EDINBURGH, Scotland. – Aviagen® SweChick welcomed 88 poultry professionals from across Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden to its Annual Customer Conference, held May 27–28 in Skåne, Sweden. The event was a chance to strengthen connections and share practical insights on improving broiler and breeder health, welfare and performance – from hatchery to processing.
The event also set the stage for an important company milestone. This year, Aviagen SweChick marks 50 years of working alongside poultry producers in the Nordic region. The anniversary is a reflection of its long-standing commitment to the sector – built on consistent support, strong relationships, and a shared passion for poultry. A celebration event is planned later in the year to thank customers and recognize this journey together.
Sharing insights to strengthen the sector
The first day featured presentations relevant for the European poultry sector, including welfare auditing and accreditation systems, research and development, and evolving nutrition strategies for broilers and breeders. A standout moment was a market overview from Birthe Steenberg, Secretary General of the Association of Poultry Processors and Poultry Trade in the EU (AVEC), who shared insights on trade developments and European legislation affecting the poultry sector.
Practical knowledge in focus
On the second day, attendees chose between two breakout sessions – one on hatchery management and incubation, and the other on broiler and breeder production. Topics ranged from hatchery automation and brooding practices to climate planning, ventilation, and the Ross Broiler Handbook. Participants also explored the impact of diluted feed on welfare and performance.
The afternoon sessions covered how management inputs influence processing outcomes, automation in egg quality assessment, and leadership strategies to build thriving, high-performing teams. Attendees also reviewed a recent nest hygiene and hatchery trial and looked ahead to the role of artificial intelligence in poultry production.
Both sessions sparked valuable discussion and offered hands-on insights for daily operations.
“We sincerely thank our customers and all who contributed to making this event a success,” commented Magnus Swalander, Managing Director of Aviagen SweChick. “It’s a reflection of our ongoing commitment to breeding success together with producers across the Nordic region and Europe.”
Reflections from attendees
“It was great to reconnect with fellow producers from across the region and exchange experiences. The mix of practical insights and open discussion made the event truly valuable for our day-to-day operations at home,” said Hanna Hamina, CEO DanHatch Finland.
“The sessions gave us useful takeaways we can apply immediately – from incubation tips to new ideas around feed and ventilation. It’s clear Aviagen SweChick understands the challenges we face and is committed to supporting our progress,” said Ola Andersson, MD SweHatch / Director of Live Operations Kronfågel, Sweden.
“The event has reinforced the strong connection we have with Aviagen SweChick. The focus on welfare, sustainability and future technologies shows they’re working hand-in-hand with us, breeding for the future of poultry production in our region,” commented Tómas Jónsson, Veterinarian / Quality Manager, Matfugl, Iceland.
New leadership for the future
This milestone comes as the company announces that Nina Yngwe will become General Manager of SweChick in the autumn of 2025. Nina is well-known across the Nordic poultry sector. She brings broad experience in poultry production and business management, having held leadership roles at Sweden’s major poultry producers. She will oversee parent stock distribution across Sweden and Scandinavia and lead SweChick’s operational development.
Expanding to meet the needs of producers across Europe
SweChick remains committed to securing a stable supply of high-generation breeding stock for producers in the region and across Europe. In addition to its Ross® 308 offering, the company will expand its production to include the Rustic Gold® slower-growing breed for customers throughout Europe.
Magnus praised the Nordic region’s leadership in poultry health and resilience, while stressing the importance of strengthening competitiveness and self-sufficiency across Europe.
“We’re committed to investing in the region’s future – enhancing farm infrastructure to support bird welfare and sustainability, and expanding our production base to help ensure a secure, local supply of quality poultry breeding stock,” said Magnus.