Starting a business is never easy, and when it involves reshaping traditional systems, it can feel like climbing a mountain. Clare Hill, the founder of Planton Farm, knows this firsthand. In a candid conversation, she shared her unconventional journey from corporate sustainability consultancy to becoming a trailblazer in regenerative agriculture. Her story offers valuable insights for aspiring founders and advocates of systemic change.
The Birth of Planton Farm
Clare’s career initially revolved around advising major food brands like McDonald’s and Marks & Spencer on sustainability and animal welfare. But a pivotal moment came when she recognised that conventional agricultural practices were no longer viable. Flooding on the farm she managed forced her to reconsider long-standing approaches, leading her to embrace regenerative agriculture—a nature-based system that prioritises soil health, biodiversity, and sustainability.
The idea for Planton Farm began as a vision: a fully regenerative farm operating without constraints. Partnering with a like-minded investor, Clare acquired a neglected property as a blank canvas for this bold experiment. Their mission was clear: demonstrate what truly regenerative farming could look like in the UK and share their findings with the world.
Expanding Impact: Roots to Regeneration & Impeccable Poultry
Beyond the farm itself, Planton Farm has birthed two other initiatives:
- Roots to Regeneration: A comprehensive, experiential training program in regenerative agriculture. Designed to foster a supportive community, this program helps participants overcome cultural and practical barriers to adopting sustainable practices.
- Impeckable Poultry: A venture aimed at redefining chicken farming, one of the most industrialised agricultural sectors. Clare and her co-founder are working on an R&D blueprint that prioritises animal welfare, environmental benefits, and system-wide sustainability.
Both initiatives reflect Clare’s commitment to creating systemic change through education and innovation.
The Entrepreneurial Learning Curve
Clare candidly admits that she never intended to become an entrepreneur. Transitioning from corporate life to founding Planton Farm meant embracing steep learning curves, especially in investment and governance. One of her key takeaways? To seek help early. Clare credits her success to finding a coach and mentor before launching the business.
For future founders, Clare offers this advice:
- Build Your Network: Surround yourself with a supportive community of peers and mentors who understand your challenges.
- Upskill Yourself: Whether it's understanding finance, investment, or legal frameworks, proactive learning is critical.
- Stay True to Your Vision: Don’t compromise on your principles, even when faced with resistance.
Challenges & Triumphs
Running a regenerative farm hasn’t been without challenges. Clare faced scepticism from traditional farmers and even a formal warning for breaching tenancy agreements when she left her grass to grow taller—a practice vital for soil health. Yet, her perseverance has paid off. Highlights include:
- Bringing Planton Farm's ethically-raised beef to local markets, where customers showed unexpected enthusiasm for its environmental impact.
- Being featured in The Grocer, a milestone that underscored the significance of their work in rethinking the chicken industry.
- Launching the first cohort of Roots to Regeneration, a long-dreamt project that empowers farmers to embrace regenerative practices.
Looking Ahead: Regeneration in Every Sense
Over the next 5–10 years, Clare envisions scaling Planton Farm’s impact while achieving financial stability. Yet, she’s quick to highlight the importance of personal well-being, acknowledging the toll of pioneering such an ambitious project. “The only thing that’s not regenerating is me,” she laughs, echoing a sentiment shared by many in the regenerative agriculture community.
Her ultimate goal? A world where farming systems operate in harmony with nature, supported by sustainable practices and communities committed to change.
Advice for Founders
Clare’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and collaboration. To aspiring founders, she offers these parting words:
- Prepare for the Long Haul: Big changes take time, and setbacks are inevitable.
- Learn by Doing: Don’t wait to have all the answers—start where you are and adapt as you go.
- Find Purpose: Let a higher mission guide you. For Clare, the thought of contributing to a better future keeps her going, even on the toughest days.
Planton Farm is more than just a farm; it’s a beacon of hope for a more sustainable future. Clare’s journey reminds us that meaningful change often starts with one small step—and the courage to take it.
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