Tesco has launched a major extension of its Sustainable Farming Programme, supporting 360 British beef and lamb farmers to capture soil, water, and nature data at unprecedented scale. At the same time, the retailer is calling for a national farm data baselining framework to replace the UK’s fragmented approach and strengthen food security.
The announcement, made by Tesco UK CEO Ashwin Prasad at an event for British farmers and suppliers, follows new research showing 91% of farmers want more government support for resilience, while 96% cite inconsistent environmental standards and data reporting as a key barrier to progress.
Why data matters for resilience
Tesco argues that consistent environmental standards and reporting will enable farmers to measure and improve soil health, biodiversity, and water quality – factors critical to productivity and climate resilience.
“Our new programme will give farmers the data and tools to build resilience, said Prasad, “It is vital farmers are provided with a clear and consistent reporting framework to reduce the burden they face and make it easier for the whole industry to measure and scale progress. This is fundamental to creating a stronger future for UK agriculture and protecting the country’s ability to reliably grow high-quality, homegrown food, now and for the future.”
Programme details: soil, water, nature baselines
Delivered in partnership with Soil Association Exchange (SAX), the initiative will establish baseline measurements over 12 months, providing farmers with tailored advice to improve efficiency and sustainability. It builds on Tesco’s earlier £800,000 investment to help dairy farmers assess soil and water health.
Farmers will also gain access to technical support and financial incentives, helping overcome barriers to adopting innovation and regenerative practices.
Industry-wide impact
Joseph Gridley, CEO of SAX, said: “This partnership is an exciting opportunity to show how consistent data, expert advice and targeted funding can drive real change on UK farms. Farmers are already doing incredible work to be more sustainable – but they need a joined-up supply chain behind them.”
Tesco’s call echoes recommendations from its Greenprint for UK Farming Report, unveiled at the Oxford Farming Conference, which urged standardised data collection to futureproof farms and reduce environmental impact.
Key takeaway
Tesco’s push for a national farm data framework signals a shift toward system-wide transparency and collaboration, aiming to unlock the full potential of environmental data to strengthen UK food security.
