Improved digital connectivity is essential to the future growth of agritech and wider UK food production, according to IT and connectivity experts at Cubic3.
As the agricultural sector races to adopt innovations such as automation, AI, and data-led decision-making, the need for fast, reliable, and resilient connectivity has never been greater. Without robust digital infrastructure, the full value of these technologies cannot be realised, the company warns.
“From GPS-guided tractors and crop monitoring sensors to real-time supply chain tracking, none of it works without a strong digital backbone,” said a spokesperson for Cubic3. “Farmers and agri-businesses need reliable connectivity to run these systems efficiently — especially in remote rural areas where coverage is often weakest.”
The rollout of 5G and fibre broadband in rural regions has the potential to transform the agritech landscape. These networks are crucial for enabling technologies like drone surveillance, autonomous machinery, and smart irrigation systems to function seamlessly across large, often challenging terrains.
Cubic3 argues that connectivity should be viewed as a strategic enabler, not just a utility. Without it, efforts to increase productivity, sustainability, and resilience in the face of climate change and global supply chain pressures will fall short.
“Digital transformation isn’t just about investing in software or AI — it starts with reliable, scalable internet infrastructure,” they added.
The company also notes that real-time data sharing between farms, suppliers, and distribution networks can unlock operational efficiencies, reduce waste, and support better decision-making. However, those gains rely heavily on consistent and secure connections.
As the UK continues to pursue a net zero future and aims to reduce reliance on imports, the agritech sector will play an increasingly vital role. But without addressing the digital divide in agriculture, innovation risks being unevenly distributed.
Cubic3 is calling for continued investment, both public and private, in rural connectivity infrastructure to ensure that agritech advancements can reach their full potential and support a more resilient and competitive food system.
