Understanding Long-Term Business Adaptations and Opportunities Realisation for Defra Business Stakeholders

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Summary 1.1. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) would like to understand the circumstances in which businesses in its sectors are operating following recent economic shocks, including EU exit and COVID-19, and their plans for the future. This research will provide insights into the extent to which businesses are planning for long-term adaptation in light of these events, what barriers businesses are facing to making adaptations and how new potential opportunities can be maximised. The research will cover businesses based in England, Wales, and Scotland. 1.2. The aims of this research project are to understand: a. What long-term adaptation plans businesses in Defra’s sectors are making, following recent economic shocks, and if businesses are taking advantage of new potential opportunities. b. Perceived opportunities for and barriers faced by businesses in taking forward any long-term adaptation plans or realising benefits. c. Any areas where additional support would help sectors adapt and grow. 2. Background to the Requirement 2.1. Following recent economic shocks, including EU-exit and COVID-19, and in light of the Government’s plan for growth and levelling up agenda, Defra wants to understand the status of its sectors and their medium-term plans (next 1-2 years), as well as the opportunities sectors perceive in the long-term (beyond 2 years). This research will: i. inform Defra, Scottish Government and Welsh Government how Defra sector businesses are adapting post EU-exit and COVID-19 and how government can support growth across these sectors; ii. provide insight into how different types of businesses across these sectors perceive and are responding to new international trading conditions; and iii. support the development of monitoring and evaluation of international trade in relation to Defra sectors.