TECNO Europe Layer Farms Project Visit

On the 23rd of May 2017, AGCO GSI designated a representative, Mr. Ong Cheng Beng, to 3 TECNO Layer farms in Shrewsbury (UK), Lombardy (Italy) and Laer (Germany). The trip was joined up with some of CP China’s representatives and they spent a period of 23 days in these countries.

The objective of this trip was to observe, study, and contemplate the ways these farms are managed. During this trip, a few factors were focused on, such as the layers systems, ventilation systems, and the overall farm set ups. Griffiths Oaklands, UK, has been applying Tecno’s cages for over 20 years and CP China was very interested to analyze the current condition and longevity of the cages.

It was found that the eggs production of free range birds contains more nutrition compared to caged birds, but in terms of production quantity, caged birds are still in the lead, which is of the reasons why free range eggs have a higher price compared to caged eggs. As the majority of today’s consumers are more concern about health benefits, the free range bird concept will surely be
practiced in local mass production farms in the near future.

The observation highlight was on the minimal ventilation system that was applied in these farms. It is important that the livestock gets the right amount of natural air regardless the cold weather outside the farm house. This minimal ventilation system will be taken into consideration and is applicable in other cold countries. Besides that, it can also be beneficial and effective in hot climate
region during brooding and raising baby chicks, by utilizing outside temperature.

This trip has benefited us with some good information. With the study and data collected, we can begin preparation and innovation for the next decade.