The UK livery sector is facing increasing pressure, with warnings that more yards may close if action is not taken to better support business owners—potentially leaving horse owners with fewer options.
Speaking at the National Equine Forum on 5 March, Cheryl Johns, founder of LiveryList, highlighted findings from her latest pricing survey and the growing challenges within the industry.
This was an excellent opportunity to highlight the challenges facing the livery industry and its future sustainability at this prestigious annual event, with the chance to speak directly to key industry representatives and stakeholders including DEFRA ministers, President HRH The Princess Royal, James Hick (CEO, British Horse Society), Roly Owers (CEO, World Horse Welfare), Jim Eyre (CEO, British Equestrian), and others.
A key issue identified is pricing inconsistency. Based on 768 survey responses, there are wide variations across all livery types. For example, DIY livery ranged from £75 to £500 per month, while full livery ranged from £450 to over £2,100—demonstrating significant disparities that can equate to tens of thousands of pounds annually for similar services.
While factors such as location, facilities, and services influence pricing, Cheryl emphasised the importance of considering staffing, welfare standards, compliance, and overall business costs. A lack of regulation within the industry means standards can vary widely, with no licensing system or mandatory inspections in place. This creates inconsistencies and can allow some yards to operate below expected standards, potentially impacting both equine welfare and fair competition.
Cheryl has long been a strong advocate for improving standards, professionalism, and the perceived value of the livery sector, through both LiveryList and her work with organisations including Redwings, The British Horse Society, ABRS+, CANTER and others.
She also highlighted the need for better support and guidance for yard owners, alongside greater education for horse owners when choosing a yard—encouraging decisions based on quality, safety, and compliance, not just cost.
Without meaningful change, the industry risks further decline, reducing access to safe, affordable, and high-quality livery. Supporting yard owners is essential to maintaining the sustainability, welfare standards, and community value that equestrianism provides.
Resources covering all aspects of livery management, including pricing, can be found on the Yard Owner Hub, and full results of the 2025Livery Pricng Survey can be found here.