Prepared for the Unexpected: How a Staffordshire Turkey Producer is Taking Control Against AI Threats
With Avian Influenza Prevention Zones in place across England and additional housing orders in parts of the Midlands, poultry producers remain on high alert. At Toft Farm Growers, a mixed family business near Stafford, preparation goes beyond routine biosecurity. Led by Mark Holt and supported by shed manager Freddie Webb, the team has taken proactive steps to ensure they are ready for whatever comes next.
Biosecurity Built-In
Originally a dairy operation, the Holt family diversified into poultry in 2019. Their four purpose-built sheds now house around 40,000 turkeys, supplying Avara Foods. The farm benefits from being a modern site – designed from the ground up with biosecurity in mind.
“We’ve got shower-on facilities, shed-specific clothing, and step-over barriers as standard,” says Mr Webb. “And now, we’ve permanently rigged up a pressure washer so we can disinfect incoming vehicles and high-risk areas quickly and effectively.”
The farm undergoes annual biosecurity audits through Red Tractor, Marks & Spencer, Tesco, and Avara assurance schemes, with regular input from their area manager.
But even with robust protocols, the team knows biosecurity is only as strong as its weakest link – often third-party visitors like contractors and catchers.
“When another farm in our group contracted AI, they explained how tough it was managing the process with APHA – finding documents, organising muck removal, and handling disinfection,” recalls Mr Webb. “We didn’t want to be in that position, so we decided to plan ahead.”
Planning for the Worst
That foresight led Toft Farm to partner with Livetec Systems to develop a bespoke Emergency Response Plan (ERP) – a contingency strategy designed to provide clarity and speed in the event of an AI outbreak.
Julian Sparrey, technical director at Livetec, explains: “When disease hits, time is critical. We work with farmers to map out their premises, identify contacts, and prepare all the paperwork that might be requested by APHA.”
He adds that good planning isn’t just about speed – it can significantly impact financial outcomes. “When Scottish egg producer James Baxter faced AI in 2023, his ERP helped him act quickly and save over £45,000 in losses. Being organised allowed APHA vets to value surviving hens promptly, maximising compensation.”
Toft Farm now keeps two ERP copies on hand – one for the farm team, and one ready to hand to officials.
“In a stressful situation, it’s so much easier to have everything in one place,” says Mr Webb. “Yes, we’re insured, but if we can reduce the time we’re destocked, we limit the financial impact. Being ready means getting back to business faster.”
Looking Ahead
Toft Farm Growers’ approach reflects a wider shift in the poultry industry – towards proactive biosecurity, digital preparedness, and resilience in the face of growing disease threats. Their message to others? Don’t wait for an outbreak to act. Invest in preparedness, protect your birds, and safeguard your business.
Get your Emergency Response Plan today, contact Livetec to discuss your needs.
