The Equestrian Employers Association (EEA) has revealed the results of its recent survey in response to the Low Pay Commission’s consultation on the National Minimum Wage (NMW) – and the findings paint a deeply concerning picture for the future of the equestrian industry.
Increases in the NMW and National Living Wage (NLW) are having a profound impact on equestrian businesses of all sizes and disciplines. Employers from across the United Kingdom – predominantly based in England but also from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland – took part in the EEA’s research, which sought to ensure that the industry’s voice is heard at the highest level. The survey covered a broad spectrum of the equestrian world, including livery yards, riding schools, dressage yards, and therapeutic equestrian work. Many respondents also represented mixed yards involved in more than one discipline, with staffing levels ranging from sole operators to larger businesses employing over 50 people.
The EEA, a social enterprise dedicated to supporting and educating employers, has a clear mission: to improve employment practices and make the equestrian industry an attractive career option rooted in good employment standards. However, the results of this survey reveal just how fragile the situation has become.
Over the past year, the majority of employers reported that their profits had fallen significantly. Many have been unable to reinvest in their businesses, and a large proportion have had no choice but to raise their prices in order to cope with rising costs. The recent lowering of the NLW threshold to cover workers aged 21 and over has been particularly hard-hitting, with many yards experiencing a major financial blow almost overnight.
When asked about the use of youth wage rates for workers aged 16–20, some employers explained that they relied on these lower rates simply because they could not afford to pay the higher adult wage. A smaller number said they only employed younger workers for this reason, while others did not use these rates at all because they did not employ people in those age brackets. Very few businesses were able to pay more than the minimum wage, leaving the industry exposed to potential age discrimination claims as employers feel pressured to hire younger staff to keep wage bills down.
Looking ahead, the outlook is stark. Many employers believe that if NMW and NLW rates continue to rise, they will be forced to cut staff, reduce opportunities, or in some cases, close their doors altogether. There is a real fear that higher wage bills will push equestrian sport further out of reach for those on lower incomes, reducing accessibility and participation. Concerns were also raised about the potential impact on equine welfare, as financial constraints may compromise standards of care.
The survey also brought to light ongoing issues of non-compliance within the industry, often driven by economic pressures. Some workers are effectively being paid below the minimum wage because of unpaid overtime, while others are wrongly classified as self-employed when they should legally be employees. There is also a worrying misconception among some employers that offering livery or training as part of a pay package counts towards meeting minimum wage obligations – something the law does not allow.
The EEA is committed to tackling these challenges head-on by providing guidance, education, and advocacy. It is working in collaboration with other industry bodies to raise awareness, ensure compliance, and push for the support that the sector urgently needs. Without action, the combined pressure of rising wages, limited resources, and tightening margins could see many equestrian businesses disappear – with devastating consequences for jobs, horse welfare, and the accessibility of equestrian sport in the UK.
You can read the full report of the survey here
Find out more about joining the EEA here