“However, this is not inevitable. The scope for technical and business improvement is very substantial, and it is vital that producers take up and apply existing technical knowledge.”

Eblex is using its knowledge transfer work to help farmers and processors improve their profitability and competitiveness, and to ensure the industry has a long-term future.

“This report aims to give a clear and shared appreciation of where the beef industry is now and where it is heading in the future, based on current trends, aiming to foster a more strategic debate about the future of our industry,” said Mr Cross. “All those with an interest in the English beef industry are urged to take a much more strategic view of the industry's current situation and its outlook.”

Around 125,000 people are employed on British cattle farms and the sector accounts for around 12% of the value of the UK’s agricultural output.