The temporary closures of United Poultry and Superior Poultry have reduced processing capacity for mainstream chicken by 11% or 225,000 birds this week. Due to the incredible collaboration and cooperation between our processors, it appears that all birds will be processed this week. This will be accomplished in spite of many obstacles, hundreds of hours of extra work and much additional cost that may never be able to be recovered. The coming together of all stakeholders during this difficult time has allowed our industry to maintain our number one priority of keeping store shelves well stocked with fresh BC grown and processed chicken. The cooperation of growers that have been asked to ship earlier or later than their original shipping dates in order to accommodate revised plant schedules has been critical to the successful managing of the temporary plant closures. Our staff will be closely monitoring these early and late shipments to ensure that no grower is negatively impacted by additional over or under marketing levies or penalties.
Late this week we learned that Fraser Valley Specialty Poultry in Yarrow has temporarily suspended operations as a precautionary measure due to one employee that had been in self-quarantine and has tested positive for COVID-19. At the time that this is being written, we do not know if or how this will impact the market for BC grown specialty poultry products.
The Board has not as yet determined how the A-163 allocation and allotments will be dealt with, but please be assured that the intention remains to deal with under and over production and allotments in an equitable manner. Your patience is appreciated as this process will take some time and may not occur until after the pandemic has been brought under control and life returns to normal or at least “new normal” whatever that will be.
Your Board and staff members continue to work very hard on your behalf every day and are grateful for your continued support during this difficult time.
Best wishes to all of you and your families, stay safe.
Bill Vanderspek
Executive Director
billvanderspek@bcchicken.ca