Pig producers are looking forward to a bright couple of years ahead, according to a new survey by the British Pig & Poultry Fair.
Canvassing the opinions of pig farmers, it found that 68% had a positive view about the future.
Brexit played a big role in each sector’s outlook, with 47% of pig producers thinking it would be a positive move. “To date the weaker pound has benefited from the decision to leave the EU,” said one pig farmer. “In future there is a danger that Michael Gove sets higher welfare standards for the UK but financial pressure means the public choose to buy ‘standard’ pork from other countries.”
Pig farmers saw the greatest challenges as legislation, Brexit and disease – all fears that were shared by egg and broiler producers.
Showcasing the professionalism of each sector, an impressive 95% of pig producers said data was important to their business. “There are practical ways in which data can be captured and used to improve key performance indicators,” explains Crowshall vet Ian Lowery, who will be speaking in the ABN forum. “It’s about using something you’re collecting every single day to intuitively improve performance.”
Alice Bell, organiser of the British Pig & Poultry Fair, says it is encouraging to see farmers embracing new technology. “It’s clear from this survey that pig, poultry and egg producers have a lucid picture of the challenges and opportunities ahead. And it’s important that they act now to prepare their businesses for change. Spending a day at the Fair will offer them all the expert advice and new technology they need to get ahead of the game.”
The British Pig & Poultry Fair is the leading event for the UK pig, poultry and egg sectors, and will be held on 15-16 May 2018 at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire. Partnered by ABN the Fair is free to attend, to register and plan your visit go to www.pigandpoultry.org.uk.
