Looking ahead, there is great opportunity to keep this collaborative effort going, to drive continued improvement across the calf rearing supply chain.

The next evolution of the GB Calf Strategy marks a major shift in ambition, from addressing welfare concerns for dairy-bred bull calves to a broader, integrated plan encompassing all calves, whether born into dairy or beef systems.

We are bringing the industry together around a shared vision: every calf born in Great Britain has the right genetics, the right start, and the right pathway, enabling a thriving, sustainable and high-welfare beef and dairy industry.

To succeed, the supply chain must be environmentally and financially sustainable. The beef industry’s ambition to reach net zero by 2050 creates a clear incentive to boost productivity, health, and welfare. There is potential to build on the improvements seen in calf survival rates, which can be achieved through consistent high-quality management practices across all systems.

Continued effort is also needed to mitigate the impact of bovine TB controls on calf health and welfare.

There is also an opportunity to enhance the value of calves from smaller-framed dairy cows by ensuring they reach optimal carcase weights.

These opportunities are not without their challenges, and progress will depend on collaboration across the supply chain.

With greater data sharing, from genetics to on-farm health and carcase performance, all stakeholders can be empowered to make informed decisions that support calf wellbeing, environmental sustainability, and farm business viability.