Season’s Greetings and 2024 Year in Review from the Executive Director
As 2024 draws to a close, we reflect on the progress and advancements we’ve made as an industry. This year has been historic for the BC Chicken Marketing Board, with significant challenges overcome and substantial development towards a stronger industry.
Highlights from 2024
Long-Term Pricing Formula
The phased implementation of the Cost of Production (COP) model began in June, transitioning over six periods and set to complete in April 2025. This structured approach ensures a balanced and equitable pricing system while addressing stakeholder needs. The Board remains flexible and committed to adapting as necessary based on transparent, verifiable data.
Strategic Plan and Vision
This year, we unveiled a new three-year strategic plan, emphasizing communication, collaboration, risk management, pricing, policy, and market intelligence. Milestones included launching a revamped website, improving market intelligence, and making strides in policy development to foster innovation and sustainability in the industry.
Policy Updates
2024 saw several pivotal policy changes:
-
Land Ownership: Updated rules now support flexibility, expansion, and succession planning.
-
New Entrant Grower Program: The previous program was exhausted, and comprehensive consultation will result in a new program in 2025 (TBD).
-
Quota Usage & Access Consultation (QUAC): Launched a consultation this Fall, and we look forward to further industry feedback into 2025.
Avian Influenza
The industry navigated ongoing and renewed outbreaks with diligence, supporting growers and industry through enhanced auditing measures, permitting processes, and disaster recovery efforts. As an industry, we’ll need to see continuous improvement into 2025.
Adapting to Change
From addressing production shortfalls, reviewing and advocating for national allocations, implementing new policies, we’ve shown adaptability and a steadfast focus on long-term sustainability
of the industry.
Industry Support and Growth
The Board distributed surplus funds from prior years and maintained critical funding reserves to support growers during emergencies. These initiatives ensure stability and preparedness for the
challenges ahead.
Looking Ahead to 2025
We enter the new year with optimism, hoping for fewer disruptions and greater opportunities to strengthen our industry. Key priorities include completing the COP phase-in, resurveying and updating the BC COP, implementing revised policies through rigorous consultation, improving our communication and stakeholder relations, and continuing to support growers and processors through open communication and robust planning.
A Message of Gratitude
We extend our heartfelt thanks to every grower, processor, hatchery representative, and stakeholder for your dedication and partnership. Your hard work drives our shared success and sustains BC’s chicken industry. To our Board members and staff, your unwavering commitment and teamwork inspire confidence in our ability to
face any challenge.
As we celebrate the Christmas season, let us appreciate the progress we’ve made together and look forward to a prosperous 2025. Wishing you and your families health, happiness, and joy in the year ahead.
Warmest regards,
Woody Siemens, Executive Director.
| 
