Aviagen has announced the launch of the Ross 505 Club, created to recognise UK broiler growers who achieve an EPEF of 505 or more, placing them among the top 1% of the UK industry.
The company said the Ross 505 Club marks the next stage in its EPEF recognition programme, which began in 2009 with the introduction of the Ross 400 Club.
It added that the initiative forms part of Aviagen’s commitment to “Breeding Success Together,” celebrating customer achievements while encouraging continued progress and highlighting the exceptional levels of productivity and welfare that can be achieved with Ross 308 birds.
Following consistent improvements in industry performance, the entry threshold has been increased from 470 to 505 to reflect the rising standards achieved by UK broiler producers, Aviagen explained. The new benchmark came into effect from 1 March 2026.
“We’re continuing to see strong, consistent gains in EPEF performance across the UK,” said Stuart Thomson, regional technical manager for western Europe. “These results are driven not only by ongoing genetic advancements in our broilers, but also by the skill, commitment and collaboration of our customers. The Ross 505 Club is raising the bar, highlighting the growers who are truly excelling in today’s industry.”
Broiler growers that are reaching even higher levels of performance can qualify for the Gold Club, which recognises those achieving three consecutive qualifying flocks or exceeding the entry threshold by 10%. For the Ross 505 Club, this means reaching an EPEF of 555 or higher.
“We encourage every producer to aim for the Ross 505 Club and ultimately the Gold level,” Thomson said. “There is outstanding work happening across the UK, and we’re proud to celebrate those who continue to push performance to new heights.”
Members of the Ross 505 Club will be invited to a special celebration event in spring 2027, which will include an awards ceremony, networking opportunities with fellow growers, and insights from the Aviagen team on EPEF trends and how balanced breeding supports bird health, welfare and sustainability.
Winners will also receive a certificate, exclusive club-branded farm merchandise, and recognition for their achievements.