(
Source: Lantra)
The industry includes: riding schools and livery yards;
racehorse trainers; competition; instructors; working horses; breeders;
clubs and hunts; diversified equine activities; racing yards.
Current Position:
- The number of weekly riders has fallen, contributing to a fall in
the number of licensed riding schools
- Equine businesses face financial pressures: insurance costs; Uniform
Business Rate; licensing EHO/ veterinary costs; cost of complying
with health and safety regulations/EU regulations; VAT over-rating.
- Extension of the racing fixture list has put pressure on staffing
resources within racing - anecdotal evidence of a shortage of skilled
staff within the racing industry.
- The national minimum wage caused problems with training and employment,
resulting in restricted numbers of practically competent employees,
as employers cannot afford to put as many through training.
- International differences in VAT present difficulties for the breeding
industry.
- The standard of training is seen as high.
Future:
- Equine industry is growing; farmers diversifying into equestrianism
will keep livery prices from rising.
- Proposed extension of rate relief to horse enterprises linked to
farm premises. Diversification of farms into equestrianism could present
a threat to riding schools.
- Sector employment expected to grow, reflecting increased time spent
on leisure activities.
- Forecasts exclude any possible impact a ban on hunting may have on the
sector.
