Customer focus is key says Phil Halhead

Guest speaker at the Border Belgian Blue Club AGM was Phil Halhead, Breeding Consultant from Norbreck Genetics. He eloquently reminded everyone what the key focus for breeders should be......

“The most important thing to remember is what the customer wants, whether it is a dairy farmer looking for an easy calving crossing bull, a beef farmer wanting to finish quality cattle quickly, or a Belgian Blue breeder looking for size and power – and we must not forget that locomotion is one of the most critical traits needed in the UK.”

As Beef consultant to Cogent Mr Halhead explained his twin track approach to bull selection – “the type of bull needed by dairy men is very different to farmers with suckler herds. At Norbreck Genetics we are looking for bulls to service both needs. Here at Carlisle the demand for Belgian Blue bulls for dairy herds remains strong, but there is a noticeable increase in the number of suckler men who are turning to the breed because of the growth and quality of finished lean carcases.” He concluded by congratulating the club on the essential role they play in the development of the British Belgian Blue breed and their exceptional club sale record.

“A 33% increase in attendance at the AGM of the Border Belgian Blue Club goes to highlight the increasing strength of the Belgian Blue breed in Cumbria” summarised Chairman Richard Carruthers after the meeting held at Shepherds Inn, Carlisle.

This local involvement with the breed emulates the national trend. UK demand for leaner beef with a good killing out percentage has increased the interest in Belgian Blue cattle and, spurred on by export demand for lean meat, the Border Belgian Blue Club has seen significant increases in trade at their club sales.

The May Club sale saw a breed record of 21,000gns and a 27% rise in average prices. “This undoubtedly helped raise the profile of the club and the breed at Beef Expo ’06 held at the Carlisle Mart” said Claire Pattinson, Club Secretary for over 13 years. She added “since becoming secretary I have seen the breed develop considerably to meet the needs of the UK market – something which we believe is set to continue.”

Pictured above:

Richard Carruthers presents flowers to Claire Pattinson, secretary for over 13 years.

Richard Carruthers (Chairman) with Claire Pattinson (Secretary), Brian Wheatley (President) and guest speaker Phil Halhead from Norbreck Genetics