At Fab Food For You, nestled in the heart of East Sussex, our commitment to supporting British farmers and sourcing local produce is more than a business choice—it’s a deeply rooted passion. As a catering company led by a farmer’s daughter for the past 15 years, we understand the vital role that local agriculture plays in our communities, economy, and environment.
The Current Landscape of British Farming
Recent developments have posed significant challenges to UK farmers. In October 2024, the government announced changes to inheritance tax, capping relief at £1 million. This policy shift has sparked widespread concern among farming communities, as it threatens the viability of family-run farms and could force many to sell portions of their land to meet tax obligations. The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) estimates that 75% of commercial family farms will be affected by this change.
As Joanna Partridge reported in a recent article published by The Guardian: “Farmers have been battered over the past few years by rising costs, labour shortages, and post-Brexit changes to support payments, along with increasingly unpredictable weather, particularly this winter’s flooding, which has prevented many from getting crops in the ground.”
In response to these challenges, farmers have organised protests to voice their concerns. Thousands gathered in London in November 2024, and subsequent demonstrations have taken place across the country, highlighting the deep-seated fears about the future of British agriculture.
Why Supporting Local Farmers Matters
- Preserving Rural Heritage and Communities
Family farms are the backbone of rural Britain, preserving traditions and sustaining local economies. By supporting local farmers, we help maintain these communities and ensure that farming remains a viable livelihood for future generations.
- Ensuring Food Security
Local farmers play a crucial role in feeding the nation. Supporting them reduces dependence on imports, shortens supply chains, and ensures access to fresh, nutritious food. This is particularly important in times of global uncertainty, where self-sufficiency becomes paramount.
- Environmental Stewardship
British farmers are uniquely positioned to combat climate change through practices like carbon sequestration in soils, planting trees, and managing grasslands. By choosing local produce, we support these environmentally friendly practices and reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.
- Economic Benefits
Buying local produce strengthens the local economy by keeping money within the community. It creates jobs, supports small businesses, and fosters economic resilience. Moreover, local sourcing can reduce food waste and increase supply chain efficiency, contributing to a more sustainable economy.
Our Commitment at Fab Food For You
At Fab Food For You, our menus are crafted with the finest local ingredients, celebrating the rich agricultural heritage of East Sussex. We believe that supporting local farmers not only enhances the quality of our offerings but also contributes to a sustainable and vibrant community.
In these challenging times, it’s imperative to stand by our farmers. By choosing local produce, we can make a tangible difference, ensuring that British farming thrives for generations to come. We are proud to work with fantastic local suppliers including Sussex Foods farm in Arlington CJ Stevens butcher, Middle Farm, Nigel, and Grocer Roxy and more. As a catering company supplying services across Sussex for the last 15 years, and as a company started by a farmers daughter, we are proud to support British Farming and always choose local.