Summary

A group of livestock farmers in Latvia were facing increased competition and at they same they had no easy access to slaughterhouse facilities. Such services would enable them to diversify their products and increase market potentials.

EAFRD support via LEADER enabled them to buy a mobile slaughterhouse and the necessary equipment. They set up a non-profit association to manage the service and now the farmers can choose whether to sell processed meat to retailers and slaughterhouses, or meat products directly to the local markets. The new service is provided for free to the members of the association.

Results

Greater cooperation was fostered among farmers. Members of the association became actively involved in the management of the service. Training and regular meetings held by the association increased the cooperation spirit among farmers.

Local inhabitants can now consume locally produced meat products at competitive price. Local catering services also offer locally produced meat – e.g. in schools and kindergartens.

The group gained valuable experience and knowledge of complying with laws and regulations, along with other legal aspects related to processing and selling of agricultural products on the market.