March 7, 2008

Aviagen opens new grandparent poultry farm in northwest Hungary

Press Release

Aviagen kft has recently opened a new grandparent poultry farm, Asvanyraro, in northwest Hungary, and the farm's first placement of chicks is slated to take place at the end of March.

This new farm opening is only part of Aviagen's programme of ongoing investment in facilities in Hungary.  Capacity at their hatchery has been increased in order to meet the significant rise in demand.  A complete refurbishment of a grandparent-rearing farm was finished late last year and further new grandparent contract farms are scheduled for completion this year.

"Each new farm incorporates new technology to promote bird welfare and health. Asvanyraro farm includes new lighting and egg sanitising technology," said Nick Spenceley, general manager of Aviagen kft.

"Our sales of parent stock from Hungary have risen from 3.5 million in 2004 to 7.5 million in 2008. This increase reflects the success both in volume and market share," said Val Mendeleev, Aviagen's president of European operation.

"The ability to meet demand directly from Hungary will provide a number of benefits to customers. Reduced transport time for chicks results in improved chick quality and better uniformity. There will also be fewer flocks of origin and a greater control over production planning," Meneleev added.

The new facilities in Hungary are part of Aviagen's continued investment to the European poultry industry.