Hy-Line UK shortlisted for National Farming Awards 2006

Hy-Line UK, has been selected as a finalist in the Innovator of the Year category at the first National Farming Awards, organised in association with the NFU. The winners will be announced at a black-tie awards dinner at the Hurlingham Club in London on Tuesday 27th June 2006.

Hy-Line's award entry centres on its £6 million investment in the most biosecure hatchery in Europe, its state-of-the-art equipment and pioneering approach to new technology, which position it at the cutting-edge of industry developments. From just 7% of the market share before the Millennium Hatchery opened, Hy-Line now produces 60% of the total UK market in chick breeding, increasing its production capacity from 5 million to 21.5 million female commercial chicks per year.

Hy-Line's reputation as leading the field in technological innovation is reflected in its close work with the Government and other industry bodies in conducting landmark trials for a revolutionary new method of infrared beak treatment. Following initial trials, which look favourable, Hy-Line has decided to invest in six state-of-the-art machines. The infrared beak treatment process involves treating the hard keratin of the beak with infrared energy so that the tip of the beak falls away in approximately 21 days. Already in use in the US, Australia and many other countries, Hy-Line UK was determined to introduce the cutting-edge, modern equipment to the UK, and installed its first beak treatment machine eighteen months ago in order to evaluate the process.

The installation of the beak treatment machines will take place in May 2006 and will incorporate an in-line chick counter that calculates chick numbers as they are transported directly from beak treatment and vaccination to despatch. The chicks are counted mechanically as they leave the conveyor belt and enter the boxes in the despatch area, significantly improving accuracy and efficiency.

Delighted that Hy-Line has been shortlisted for Innovator of the Year at the National Farming Awards, managing director Andrew Hignett, commented, "This is great news. We're very pleased to be in the running for such a prestigious award, which recognises our ongoing investment in technological innovation and our commitment to establishing best practice not only within Hy-Line but throughout the poultry industry."