Small Abattoirs Face Extinction as Operating Costs Soar
South East’s Last Small Abattoirs Face Uncertain Future Amidst Rising Costs and Workforce Shortages
The owner of one of the South East’s few remaining small abattoirs has voiced significant apprehension regarding the long-term viability of the sector, citing increasing financial pressures and a challenging workforce landscape.
Luke Smith, who operates Down Land Traditional Meats in Henfield, West Sussex, has warned that without enhanced government financial assistance, his slaughterhouse faces an uphill battle for survival. Such a closure would have a direct impact on local farmers who supply independent butchers and farm shops rather than larger supermarket chains.
A key concern is the escalating cost of animal waste disposal, which has surged to an alarming £5,000 per week. Compounding this financial strain is an ageing workforce; Mr. Smith revealed the average age of a slaughterman is currently 63, with limited interest from younger generations in entering the profession.
“The abattoir itself is currently operating at a loss,” Mr. Smith explained, adding that his wholesale butchery operation is presently sustaining the wider business. “We are in urgent need of support and funding to continue.”
The challenging environment for small abattoirs is reflected in broader industry trends. The number of abattoirs across the UK has plummeted dramatically from approximately 2,500 in the 1970s to just 203 by 2023. Specifically, smaller facilities in England saw their numbers decline from 64 in 2019 to 49 by 2023, with five more closures reported in 2024 alone.
Local farmer Edward Perrett, from Ditchling, West Sussex, who relies on Down Land Traditional Meats for his farm shop’s supply, underscored the importance of nearby processing facilities. “Having a short journey to an abattoir is beneficial for animal welfare and helps manage costs,” Mr. Perrett stated, expressing concern that the abattoir’s closure would significantly complicate his operations.
The plight of small abattoirs has garnered political attention. Andrew Griffith, Conservative MP for Arundel and South Downs, voiced his backing for Mr. Smith, describing the issue as a “real crisis” in a “vital, sometimes neglected part of our food supply chain.” He suggested that while previous government grants were helpful, more substantial support and a reduction in bureaucratic hurdles are required.
Responding to the concerns, a spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) affirmed the government’s commitment to the meat processing sector. They acknowledged the “vital contribution” of small abattoirs to maintaining a resilient food supply chain and their role in offering a competitive market route for producers of rare and native breeds. DEFRA highlighted an ongoing £5 billion investment in farming, touted as the largest ever budget for sustainable food production, alongside reforms aimed at boosting farmers’ profits and unlocking rural growth.
Original source: BBC News
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