The British Pig Executive (BPEX) vision to help create a profitable and sustainable pig industry was outlined by Chief Executive Mick Sloyan.

© www.bpex.org.uk

Speaking on the first day of the British Pig and Poultry Fair at Stoneleigh, he said the recent decline in the pig breeding herd was disappointing.

However, he said there were some very encouraging signs that investment by producers was yielding improvements in productivity and in consequence in profitability.

He highlighted some of the projects in which BPEX was engaged to help the industry, including the British Pig Health Scheme, the British Pig Project and the Stockman's Eye video imaging system.

Details of the whole Road to Recovery 2006-9 can be found on the BPEX website www.bpex.org.uk where there is a link on the home page.

BPEX shares the view of forward thinkers that training is a vital component for the future of the industry to encourage and retain young people which is why it is backing the industry initiative From Sustainability to Sustained Ability.

Achieving competitiveness is not just about getting costs down, it is about reflecting the value of British production in the market place.

Mick said: "BPEX is under no illusions about the scale of the challenge facing the British pig industry.

"The latest BPEX report on imports into the UK and the behaviour of supermarkets in particular, shows the destructive impact of thoughtless price-based competition.

"It is clear from the research data that imported pork sold under 'flags of convenience' branding is being used increasingly to attract consumers. Such actions can only be achieved by compromises on standards.

"If supermarkets and foodservice companies are serious about corporate and social responsibility, they have to treat their suppliers fairly.

"BPEX is committed to helping producers and processors achieve a competitive position, particularly within Europe. But it will not be possible without the commitment of customers to trade on a fair and equitable basis."

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