Survey reveals pressure on equestrian employers

The Equestrian Employers Association (EEA) has published the findings of its 2026 National Minimum Wage survey.

The report reveals the growing financial pressures facing equestrian businesses and the potential impact on jobs, apprenticeships and the future sustainability of the industry.

Submitted as part of the Low Pay Commission's consultation on future National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates, the report draws on responses from yards and equestrian employers across the UK.

It paints a picture of an industry under increasing strain, with 79% of employers reporting a fall in profits over the past year, while 73% say they can no longer afford to invest in their businesses.

The findings also raise concerns about recruitment, with almost a quarter of employers saying they can no longer afford to recruit workers aged 21 and over, while 75% believe further wage increases would reduce apprenticeship opportunities.

Read the report now

Key areas of risk

• Age discrimination – some employers are recruiting younger people as they cannot afford the NLW.
• Further non-compliance with NMW legislation relating to overtime and the number of hours worked.
• Further non-compliance with legislation relating to the Accommodation Offset Rate.
• Loss of jobs across the industry.

The report also highlights concerns over equine welfare, business closures, reduced employment opportunities and the affordability of equestrian sport if costs continue to rise.

61% of respondents said they would require additional financial support for them to sustain further increases to the NMW and NLW.

A further 73% said they thought that necessary increases in pricing will make equestrian sport inaccessible to those on a lower income.

The EEA has submitted the report to the Low Pay Commission as part of its annual consultation and will continue to represent the interests of equestrian employers while promoting Good Employment throughout the industry.

EEA Members and all equestrian employers are encouraged to read the full report to understand the challenges facing the sector and the evidence submitted on behalf of the industry.

Read the report now