PD Hook (Breeders) has recorded an increase in annual sales and profits, despite another turbulent year for businesses supplying the food industry.
The company, which primarily produces eggs for hatching, said sales had increased by £7 million to £85 million in the year ending 31 October 2021, while operating profit doubled to £1.2 million. The firm benefitted from the rebound in the foodservice market as coronavirus restrictions were lifted, and also said they had been able to pass on the increased costs of feed and other inputs.
However, the past year had been challenging, the directors said, with the ongoing pandemic causing big fluctuations in demand for chicken and turkey. These fluctuations have led to some exceptional costs, the directors said.
The tightening labour market has also presented big challenges, the company said, and it had altered its working patterns to day time shifts over five days to help in the retention of staff. In addition, it had invested in more automation equipment, such as egg packing machines, and had improved incentives and bonuses for its existing staff.
