Tesco is proud to announce its sponsorship of the ABP Bull Improvement Initiative, a pioneering new programme designed to enhance sustainability, and efficiency in Irish beef production. This marks an innovative first and reinforces Tesco’s commitment to supporting innovative agricultural practices that benefit both farmers and consumers.
Developed as part of the ABP Advantage Beef Programme, the initiative provides financial support to Irish family farms to purchase superior bulls with high genetic merit. The goal is to improve herd performance and reduce environmental impact.
Tesco will contribute €20,000 annually for two years, supporting the initiative’s mission to deliver more sustainable beef products backed by science.
Head of Quality, Technical & Sustainability at Tesco Ireland Tracey McDermott said, “Our support for the ABP Bull Improvement Initiative is a natural extension of Tesco’s sustainability strategy. We’re proud to stand behind a programme that uses science and data to help Irish farmers produce better beef with a lower carbon footprint.”
The initiative is underpinned by ten years of data from ABP’s trial farm, validated by the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF). Findings show that offspring from bulls in the top 25% for genetic merit are, on average, 38kg heavier and worth €301 more at the same age than those from lower merit sires. These cattle reach finishing weight earlier, reducing their carbon footprint and improving farm efficiency.
Stephen Connolly Agri Sustainability Manager with ABP said, “The data tells us that calves produced from these higher quality beef bulls can have very real benefits for both the beef and dairy sector, enabling dairy farmers to produce more saleable beef calves and beef farmers to produce more efficient and sustainable animals.”
Tesco’s sponsorship of the programme highlights its ongoing commitment to supporting innovation in the agriculture sector and delivering high-quality, sustainable products to its customers.
