The methods of production of veal have become quite standardized, however there is still a large amount of variability in terms of productivity between different farms. Those working with the calves may impact the productivity, how a stockperson interacts with the animals can affect the calves fear responses, productivity and health. To determine the extent of the impact stockmen have on the variability in productivity amongst veal units, 50 commercial farms affiliated with the same company were surveyed. The units surveyed had similar number of individual crates to house the calves, the calves were fed the same diets and all units were given the same management advice. Comparisons that were made amongst farms were as follows: the building and general farm characteristics, stockpersons’ background, attitudes about their work and the calves, the stockpersons’ behaviour with the calves, how the calves reacted to people and the health status of the calves. The units were classified as either high- or moderate-producing farms based on the growth rate and feed efficiency of the calves, along with the mortality rate. Farms with stockpeople that had a positive attitude towards the calves had lower disease levels and the calves were less reactive to human presence. The calves also showed a weaker reaction to human presence when there was more stockpeople working. The productivity of the veal units was related to the health status of the animals, while the calves’ reaction to human presence was not. Therefore, farmers can have an impact on the productivity of veal calves as they can control the health status of the herd. When the stockpeople working with the calves have a more positive outlook about their job, it can improve the care provided to the animals and increase detection of health problems within the herd. Also a positive attitude that results in improve herd health will result in a more welfare-friendly environment for the calves.