Annabel Makin-Jones: Pioneering Sustainable Farming And Diversification In British Agriculture

Renowned for her ingenuity and deep commitment to sustainable farming, Annabel Makin-Jones, a fifth-generation Yorkshire farmer and successful entrepreneur, has just been awarded ‘Diversification Farmer of the Year’ by Farmers Weekly. This prestigious accolade, one of the most sought-after in the farming industry, highlights her remarkable contributions to British agriculture and innovation in farm diversification.

The Farmers Weekly judges were impressed by her "rare mix of entrepreneurship, opportunism, and an understanding of how to maximize asset value," driving profitability and success on her family farm. Annabel's journey back to the family farm led her to establish Annabel’s Deliciously British (ADB) and later, Tame & Wild, two pioneering brands that exemplify her dedication to excellence, sustainability, and celebrating British produce.

Innovating for Sustainability and Profitability

Annabel’s Deliciously British was founded to counter food waste on the farm and promote sustainable practices both locally and across the agricultural sector. The business, which now turns over £7.4 million annually and produces around 2,000 tonnes of strawberries, is committed to quality and environmental consciousness. The brand’s diverse product offerings range from fresh strawberries to sustainably produced Yorkshire rhubarb, chutneys, conserves, and honey, with packaging designed for minimal environmental impact. Additionally, her farm has planted 79,000 trees over the past three decades, striving to maintain a negative carbon footprint.

Through her brands, Annabel champions UK farming and aims to educate the British public on the importance of sustainable food production and the need to support local farmers. Her advocacy addresses the financial pressures faced by farmers due to the tightening grip of retailers, urging consumers to choose British-grown produce.

Expanding Horizons with Tame & Wild

Expanding her offerings, Annabel launched Tame & Wild, a line of premium sparkling drinks made from her farm’s produce. Using “wonky” fruit that would otherwise go to waste, Tame & Wild blends English berries and botanicals with sparkling water, providing a sophisticated, alcohol-free beverage or mixer. The drinks are now stocked in high-end retailers such as Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason, and Daylesford Organic.

Bringing British Produce to High-End Markets

ADB supplies renowned British retailers including Harrods, Whole Foods, Ocado, and Booths, while also reaching international markets in Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Dubai. In the UK, ADB strawberries, rhubarb, and preserves are featured in the kitchens of top-tier hotels like The Dorchester and by Michelin-star chefs, including Heston Blumenthal.

Looking Forward: New Crops and Sustainable Growth

Annabel’s next steps include cost-effectiveness measures and further diversification. This year saw the addition of raspberries, with blackberries planned for 2025. These efforts underline her dedication to advancing sustainable farming and showcasing the best of British produce.

With her recent B-Corp certification and Living Wage Foundation accreditation, Annabel Makin-Jones exemplifies innovation, excellence, and leadership in the agricultural industry. Her story is a testament to the power of sustainable practices, resilience, and the importance of supporting British farmers as they work towards a more sustainable future.

Anabel Makin-Jones

It’s an absolute honour to receive this recognition from Farmers Weekly. This award is not just a personal achievement, but a testament to the dedication and resilience of everyone involved in our journey. Diversification has been essential for sustaining our farm and thriving in an ever-challenging industry, especially as UK farmers face unprecedented challenges such as rising production costs and supply chain disruptions. It’s vital that we elevate the conversation around sustainable farming and champion British producers, or we risk losing our agricultural heritage and the ability to produce quality food locally.

At Annabel’s Deliciously British, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We believe farming can be both innovative and responsible, whether by finding creative uses for ‘wonky’ produce in our chutneys or introducing sustainably grown crops like rhubarb and daffodils. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond reducing our carbon footprint—it’s about delivering exceptional quality and ensuring a positive impact on the environment.

Supporting British farmers isn’t just about choosing local products; it’s about valuing quality, sustainably produced food that protects our land, boosts local economies, and paves the way for a more sustainable future for generations to come. Every purchase truly has a ripple effect, helping us build a resilient farming industry that benefits us all.

I hope that the drive I have, encourages my children to want to get involved and be inspired to carry on the family legacy when they are older and able. Furthermore, I hope that all I have achieved and continue to achieve will show other farmers and food producers that whilst creating a brand within the food industry isn’t easy, it is possible and encourages them to continue innovating, creating new products and continue to drive forward and make changes within the industry just like I am.