Mark Williams, British Egg Industry Council

Poultry and Egg Industry Remains Resilient - Bord Bia

Over 200 representatives from the Irish poultry and egg sector gathered in Monaghan today for Bord Bia's sixth biennial Poultry and Egg Conference. Delegates heard that despite the recent difficult trading years, egg sales increased by seven per cent to €87 million in 2012, while the value of chicken sales remained steady at €180 million. In Ireland, consumption of poultry meat accounts for 33% of total meat consumed and at 25.7 kg per capita per annum, Ireland represents one of the highest levels of consumption across Europe. Irish shoppers currently spend €85 million per year on eggs (165 eggs per capita each year) with 54% buying eggs every week, an increase of 11% on last year. Despite the increased sales, the outlook for the sector is challenging for the remainder of 2012 and into next year mainly due to high feed costs. While the poultry sector is generally less affected than other primary sectors by the economic recession; the increase in feed costs has had an impact. Speaking at the event Aidan Cotter, chief executive, Bord Bia said "Many changes have taken place across the industry in recent times, from a changeover to the new laying hen welfare standards to the dramatic rise in input costs. However, this sector is possibly the most dynamic in terms of evolving and meeting the challenges it faces today." David Owens, Bord Bia's Poultry Sector Manager, outlined Bord Bia's plans to intensify TV and marketing promotions throughout 2013 to assist the sector at this turbulent time. "With almost 95% of all poultry and egg producer members of the Bord Bia Quality Assurance Scheme, a strong and resilient home market is critically important for the success of the industry. Since 2006, consumer awareness of Bord Bia's Quality Mark has grown from 62% to over 90% this year. We will continue to work with all members of the industry to promote Bord Bia Quality Assured poultry and egg products and over the coming weeks, we will be promoting the vast range of Quality Mark produce to increase awareness and purchase frequency during the Christmas season." The conference entitled 'Poultry and Eggs: Developing Opportunities in a Demanding Environment' provided a forum for the sector to openly address critical issues facing the industry. Key topics from feed market prospects and sustainable poultry production to retailer and consumer trends were covered along with developments within the egg and poultry meat sectors.