At Laser Crystal, we’re crazy about all things awards. With the farming industry’s position as a vital part of the UK’s economy, we wanted to spotlight some of the top farming industry awards in the UK which celebrate excellence, innovation and sustainability across multiple sectors from livestock farming to agriculture.
In this blog, we’ll be taking you through some of the top farming industry awards in the UK, highlighting what makes each unique and why they’re so important for the future of agriculture. Whether you’re a farmer, agribusiness, or simply passionate about the industry, these awards showcase the best of British farming.
The British Farming Awards celebrate innovation and achievement across many different types of farming, making it one of the most comprehensive farming awards on our list. They recognise British Farmers and Agricultural businesses for their resilience, commitment, and innovation in the industry’s core sectors: dairy, beef, sheep, arable, and technology. There are also categories geared towards the celebration of new entrants to the industry, students, and farm diversifications, which support the longevity of many businesses.
Categories at the British Farming Awards include:
- Dairy Farmer of the Year, which showcases businesses which are constantly striving to become more robust and sustainable, no matter the size
- Family Farming Business of the Year, which celebrates farms with generations of families behind them, with a shared vision and succession planning in place
- Grassland Farmer of the Year, for those who push the boundaries in grassland management in any sector, with innovative processes in place to maximise grass growth and nutritional potential
As well as unique entry criteria for each award, entrants must also demonstrate sustainable farming practices, contributing to the industry’s step towards sustainability.
Run by Farmers Weekly, the Farmers Weekly Awards are one of the most prestigious in the industry. Across nineteen categories, the awards celebrate both farmers and their advisers, as well as people studying agriculture, and young farmers. Examples of categories at the Farmers Weekly Awards include:
- Poultry Farmer of the Year, for those demonstrating excellence in production, marketing and welfare as a poultry farmer
- Livestock Adviser of the Year, which celebrates business consultants, livestock specialists and vets alike who advise livestock farmers and make a demonstrable difference to their operations
- Environmental Champion of the Year, which recognises farmers who have made a positive impact on their environment, leaving the land in a better state than when they found it
Each award at the Farmers Weekly Awards has a sponsor, such as Young Farmer of the Year which is sponsored by Heck, and Farmer of the Year which is sponsored by the awards’ headline sponsor, Agrovista.
The Royal Agricultural Society of England’s awards recognise leading individuals and organisations in the agricultural industry. The awards primarily focus on those who are bringing the industry forward in terms of technology, innovation, and sustainability, setting an example for the rest of the industry with their outstanding contributions. Awards at the RASE Awards include:
- RASE Science and Technology Award, launched in 2022, which celebrates stellar research and innovation to promote change within the sector
- RASE Long Service Award, which recognises the dedication and commitment of individuals who have provided continuous service, and is awarded for the significant milestones of 40, 50, 55, 60 and 70 years of service
- RASE National Agricultural Award, the oldest of the RASE awards, which was established in 1964 and celebrates individuals with outstanding contributions to the advancement of agriculture in the UK
As an independent charity, the Royal Agricultural Society of England aims to constantly support the progression of knowledge in the agricultural community.
The National Arable & Grassland Awards are a place for the UK’s best in arable farming and grassland management to be celebrated for their achievements in their respective sectors. From crop growers to agronomists, the awards place an emphasis on innovation and sustainable farming techniques due to the sector’s connection with the land. Categories at the National Arable & Grassland Awards include:
- Cereal Grower of the Year, for those who consistently achieve high yields and demonstrate a dedication to regenerative agricultural practices
- Agronomist of the Year, recognising outstanding agronomists who demonstrate examples of how their guidance and expertise has led to tangible improvements in the farms of their customers
- Fruit Grower of the Year, where growers dedicated to enhancing soil health and passionate about moving the industry forward are celebrated
As with many of the awards on our list, the National Arable & Grassland Awards look for those who are working hard at reducing the environmental impact of the industry.
| National Women in Agriculture Awards |
One of the newest awards on our list, the National Women in Agriculture Awards are going into their second year in 2025 and aim to honour the trailblazing, innovative women working across the UK’s traditionally male-dominated agriculture sectors. Not only do the awards put the spotlight on these amazing women, they provide the opportunity to create a stronger, wider network of women-led businesses and leading women within the industry. Categories at the National Women in Agriculture Awards include:
- Agricultural Ambassador of the Year, which celebrates women who are advocates for food farming, campaigning on behalf of her business and the industry and a track record of making change
- Training and Education Woman of the Year, open to those working in external training and education providers who serve agricultural businesses and who have made a lasting impact through new schemes or initiatives
- Sustainability Champion of the Year, which honours those who have demonstrated a commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of her business or sector, leading the way to net zero
Despite the young age of these awards, they are already cementing themselves as a staple in the British farming calendar and making waves for women in agriculture.
Why Should Businesses Aim to Achieve a UK Farming Award?
Achieving a UK farming award means more than just the happiness it brings. It provides industry recognition and credibility, validating excellence and boosting a business’s reputation among peers, customers, and partners. Winning also opens up new business opportunities, both from partnerships and sales growth, as well as through the attraction of investors and grants.
For the industry as a whole, farming awards are constantly encouraging continuous innovation and best practices, with winners needing to be better and better year on year. They set new standards and create new levels of excellence for every business to aim towards.
At Laser Crystal, we create bespoke 3D crystal awards for the most memorable of ceremonies. As the UK’s leading 3D engravers, each crystal art creation is made from flawless optical quality crystal, forming awards and gifts that you are proud to present. From employee recognition awards and long service awards to sports awards and achievement awards, every order can be fully customised to suit your needs.
Browse our full range or let us know your requirements and we can recommend a selection of shapes and designs.