Geddebækholm lies on the outskirts of Kjellerup in central Jutland. Located up a gravel road behind a low range of hills, the focus at this highly professional farm is on efficiency and precise production management.

The Kristensen brothers accepted the invitation to deliver sows to Danish Crown on trial, and the improved service persuaded them to return as sow members.

We have a pen placing system which requires that cull sows are collected at precisely the right time. Our production system does not allow for a sow to wait for several days before being collected, because a new sow is already waiting to take its place, says Stig Kristensen, who has now been running the farm for 16 years together with his brotherLars, who explains that they were tempted by Danish Crown’s offer of delivering sows on trial.

Previous experience
The brothers have previously delivered sows to Danish Crown, but three years ago decided to send the animals to Germany because Danish Crown’s collections did not tie in with their production plan.

We had grown tired of the previous haulier because he wanted to collect the animals on different days of the week and at all times of the day and night. It meant that we had to tailor our production to his schedules, whereas I think we should show more consideration for each other. Which is what I feel is being achieved with the new initiatives from Danish Crown, says Lars Kristensen.

Even before the trial periodwas over, the Kristensen brothers decided to become sow members.

The improved level of service has been a key factor in our decision, and in this context it is not the price paid for the sows which carries most weight. Efficiency is everything, they agree.