In a strategic move to strengthen France’s chicken production, the agricultural cooperative Maïsadour has announced significant investments aimed at enhancing the sector’s capacity and sustainability.
Maïsadour, a well-established cooperative operating primarily in southwestern France, seeks to address the burgeoning demand for poultry while reducing the country’s import levels. This initiative also aims to align with the increasingly stringent societal expectations concerning food production standards.
This medium-sized cooperative boasts a turnover of approximately €2 billion and employs around 4,300 staff, with 5,000 active members. Notably, about 500 of these members produce high-quality chickens certified under the Label Rouge, emphasizing quality and tradition in poultry farming.
Major Investments for a Sustainable Future
Maïsadour has unveiled plans to invest in the construction of 150 new free-range poultry houses, which will accommodate 450,000 birds, alongside 15 conventional units for 3 million chickens, and an additional 50 free-range houses for 3 million animals. These initiatives represent a substantial enhancement for the French poultry sector.
To incentivize producers in both starting and expanding their operations, Maïsadour will offer a fixed bonus during the construction phase, competitive pricing throughout the transition period, and guaranteed purchase contracts. Special support measures will also focus on welcoming young entrants into the poultry industry, ensuring a sustainable future for this essential sector.
Patrick Faget, the Director of Livestock at Maïsadour, commented on the initiative: “This plan reflects our commitment to tangibly support our producers and establish a long-term vision for the poultry industry. We are increasing our efforts to create a sustainable, profitable poultry sector that plays a vital role in our rural landscapes.”
