Avara Foods says strong consumer demand and tighter welfare standards are reshaping the future of British chicken production, as outlined in its 2026 ‘For Good’ Responsible Business Report.
Chicken remains the UK’s fastest-growing meat, with nearly 85% of households buying fresh product. But Avara warns that domestic supply is struggling to keep pace, with only 40% of demand growth met by UK production since 2000, raising concerns over increasing reliance on imports.
For poultry farmers, the company’s most significant move is a full transition to lower stocking densities across its broiler supply chain. All farms now operate at 30kg/m²—well below UK and Red Tractor limits. Early results show marked welfare gains, including a 45% drop in footpad dermatitis and a 54% reduction in hock burn.
Avara Foods, one of the UK’s largest food producers, has published its latest ‘For Good’ Report, revealing the significant welfare improvements that have been achieved since the wholesale adoption of lower stocking densities in all its supplying broiler farms. This means Avara’s entire broiler supply base is operating at 30kg per square metre, well below current EU (42kg), UK (39kg) regulations, and the Red Tractor Standard (38kg).
Avara’s agriculture director, David Neilson, commented “Over the last few years we’ve consistently performed ahead of industry averages for key indicators of good physical welfare, and have achieved best in class welfare outcomes. This is because of our commitment to continual improvement: no matter how well we’re doing, we have a desire and belief that we can always do better. Since we moved to 30kg’s, every measurable physical welfare indicator for our birds has improved”.
Moreover, the benefits extend beyond just the birds, with Neilson adding, “The early feedback from farmers has also been positive, noting they have more time and space on farm, making it easier to review flock health and manage their birds”.
Farmers are also seeing practical benefits. Lower densities have improved litter management and reduced feed use per bird, cutting carbon emissions while giving stockmen more time to monitor flock health.
On sustainability, Avara reports it is ahead of schedule on climate targets. Since 2019, it has cut emissions by over 170 million kg of CO₂e, aided by a switch to zero-carbon electricity and efficiency gains across operations. Scope 1 and 2 emissions are down 30% from baseline, with Scope 3 emissions also falling.
Feed remains the biggest contributor to the company’s footprint, accounting for 73%, keeping pressure on supply chain improvements, particularly around sustainable soya sourcing.
Innovation on farm is also under way. Trials using biochar in litter show potential to cut ammonia emissions by up to 58%, which could improve both bird welfare and environmental performance if adopted at scale.
However, the report highlights ongoing sector challenges. Avian influenza remains a year-round threat, with tighter biosecurity now standard practice. Avara notes the financial and emotional toll on farmers, with compensation covering only around half of outbreak costs.
The company also pushes back on environmental criticism linked to the River Wye, arguing poultry producers are not directly responsible for nutrient management once manure leaves the farm.
Looking ahead, Avara warns that planning delays and lower-standard imports risk undermining UK production. With demand continuing to rise, it says investment and policy support will be critical to maintain food security while delivering higher welfare and lower environmental impact.