EUROTIER HOSTS 20+ BRITISH AGRI COMPANIES

Lleyn sheep pictured with NSA’s Edward Adamson

The world’s largest indoor livestock exhibition, EuroTier, held 13-16 November 2018 in Hannover, Germany saw a strong British Livestock presence during the four-day show. Twenty UK companies from the animal breeding, genetics and export sectors joined together with the support of the Department of International Trade (DIT), the Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), British Livestock Genetics Consortium (BLG) and UK Technology for Agriculture & Genetics (UKTAG.

British Livestock UK Team

Held biennially, EuroTier boasts 150,000+ visitors and over 2,300 exhibitors – half of whom are international companies – and, as such, a strong UK presence at EuroTier allows British farming and breeding organisations to promote themselves on the global stage.

Charollais sheep on display

With both British Charollais & Lleyn sheep being exhibited, the British stand drew a large number of visitors and many useful enquiries for breeding animals and germplasm – not only from the EU 27 but also further afield from countries such as China, Russia, Mongolia, Turkey & Iran. With the number of Export Health Certificates steadily growing, thanks to the work of the UK Export Certification Partnership (UKECP), these enquiries help to facilitate trade with a ‘push-and-pull’ approach towards agreeing export protocols between the UK and other countries.

Richard Saunders & Seamus Killen with German visitors Juergen Lueckhoff, Hartmut Glamann, Ingo Stoll (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Sheep Assoc) and Dr Christiane Profittlich (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Ministry of Agriculture).

Thanks are extended to the following exhibitors:

Addfield

Ballintur Lleyns

Ballycreely Hampshire Flock

British Charollais Sheep Society

British Livestock Genetics Consortium

British Pig Association

Ceres Solutions

Dalby Charollais Flock

Delta Wagyu

Edstaston Charollais Flock

Eggs-Port Ltd

EnviroSystems UK

Farmgene Ltd

Hampshire Down Sheep Breeders Association

Hoofcount

HW Oultram

Prognostix

UK Sheep Genetics

UK Genetics

UK Sire Services

UKTAG

Munich Bierhalle - venue for Welcome Event

Team UK at International Welcome Evening

Save the date - EuroTier 2020 17-20 November

SUPPORT FOR UK AGRICULTURE IN UKRAINE

Department for International Trade Kyiv office is pleased to invite you to join the UK national stand at the leading B2B agricultural trade fair in Ukraine – Agro Spring 2019, formerly GrainTech/Agro Animal Show/Fruit/Vegetable/Logistics  (19-21 Feb 2019, Kyiv, Ukraine).

This expo annually brings together over 530 exhibitors from over 29 countries and attracts over 15,000 visitors from leading Ukrainian/international companies. The UK national stand at Agro Spring 2019 offers excellent opportunities to showcase your company and products in this fast developing market: we provide a turnkey and hassle-free solution appreciated by UK companies new to the market. We are also flexible in terms of accommodating an equipment at the pavilion and could provide you with an extra space at a small charge in case you need some.  

We offer various options for participation – from free catalogue entries to tailored stand space, bespoke business matchmaking, remote participation, promotional displays, dedicated company presentations, Agribusiness Forum inputs and more. Please see more details in the flyer attached. Trade Access Programme grants are available if your company qualify.

Contact Chris Jackson, UKTAG, exports@uktag.co.uk fo further information

Irish Ploughing Match with British Livestock Presence

British Livestock Genetics Stand Success at Irish National Ploughing Championship 18-20 September 2018

Optimism was high on Tuesday morning at the opening of the ‘British Livestock Genetics’ stand,  well-positioned in the middle of the livestock area, yet the show field was pounded by Storm Ali’s 120 mph gales on the following night! In spite of this, the indomitable Irish spirit shone through to make this, the 87th event, a true success with attendance over the three-day show over 240,000.

The opening day, being strongly business dominated, saw tremendous interest being shown in the literature from 23 British Beef and 10 Sheep Breeds which was on display, with well over 60% being snapped up by the close of play that evening.  The majority of the remaining information being in strong demand on the Thursday, with a substantial number of requests for further breed information being noted, for follow up after the event. 

Visitors to the Ploughing are drawn from every corner of the island of Ireland, in addition to strong international visitor support; the event attracts over 1,700 trade exhibitors, covering all aspect of rural life. This was in addition to over 250 acres of competition ploughing - from the most modern and biggest reversibles to horses and vintage classes, with 300 competitors taking part.

Attendance at the event clearly demonstrated the great respect there is in Ireland for the quality of British beef and sheep genetics, with weighty Breed Years Books being highly sought after. Trade uncertainties caused by Brexit were obviously a great worry to many, as Irish livestock farmers truly value a continued, frictionless, two-way trade with the UK; this point being made many times on the stand during the event.  Another British institution which was very obviously respected and valued was the BBC’s ‘Countryfile’ programme with Adam Henson being looked on as a much respected ambassador for the UK livestock industry.

This, the 87th Irish National Ploughing Championships, was held near Tullamore, about 60 miles due west of Dublin, in the heart of the Irish Midlands. The stand was organised in conjunction with the British Livestock Genetics Consortium (BLG) and the export department of AHDB – Beef and Lamb. The objective of the British presence at Ireland’s premier agricultural event being to raise the profile of quality British livestock genetics and to generate trade.

The stand was organised on behalf of BLG by John Fleming of JF Professional Genetic Services ably supported by Gill Evans, an experienced pedigree breeder of many years standing. Following three years at the Tullamore site, the 88th event is due to be moved to a centrally-located site at Fenagh in Co Carlow to take place 17-19 September 2019.

British Stand at National Western Stock Show 12-19 January 2019

Please click HERE for full information on joining the British stand at the National Western Stock Show, Denver, USA 12-19 January 2019.

British Pavilion Returns to Expo Prado, Uruguay

Once again, the British Embassy will be part of Uruguay’s most important agricultural event, focused on business, culture, education, food and entertainment 5-16 September 2018.

For the fifth consecutive year, the British Embassy in Montevideo takes part in Expo Prado, with a renewed pavilion that invites visitors to explore London’s Underground.

In our Tube Station visitors will find many British companies or Uruguayan companies with strong bonds with the United Kingdom, such as:

• Berkshire Polo Club – women and men’s apparel

• FCR-DAS – a company that specialises in quality management certifications

• Doulton – water filters

• Stannah – stairlifts

• JCB – leading company in construction machinery

• Tienda Inglesa – supermarket chain which will be selling products from their Great Britain Week

• MINI and Land Rover – renowned automobile brands that will be showcasing their latest models

• Carr’s Supplements: animal nutrition company with over thirty years of experience

The traditional English pub, Craft Beer Pub, will be offering typical British beer and will have different activities in the evening: from pub games to live shows.

Our Tea House, this year hosted by Natural Foods, will be serving delicious meals throughout the day, including the classic ‘Five o’clock tea’.

The Falkland Islands will also have their place in the Pavilion, represented once again by a delegation that will continue to develop commercial and cultural ties with Uruguay, besides promoting tourism and agriculture.

On Tuesday 11 September at 4:00pm, Daniel Pereira, a Uruguayan Agro-Engineer who works for the Falkland Islands Department of Agriculture will give a conference about the development of the ovine sector.

Educational area

Two British universities renowned for their agricultural courses will be present at the pavilion to talk about their programmes in this area.

Harper Adams is the leading university specialising in development of food production, processing, animal sciences, engineering, soil management and sustainable businesses. Its aim is to establish bonds with academic entities, companies and institutions from the Agricultural sector to promote exchange with United Kingdom.

Royal Agricultural University (RAU) was the first English speaking agricultural university in the world. Since 1842, it has been world-leading in agricultural education offering programmes related with agriculture, zoo technics, business, environment, equine science, farm administration, food, real estate and land administration. All their programmes are designed to satisfy the market’s needs locally and internationally and it is proud to have employment rates of over 90% for its postgraduate alumni.

Also in the educational area, Education First will be promoting its English courses in different cities across the United Kingdom.

To know more about the UK, its educational offer and, specifically, about the Chevening Scholarships to study a Masters Programme, we will host a conference on Saturday 15 September at 5:00pm. Also, in line with the commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Female Vote in the UK, we will have a panel about women’s role in the agro industry on Thursday 13 September from 9:00am to 11:00 am.

HackathonAGRO

Finally, this is the third year the Embassy is supporting HackathonAGRO, a competition where multidisciplinary teams made up of entrepreneurs, academics and agricultural experts join forces with the sole aim of resolving challenges that the Uruguayan agricultural sector faces through the use of technology.

The winning team will travel to London to participate in an agri-tech conference.

GREAT Britain Programme Targets Brazil

The GREAT branding on the British House at ExpoInter

The ExpoInter Show held 25th August to 2nd September 2018 in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul in SE Brazil continued the UK’s focus on promoting its agriculture sector to Latin America as part of the ‘Britain is GREAT’ campaign.

With over 2,000 exhibitors and some 400,000 visitors, the 41st edition of ExpoInter gathered together the major cattle and sheep breeds, veterinary products and technologies, government, academia and research institutes, machinery and equipment together with farmers and farming cooperatives.

A vast and impressive show, ExpoInter reflects the important part agriculture plays within the life and economy of Brazil whose farming sector accounts for around 45% of the country's total exports and makes up approximately 6% of GDP. Brazil comprises some 210 million cattle of which around 20-25 million are dairy. Sheep and goats number 26 million with 39 million pigs and 1.2 billion poultry.

With the support of a commercially focused and well-organised team from the Department of International Trade (DIT), progress was made towards securing future livestock and genetics export business for the UK to capitalise not only on the demand for British-bred breeding stock but on the favourable Export Health Certificate (EHC) conditions to reinforce the work of the UK Export Certification Partnership (UKECP).

Meetings were held with ARCO (Brazil's National Sheep Association), MAPA (their Defra), EMBRAPA (Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation - part of their Ministry) as well as FARSUL/SENAR/Casa Rural which make up the Agriculture Federation for rural development in the Rio Grande do Sul region. The group also met with Fabio Schuler of the Brazilian Aberdeen Angus Association.

L-R Craig Stone (Traducza), Fernanda Silva, Juliana Alves (both DIT), Richard Saunders, Jose Avila (Farsul), Ruth Perry, Renan dos Santos (Farsul)

Ruth Perry (the sign says 'I Love Angus')

Richard Saunders with noted Devon breeder Betty Cirne-Lima

It should be noted that this particular part of Brazil, which lies not far from Uruguay, favours British cattle and sheep breeds which adapt well to its relatively cooler temperate climate and fit into an extensive grazing system and forage-based diet. Despite the influence of N American genetics, there is good demand for UK stock.

Meeting with the Brazilian National Sheep association ARCO

On the ovine side, there was strong interest for British sheep with particular focus on Hampshires, Suffolks, Romneys as well as British Texels.

With Brazilian Hampshire Down Breeders

Following a useful Sheep Breeders Round Table, further visits were made to the sheep lines with discussions culminating in a commitment for at least one group of Brazilian farmers to visit the UK next Spring/Summer to select rams for semen collection.

In front of the Zebu Cattle Lines L-R Fernanda Silva & Juliana Alves (DIT), Richard Saunders & Ruth Perry

From a cattle perspective, the main breed focus is on Angus, Hereford and North Devon with some interest in Charolais, Limousin and Wagyu.

Angus Judging

Bos indicus type cattle such as Nelore and Brahman play a significant role both as purebreds and for crossbreeding for hybrid vigour, climate adaptability as well as disease and parasite (especially ticks) resistance.

Hereford Judging

Attending the Show was Ruth Perry who runs a pedigree Aberdeen Angus Herd numbering 20 cows near Reading which produces bulls for the suckler herd she also manages. Comprising 500 breeding cows, the Kent-based suckler herd supplies Angus-sired animals to Dovecote Park.

Red Ruby Devon Champion

Wagyu Grand Champion

Ruth, 24, is spending six months in South America working on farms and has been helped with some financial support from the Aberdeen Angus Cattle Society by dint of her winning an Angus Youth scholarship.

Angus Grand Champion

Whilst in Argentina, the Angus herd she was working for picked up Reserve Grand Champion at Palermo Show. Ruth then spent some time with a Hereford Estancia in Uruguay before coming to ExpoInter and will now head back to Uruguay to help ex-pat Ross Houghton show his Angus at Prado Show. Within ExpoInter, she was able to talk to the Brazilian Angus Youth Forum about her experiences as well as expound the attributes of UK-bred Angus.

Ruth Perry addresses Brazilian Young Angus Members

Grateful thanks are extended to the Department of International Trade for putting together a comprehensive and stimulating programme as well as to all those who looked after the UK delegation so hospitably.

Richard Saunders

BRITISH AGRICULTURE ON SHOW AT AGROFUTURO, COLOMBIA

UK-Colombia Team at Agro Futuro

A strong UK presence at Agro Futuro, Bogota, Colombia 22-24 August 2018 was made possible with support from the Department of International Trade (DIT), UK-Colombia Trade, the British Embassy and the UK-Colombia Prosperity Fund.

At Colibri Flower Farm

This well-structured, indoor technical show plays host to some 450 exhibitors and 25,000 visitors over three days. British companies present included AgriCompas, Environment Systems, Agritech World, Catapult Satellite Applications, Russell IPM, Stable, Fera, EcoStim, Delta Wagyu, Triage and the British Livestock Genetics Consortium.

UK stand at Agro Futuro

On the livestock front, some useful contacts were made at breeder, AI company and importantly at Ministry (ICA is Defra's in-country equivalent), DIT and UK-Colombia Prosperity Fund level to help ease future business and certification.

Overall, there was good interest in British-bred cattle and genetics (an Export Health Certificate - EHC - is in place for bovine semen) with some demand also for sheep and pigs.

Karen Ayala speaking on 'Sustainable Perspectives for Livestock Production'

The beef and dairy combined cattle population is Colombia is around 24 million head (up from 20m in 2001) with the predominant beef breeds being Brahman, Zebu, Brangus (Brahman x Angus), Angus, and Simmental with the proportion of European breeds in the bloodlines generally increasing at higher (cooler) altitudes. Whilst not a traditional meat for Colombian households, the production of lamb is growing as the culture changes and demand rises - particularly from the growing middle classes which represent 31% of the population.

Pedro Castro (left) and Richard Saunders (right) meeting with ICA (Institute of Colombian Agriculture) to discuss export certification

Pre-show there was a visit to Colibri Flowers including a welcome reception with Dr Peter Tibber, British Ambassador to Colombia, and Augusto Solano, President of the Colombian Flower Association.

The first show day started with a briefing on Colombia with Dr Martin Johnston, Programme Manager Colombia Prosperity Fund, welcoming the UK participants. Presentations then followed: Investment Environment & Business Opportunities in Colombia (Leidy Heredia, Deputy Programme Manager Colombia Prosperity Fund); Opportunities for the AgriTech Sector in Colombia (Pedro Castro, Agriculture Adviser Colombia Prosperity Fund); DIT in Colombia (Carlos Olano, Deputy Director DIT Colombia); Supporting UK Companies in Colombia (Michael Phillips, Trade Development Manager, UK-Colombia Trade).

Grateful thanks are extended to all those who worked so hard in bringing all the elements together for a worthwhile and stimulating programme.

INTERNATIONAL FLAIR TO SHEEP EVENT

There was a truly international flavour to the National Sheep Association's flagship Sheep Event held 17-18 July 2018 at Malvern.

Farm Tour Delegates

With the support of UK’s Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), in conjunction with the British Livestock Genetics Consortium (BLG), overseas delegates from Mexico, Argentina, Latvia & Romania were part of an Inward Trade Mission and were joined by other large organised groups of international visitors from Germany, Israel and Finland among others.

Pictured with AHDB Butcher Martin Eccles

Farm Tours and an Industry Gala Dinner were held on Tuesday 17th July with the Sheep Event itself taking place on Wednesday 18th July. Visitors had the opportunity to visit two progressive sheep farms in the surrounding area to see how two producers were embracing the challenges posed by Brexit, focusing on diversification and production efficiencies to future proof their businesses. 

With IM host Richard Saunders (second from right) on the NSA stand

Paula & Martin Whittaker, Gloucestershire presented their fully certified organic farm with 350 breeding ewes, a 70-cow commercial beef suckler herd and some arable production. Direct sales of home-produced lamb and beef are also part of the business.

With Sam Jones at his farm in Worcs

Sam Jones, Worcestershire, runs a flock of 1,150 North Country Mules as the primary enterprise alongside some arable. A keen advocate of data recording, the farming system incorporates solar panels and a biomass boiler.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker with Juergen Lueckhoff, Chairman German Sheep Breeders Association

The business-to-business Sheep Event offered overseas visitors the opportunity to meet a wide range of commercial companies associated with the sheep industry, breed societies and industry groups. As well as finding out about the latest innovations and products available from the UK, delegates could also strengthen their technical knowledge by attending seminars and workshops during the day.

With Charmoise breeder David Eglin, Warks

Grateful thanks are extended to the farm hosts, NSA & AHDB for providing a strong programme of activities.

David Eglin presenting his Charmoise ram lambs

'LEGACY' PROMISES TO LIFT HOLSTEIN BREED

Endco Yoder L7933-9839, dam of the top genomic bull Pine-Tree CW Legacy

Legacy promises to lift Holstein breed

A new wave of young Holstein sires is presenting dairy producers with unprecedented breeding opportunities, and this week’s publication of genetic evaluations by AHDB Dairy highlights newcomers at the pinnacle of the breed.

Improvement to the way the ranking tool, Profitable Lifetime Index, is calculated brings further relevance to the data as the new Lameness Advantage (LA) and Calf Survival (CS) indexes as well as Body Condition Score (BCS), become part of the £PLI formula.

The number one bull is the new entrant, Pine-Tree CW Legacy, who rises straight to the top with a massive PLI of £924. This value is over £100 greater than the leading bull’s £PLI last April, reflecting his exceptional genetics on many fronts, and – to a degree – the ability of the new £PLI to capture more of the impact genetics can have on farm profitability. A son of Frazzled, he is one of the best udder health improvers (-5 Mastitis, -32 SCC), transmits excellent daughter lifespan (LS +0.7 lactations), good Fertility Index (FI +8.5) and scores well for both Calf Survival and Lameness Advantage (+2.4 and +2.3 respectively). He combines this with high production, as well as positive fat and protein percentages.

In second place is Denovo 7921 Atrium, also newly available. A son of ABS Achiever, (who himself ranks only just outside the top 10 with a PLI of £804), Atrium transmits high fat (+0.20%) as well as strong health, and outstanding daughter fertility (FI +12.6). As the best bull for reducing feed costs in the top 20 (-11 Maintenance) he wraps up many desirable traits in a PLI of £897.

ABS Outback (PLI £866), the equal first-ranking bull from April has now been edged into third place, despite increasing his £PLI. He transmits excellent lameness improvement (LA +3.1), with good daughter lifespan and fertility.

VH Balisto Brook remains in fourth position at £849 with excellent milk components (+0.25% fat, +0.11% protein), and as a bull bred in Denmark – where there’s been a long-term emphasis on udder health – it is little surprise to see him rank as the best in the top 20 for both SCC (-37) and mastitis (-6).

Fifth place goes to ABS Crimson (PLI £848) who is one of the highest kg fat and protein transmitters in the top 20 (combined at 79.3kg), also with solid health.

Places six to nine feature all newly available sires, highlighting the speed at which genomics can identify new genetics with the potential to improve the breed.

Sixth-ranking Pine-Tree Durable (PLI £843) is a Charley brother to the number one bull and with a Lameness Advantage of +3.7, he is the best bull in the top 20 for this trait.

In seventh place is Sandy-Valley Imax Batman (PLI £842), a high fat transmitter (+46.6kg and +0.18%), followed closely by the highest protein transmitter in the top 20, DE-SU 14222 Kenobi (PLI £831).

UK-bred Glamour Boghill Victor makes his debut in ninth place with a PLI of £827. This Verona son comes out of a Supershot dam from the well-know Cosmopolitan family.

Rounding off the top 10 is the former number one £PLI sire, Mr Rubi-Agronaut. Continuing to transmit high milk solids and excellent udder health, Agronaut has the best daughter fertility in the top 10 at +14.0. He combines this with the highest Type Merit in the group of +3.21.

Places 10 to 20 feature no less than six additional debutants. Of note are the highest transmitters in the top 20: ABS Achiever (who is top for fat weight and per cent); Welcome-Tel Bromley 3195 (top for daughter lifespan and fertililty) and Schoene-Kuh Altarobert (also equal top for Fertility Index).

“The availability of new genetics continues at a fast pace and the newly revised £PLI captures even more of the qualities these bulls can transmit than ever before,” says Marco Winters, head of animal genetics for AHDB Dairy. “The traits included in the index have all been proven to influence an animal’s profitability under UK farming conditions and milk pricing structures, so as always, £PLI is a good starting point for genetic selection, before digging further down.

2019 British Cattle Breeders Conference 21-23 January

Theme and dates announced for the 2019 British Cattle Breeders Club Conference

‘Building the Brand to Promote Our Uniqueness’ is the theme for the next BCBC Conference, which will take place on 21st-23rd January 2019 at the Telford Hotel and Golf resort in Telford, Shropshire.

The conference will focus on ensuring the resilience of the British beef and dairy industries in a changing market environment through effective branding and promotion of its products as unique and valuable.

The new Chair of the British Cattle Breeders Club, Anya Westland, was instrumental in helping choose the conference theme and explains why it is so relevant: “The conference will focus on the new world that is evolving in our industry and how we can develop, defend, protect and brand our uniqueness.

“Continuing to evolve and strengthen co-operation, as well as promoting our brand, will be vitally important in light of increasing pressure on the livestock industry from recent negative campaigns via social media and other channels,” Anya adds. “As we look to the future we must continue to focus positive attention on a cattle breeding industry that not only strives for high levels of animal health, welfare and production efficiency but also aims to deliver high quality and nutritious animal protein products.”

Speakers already confirmed for the conference include:

• Minette Batters, NFU President
• Christine Middlemiss, UK Chief Veterinary Officer
• Jonathan Eckley, AHDB Senior Export Manager

The full conference programme and booking details will be available on the BCBC website (www.cattlebreeders.org.uk) in early Autumn 2018.

Scawfell Opens New Semen Facility

Scawfell Genetics new semen store now open

Scawfell Genetics Ltd are happy to announce that the long-awaited fully licensed semen storage facility for both domestic and export qualified semen is now open for business at our bespoke British genetics facility in Cumbria.

Managing Director James Hazard commented, “we are so pleased that we have been able to get this project off the ground. All directors as customers have been involved in cattle genetics for many years and it is great that other breeders will for the first time have another option of who to use to look after their genetic straws. Our modern, efficient and cost effective facility will provide customers with a high level of service which is required in the modern era.”

Scawfell Genetics Ltd have established a custom built facility alongside its long established bull stud in Cumbria. This facility allows a complete solution to be provided to all breeders including on farm and on stud collection, semen processing through the most modern lab in the UK, semen storage in a unique facility that provides breeders with complete transparency of inventory.

Director John Black commented, “being breeders ourselves we have built a facility that is aimed at providing fellow breeders choice alongside complete security. Our main aim has been to provide a superior service to cattle breeders and we have invested heavily in the most up to date equipment from across the world to provide a simple, user friendly and cost effective facility. Assisting our breeders showcase the quality of British genetics to the rest of the world.” 

Scawfell Genetics Ltd store is the first in the country that provides a completely automated straw counting system and a portal that allows breeders to see at any time what inventory they have in stock.

Pete Sherwen, Operations Director comments, “the technology we have developed to give our breeders transparency is a huge leap forward for the industry. This coupled with our advances in distribution is extremely exciting, we are delivering straws to the breeders door guaranteed within 72 hours from the day of ordering. 

We are also taking care of the delivery tank returns all within a price with no hidden extra charges for less than any other distributor in the UK. For too long breeders have had to accept long delivery times, excessive charges as they have had no where else to go. Our facility provides choice which in my experience always leads to a better deal for the customer.” 

For any enquiries please contact the Scawfell team on 019467 25000, through the website interactive chat at https://www.scawfellgenetic s.com or send an email to pete@scawfellgenetics.co.uk  .

Beef Expo Hosts Successful Inward Mission

The National Beef Association's Beef Expo held in Shrewsbury 24-25 May 2018 played host to a successful Inward Mission of 12 beef farmers from around Europe.

Visiting Marc Jones' Calf Rearing & Finishing Unit, Trefnant Hall Farm, Newtown

Drawn from Bulgaria, Holland, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark & Czech Republic, the visit was supported by Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), British Livestock Genetics Consortium (BLG) and NBA. The visitors represented a wide variety of breed interests including Hereford, Angus, Limousin, Galloway, Wagyu, British Blue & Parthenais.

Pictured with Dunbia staff at Trefnant Hall Farm

Hosted by Richard Saunders & John Fleming, the three-night stay took in not only the Beef Expo itself but also the Farm Tours, gala dinner as well as a number of other herd visits organised both pre-and-post event.

NBA CEO Chris Mallon & Lythwood Farm's Jonny Cornes welcome their guests

First stop on the Farm Tours was the Calf Rearing & Finishing Unit of Marc Jones at Trefnant Hall Farm, Newtown which finishes around 300 Angus and Hereford calves each year bought in from Meadow Quality with a further 450  contract reared for Dunbia.

At the Aynho Aberdeen Angus Herd

Next was James Evans and his Stabiliser suckler herd at Partridge Farm, Bishops Castle. Split roughly 50-50 between spring and autumn calving, the 300-strong herd produces quality breeding stock as well as finishing bulls on a semi-intensive system.

With hosts James & Duncan Hazard at Mereside Limousins

The Approved Finishing Unit (AFU) of Jonny Cornes, Lythwood Farm, Shrewsbury was the final Farm Tour destination. Around 2,000 yearling store cattle are bought in annually with the aim of finishing them within 3-4 months.

Bus tours at Lythwood Farm, Shrewsbury

Grateful thanks are extended to AHDB, BLG & NBA for their generous support in hosting the Inward Mission.

AHDB's Peter Hardwick to retire from Export role

Peter steps back from export role after 24 years

Peter Hardwick, AHDB Head of Exports

AHDB’s Head of Exports Peter Hardwick will be leaving the organisation at the end of June after nearly a quarter of a century on the front line of international market work for red meat.

Having completed 24 years working for the levy board and its predecessors, Meat and Livestock Commission (MLC) and EBLEX, he has decided to take a step back from the intensive world of international market development to pursue other professional interests, spend less time on the road and more on other interests.

Peter has spent almost all of his career in the farming industry, in agriculture and horticulture, and especially in the international meat industry.

“As you can imagine, heading an export team does involve a significant amount of travel and I would like to step back from that now to spend more time with my family and pursuing my hobbies, like restoring my old VW Beetle,” said Peter, who is based in Warwickshire.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the exports arena and am proud of the number of new markets we have opened for British red meat.

“It is not time for retirement yet and I do hope to still keep some involvement with the industry, but perhaps with less time on the front line!”

Over the years, Peter worked both in processing and international trade and exports in the UK, South America and Spain. He also worked in the fruit and vegetable processing sector in South Africa as well holding an international trading role with Del Monte.

Peter joined MLC in 1994, running its EU office in Brussels for 15 years, as well as taking on a lead exports role in 1999. He returned to the UK in 2010, taking up roles with EBLEX in UK and international market development, as well as BPEX’s export function. Peter became Head of Exports for AHDB in 2016.

AHDB International Market Development Director Dr Phil Hadley, said: “Throughout the past 24 years, Peter has made an invaluable contribution to the meat industry and to the development of exports in the meat and livestock sectors.

“Peter’s passion and deep expertise in his field have contributed to many of AHDB’s recent successes in opening new international markets, in particular in China for pork.

“We wish him good luck in this new chapter of his life.”

UK Targets Uruguay for Sheep Exports

Please find two links below in respect of Henry Lewis' recent visit to South America as part of the ongoing drive to open up the market to British ovine semen and embryos. Mr Lewis is Director of both Export Certification Ltd & UK Export Certification Partnership which work with key influencers at home and abroad to agree import/export protocols between countries.

https://eltelegrafo.com/2018/03/experto-britanico-en-certificacion-de-exportaciones-visita-uruguay/

http://en.mercopress.com/2018/03/15/uk-expert-in-montevideo-to-promote-british-sheep-genetics-in-uruguay

UK Sheep Expert Heads to S America

Henry Lewis, an expert in the exportation of UK sheep genetics, is visiting South America during March taking in Uruguay, Paraguay & Argentina respectively. As Director of both Export Certification Ltd and the UK Export Certification Partnership, Mr Lewis has been one of the key drivers behind the recent re-establishment of British ovine germplasm exports to both North and South America. The British Embassy in Montevideo, Uruguay, heralds the visit below with further news items to follow in due course.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/british-sheep-genetics-in-uruguay

Ukraine opening up for UK Agriculture

Twenty-four UK companies were part of the 'Business is Great' Britain & Northern Ireland pavilion at the Grain Tech & Agro-Animal Expo held in Kiev, Ukraine 21-23 February 2018. With support from the Department of International Trade, the British Embassy & UKTAG, representatives from the National Sheep Association & British Livestock Genetics Consortium were present promote the agricultural sector and help push for export certification between the two countries for beef and sheep genetics. 

Pictured centre on the British Livestock stand are Edward Adamson (Northern Ireland NSA Regional Director) & Richard Saunders (BLG)

The British Livestock presence was coordinated by Chris Jackson of UKTAG, an Appointed Trade Organisation which facilitates market access abroad for UK agri-tech companies. Edward Adamson, a breeder of Ile de France, Clun Forest & Lleyn sheep near Carrickfergus in Northern Ireland, works closely with the NSA, its farmer members and industry bodies to promote the export of UK-bred sheep.

Richard Saunders speaking at British-Ukrainian Agribusiness Forum

Representing BLG & Delta Wagyu, Richard Saunders gave a presentation entitled 'Genetics Come First' to the British-Ukrainian Agribusiness Forum highlighting the strength in depth not only in traditional breeding but in innovative technologies of the UK's livestock breeding sector.

Strong Year for UK Meat Exports

Exports of red meat products from the UK surpassed the £1.2 billion mark in 2017, according to the latest figures from HMRC.

The data reveals that shipments of beef, lamb and pork topped £1 billion from January to December last year, while a 2% rise in red meat offal exports pushed the total for all three sectors well above £1.2 billion in value.

Figures show that exports to non-EU countries have remained strong, with beef exports to third countries increasing by almost a fifth to just over 14,300 tonnes, resulting in an 11% rise in the total value for UK beef exports, to £409 million.

According to the data, the Asian market continues to be a key focus for meat exports with a whopping 230% increase in the volume of high-value, chilled beef exported to Hong Kong in the last year, more than triple the value of the market just two years ago.

In addition, total pork exports have remained strong in 2017 – up 4.8% on the previous year to 216,000 tonnes with a value of £293 million.

Both EU and non-EU shipments increased last year – building on a record-breaking year for pork exports in 2016.

Jonathan Eckley, AHDB Senior Export Manager

AHDB’s senior export manager for livestock, Jonathan Eckley, commented: “This latest data shows that the UK meat export industry is in a strong position globally and able to build on the incredible figures we reported in 2016.

“AHDB is continuously working to ensure UK farmers and processors are fit for the future as we look to leave the EU. While Europe is still a vital market for our exports, it is important that we look at opportunities and gaining access to an increasing number of new markets further afield.”

Looking at Chinese pork imports, last year has been described as a “challenging year”, due to increased production both in China and the rest of the world; however, the UK has continued to hold levels with pork volumes sitting just above 40,000 tonnes.

Pork to the United States has also increased in value, rising 2.7% to more than £23 million, with the UK’s reputation for producing high-welfare pork providing a gateway into the high-value food service sector.

In addition, lamb exports to both European and non-EU countries performed well in 2017, with total volumes up 14% and valued at more than £384 million. Non-EU volumes have grown to 5,400 tonnes – up two thirds on the previous year.

Report courtesy of Meat Management

Genex Teams up with UK Sires

Genex appoints new GB distributor

UK Sires Direct are excited to announce a new partnership with Genex, a part of Cooperative Resources International (CRI). UK Sires Direct will exclusively offer customers in Great Britain semen from a range of Holstein, Jersey and Guernsey sires that have resulted from the huge programme operated by Genex in North America that will see around 2650 young bulls genomically tested in 2018.

Genex, who were previously represented in Great Britain by Bullsemen.com, is the trusted provider of world-class animal genetics, progressive reproductive solutions, value-added products and innovative services. As a co-operative business, Genex serves its members and customers - dairy and beef cattle producers - across the world.

Genex have owned many Holstein sires that made a massive impact on the breed including Bis-May Tradition Cleitus and three sires who produced over a million straws of semen, Lutz-Brookview Bell Rex, Klassic Merrill Lynch and Jenny-Lou Mrshl Toystory. More recent big hitters include Badger-Bluff Fanny Freddie and his son De-Su Freddie Galaxy.

The first shipment of sexed and conventional semen from Genex’s base in Shawano, Wisconsin, is due to arrive early next month. UK Sires Direct have access to 30 sires with a £PLI in excess of 600, 41 with Type Merit over 2 points, 77 bulls that are positive for Fertility Index and a whopping 87 sires with an index for Somatic Cell Count better than -10.

Genex has a rich history of innovation and industry firsts. The co-operative was the first to publish a calving ease summary, generate herdlife evaluations and produce a total economic sire index. More recent developments include the Ideal Commercial Cow index and subclinical ketosis, metritis and foot health breeding values. 

“We are delighted to have joined forces with Genex to serve farmers in Great Britain”, says UK Sires Direct director Rob Wills. “They share our desire to provide the highest quality genetics to their members and customers at affordable prices and the Genex philosophy of supplying sires that breed healthy, long-lasting and profitable cows will resonate with many UK producers.”

NOTES FOR EDITORS 

UK Sires Direct is a division of UK Sire Services Ltd and started trading in October 2016. Offering semen from carefully selected bulls to British dairy and beef producers, UK Sires Direct has access to over 50 breeds stored in the Devon-based semen store and also the studs of leading suppliers in France, Germany, Italy and Spain in addition to Genex in the USA.

For more details call Simon Gee on 07935 908795 or email simon.gee@uksiresdirect.com

Genex appoints new GB distributor

UK Sires Direct are excited to announce a new partnership with Genex, a part of Cooperative Resources International (CRI). UK Sires Direct will exclusively offer customers in Great Britain semen from a range of Holstein, Jersey and Guernsey sires that have resulted from the huge programme operated by Genex in North America that will see around 2650 young bulls genomically tested in 2018.

Genex, who were previously represented in Great Britain by Bullsemen.com, is the trusted provider of world-class animal genetics, progressive reproductive solutions, value-added products and innovative services. As a co-operative business, Genex serves its members and customers - dairy and beef cattle producers - across the world.

Genex have owned many Holstein sires that made a massive impact on the breed including Bis-May Tradition Cleitus and three sires who produced over a million straws of semen, Lutz-Brookview Bell Rex, Klassic Merrill Lynch and Jenny-Lou Mrshl Toystory. More recent big hitters include Badger-Bluff Fanny Freddie and his son De-Su Freddie Galaxy.

The first shipment of sexed and conventional semen from Genex’s base in Shawano, Wisconsin, is due to arrive early next month. UK Sires Direct have access to 30 sires with a £PLI in excess of 600, 41 with Type Merit over 2 points, 77 bulls that are positive for Fertility Index and a whopping 87 sires with an index for Somatic Cell Count better than -10.

Genex has a rich history of innovation and industry firsts. The co-operative was the first to publish a calving ease summary, generate herdlife evaluations and produce a total economic sire index. More recent developments include the Ideal Commercial Cow index and subclinical ketosis, metritis and foot health breeding values.

“We are delighted to have joined forces with Genex to serve farmers in Great Britain”, says UK Sires Direct director Rob Wills. “They share our desire to provide the highest quality genetics to their members and customers at affordable prices and the Genex philosophy of supplying sires that breed healthy, long-lasting and profitable cows will resonate with many UK producers.”

NOTES FOR EDITORS

UK Sires Direct is a division of UK Sire Services Ltd and started trading in October 2016. Offering semen from carefully selected bulls to British dairy and beef producers, UK Sires Direct has access to over 50 breeds stored in the Devon-based semen store and also the studs of leading suppliers in France, Germany, Italy and Spain in addition to Genex in the USA.

For more details call Simon Gee on 07935 908795 or email simon.gee@uksiresdirect.com

Levy Bodies Announce Joint £2m Promotion Fund

The red meat levy bodies in England, Scotland and Wales have announced a major programme of joint activities to support the sectors through a £2 million ring-fenced fund of AHDB red meat levies, reports Meat Management (06.02.2019)

Jane King, AHDB CEO

The agreement by the AHDB, Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) and Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) follows 12 months of talks between the bodies and will see a range of activity delivered in a three-way collaboration, starting in 2018.

The parameters of the fund were set out by Ministers early in 2017, with the programme having been developed as an interim arrangement while a long-term solution is sought on the issue of levies being collected at point of slaughter in England for animals which have been reared in Scotland or Wales.

According to the agreement, AHDB would set aside a ring-fenced sum of £2 million to support a programme of activities benefitting cattle, sheep and pig levy payers in Scotland, Wales and England.

The three organisations share an immediate joint commitment to collaborating to ensure levy payers across Great Britain benefit from the activities delivered using the £2 million ring-fenced fund.

Jane King, chief executive of AHDB, commented: “Though we already work closely with our colleagues in HCC and QMS on various projects, this new arrangement will take our collaboration to a whole new level with all three organisations deciding jointly how we will invest this fund to make the biggest impact for the red meat sectors.”

The levy bodies have agreed that effective from the financial year 2018/19 the new joint fund will focus on five priority areas, including international shows and export events, market access, Brexit preparation, meat and health, animal health and environment and research.

The ring-fenced fund is expected to boost the international presence and access for meat from Britain in key overseas markets, with particular focus on preparing the red meat sector for the potential challenges and opportunities that are likely to follow Brexit.

In the meat and health, animal health and environment category the three organisations will concentrate on collaborating on positive messaging to counteract negative messages, while work on antimicrobial resistance is expected to dominate the research investment.

Gwyn Howells, chief executive of HCC, added: “Addressing the issue of the loss of levy income to the Welsh red meat industry has been long awaited. While a permanent solution will require legislation, this interim arrangement will allow greater value for money and accountability for Welsh levy-payers.

“We look forward to working together with our colleagues in Scotland and England on important programmes of joint activity in areas such as overseas market access, research, and communicating the health benefits of red meat within a balanced diet.”

Alan Clarke, chief executive of QMS, said: “The priority now is to ensure we maximise the benefit to levy payers of the activities delivered from the ring-fenced fund. This collaboration gives us the opportunity to take a joined-up approach to issues that affect the industry, regardless of geography.”

TAP Opens for UK Exports

The UK livestock & genetics export market has been given a significant boost this week with news of TAP (Trade Access Programme) funding for a large number of overseas expos during 2018-19. UKTAG (www.uktag.co.uk - UK Technology for Agriculture & Genetics) will be providing these services aimed at promoting UK Agri-Tech exports with funding from DIT (Department for International Trade).

Please click here for the full list of overseas events and grant funding opportunities. Further information can be had from Chris Jackson exports@uktag.co.uk