2 Sisters plans to grow Scottish poultry

Leading poultry integrator 2 Sisters Food Group says it plans to increase processing in Scotland by 40% and create hundreds of new jobs in years to come.
The announcement follows a period in which the company has been bitterly criticised by broiler growers and their representatives, following its decision to sell off one of its two Scottish plants (Letham), and downsize the other one (Coupar Angus) by a third.
In mid-November the company put almost 30 contract growers on two crops’ notice, imposed a 2p/kg price cut on them and revealed it would be ending free-range and organic broiler processing in Scotland permanently.
But 2 Sisters has now indicated that the restructuring will be followed by growth – “two steps back, three steps forward” in the words of a spokesman – with some growers offered new contracts.
“Our rescue plan, if supported by all stakeholders in our supply chain, has the potential to increase Scottish poultry processing by 40% and create several hundred new jobs,” said a statement.
“This situation cannot be brought about in the immediate term. This aspiration will not be achieved without making the necessary changes in our processing plants and our agricultural base, plus the commitment of all interested parties.
“There will inevitably be an initial reduction in the number of farmers we require, but this will be spread out across the growing base. Selected farms will be chosen based on investment, quality performance and distance to markets, and we can confirm that new contracts will be offered to some contract growers in the coming weeks.”
2 Sisters statement
“Our consultations with colleagues at Letham and Coupar Angus continue, and we will have held discussions with all our growers by early next week – both partner companies and contract growers.
“There will inevitably be an initial reduction in the number of farmers we require, but this will be spread out across the growing base. Selected farms will be chosen based on investment, quality performance and distance to markets, and we can confirm that new contracts will be offered to some contract growers in the coming weeks.
“Our rescue plan simplifies what has been a historically complex and inefficient operation, supports future Scottish sales growth and lays a strong foundation for potential future investment.”
NFU Scotland has called for a swift meeting with 2 Sisters Food Group for further clarification.
“Incomplete information still casts a shadow over the sector in Scotland,” said union president Nigel Miller. “The termination process has clearly changed relationships and, unless managed, will compromise future plans.
“A Scotland-wide producer group is now in place with the support of the Scottish government and of the union. It would be of value if both 2 Sisters and 2 Agriculture recognised the new association, and met and worked with them. I am happy to support that process.”