A new annual producer awards programme for the pig industry has been announced. The National Pig Awards supported by the British Pig Executive (BPEX) has secured the sponsorship of leading businesses, Agrosoft UK and Schering-Plough Animal Health.

Highlighting the objective for the awards programme the sponsors are keen to promote a fresh format that recognises performance, innovation and commercial progress as well as high output. Additionally an integral part of the programme is the sharing of production and business achievements with fellow producers.

Successful producers will be profiled in industry media and by the circulation of case studies.

The three award categories and respective sponsors are:

1. The application of AI to improve herd performance and profitability - BPEX
2. The utilisation of data to improve unit profitability - Agrosoft UK Ltd
3. Improving herd performance through proactive health management and utilisation of veterinary support - Schering-Plough Animal Health

The qualifying period for the above categories are for results achieved in the twelve month period ending July 2006.

Confirming support, BPEX Strategy co-ordinator and awards judge, Andrew Knowles highlighted the knowledge sharing benefit of the awards format, " Producers will be recognised not only for their herd performance but also for demonstrating innovation and progress. The case studies element will allow for these successes to be communicated to the industry for the benefit of all producers."

Submissions will be assessed by industry professionals and award winners will be announced in November 2006.

The full judging panel is:
Stephen Hall - Managing Director Agrosoft UK Ltd
Ross Kelly BVMS, MRCVS - Pig Veterinary Advisor, Schering-Plough Animal Health
Andrew Knowles - BPEX Strategy Co-ordinator
J D Mackinnon BVetMed CertPM FRCVS - Pig health and production consultancy

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