News Entrepreneurial poll
Dutch farmers worry about the future
58% of agricultural entrepreneurs in the Netherlands are concerned about the future of their company. They do, however, look positively at developments in the sector, according to research by CRM Partners.
CRM Partners conducted the survey among around 200 agricultural entrepreneurs in the Netherlands and it shows that the vast majority are concerned about the future of the company. Livestock farmers in particular see a bleak future, 62% are concerned about that. 53% of arable farmers are concerned about the future.
In total, 30% of the entrepreneurs have indicated that they will stop with the company within the next 10 years. The lack of a successor is an issue for 36% of the entrepreneurs. And 73% of entrepreneurs think that there are currently too few young people who still have ambitions to become farmers.
Innovation is embraced
Despite the concerns, agricultural entrepreneurs do have a positive view of developments within the sector. The statement that the Netherlands is at the forefront of innovation is shared by as many as 93% of the respondents. 68% of arable farmers indicate that they would prefer to own a self-propelled tractor first. Livestock farmers are also embracing modern technology, such as milking and feeding robots. The use of drones is also high on the list.
Concerns about the coronavirus
The situation surrounding the corona virus will undoubtedly also cause additional concerns among agricultural entrepreneurs. Boerenbusiness polled its readers and subscribers. This also shows that various agricultural sectors are worry about the near future.
The impact is still expected among dairy farmers, but for arable farmers and pig farmers the consequences are already being felt in the short term.
Chanti Oussoren
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