New research from Quality Meat Scotland paints a compelling picture of an industry not only holding its ground, but brimming with untapped potential, if producers, politicians and consumers act together.
Scotland’s red meat sector generated an estimated £3.5 billion of total economic output in 2024, with combined farming and processing output for cattle, sheep and pigs exceeding £2.7 billion, a 2% rise on the previous year. Primary red meat processing turnover rose for the fifth consecutive year, lifting 5% to £1.14 billion.
Sarah Millar, Chief Executive of QMS, said: “Scotland’s red meat sector remains a cornerstone of rural communities and a key contributor to the national economy. Demand for our renowned red meat is strong, with abattoir output rising 5% in 2024 to an estimated £1.14 billion.”
New research by Censuswide on behalf of QMS found that nine in ten Scottish shoppers (90%) would still choose Scottish beef, lamb or pork over cheaper imported alternatives, even if imports were priced 30% lower. Supporting Scottish farmers (74%) and the local economy (72%) topped the list of reasons, alongside superior quality, traceability and freshness.
Yet concerns are growing. QMS modelling projects the UK will need an additional 278,000 tonnes of beef per year by 2030. For Scotland to play its full part, it would need 79,000 more breeding cows in the national herd by the end of the decade, a move that could add £281 million in annual output to the economy.
New QMS economic modelling reveals Scotland’s sheep sector could add £77 million in output and £21 million in GVA by 2032, driven by strong demand at home and overseas. This is achievable with a modest 5% increase in lamb numbers, just a few more ewes per holding each year.
Kate Rowell, Chair of QMS, said: “The market signals are encouraging and Scotland is well placed to respond. The focus now must be on capturing more of that value at home, supporting rural communities and driving sustainable economic growth.”
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Despite the record figures, Scotland’s beef cow numbers were down 3.6% in December 2024 and have fallen nearly 15% over the past decade. Iain Macdonald, Market Intelligence Manager at QMS, said: “The continued contraction of Scotland’s livestock herds highlights the urgent need for action. Stabilising breeding numbers and improving productivity are key steps to protect rural jobs and unlock the sector’s full economic potential.”
Exports tell a brighter story. Scottish red meat and offal surpassed £100 million for the first time, reaching £137 million in the year to July 2024. The appetite for Scottish red meat, at home and abroad, has never been greater. The question is whether industry, government and consumers can mobilise together to make the most of it.
