The Scottish government has developed a 'Poultry Plan', which aims to strengthen the country's industry. According to the government, the plan should be finalised by Christmas and all elements should be in place by this time next year.  

image expired

Speaking on Monday, Farming Minister Richard Lochhead said meetings with industry leaders last week had led to the formation of a number of focus-areas, which will be finalised by Christmas.

The key areas will include:

• Identifying new market opportunities and capitalising on the growing demand for quality Scottish product;
• Supporting the development of a pro-active Scotland-wide producer group;
• Improving the efficiency and competitiveness of all parts of the supply chain, through better collaboration and other measures;
• Ensuring 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.

Further meetings on Monday, organised by NFU Scotland in response to announcements by 2 Sisters Food Group, will also inform the plan.  

Speaking on Sunday, Mr Lochhead said, "Scotland has first-class poultry producers who operate to high animal welfare standards to deliver quality products to the market and we can't… 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 2Sisters 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 arising where we have one dominant player within the supply chain."

He added, "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."

NFU Scotland President, Nigel Miller commented, "It is crucial that all stakeholders buy in to 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."