Published on June 22, 2022
Innovation and investment for energy efficiency, sustainability, and chick quality
Part of Hendrix Genetics, a world-leading multi-species breeding company, we benefit from world-class breeding and sustained investment. The result is exceptional genetics and excellent chick quality.
Joice and Hill – a modern hatchery with great people and excellent breeding!
Investment in our facilities
Begun in 2012, we have now completed the renovation of incubation equipment and an expansion in annual capacity from 10m to 16.5m day old chicks.
We are now moving forward with additional recent investments designed to aid efficiency and increase hatchability, which include:
- De-stacker and fluff removal in take-off to ease staff workload and improve the hatching environment.
- SPIDES/fumigation/pre-warming cabinet – capacity 120 000 eggs. To safe-guard egg storage, narrow hatch windows and improve chick health and uniformity
- A ground source cooling project, solar panels, CC3 heat exchange technology and LED lighting all reduce energy consumption
- New Novatech machines with improved vaccination and chick support installed Feb-22
Our hatchery, farm and delivery teams are key
Focusing on staff retention and training, Joice and Hill greatly value our experienced and dedicated team. Both on-site and off-site training has been delivered to encourage the development of skills and knowledge of poultry and production methods. Fair pay and conditions are critical especially in the current inflationary environment. “It is our staff who ensure our strict bio-security and hygiene standards are observed at all times and it is they who deliver outstanding and consistent chick quality. Investment in staff is key.”
As a result of this management focus on improved chick quality, and our on-going investment programme, our customers’ flocks get the best possible start.
Innovating for efficiency, sustainability, and cost control
In a period of unprecedented feed, energy, and fuel costs, we are doing everything possible to control our costs, and their impact on chick prices. We will soon introduce:
- The ground source cooling project (pond cooling), has delivered savings of 20% of our electricity cost YTD, by reducing the need for chiller use.
- We are targeting solar power generation for 27% of our electricity and a total of 50% of our electricity use covered by alternative energy sources.
Our innovative approach will help us achieve four key targets
- Improved start to rear
- Lower environmental impact
- A more sustainable business
- Exceptional cost control
