a global leader in the seafood industry, collaborates with the ocean to provide nutritious, delicious, and top-quality seafood. Responsible for satisfying a significant portion of the world's demand for farm-raised Atlantic salmon, Mowi is distinguished by its commitment to innovation and unwavering dedication to the highest sustainability standards in seafood production. 

 

10. ALBERT BARTLETT ($369.6M) 

Albert Bartlett, a family business established in 1948, stands as the UK's premier supplier of chilled, fresh, and frozen potatoes. Renowned among top chefs, cooks, and restaurant owners, Albert Bartlett's dedication to delivering the finest produce is evident. Esteemed British chefs, serving as ambassadors, endorse Albert Bartlett potatoes for their recipes and signature dishes. These chefs collaborate to inspire home cooks, providing not only favorite recipes but also offering expert guidance to ensure success in the kitchen. Together, they encourage exploration of the diverse varieties of Albert Bartlett potatoes, helping individuals unlock their unique character and flavors in culinary endeavors. 

 

11. ProCam UK Limited ($359.9M) 

With a wealth of experience as a specialized agronomy company, our core mission is to deliver an unparalleled crop protection and production service. Beyond merely providing growers with products, we offer holistic solutions to optimize their arable businesses. Rooted in a deep understanding of the financial dynamics of modern arable production, we engage in discussions ranging from agronomy to financial targets, rotational planning, nutrient management, budgeting, and pest prediction. Our expertise extends to addressing challenges like Blackgrass through integrated approaches, emphasizing cost reduction per tonne of yield. Committed to environmental responsibility, we navigate legislation, compliance, and wildlife concerns to ensure sustainable, efficient, and high-quality arable production for our customers. 

 

12. Scottish Sea Farms ($211.2M) 

This company excels in cultivating premium-quality salmon through the utmost dedication to responsibility and sustainability. Their commitment extends to supplying major retailers, exclusive restaurateurs, and kitchen tables with the finest salmon products. 

 

13. Bakkafrost Scotland ($195M) 

Bakkafrost Scotland, formerly known as The Scottish Salmon Company, stands as the foremost producer of premium Scottish salmon in the remote Western Highlands and Islands of Scotland. With an expanding reputation both domestically and internationally, our commitment to delivering the finest, sustainably raised Scottish Salmon is evident. Operating across the entire value chain—from freshwater and marine farming to processing and sales—we ensure complete traceability and integrity throughout the supply chain. Exporting to over 20 countries, from North America to the Far East, Bakkafrost Scotland is dedicated to upholding the highest standards in salmon production. 

 

14. Agrovista UK Ltd ($190.17M) 

Agrovista UK Limited stands as a prominent provider of agronomy counsel, seeds, crop protection solutions, and precision farming services. Collaborating closely with arable, fruit, vegetable, horticultural, and amenity sectors, Agrovista is unwavering in its commitment to enhancing the operational efficiency and profitability of its clientele. With a rich history spanning over 60 years, the company brings together localized experience, research-backed proficiency, client-centric insights, and steadfast relationships, upholding values of honesty, integrity, and fairness. Agrovista's overarching purpose is the liberation of agronomic potential, coupled with a conscientious approach to environmental stewardship, evident in initiatives like Agrovista Soil Health and Agrovista Decision Support services. 

 

15. Greenvale AP ($175.3M) 

Greenvale stands out as the natural choice for fresh potatoes, recognized as a leading supplier and the UK's largest grower of organic potatoes. Uniquely positioned with true vertical integration, Greenvale oversees the entire journey from concept to table. This integration encompasses consumer and category insight, fresh packing, brand development, added value processing (Swancote), a diverse procurement base, in-house growing, high-quality seed business, variety breeding, and even extends to daffodils and bulbs. As a vital part of the Produce Investments group, Greenvale thrives on collaborative relationships, ensuring success from an extensive customer base through the entire supply chain to growers, seed breeders, suppliers, and research organizations. Greenvale's commitment is to lead the market by combining exceptional consumer insight, sustainable procurement, technical innovation, and operational efficiency, delivering high-quality products with great value to numerous customers. 

 

16. Wealmoor Ltd ($94M) 

A well-established, family-owned enterprise and a prominent supplier to the UK retail, food service, and wholesale sectors, this company specializes in delivering fresh exotic fruit and specialty vegetables. Not only are they growers, importers, and marketers deeply rooted in subtropical produce from across the globe, but they are also significant producers of locally grown seasonal vegetables and herbs. Their unique global partnerships ensure a consistent and seamless supply of top-quality produce year-round. Through ongoing investments in farming, production facilities, and personnel, they guarantee the reliable delivery of the finest produce. With a strong commitment to employee well-being and environmental stewardship, the company actively contributes to the community by empowering local farmers, promoting climate-conscious solutions, and fostering livelihoods within their thriving grower communities. 

 

17. Sun Valley ($57.5M) 

Sun Valley stands out as a prominent supplier of cooked added value poultry products, radiating excellence in the industry. With a succinct yet impactful mantra, "Together we shine," Sun Valley signifies collaboration, quality, and a commitment to delivering premium poultry offerings. 

 

18. PD Hook and Hook2Sisters ($53M) 

P.D. Hook (Hatcheries) Ltd, a family-owned business established in the 1950s during the nascent stages of the UK poultry industry, has evolved into the largest independent hatchery company in the country. Situated at the Cote location in Oxfordshire, the company's headquarters serve as a testament to its enduring presence and influence in the UK poultry market. As a major player, P.D. Hook (Hatcheries) Ltd continues to contribute significantly to the growth and development of the poultry industry, embodying a rich history rooted in family ownership and industry leadership. 

 

19. 2Agriculture Ltd ($31.1M) 

Renowned for manufacturing premium feeds, 2Agriculture Ltd stands as a leading independent feed business with mills strategically located across the UK, including Scotland, East Anglia, and North Wales. Specializing in broiler, broiler breeder, layer, duck, and turkey feeds, the company is committed to delivering consistent, high-quality performance through its state-of-the-art feed mills and extrusion plant. With a focus on using the finest raw materials, 2Agriculture's comprehensive feed range is formulated to achieve optimal results. The technical team collaborates closely with poultry farmers and managers, fostering partnerships to meet production targets for each crop and ensuring excellence in every feed formulation. 

 

20. United Oilseeds Marketing Limited ($16.7M) 

As the UK's foremost break crop specialist, United Oilseeds boasts a legacy spanning over five decades. Operating as one of the country's largest farming co-operatives, our focus lies in delivering oilseeds and break crops to farmers, complemented by a highly successful marketing service. As an independent farmer-owned co-operative, we prioritize providing added value to our 4,500 farmer members. From seed sales to crop marketing, our professional approach reflects the true spirit of cooperation. With 57 years of industry expertise and a network of dedicated area managers nationwide, our unparalleled service and knowledge set the industry standard. 

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