A plan to support poultryfarmers and protect the future of the industry in Scotland will be produced by, Christmas Rural Affairs Minister Richard Lochhead said yesterday, writes Ewan Pate.
He met key stakeholders on Friday afternoon. More discussions are to take place to agree a course of action.
The key work-streams will include identifying new market opportunities and capitalising on the growing demand for quality Scottish product.
There will be support for the development of a pro-active Scotland-wide producer group following the example set by Scottish Pig Producers.
The competitiveness of all parts of the supply chain will be improved through better collaboration, and steps will be taken to ensure that the links in the chain are in place to maintain the market reach and geographical spread which the Scottish industry has developed over many years of investment.
A further meeting is to take place today, organised by NFU Scotland with relevant parties impacted by the recent 2 Sisters Food Group announcement to scale back chicken processing at Coupar Angus.
The company has also sold its plant at Letham, creating further uncertainty amongst producers.
Cooperative umbrella organisation SAOS, 2 Sisters and its supply subsidiary 2 Agri will all be represented at today’s meeting at Old Meldrum.
Mr Lochhead said yesterday: “I am pleased that we are close to agreeing a plan which will provide a stronger foundation for poultry production and processing in Scotland.
“Scotland has first-class poultry producers who operate to high animal welfare standards to deliver quality products to the market and we can’t simply afford to lose that.
“We want to ensure these farmers can stay in business so that, as far as possible, chicken that is consumed in Scotland is produced here.
“The decision by the 2 Sisters group to reduce on the short-term production and processing has severe implications for the whole supply chain, including grain producers and hauliers.
“To protect the future of the industry in Scotland, it is imperative we avoid a similar situation arisingwhere we have one dominant player within the supply chain.
“The bottom line is that there is enough demand in Scotland for chicken to keep these producers in business.Consumers want to buy Scottish chicken, and a number of retailers are committed to stocking it.
“So we are committed to finding a solution to the situation our poultry industry is facing.
The NFU Scotland president Nigel Miller added: “All those involved in Scottish chicken production have gone through some dark, difficult days and there is still real uncertainty about the future.
“However, there is now energy developing to support future growth, which can secure investmentand maintain the critical mass of production throughout Scotland.
“It is crucial that all stakeholders buy into this Scottish chicken development plan and move it forward quickly.
“The new Scottish producers’ group introduces a new force that can move the sector forward, ensuring Scottish product reaches into all quality segments of the market.
“It is now vital all parties recognise it as a key player in securing new opportunities and markets.”