Severn Valley producers get together to get ahead
The Severn Valley Poultry Discussion Group, due to meet for the first time on 24th September at the Pengethley Manor Hotel, Ross-on-Wye, is aiming to give its members serious food for thought. Organised by a group of poultry specialists, their quarterly meetings will unite industry experts, suppliers and egg producers from the surrounding area, giving them the chance to network and discuss the latest industry issues.
Committee Secretary Anthony Harman, Sales Manager at Humphrey Feeds, the specialist free range and organic feed supplier says, 'Talking to customers and providing advice has always been a vital part of all of our jobs. It benefits everyone to share information and we feel that the format of a dinner followed by a guest speaker will make the whole process more enjoyable and productive."
William Keown-Boyd of poultry disinfectant and equipment supplier Farmtech Services is the group's Treasurer whilst Joe Khawaja, Sales Manager of Hy-Line UK, the layer genetics company, takes on the role of Chairman. Tim Smith of Potters Poultry, John Chance of Noble Foods, Louise Butler, Marketing Manager of Hy-line UK and free-range poultry producers David and Jo Parry complete the committee line-up.
The first guest speaker will be local vet and poultry expert Michael Clark, partner at the Minster Veterinary Practice in Hereford. Mr Clark will offer advice on a range of topics including avian influenza.
"Producers will meet both suppliers and industry experts," explains Mr Keown-Boyd. "They can get detailed answers to their own questions in an informal atmosphere. Talking to Michael Clark will be fascinating and we've already got plans for other equally influential guest speakers."
All poultry producers are welcome and interest is keen. Stephen Bowen, together with his wife Karen, runs Hollingswood Farms, a 28,000 bird free-range egg enterprise that supplies Noble Foods and belongs to the Woodland Egg Scheme. Having attended producer meetings before he knows their worth. "In England, we just don't share information enough," comments Mr Bowen. "In other countries there's a lot more discussion and things move a lot faster. Right now, we can't get our fair share of the profit past the supermarkets and so we need to trim costs to improve our margins. These groups can be invaluable in finding better ways of doing things. However experienced you are, the industry is moving so fast that there's always something new to learn – something that can help you to gain an advantage and cut costs. Also, the chance to relax and enjoy a bite to eat at the same time - it's just not to be missed!"
Tickets to attend the evening, including dinner, cost £15 per person and can be booked by calling 01432 266299.
