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Datenbank der Projekte zur ländlichen Entwicklung

Organic Chicken

Summary

The project aims to expand organic chicken production by investing in six chicken production houses run by a company. This will also improve Sweden's overall competitive advantage in the production of organic food.

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Background

Organic products had not previously been prominent in the Swedish poultry market. This fact was identified as an opportunity by Birgitta and Claes Alwén who were among the first farmers in the country to establish a commercial line of organic chickens. Located in the southern Swedish region of Bentarp, the Alwén’s organic chicken business has now been running for over ten years. During this time the team of husband and wife have carved themselves a firm niche in the national poultry market.

Objective

The purpose of the investment in six new mobile stables for organic chicken production was to double the production at the farm, and thus to secure income for the family and the stability for the company. A similar investment of six production houses was carried out in 2002. Currently organic chicken production is only 0.2% of total national chicken production which leaves significant potential for expansion.

Main activities

Construction of a six new mobile stables for the adult birds and funds were also secured for a ‘baby barn’ to help improve welfare and development of the younger chicks. Sweden offers excellent conditions for the project, in terms of space, clean air and water. The main beneficiaries of the project are the farm-owners as well as local consumers who have access to fresh, natural products. The small farm approach also tackles the problem of a single company dominating the chicken industry.

Results & Benefits

The quantity and quality of organic chicken production has increased. Today the products of the Bosarpkyckling company are sold primarily through the food chain COOP and to restaurants. The interest in organic production is big. After an article in the customer magazine “Mersmak” many consumers have contacted the company. Wider benefits are environmental, with reduced quantities of chemicals and fertilisers and therefore less contamination and adverse effects on climate change.

Lessons learnt

These include the following: a) The high quality and taste of organic chicken warrants increased production. b) Use closeness to rural final consumers in order to develop and market niche products. c) Organic production can better be achieved through small scale companies. d) Exploit the excellent national conditions for exporting quality organic products. e) Building reputation adds value and contributes to the sustainability of the business.

Project location and other information

Blentarp, Sweden

Region

Skåne län

RDP Territory

Sweden

Total project cost (€)

150 000

EAFRD contribution (€)

16 000

National contribution (€)

16 000

Private contribution (€)

118 000

Contact name

Birgitta and Claes Alwén; Bosarp Organic Bosarp Gård, SE-270 35 Blentarp.

Telephone

Tel: + 46 416 24400, +46 070-58 58 111

Languages for contact

Swedish

At a glance

Country

Sweden

Final beneficiary type

Individual farmers, Producer groups, Other

Budget range

€100 000 - €500 000

Start date:

01/09/2008

End Date:

31/12/2009

Theme / Measure:

• Competitiveness of Agriculture & Forestry
• Restructuring, developing physical potential, and promoting innovation
• 121. Modernisation of agricultural holdings

Keywords:

Food quality , Organic farming, Chicken, Meat, Entrepreneurship

Last update

02/07/2013