New North Wales machinery scheme to help farmers

The Machinery Ring scheme, set up by Menter Môn, will allow farmers and growers to access and use the equipment needed to encourage them to grow more produce.

Four local food partnerships - Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy, and Denbighshire - have joined the Welsh Government-backed initiative to increase home-grown produce in the public sector, retail, and hospitality.

The aim of the scheme is to remove one of the "biggest barriers" faced by small and medium-scale horticultural producers - the cost of purchasing equipment outright.

Menter Môn's project manager, David Wylie said: "By creating a shared pool of machinery accessible on a flexible and cost-effective basis, the project offers an opportunity for farmers looking to diversify or expand their horticulture operations without major financial risk.

"This is an opportunity for growers to shape the scheme from day one.

"We want to hear exactly what equipment they need and will use.

"This model provides a practical, low-risk route into horticulture - at a time of uncertainty for the sector, it has the potential to be a genuine game changer."

The initiative builds on successful recent pilots - including Conwy’s fresh broccoli supply chain trial - and aligns with many Welsh Government priorities such as the Community Food Strategy, Net Zero Wales, and the Universal Primary Free School Meals, which is increasing demand for locally sourced produce.

The project will work closely with the Wales Horticulture Cluster, funded by Food and Drink Wales and supported by Farming Connect Horticulture (Horticulture Cluster), ensuring growers can access technical support, skills development, and industry networks.

Debbie Handley, Wales Horticulture Cluster lead, said: "Growers are facing some of the toughest operating conditions in decades with rising production costs, labour challenges and increasing pressure to meet local market demand.

"The Machinery Ring provides something incredibly timely and practical.

"It enables producers to trial specialist equipment, reduce overheads, improve efficiency and build confidence to diversify into horticulture or scale up their existing production.

"It will help both new entrants and established businesses strengthen their resilience and contribute to a more secure, sustainable Welsh food system.

"This is a significant step forward for horticulture in North Wales."

The Machinery Ring will be shaped by grower input gathered in collaboration with Lantra, ensuring fair access and long-term viability.

Opportunities to collaborate with other UK machinery rings and social enterprise models will also be explored to maximise impact.

The launch coincides with the closing window for the Welsh Government’s Agricultural Diversification and Horticulture Scheme, which remains open until December 5.

The scheme supports farmers and horticultural producers looking to establish or expand diversification projects and commercial horticulture ventures.