Pigmen can cash in on BPEX

CASH GRANTS for supply chain projects are once again available under round seven of a British Pig Executive initiative.

The application period runs from April 4 to May 20, 2005 and grants are given for a maximum 50% of total approved project costs.

It is seen as a way of encouraging producers and supply chain partners to make a long term commitment to an industry which has shrunk 40% since the late 1980’s

The key requirement of the BPEX initiative is that applicants make a long term commitment benefiting primary producers and including at least one additional partner.

Successful past projects have included individual pig producers setting up supply chains for local farm shops and outlets, as well as larger groups of producers supplying ranges of branded pigmeat products to national retailers.

BPEX hope that the funding will help producers to become less vulnerable to price fluctuations which have played havoc with pig profit margins over the years.

Producers must normally use the British Quality Standard Mark on grant funded supply chain pigmeat.

It is hoped this will provide primary producers with a better level of protection against cheaper imported pigmeat and help to retain viability in the longer term.

Over £2m has been awarded in grants of up to £50,000 through this initiative, which is funded from the Meat and Livestock Commission promotional levy.