Agriculture is more than an industry; it’s a way of life. Farmers and agricultural teams play a crucial role in feeding the nation, and the technicians, engineers, and support staff who keep farms running are at the heart of this essential work. As we look ahead to 2026, the sector faces a mix of challenges and opportunities that will shape its future. At Kemp Recruitment, we’re proud to support agricultural recruitment and help connect farming businesses with the skilled people they need to thrive.
Inheritance Tax changes are approaching
One of the most significant shifts on the horizon is the upcoming farm inheritance tax changes, set to take effect in April 2026. According to the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), these changes will affect more family farms than the British government had initially disclosed, impacting succession planning and long-term business stability.
This could have a knock-on effect at dealership level, with a temporary surge in equipment and machinery sales as farms prepare ahead of the tax change. For agricultural recruiters, this means the sector will see increased demand for skilled technicians and operational staff, at least in the short term, to support businesses during this transitional period.
The Technician Challenge: Skills gaps and retention
Agricultural technicians are in high demand, yet many are leaving the sector for roles in other industries offering better pay, work-life balance, or safer working conditions. With high transferable skills, technicians can move into engineering, plant maintenance, or other technical roles, leaving farms facing critical skills gaps.
Agriculture also remains one of the most dangerous industries in the UK, and with margins often tight, retaining talent can be a real challenge. Seasonal pressures, such as harvest periods in the summer often require extended hours, limiting holiday opportunities and adding to the workload stress.
“Agriculture is more than an industry, it’s a way of life that feeds the nation. At Kemp Recruitment, we’re proud to help farms and agri-businesses find skilled technicians and support staff, ensuring that hardworking teams can continue to thrive, even in challenging times.” — Amy Parsons, Lead Consultant
Weather, climate, and crop challenges
The UK has experienced a string of difficult harvests in recent years, with some of the worst occurring in the past decade, driven in part by climate change and unpredictable weather patterns. Poor yields, early or failed harvests, and increased reliance on government subsidies for crops or solar farm conversions have added pressure to the sector.
For teams on the ground, this means longer working days, particularly during peak harvest, and heightened operational challenges for farmers and support staff alike.
Opportunities and optimism for 2026
Despite these challenges, there are reasons to be optimistic. Many agricultural businesses are taking proactive steps to attract and retain talent. Apprenticeships and training programs are increasingly being offered to upskill young technicians, while farms and dealerships are exploring flexible hiring solutions, seasonal support roles, and temporary-to-permanent opportunities to maintain operational resilience.
Agriculture also continues to offer rewarding careers, with technicians able to transfer their skills across related industries, often with the potential for higher pay and professional growth. For those passionate about farming, the sector offers a chance to work closely with the land, contribute to national food security, and be part of a community-driven way of life.
How we support the agricultural sector
At Kemp Recruitment, we understand the unique pressures of the agricultural industry. We recruit across a wide range of roles, from agricultural technicians and engineers to machinery operators and seasonal support staff, for both permanent and temporary placements.
We review every CV personally and take the time to understand individual career goals, whilst working with employers to match the right person to the right role. Whether a farm is looking for short-term seasonal support or building a long-term, skilled team, our approach ensures the human connection stays at the heart of recruitment.
Final Thoughts
The agricultural sector faces significant changes in 2026, from tax reforms to ongoing climate and workforce challenges. Yet, with the right people in place, farms can continue to thrive, innovate, and feed the nation. By embracing training, flexibility, and proactive recruitment, the sector can tackle its challenges head-on while providing rewarding careers for technicians and support staff.
If you’re an agricultural business looking to secure skilled technicians or a candidate seeking a career in this vital sector, Kemp Recruitment is here to help. Call us on 0330 440 2323 to discuss your needs or explore our latest agriculture roles here.
References
- NFU rejects Treasury claim that 72% of farms won’t pay inheritance tax
The Guardian, November 2024. - NFU: HSE fatality stats – NFU response
NFU Online, accessed October 2025. - England sees second worst harvest on record, analysis shows
Ireland Live / PA Analysis, October 2024.
