A new typology of small farms in Europe

We propose a new typology of small farms in Europe using a multivariate analysis drawing from household surveys from 14 European countries. The variables to develop the types covered a range of characteristics from farmers' histories and motivations, to farm production, assets and labour, market linkages and access to support. The clustering analysis found five types of small farms, two with relatively weak commercial orientation (peasant and part-time farms) and three with relatively strong commercial orientation (diversified businesses, specialized businesses, and new enterprises). This typology provides a richer picture of the diversity and nature of small farming across Europe beyond assumptions about their role in subsistence and fragile household economies. We find evidence of entrepreneurship and strong market linkages as well as a range of motivations, including lifestyle options. Typologies such as the one presented here can help to better document and understand the role of small-scale farming in Europe, and provide an input for evidence-based policy making that can enhance their livelihoods and contribution. •We propose a new typology of European farms using multivariate analysis.•The typology covers a wide range of geographies: 25 regions from 14 countries.•We found 5 farm types: peasant, part-time, diversified, specialized and entrepreneurial.•Main axes of variation include, age of farmers, self-provisioning, cooperatives and certification.•The typology provides a rich picture of the diversity and importance of small farms.