Livestock farmers need to plan properly before they start up a business. They must understand which foods would best suit their farm animals.
However, the most important thing is to improve animal health and boost their immune system so they can grow faster and healthier.
The global market for pet food and its ingredients is expected to grow from $15.5 billion in 2013 to $21.7 billion by 2020, driven mainly by increasing consumer preference toward natural products and growing awareness regarding the health benefits of organic foods.
The increasing meat production and exports in the Asia Pacific region is creating opportunities for the feed additive industry.
China, France, Italy, Spain, and the US represent the largest prepared animal feeds market, while the fastest growing market is expected to be Senegal (17.7 percent), Bolivia (11.0 percent), the Philippines (9.8 percent), Panama (9.2 percent) and Vietnam (9.0 percent).
Anyone who wants to start a manufacturing company can do so with significant capital investment. The margins are high and thus it is one of the most profitable industries.
Here are the Steps to Start Livestock/ Animal/ Cattle Feed Business
1. Understand the Market
When producing livestock feeds, market research is essential. You must determine the demand for the products you plan to sell. This business needs careful strategy and proper inventory management.
2. Choose the Types of Livestock Feed
There are some of the most popular and profitable animals feeds include animal feeds, fish feeds, beef feeds, hog or swine feeds, chicken feeds, duck feeds, turkey feeds, etc.
Depending on the needs of your local market, choose the best one for you. Each different type of feed requires specific processes and raw materials.
3. What are the common feeds for livestock?
Feeds to be given are usually determined by the local supply. Some commonly available feedstuffs include grasses, leguminous plants, fodder plants, fruit trees, vegetable roots, cereal grains, and animal manures.
4. Create a Livestock Feed Production Business Plan
Starting a livestock feeding enterprise requires a thorough understanding of the market. A good strategy can help you determine your niche and set realistic goals. A detailed financial analysis will allow you to make informed decisions about your future plans.
You may find yourself needing to borrow money to get started. Before you do so, consider the following:1. Determine whether you need financing.
Some of the basic topics your business plan must cover include the following:
- Initial and recurring costs
- Target customers
- Pricing plan
- Hiring manpower
- Where and how to market your livestock products
5. Livestock Feed Manufacturing Unit Setup
Livestock feeds come in various forms such as pellets, flakes, meal, flour, and powder. These can be used for poultry, pigs, cattle, sheep, goats, horses, camels, rabbits, dogs, cats, and fish. You may also choose between manual and automatic feeding equipment.
The type of livestock feeds depends on the size of your farm. For example, if you run a small-scale farm then you should go for smaller-sized equipment. On the other hand, if you run a large-scale farm then you should opt for larger-sized equipment.
You’ll need to buy a grinder, scale, mixer, pellet maker, steamer, cooker, freezer, crusher, elevator, conveyor, sifter, and packer.
Raw materials for animal feeds come from various sources. Usually, they’ve been ordered by the nutritionist as needed to create the desired formula for the particular type of livestock.
Storage rooms must be waterproof and well-ventilated, and they need to protect against insect and rodent infestations that could rapidly lead to large losses in weight.
To store items in bags, they must be kept in a place where there is no moisture and pests. The walls and roofs don’t need to be too heavy if they’re just lightly constructed.
Be sure to pay close attention to the package. It must be moisture-proof so that the product doesn’t get damaged during shipping.
6. Manpower For Livestock Feed Production Company
In order to make your website user-friendly and attractive, you should hire an SEO expert who knows how to optimize your site so that it ranks high in the SERPs (search engine results pages). A good SEO company will help you get traffic to your site and convert visitors into customers.
7. Promote Your Livestock Feed Production Business
You’ll need to determine different methods for promoting and distributing the product.
You can set up your own distribution network. Set up your own channel by establishing connections with stockists, distributors, retail stores, etc.
Selling livestock products overseas is one of the best ways to increase your company’s revenue.
You can start your own business too.
You need to have a website for your company. It will help you attract more customers and give you an identity.
List your products on an eCommerce platform like Amazon, eBay, Etsy, etc.
At the micro-level, ensure that there is more and more field marketing with the farmers. Always keep in mind that it is all about building brand value. You can only attract loyal customers by offering high-quality products.
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