Gathige wrote:@ Hundewear, i tried this biz and was dealing with broilers some 5 years ago and after one year, i stopped doing it. Below were the challenges i faced,
1. Sourcing the chicks- The first set of chicks was easy to get and thereafter i had to make bookings before i could get them. Some times i could get sometimes i could miss and this disrupted my supply of the broilers. My lesson learnt was to be very careful where to get a regular source of chicks from. Big companies promise to deliver but fail to honor promises
2. Feed. Apart from pricing, quality of the feed is an issue. Some feeds are so poor you feed them to the chicks and add no weight. I was finally able to get a vet doc who was making feeds and his feed were the best as they guaranteed weight gain within the period time. My lesson learnt was to be careful to get the right feeds. When i get back to this biz i will make own feeds as it is a simple process once u have the right formulation
3. MARKETING. This was my worst nighmare. I had to deal with brokers, fish and chips shops in town and at times sell at City Market. My lesson learnt was to be sure of the market before u start to avoid burning your money literally. Firm orders, an outlet to sell in small lots (in kgs) etc would work best.
4. Disease. I was lucky a vet doc friend of mine was advising me on drugs and hygiene. Disease control is important as an outbreak can clear a stock. There are very may shops selling substandard animal drugs and one need to be sure that the product used actually works. My lesson learnt was to get a good vet doc to advise before you buy and administer drugs, some of which can be harmful to consumers if not well administered.
I learnt my lesson and since i still have my structure and equipment, i plan to do it later in life when i can dedicate my time full time and i am sure i will make money.
My 2 cents
The busines is stil challenging esp now but I foresee great trmes ahead.Almost everybody has sold their stock n this wil create a very bid dap between demand and supply of eggs.Last year hatchery companies had very many pending orders running into atleast 6 months but today my dealer tels me I can have the chicks in 2-3 weeks.Feeds remain an issue todate as even the reputable companies have been compromising on quality even as they increase prices.Some millers however wil take responsibilities when you complain early by exchangn the poor quality lot.As for the market there are brokers who always hav market but wont gve a fair price.I have at least 3 brokers and only gve the highest bidder.Having many trays helps to hoard as I wait for a fair price..Every hatchery got its recommended vaccination and its very important tn follow the prescription to the letter.They also got a vet who should advice on where to get good medcine.