Sucklers need the industry and the industry needs sucklers

There is room for improvement at farm level. But there is also room for improvement at industry level, both sides must work together to secure the suckler herd at its current size.

6 August 2014

Despite the hardships of the fodder crises in the spring of 2013, year to date suckler farmers have registered 2% less beef calves than in 2013. This is showing their dedication and commitment to the sector the industry must demonstrate theirs.

First and foremost, suckler farmers are farming to make a profit. Whether there are 10 or 100 cows on the farm, they must produce a margin for that business to remain sustainable.

The gross margin for suckler farmers represents sale price less the production costs of the cow and that of progeny sold.

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