December 26, 2013

Scotland launches new Poultry Plan

Scotland announced on Tuesday (Dec 24) the publication of its new Poultry Plan, which identifies important steps that need to be taken to secure a sustainable and profitable future for Scotland's poultry sector.

Other work being taken forward includes scoping demand for Scottish chicken, identifying opportunities for poultry farmers to work together to cut costs, and providing support for the newly-established Scottish Chicken Growers Association.

"Scotland produces first-class poultry to high animal welfare standards and I am doing everything in my power to ensure our poultry industry has a positive future, and that the chicken consumed in Scotland is produced in Scotland," said rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead.

He said that quality and provenance are of paramount importance for consumers in the wake of the horsemeat scandal, and he believes that there is strong demand in Scotland for the fantastic poultry being produced there.

Lochhead added that he is very interested in exploring the creating of a premium brand for Scottish chicken, a tactic that has worked well to promote Specially Selected Scottish Pork, Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb.

The Poultry Plan also identifies ways in which poultry farmers themselves can work together to cut costs and take advantage of opportunities in the market.

National Farmers Union (NFU) Scotland president Nigel Miller welcomed the Scottish government's fast tracking of the new Poultry Plan, which should provide a platform for growth.

It is understood that some 12 contract growers have already been signed up by 2 Agriculture, and parent company 2 Sisters has now committed to retain some free-range and organic processing at Coupar Angus.