By Gary Ford, head of producer engagement, BFREPA
The days are getting longer as we leave winter behind and edge toward spring – always a refreshing, optimistic time of the year. Many people wax lyrical about autumn with its rich colours, warm fires and busy social calendar (not to mention the poultry conferences), but for me it’s spring that lifts the spirit and brings a renewed sense of purpose.
That lift is certainly needed right now. We are only just emerging from a challenging higher‑risk period for AI, and the egg sector is grappling with the government’s firm stance on Ukraine alongside the prospect of a ban on a production system that currently provides affordable, entry‑level eggs for consumers under the greatest financial pressure. The government must be fully aware of the unintended consequences of a colony cage ban and the scale of its impact. As a representative of the free‑range sector, I am concerned not least about the unanswered question: what happens without a reciprocal ban on imports? The consultation remains open until 9 March, and I would urge anyone affected – or anyone with a view on this uncoordinated proposal – to make their voice heard.
Staying with consultations, Defra has now released version three of its draft proposals on fairness in the egg supply chain. Fairness and transparency in contracts is something we have championed for many years, and we are now within touching distance of meaningful change. If all proceeds as expected, new contracts should begin to reflect these requirements in the first half of 2027, with existing contracts likely to have a longer transition period – potentially up to 18 months, taking us to late 2027.
It is important to note that the government is regulating fairness by ensuring contracts contain clear, understandable and equitable terms. It is not about regulating price, which is why we are seeing the dairy sector respond to supply‑and‑demand pressures in the way it is. And it is precisely why Ukrainian egg, entering the UK market with very different standards and therefore very different costs, remains such a serious concern.
This is an issue we will monitor closely and continue to raise with government. For now, the days are getting longer, spring will soon be in the air and with it comes a little more optimism. Please enjoy.