NFU Scotland to raise subscription fees by 10% in 2024

Annual subscription fees at NFU Scotland are set to rise by about 10% for members next year to offset rising costs at the organisation.

NFU Scotland (NFUS) chief executive John Davidson said the organisation has just over 9,000 members, of which the vast majority are farming members, and numbers remain “steady and loyal”; member retention rate is around 98%.

But as with other membership organisations, their costs continue to rise, he explained in the union’s annual report.

See also: NFU Scotland demands immediate reinstatement of ‘lost’ £61m

“After two consecutive years of a freeze on subscriptions it is now necessary to have a modest increase to ensure the organisation is in the best possible shape to represent you and your interests and give you exceptional support,” said Mr Davidson.

The union’s board of directors has agreed to increase annual subscription fees by about 10%. Currently, almost 90% of farmer-members pay less than £600 a year and 45% pay less than £200.

“In monetary terms, you are talking about a £20 increase over the year for many members, up to maybe £50-60 for the vast majority,” Mr Davidson told reporters at this week’s NFUS pre-Christmas policy briefing near Edinburgh.

Two-year freeze

NFUS was the only farming union to freeze subscription rates for the past two years, he said.

“Every other union continued to increase theirs in line with inflation. But we now need to catch up, given the continuous pressure on costs.”

Around 70% of income at NFUS comes from subscription fees. Renewal notices are being sent out to members.  

But the union is looking at new ways to generate more income, including different membership categories, ways to attract new members, and generating funds through exclusive “Affinity” deals for members, for example through purchasing new vehicles.

“As our costs increase year-on-year, we also need to think about how we can drive more income into the business beyond membership,” said Mr Davidson.

NFUS financial accounts for the year ending 31 October reveal operating turnover has continued to increase to £3,245,883, of which administrative expenses were up by £282,892.

The union recorded a deficit for 2023 of £148,291, a reduced figure from a posted deficit of £193,265 for 2022.

NFU Scotland’s 2024 national conference, AGM and annual dinner will take place in Glasgow on Thursday 8 and Friday 9 February at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Glasgow. To book a place, call the head office on 0131 472 4000.