March 19, 2008

French DUC records profit of US$7.5 million in 2007
 

French integrated poultry company DUC has managed to record a profit of US$7.5 million last year after a painful loss of US$4.5 million in 2006.

The company recorded a turnover of US$264 million in 2007 compared to US$163 million in 2006.

"The operating margin was 2.9 percent and has increased by 5.7 points compared to last year's report," said a DUC spokesman.

DUC attributed the positive result to a 13 percent rise in export volume, new product development and an aggressive sales drive.

The DUC has overcome its 2006 bird flu problems and has since concentrated on its strategic activities and improving productivity, which has been key factors in its return to profitability. 

Investments have also rose to US$6.6 million last year.

The company said it plans to integrate its new manufacturing activities into the group and that it would be developing new products targeted at the halal market.

DUC produces and sells chicken and poultry products, and it operates through several subsidiaries, including incubation specialists Charolles Accouvage and Drome Accouvage, reproductive husbandry division Scea de Varennes, and animal nutrition affiliate Nutri-Bourgogne.