small scale egg production business plan

Starting Poultry Egg Farming Business Plan (PDF)

The poultry egg farming business offers a compelling blend of financial stability, scalability, and sustainability that makes it a noteworthy pursuit. The allure of layers chicken farming business lies in its ability to provide a consistent stream of income. With layers chickens laying eggs prolifically throughout the year, the financial predictability this venture offers is unparalleled. But beyond that, the profitability margins in this business are good, making it not just a sustainable endeavor but a highly lucrative one. The demand for eggs has soared to unprecedented heights, making the layers chicken farming business an exceptionally attractive venture to explore. Eggs, a dietary staple for countless households worldwide, enjoy enduring popularity due to their nutritional value and versatile culinary applications. As the global population continues to grow and dietary preferences evolve towards healthier and protein-rich options, the demand for high-quality, locally-sourced eggs has surged. This robust and consistent demand ensures a ready market for layers chicken farmers, underlining the profitability and sustainability of this business in meeting the ever-increasing appetite for eggs.

It is important that you understand how to manage the layers egg production business well so as to be profitable. Each business has principles that need to be followed in order for it to be successful. You need to have sufficient knowledge about how to efficiently take care of the layer chickens as well as good business management skills plus a good poultry egg farming business plan. This article will outline how to start the layers egg production business, and the poultry egg farming business plan – PDF, Word and Excel.

This article and business plan is about  poultry egg farming (egg production).  We also have articles and business plans for

Broiler Poultry Farming Business

Free Range Chicken Farming Business

Click the links above to go to the articles and business plans. 

Market Research

Before starting a layers chicken farming business, conducting thorough market research is an essential step that can greatly influence your success. Understanding the market dynamics, consumer demand, and competition in the poultry industry is crucial for making informed decisions and positioning your business for growth. Part of conducting comprehensive market research for your layers chicken farming business is gaining a deep understanding of the pricing dynamics within your target market. This involves not only knowing the prevailing market prices for eggs but also identifying potential customers, their ordering frequency, and the quantities they typically purchase. Identify your target market for layers chicken eggs. Are you planning to sell directly to consumers, local businesses, or wholesale to larger distributors? Determine the demographics, preferences, and purchasing behaviors of your potential customers.  Also determine the pricing strategy for your layers chicken eggs. Calculate your production costs, including feed, labor, and overhead expenses, to set competitive yet profitable prices. Consider pricing models that align with market demand and your business objectives, such as premium, value, or volume pricing.

Analyze the competitive landscape in your area. Who are your competitors, and what is their market share? What sets your layers chicken farming business apart from others? Investigate their pricing strategies, product quality, and customer satisfaction levels. This information can guide you in developing a competitive advantage and differentiating your business in the market. Examine the supply chain involved in the layers chicken farming industry, from sourcing chickens and feed to egg distribution. Identify potential suppliers and establish relationships with reliable partners. Understanding the supply chain can help you optimize your operations and ensure a steady flow of resources.

Land For Poultry Egg Production Business

When starting a poultry egg farm you need the right amount of land and proper housing for your birds. The size of your project will determine the size of the land you will need. You also have to consider transport networks – your layers farm should be easily accessible as you will regularly have to transport eggs to the market and deliver stock feeds to the poultry farm. Other factors to consider include labor costs – you should locate your farm where cheap labour is available so as to cut operational costs thus increasing profitability of the poultry egg farming business. The location should be secure and have reliable water supply as the layers chickens require water daily. An egg farm business should be located close to the target market as eggs will need to be regularly transported to the market. You should not  locate the poultry egg farming project close to rivers or streams as this may result in the pollution of water by chicken drops during rainfall periods.

Layers Deep Litter System Vs Battery Cage System

There are 2 main housing systems that are used for layers. These are the deep litter system and the battery cage system. The deep litter system is whereby the layer chickens stay on a cemented floor of the layer house. It’s called deep litter because you will have to spread litter/bedding on the floor to provide comfort for the layers chickens. The bedding is usually in the form of wood shavings and saw dusts. In the deep litter system, the feeders & drinkers will be placed on the floor or hanged at a level where the layers chickens can reach. The battery cage system is a way of raising layers chickens in cages. This is the most popular way of carrying out commercial egg laying business. One of the main advantages of the battery cage system is that it uses less space as compared to the deep litter system. Thus you can rear a large number of layers birds per unit area as compared to the deep litter system. The battery cage system also reduces feed wastage (in deep litter system birds can move around and spill feed), ensures easy stock take, makes it easier to identify layer birds which are not producing eggs, and reduces cannibalism and egg eating.

Management of the layers birds is easier in the cage system. Battery cages are usually equipped with nipple drinkers that supply water to the chickens automatically, which is convenient. Layers cage system requires less labour as compared to deep litter system, thus increasing profitability of the egg production business. Diseases spread faster in the deep litter system as compared to the layers cages system – this is because the layers cage system limits the movement of birds, and the layer birds do not come into contact with their droppings. The disadvantage of battery cage system in poultry egg farming business include : its capital intensive as the cages are expensive, the layers chickens can easily suffer from leg problems, cage fatigue, and increased deposition of fat in the body. The housing system that you use should be clearly stated in your layers poultry egg production business plan.

Layers Chickens Housing

You should provide good housing for the layers chickens so as to have a profitable egg production business. When you are planning to construct a layers egg chicken house, you have to select a site which is well-drained with plenty of natural air movement. Layers chickens cannot adjust well to temperature extremes, so it is very essential that the layers hens be housed, cared and provided with an environment that will enable them to produce eggs efficiently. The design and size of the layers chicken house is determined by the number of layers chickens being kept, the cost and the climatic condition of the area. It is essential to house layers chickens of the same age together. This is to prevent potential problems like high risk of continuous infection. It also allows the farmer to administer the right feeds and follow the right method of lighting for the layers chickens. Your housing for the layers chickens can be barns, layer cages, chicken runs, hutches or chicken coops. The housing should provide adequate space for the layers chickens, should have a good ventilation system, should protect the layers chickens from extreme weather conditions and predators. Light stimulates egg production in layers, so the housing should have access to sunlight or artificial lighting. Costs of constructing the housing should be included in the poultry egg production business plan.

Equipment for Layers Egg Production Business

The equipment you need will be determined by the kind of system you choose to use, whether it is deep litter system or a cage system. The required equipment include feeders, drinkers, lighting system, chicken layer nests and waste disposal system. If you choose the cage system, make sure that you invest in layer cages that already have laying nests, feeders, and drinkers. For drinking, the nipple drinkers are worth the investment for the chicken cage. You can also consider using tanks, water regulators and pipes together with the drinking nipples for a complete drinking system. You should also choose the right chicken feeder trough to save on chicken feed – some chicken feeders have bad design which leads to wastage of feed.

The other equipment that may be required includes sprinklers, a moisture meter, vaccinator and eggs transportation trays to name a few. You should also invest in manure cleaning equipment especially if you keep the chickens in barns or chicken runs. Wet chicken manure leads to a high concentration of ammonia, which is bad for your hens’ respiratory system and eyes. As such, ensure that you regularly clean the barn or wherever you decide to keep the layers chickens. Take note that organic manure is great for your garden and some people sell it to crop growers. If you use a battery cage or chicken cage, you can save yourself space and the chickens can be separated from the manure. The layer farming business plan should take into account the costs of purchasing the equipment.

Point of Lay Chickens vs Layer Chicks

When investing in a poultry egg production business, you will have to make a choice between starting with day old layer chicks or point of lay birds. Point of layer chickens are young layers hens that are about to start laying eggs – they start to lay eggs at about 19 weeks of age. You can purchase day old layer chicks and feed them until they are 19 weeks old then they will start laying eggs – this means that you will have to wait for about 5 months before getting any revenue. So it may be best to invest in point of lay chickens since they are ready to start laying eggs – thus your layers egg production business can immediately start generating revenue with no waiting time. Take note of the risks when purchasing point of lay chickens. Make sure that the chickens are of high quality because you may end up spending too much money on layers with low egg production numbers. Some of the ways you can tell if point of lay chickens are of good quality is by observing the birds. Healthy birds are lively, with no forms of injuries and they respond well to feeding.

Whatever you decide to start with make sure that you buy your day old chicks or point of lay chickens from a reliable accredited hatchery where the parent stock is well managed. Layers chickens from different hatcheries vary significantly in terms of their quality and it will determine the success of your poultry egg farming business. If you buy point of lay chickens which are not well vaccinated, the layer chickens will have a low rate of egg production and a very high mortality rate. This will obviously lead to a financial loss for your layers chicken farming business.

When deciding whether to buy day old chicks or chicken layer eggs consider your level of experience raising chickens in addition to your available resources. If you have the capital as well as some experience raising day old chicks you can start rearing day old chicks. However, if your resources are limited you may want to consider starting with point of lay chickens. Make sure that you consider the vaccination history and age of the point of lay chickens. Many breeders will claim that the chickens have been vaccinated but that may not be the case. So, you must avoid buying point of lay chickens or even day old chicks from unreliable hatcheries. The costs of purchasing the point of lay birds or layers chicks should be included in the layers egg production business plan.

Layers Feeds

When it comes to feeding your layer chickens consider using a complete feed from a recognized feed store. Complete feeds provide your birds with a nutritionally balanced diet. In addition to the feed you provide your chickens, you can also supplement the layer chickens with scratch grains, table scraps and clippings. Scratch grains are low in protein and high in energy and fiber, but this is based on the grains you use. When you feed your layer chickens with scratch grains together with complete feeds, it helps dilute the nutrition levels in the carefully formulated diets. You can also feed your layer chickens table scraps such as peelings, stale bread, and leafy vegetables. Just make sure that the scraps are not rotten to prevent botulism. You can add clippings such as pasture or tender plants. Feeding your layer chickens well will give you higher laying rates, better persistency and a longer production cycle, thus increasing the profitability of your egg production business.

To produce a high number of eggs, the layer chickens must get adequate feed. Hens need plenty of calcium in their diets to lay eggs with hard, strong shells. The feed for layers chickens is called Layers Mash. The mash is specially formulated to provide all the nutrients they need in the correct quantities. Feed must be available in the trough at all times, as well as cool, fresh water in the bottles. On average, each laying hen requires 100g-120g of feed every day. The aim of the egg producer is to convert a given amount of feed into as many eggs as possible. It is very important to give the layers the right feeds, and the right quantities, so that they grow well and have a high egg production rate. The poultry egg farming business plan should take into account the costs of the layers feeds. 

Business Model

There are two primary options for starting the layers egg farming business: one can either begin with day-old chicks or opt for point-of-lay chickens. The key cost components of this business revolve around acquiring the chicks or point-of-lay chickens and providing them with feed. For day-old chicks, an essential aspect of the operation is raising them to maturity, typically up to 21 weeks of age when they start laying eggs. In contrast, point-of-lay chickens are already at the egg-laying stage upon acquisition, requiring you to provide them with food and water, after which they will consistently lay eggs. The revenue generated from selling these eggs significantly surpasses the input costs and operational expenses, leading to a healthy profit margin. What sets this business model apart is the consistent egg production throughout the year, ensuring a steady stream of income. The layers chickens can continue laying eggs for a period of up to 18 months. After this period, you have the opportunity to sell them, generating additional revenue. To maintain the sustainability of your layers chicken farming business, it’s necessary to replace the flock with a new batch of chicks or point-of-lay chickens. This cyclical process allows you to rejuvenate your flock, ensuring continuous egg production and income generation.

Whether you choose day-old chicks or point-of-lay chickens as your starting point, the layers’ ability to lay eggs consistently becomes the cornerstone of profitability in this business. This steady egg production provides a reliable source of income, offering financial stability for the layers chicken farming venture. By carefully managing the inputs, primarily feed and water, and maintaining the health and well-being of your chickens, you can maximize the production of high-quality eggs, ultimately contributing to the long-term success and sustainability of your layers chicken farming business.

Management and Labour

The number of farm workers you need will depend on the size of your poultry egg production project and your layer hosing system. Battery cage system requires less labour as compared to the deep litter system. If you are operating a small poultry egg farming business e.g. 100 birds, you and your family may be enough to take care of the birds. However if you are keeping 2000 chickens for egg production, then you will need full time employees to manage the poultry farm.  There is need for good technical knowledge of poultry egg production techniques for success in the business, and good management skills. The salaries and wages of your employees should be included in your poultry egg production business plan.

The amount of capital required for the poultry egg production business depends on the scale of the project. You can get a loan from the bank, or funding from investors, to use as capital to start your poultry egg farming business. If you plan to raise capital from investors and a loan from the bank, you need a good poultry egg farming business plan. If you don’t have access to investors and bank loan, you can use your personal savings and start small, and grow your business overtime. Egg production business is very profitable. If you reinvest the profits you get, you can quickly grow.

Marketing Plan

Layers are mainly reared for egg production. There are also possibilities of selling them as off-layers for meat. They can also be sold as layers to other farmers. That is why some of the core customer segments are consumers in general, traders, retailers, and farmers. Marketing of layers must be targeted to the intended prospects. Some of the most strategic targets are bulk clients. Examples are supermarkets, shops, hotels, and restaurants. Marketing to them can entail approaching them with a proposal to become their supplier. Another strategy is to participate at local farmers’ markets. The thrust is to capture customers who purchase in bulk, regularly. If that is achieved it will minimize marketing and logistical costs as well. The heart of the marketing plan must be centered on digital marketing. This includes content marketing via a website, social media, online marketplaces, and email marketing, amongst others. There are countless marketing opportunities on online platforms.  This means you should have professionally designed and detailed e-fliers that you use on social media. Effective marketing of layers must skirt middlemen in order to deal directly with paying customers.

Market for Poultry Eggs

The demand for eggs is very high. Over 82 million tonnes of eggs is consumed globally annually. That’s a lot! Eggs are considered an alternative cheap source of proteins. Almost every household consumes boiled/fried eggs. Increasing protein consumption and rising incomes drive consumption of eggs.   Around the world, consumption of eggs is on the increase. This increase is particularly notable in developing countries where changing diets have people consuming a greater number of calories from protein sources like poultry meat and eggs. You can supply your eggs to individual households, supermarkets / grocery shops, wholesalers, schools, restaurants, companies, organizations, events etc.

Advantages of Layers Egg Farming Business

Starting a layers chicken farming business offers numerous advantages that make it an attractive venture for entrepreneurs and farmers alike. One of the most significant benefits is the assurance of a steady and consistent income. Layers chickens are prolific egg producers, capable of laying eggs throughout the year, providing a reliable source of revenue that allows for effective financial planning. This consistency in egg production ensures that the business remains profitable even during economic downturns, providing a sense of financial security.

Moreover, the layers chicken farming business boasts good profit margins. Eggs are a staple food item with a consistent demand in both urban and rural markets. When managed efficiently, this business can yield substantial profits. Controlling production costs and optimizing operational processes are key to enhancing profitability. The affordability of starting a layers chicken farm is another advantage, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals and entrepreneurs.

Furthermore, layers chicken farming offers scalability, allowing you to tailor the business to your specific goals and resources. Whether you’re starting on a small scale for personal consumption or aiming for large-scale commercial production, the flexibility of this business ensures that you can expand or contract as needed. Additionally, it presents an opportunity for skill development, as running a layers chicken farming business provides valuable experience in animal husbandry, business management, and marketing. Overall, the layers chicken farming business is an enticing prospect for those seeking a sustainable and profitable agricultural endeavor.

Why You Need a Layers Chicken Farming Business Plan

A well-structured business plan for a layers egg production business is instrumental in helping you understand its profitability. It serves as a financial compass, providing insights into revenue projections, operational costs, and overall financial viability. By meticulously outlining factors such as egg production rates, feed expenses, labor costs, and market prices, a business plan allows you to assess the potential profitability of your venture. Furthermore, it helps you identify critical factors that can affect profitability. Armed with this knowledge, you can proactively strategize to maximize profitability, mitigate risks, and make informed decisions to ensure the long-term success of your layers egg production business. A business plan is a financial roadmap, outlining your startup costs, operational expenses, revenue projections, and potential profitability. Having a clear financial roadmap helps you secure funding, make informed financial decisions, and mitigate financial risks. If you need financial support to start or expand your layers chicken farming business, a well-structured business plan is essential for attracting investors, lenders, or potential partners. It demonstrates your commitment, professionalism, and the potential for a return on investment.

Your business plan outlines the day-to-day operations of your layers chicken farm, detailing how you will manage tasks such as feeding, housing, and disease control. Having these operational procedures documented promotes efficiency and helps you troubleshoot potential challenges. Furthermore, a business plan encourages you to identify potential risks and challenges that may arise during the course of your layers chicken farming business. By acknowledging these risks upfront, you can develop strategies to mitigate them, enhancing your ability to adapt to unexpected situations.

Pre-Written Poultry Egg Farming Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel): Comprehensive Version, Short Funding/Bank Loan Version and Automated Financial Statements

For an in-depth analysis of the poultry egg farming business, we encourage you to purchase our well-researched and comprehensive business plan. We introduced the business plans after discovering that many were venturing into the poultry egg production business without enough knowledge and understanding of how to run the business, how to keep the layers, lack of understanding of the financial side of the business, lack of understanding of : the industry, the risks involved , costs and profitability of the business; which often leads to disastrous losses.

The StartupBiz Global business plan will make it easier for you to launch and run your layers egg production business successfully, fully knowing what you are going into, and what’s needed to succeed in the business. It will be easier to plan and budget as you will be aware of all the costs involved in setting up and running the poultry egg farming business.

Uses of the Poultry Egg Farming Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

The Chicken egg production business plan can be used for many purposes including:

• Raising capital from investors/friends/relatives
• Applying for a bank loan
• Start-up guide to launch your egg production business
• As a project/business proposal
• Assessing profitability of the poultry egg farming business
• Finding a business partner
• Assessing the initial start-up costs so that you know how much to save
• Manual for current business owners to help in business and strategy formulation

Contents of the Poultry Layers Egg Production Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

The business plan include, but not limited to:

• Marketing Strategy
• Financial Statements (monthly cash flow projections, income statements, cash flow statements, balance sheets, break even analysis, payback period analysis, start-up costs, financial graphs, revenue and expenses, Bank Loan Amortization)
• Risk Analysis
• SWOT & PEST Analysis
• Industry Analysis
• Market Analysis
• Operational Requirements (Including technical aspects of how to keep and rear the layers, feed requirements etc)
• Operational Strategy
• Why some people in poultry egg farming business fail, so that you can avoid their mistakes
• Ways to raise capital to start your poultry egg production business

The Pre-written Layers Egg Farming Business Plan package consist of 4 files:

• Poultry Egg Farming Business Plan – PDF file (Comprehensive Version – 71 Pages)
• Poultry Egg Farming Business Plan – Editable Word File (Comprehensive Version – 71 Pages)
• Poultry Egg Farming Business Plan Funding/Bank Loan Version- Editable Word File (Short version for applying for a loan/funding – 38 pages)
• Poultry Egg Farming Business Plan Automated Financial Statements – (Editable Excel File)

The business plan can be used in any country and can be easily edited. The financial statements are automated. This implies that you can change eg the number of layers, selling price of  the eggs etc, and all the other financial statements will automatically adjust to reflect the change.

Click below to download the Contents Page of the Poultry Egg Production Business Plan (PDF)

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I purchased a business plan from you, and I’m glad to inform you that I was able to get my loan, and I’m starting my poultry farming business on the 1 st of July. This was made possible because of your business plan. Thank you very much, you made my dream come true.

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The business plan which I purchased from your website saved me TIME and MONEY! The layout of the business plan was excellent. The financial statements were detailed and easy for me to edit. I will come back to purchase another business plan soon.

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StartupBiz Global provided a very professional and comprehensive business plan which I used for my business. The business plan was easy to edit, and I was able to get the funding which I wanted. I highly recommend their business plans.

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I was able to understand the business side of farming because of your business plan. You did extensive research; the business plan was well prepared and fully detailed.  It made everything clear, and I have somewhere to start now. I am confident that I am going to succeed in my business because of the guidance from your business plan.

Get the Poultry Egg Farming Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

Click Buy Now  below to purchase using Paypal, Credit Card, or Debit Card. After you have purchased, you will immediately see the download link for the business plan package on the screen. You will also immediately get an email with the business plan download link. The Pre-written business plan package (PDF, Word, and Excel) costs $30 only!

If you want to purchase multiple business plans at once then click here: Business Plans Store.

The business plan package is a zipped compressed file containing the PDF, Word and Excel documents. To open the package after downloading it, just right click, and select Extract All. If you have any problems in downloading and opening the files, email us on [email protected] and we will assist you.

We wish you the best in your poultry egg farming business! Check out our collection of business plans  , and more business ideas .

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[Pdf Sample] Business Plan For Poultry Egg Farming Docx

In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of poultry egg farming and provide you with a comprehensive business plan in PDF format. Whether you are a novice entrepreneur or an experienced farmer looking to venture into the poultry industry, this guide will equip you with the necessary knowledge and insights to establish a successful poultry egg farming business.

[Pdf Sample] Poultry Egg Farming Business Plan Proposal Docx

To write a business plan , here is a breakdown of how it should be structured and what should be in each category. After this instruction, I will provide you with a sample of one I wrote for my farm , let us go:

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Here, we will delve into the fundamental aspects of your poultry egg farming business . We will discuss the vision, mission, and core values of your enterprise, highlighting your unique selling proposition and competitive advantage in the market. Additionally, we will explore the organizational structure, management team, and key personnel responsible for driving the success of your business.

Market Analysis

A thorough market analysis is crucial for understanding the dynamics of the poultry industry and identifying potential opportunities and challenges. We will conduct an in-depth assessment of the target market, including customer demographics, demand trends, competitors, and market share analysis. This information will enable you to develop effective marketing strategies and position your poultry egg farming business for optimal success.

Choosing the Right Poultry Breeds

Selecting the appropriate poultry breeds is essential for maximizing egg production and profitability. We will explore different breeds, their characteristics, and suitability for various production systems. Factors such as egg size, laying capacity, disease resistance, and adaptability to local climates will be considered to ensure you make informed decisions regarding the selection of poultry breeds.

Infrastructure and Equipment

In this section, we will discuss the infrastructure requirements for your poultry egg farming business . This includes designing and constructing poultry houses, ensuring proper ventilation, lighting, and temperature control. We will also explore the equipment and machinery necessary for efficient egg production, such as feeders, drinkers, egg collection systems, and waste management solutions.

Egg Production and Management

Managing egg production is a critical aspect of poultry egg farming . We will cover the entire production cycle, from sourcing quality chicks or hatching eggs to raising pullets and ensuring optimal egg-laying conditions. Topics such as nutrition, disease prevention, vaccination schedules , and biosecurity measures will be discussed in detail to maintain healthy and productive flocks.

Marketing and Sales Strategies

Developing effective marketing and sales strategies is vital for promoting your poultry egg products and capturing a significant market share. We will explore various marketing channels, such as local markets, supermarkets, restaurants, and online platforms. Additionally, we will discuss branding, packaging, pricing strategies, and customer retention techniques to establish a strong market presence.

Financial Projections

Accurate financial projections are essential for demonstrating the profitability and sustainability of your poultry egg farming business . We will guide you through the process of creating realistic revenue forecasts, expense budgets, and cash flow statements. Furthermore, we will discuss key financial indicators, such as return on investment (ROI), payback period, and break-even analysis, to evaluate the financial viability of your venture.

Risk Assessment and Management

Legal and regulatory considerations.

Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements is essential for operating a poultry egg farming business . We will guide you through the necessary permits, licenses, and certifications needed to establish and run your enterprise. Understanding the applicable laws and regulations will help you avoid legal complications and ensure ethical and sustainable farming practices .

Operational Plan

Sustainability practices.

Here Is The Download Link To Business Plan For Poultry Egg Farming Proposal By Agrolearner.com

Business Model Canvas for Agrolearners.com’s Poultry Egg Farming Business:

Key partnerships:.

Feed suppliers: Form partnerships with feed manufacturers or suppliers to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality feed for the poultry .

Key Activities:

Egg production: Establish efficient egg production systems, including proper egg collection, grading, and storage.

Key Resources:

Poultry housing and infrastructure: Establish well-designed and maintained poultry houses with appropriate ventilation, lighting, and temperature control systems.

Marketing and sales channels: Utilize online marketing channels, social media platforms, and partnerships with local retailers to reach and engage with target customers.

Value Proposition:

Convenience: Enable learners to access educational materials and courses on poultry egg farming conveniently through the Agrolearners.com platform.

Customer Segments:

Existing poultry farmers: Farmers who are already involved in poultry farming and wish to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Social Media: Utilize social media platforms to engage with the target audience, share educational content, and promote poultry egg products.

Customer Relationships:

Customer feedback: Encourage feedback from learners and customers to continuously improve the educational resources and poultry egg products.

Revenue Streams:

Poultry egg sales: Generate revenue through the sale of high-quality poultry eggs to consumers and retailers.

Cost Structure:

Marketing and advertising: Allocate budget for marketing efforts, including social media campaigns, online advertisements, and partnerships with local retailers.

Key Metrics:

Poultry egg production: Monitor the volume of eggs produced and sold.

What is the average lifespan of a laying hen?

The average lifespan of a laying hen typically ranges from 5 to 10 years, depending on various factors such as breed, overall health, and living conditions. However, the peak egg production period for a laying hen is usually between 1 to 2 years.

How many eggs can a single hen produce in a year?

How can i maintain biosecurity on my poultry farm.

Maintaining biosecurity on a poultry farm is essential to protect the health and well-being of your flock. Here are some key practices to help you maintain biosecurity:

Footwear and Clothing: Provide dedicated footwear and protective clothing for farm workers and visitors. These items should be worn only within the farm premises and regularly cleaned and disinfected.

Proper Waste Disposal: Establish proper waste management practices to prevent contamination and disease transmission. Dispose of manure, carcasses, and other waste in designated areas away from the flock.

By following these biosecurity measures, you can minimize the risk of disease outbreaks and protect the health of your poultry flock.

What are the marketing channels for selling poultry eggs?

On-Farm Retail: Establish an on-farm retail store or stand where customers can purchase eggs directly from your farm. This provides a personal touch and allows customers to see the conditions in which the eggs are produced.

Local Grocery Stores and Co-ops: Establish partnerships with local grocery stores or cooperatives to have your eggs stocked on their shelves. This provides exposure to a broader customer base and the convenience of purchasing eggs alongside other groceries.

Consider the preferences and demands of your target market when choosing the most suitable marketing channels for selling your poultry eggs.

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Small-Scale Egg Production (Organic and Conventional)

Photo credit: Bigstock

Egg production is one of the oldest animal enterprises and is well-suited to a small-scale or part-time farm. In this system, birds are fed some grain and allowed to forage for the balance of their diet. Birds can be used for egg production and may be harvested later for food.

In the United States, egg production followed these principles until early in the twentieth century. Then, systems emerged for producing eggs in more specialized facilities, making the operation more efficient to feed a growing population shifting from farms to towns and cities. These changes encouraged many dairy farmers to include egg production as an additional enterprise.

The late 1950s and 1960s saw drastic changes in the industry. Co-ops, feed companies, and other private firms organized egg production into a coordinated industry. This shifted egg production from a secondary to a primary farming enterprise with specialized production methods. The result was a large reduction in small-scale egg producers.

Small-scale layer production has made a comeback since the 1980s because of changing consumer demands. Backyard egg producers may see a local market for their surplus eggs. New markets are continually being developed to supply specific niche market needs, especially for organically produced brown eggs (although white eggs are also popular). Layers raised organically and used for producing organic eggs can be more valuable at the end of their production cycle when sold as roasting chickens. Conventionally grown layers have less value because of their size and body structure and are generally sold as stewing hens or to make protein supplements for pet food.

Many states and private organizations certify organically produced meat and eggs. Check the U.S. Department of Agriculture Certified Organic website to find the certifying body for your state or area. To obtain organic enterprise certification in Pennsylvania, contact Pennsylvania Certified Organic by phone at 814-422-0251 or check the Pennsylvania Certified Organic website for more information.

As with any new enterprise, you should research markets before starting production. You should conduct some market research because many growers overestimate their ability to sell in given markets. The major markets for eggs from small flocks are specialty stores, farmers markets, roadside stands, and neighbors. Additional niche markets exist for people who want organic, fertilized and partially incubated, or free-range eggs. Since very little information about these markets is available for any given geographic area, developing markets requires research and time. Check with your state department of agriculture and local extension office to see if a marketing support program exists to help register you as a vendor of locally produced food.

Getting Started

Before making any investment, check for any local ordinances that may prohibit the keeping of poultry at your location. Often these ordinances either prohibit or limit the type or number of birds you can keep in one location. Residential associations for some communities may have even more restrictions on the keeping of livestock within their jurisdictions.

One of the most practical ways to get started is to start small and begin with a flock of 50 to 100 hens and use existing facilities if available. A unit of this size allows you to learn the necessary production and marketing skills without making a large investment. Costs are limited to a layer house, nests, and feed and watering equipment. Once you’ve gained production and marketing experience, you can expand your operation.

You can start your flock with chicks or started pullets (16 to 18 weeks old) from a reputable dealer. Raising laying hens from chicks increases your cost of feed and labor commitment but may be necessary if enough started pullets are not available in your area. Buying started pullets means that the birds are ready to begin producing eggs. Whether you buy chicks or started pullets, make sure the breeder is certified by the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP) to be free of Salmonella pullorum, Salmonella typhoid, Salmonella enteritidis , and mycoplasma. A list of NPIP hatcheries from the USDA is available online.

Before your chicks arrive, ensure the brooding area is at least 95 degrees Fahrenheit at the chicks’ level, there are no drafts, and that fresh feed and water are not directly under the heat source. More information on brooding chicks can be found on the Penn State Extension. When pullets arrive, check that their litter is dry and all feeders and drinkers are clean and in good working order.

More than 60 breeds of chickens are used for commercial poultry production. Many breeds lend themselves to either egg or meat production and some breeds may be used for both (i.e., dual purpose). Most breeds that produce white eggs efficiently tend to be lean, lightweight, and do not lend themselves to meat production. Most breeds that produce brown eggs are larger, heavier-bodied, and when finished laying can be used as roasting chickens. Bantam chickens are not suited for small-scale egg production due to the small size of their eggs.

Production Considerations

You will need at least 1.5 square feet of floor space per bird, covered with a litter composed of clean straw, wood shavings, or sawdust. One feed pan usually provides enough space for 20 birds. Sufficient watering equipment should be available for 20 birds per cup, 12 birds per nipple, or one bird per linear inch of trough space. Hens do not lay eggs at the same time, so nests can be supplied at a rate of two nests for the first four hens and then an additional nest for every four additional hens. Nest box bedding should be different from floor litter and must be kept clean and dry. Nest pads (made of plastic or artificial turf) can be used, but they must also be kept clean and dry.

Lighting stimulates hens to lay eggs. If you want to produce eggs year-round, you will need to install adequate lighting in your facility. Gradually increase the length of time hens are exposed to light when they arrive at your farm. About 5 minutes of increase per day is sufficient and not detrimental to the birds' health. Start with 12 hours of total light per day at an indoor intensity that just allows you to read the fine print of a newspaper at night (0.5- to 1-foot candle). Increase the amount of lighting by 30 minutes per week until you reach 16 hours per day. Additional outside light exposure is fine; you should just have the supplementary lighting begin before dusk and remain on until after dawn. Utilize a reliable light timer because abrupt changes in lighting throw off reproductive cycles and can potentially be deadly. Never exceed 16 hours of light per day for laying hens.

Ventilation of poultry enclosures is necessary so adequate air exchange can take place to keep littered floors dry. Ventilation needs will vary with ambient temperature. If the temperature is too hot or cold for you, it will be for your layers as well. Misting water around the outside of poultry enclosures may be necessary to keep your layers cool during the extreme heat of summer months. Additional litter materials may be necessary during the winter to insulate hens from cold floors and drafts.

Conventional layer mash feed can be purchased at your local feed store. Certified organic, non-GMO, and vegetarian feeds are also available, but they are sometimes difficult to find and more costly. All hen mash should contain at least 3.5 percent calcium and 16 percent crude protein. Additional free-choice calcium may be provided after birds are 45 weeks old to aid in good shell formation, especially during hot weather. Water should be given free choice, and container-based watering systems should be emptied and cleaned every other day at a minimum. Use a bucket to carry wastewater away from living areas to reduce the potential for disease and prevent the litter from becoming damp or wet.

This publication outlines both conventional and organic cage-free production methods. The conventional method recommends molting the flock to stimulate a return to laying. Molting involves resting the hen for a short period of time with cessation of lay and replacement of feathers. This is done by reducing the hours of daily light back to the day length utilized during pullet rearing (10 hours) and feeding a lower energy and calcium diet—more like a pullet’s diet. This modification in feed and light will result in an involution of the oviduct and a rebuilding of this organ. After a period of rest and rebuilding, normal feeding and light schedules are resumed. This production practice extends the flock’s productive life without replacing the flock. Molting also increases egg size and quality for a period. Flocks may be molted more than one time, but this is not recommended for small flocks.

Health Considerations

Biosecurity and sanitation are necessary to prevent disease outbreaks. Biosecurity involves isolating birds by age-group, restricting human access to buildings, keeping the buildings clean, and properly disposing of dead birds. To prevent the introduction of diseases, new birds should be isolated and observed for disease symptoms for one month before allowing contact with other birds. Because of cannibalistic tendencies often seen in poultry, housing of flocks should be done in an all-in, all-out fashion so that birds kept together are of the same age and size. If smaller birds are being raised as replacements, they should be kept in separate housing and seen first each day. Dead birds should be composted in a compost pile large enough to cover the birds with 6 inches of composting material surrounding the body or double-bagged if disposed of in municipal waste receptacles. Cannibalism can also be quelled with low-level light. Intense light or red light can lead to higher activity and therefore more undesirable behaviors like cannibalism and flightiness. Beak trimming can be done at between 7 and 14 days of age in the flock. Dog toenail trimmers can be used to remove 1/16 inch of the upper beak to render the tip of the beak dull. This will keep the birds from injuring neighboring birds if they do peck. Shiny objects such as plastic soda bottles and pie pans can be hung in the house for flocks that are exhibiting aggressive behavior toward one another. Consulting a veterinarian regularly is a good management practice. If high mortality suddenly appears in your flock for no apparent reason, contact your veterinarian and your state department of agriculture immediately. Most states have veterinary diagnostic laboratories that could aid in the diagnosis of any disease problems with your flock. In Pennsylvania, contact the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services (717-772- 2852) and see the diagnostic laboratory system online. Remember, if antibiotics are prescribed, follow all label directions. Viral diseases do not respond to antibiotics, so their use is not normally recommended.

Regulations for Selling Eggs from Small-Flock Producers

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture regulates the sale of eggs from small flocks. If an egg producer has fewer than 3,000 laying hens and sells the eggs within five days from the date of lay predominantly within a 100-mile radius of the production or processing facility, then the following regulations apply:

• All eggs must be maintained at 45°F or below from within 24 hours of lay to the time of sale. This also applies to eggs sold at farmers markets or roadside stands. A thermometer must be available in the cooler to verify ambient air temperature.
• Each carton, flat, or container of eggs must be labeled with the producer’s name and address, date of lay, statement of identity (eggs), net contents (in letters that are 3/16 inch high), and "Keep Refrigerated." The following should also be on the carton: "Safe Handling Instructions: To prevent illness from bacteria: keep eggs refrigerated, cook eggs until yolks are firm, and cook foods containing eggs thoroughly."
• If you do not weigh the eggs or they are of mixed size, and you do not wish to assign a grade, they must be labeled as "Unclassified." You must also remove dirty, leaker, or loss eggs. Loss eggs are inedible or contaminated eggs discovered when held to a bright light (candling). There are three consumer grades of eggs—Grade AA, Grade A, and Grade B. To market your eggs with these terms, they must meet the requirements for the consumer grade. If you would like to grade your eggs and need further information for consumer graders, contact the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Egg Division at 717-787-5107, write to Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Eggs, Fruits, and Vegetables Division, 2301 North Cameron Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110, or find them online .
• For sale to grocery stores or restaurants, new cartons and/or filler flats must be used and properly labeled. The Retail Food Code requires that eggs must meet U.S. Consumer Grade B or better standards to be able to be used in retail food facilities. Eggs from small flocks that meet the above requirements may be sold to and purchased by food processors, restaurants, and other retail facilities for use in their manufactured products/facilities, or sold directly to consumers.

Environmental Regulations

All agricultural operations in Pennsylvania, including small-scale and part-time farming enterprises, operate under the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law. A specific part of this law is the Nutrient Management Act. Portions of the act may or may not pertain to your operation, depending on whether you have livestock on your farm. However, all operations may be a source of surface water or groundwater pollution. Because of this possibility, you should contact your local Soil and Water Conservation District to determine what regulations may pertain to your operation. All farms with any livestock in Pennsylvania are required to have an approved manure management plan in place.

• Risk Management

You should carefully consider how to manage risk on your farm. First, you should insure your facilities and equipment. This may be accomplished by consulting your insurance agent or broker. It is especially important to have adequate levels of property, vehicle, and liability insurance. You will also need workers’ compensation insurance if you have any employees. You may also want to consider your needs for life and health insurance and if you need coverage for business interruption or employee dishonesty. For more on agricultural business insurance, see " Agricultural Alternatives: Agricultural Business Insurance ."

Second, check to see if there are multiperil crop insurance programs available for your crop or livestock enterprises. There are crop insurance programs designed to help farmers manage both yield risk and revenue shortfalls. However, individual crop insurance coverage is not available for all crops. If individual coverage is not available for what you grow, you may be able to use the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection (WFRP) program to insure the revenue of your entire farm operation. Information from your Schedule F tax records (or a "Substitute Schedule F for WFRP Purposes" if you do not file a Schedule F) from the past five consecutive years is used to calculate the WFRP policy’s approved revenue guarantee. Operations that have expanded over time may be allowed to increase the approved revenue amount based on an indexing procedure. Depending on the number of commodities grown, you have the choice of coverage of 50 to 85 percent of your approved revenue. Coverage and premium costs depend on the level of diversification in your operation; the maximum level of insured revenue is $8.5 million (based on maximum adjusted gross revenues of $17 million and the 50 percent coverage level). WFRP also provides replant coverage if it not already covered under an underlying individual crop policy. More information on WFRP can be found online .

Finally, the USDA Farm Service Agency has a program called the Noninsured Assistance Program (NAP) that is designed to provide a minimal level of yield risk protection for producers of commercial agricultural products that don’t have multiperil crop insurance coverage. NAP is designed to reduce financial losses when natural disasters cause catastrophic reduction in production. A basic level of coverage (50 percent of expected production at 55 percent of the average market price) is available for a fee of $325 per crop per county (fees are capped at $825 per producer per county, but they are not to exceed a total of $1,950 for producers growing crops in multiple counties). Higher levels of protection at the 50, 55, 60, and 65 percent levels at 100 percent of the average market price are available for additional premium. NAP coverage is available through your local USDA Farm Service Agency office. The application fee for this program may be waived for eligible limited-resource farmers.

Sample Budgets

Sample enterprise budgets for small-scale production of a conventional white-egg flock and an organic brown-egg flock, plus information on initial resource requirements, are included in this publication. The budgets assume the purchase of 100 birds, a 400-square-foot building, nests, and feeding and watering equipment. All other budget factors not listed in the budgets (e.g., land) are considered to be constant over time and are not listed. The budget assumptions for each production system are as follows:

• Conventional small-scale production: Assumes that birds are housed at 18 weeks of age, molted at 70 weeks of age (after 52 weeks of production), and sold at 110 weeks of age (providing an additional 30 weeks of production). Feed for the entire period amounts to 142 pounds per bird. Spent layers are then sold as stewing hens.
• Organic small-scale production: Assumes that birds are housed at 18 weeks of age and sold at 70 weeks of age (after a total of 52 weeks of production). Feed for the 52 weeks amounts to 90 pounds per bird. Spent layers may be sold as organic roasting chickens and are more valuable than commercial stewing hens. Mortality is estimated at 4 percent of the flock.

These budgets should help ensure that you include all costs and receipts in your calculations. Costs may be difficult to estimate in budget preparation because they are numerous and variable. Therefore, think of these budgets as an approximation and then make appropriate adjustments using the "your estimate" column to reflect your specific production situation. More information on using livestock budgets can be found in "Agricultural Alternatives: Budgeting for Agricultural Decision Making ."

You can make changes to the interactive PDF budget files for this publication by inputting your own prices and quantities in the green outlined cells for any item. The cells outlined in red automatically calculate your revised totals based on the changes you made to the cells outlined in green. You will need to click on and add your own estimated price and quantity information to all of the green outlined cells to complete your customized budget. When you are done, you can print the budget using the green Print Form button at the bottom of the form. You can use the red Clear Form button to clear all the information from your budget when you are finished.

Sample Budget Worksheets

• Sample Small-Scale Egg Budget-Brown Eggs
• Sample Small-Scale Egg Budget-White Eggs

Initial Resource Requirements

White-Egg Flock

• Land: 2 acres (needed land includes building and waste disposal)
• Labor: 180–200 hours
• Egg collection and grading costs: $1,500–1,800 per flock
• Capital: Pullets: 1,000 birds × $4.00 = $4,000 Buildings, equipment (including egg cooler): $7,000–8,000

Brown-Egg Flock

• Egg collection and grading costs : $1,100–1,500 per flock
• Capital: Pullets: 1,000 birds × $7.00 = $7,000 Buildings, equipment (including egg cooler): $7,000–8,000

Total capital investment: $38,000–41,000

For More Information

Bureau of Food Safety and Laboratory Services Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture 2301 North Cameron Street Harrisburg, PA 17110-9408

Department of Animal Science The Pennsylvania State University 335 ASI Building University Park, PA 16802

Penn State Extension Poultry Team Resources

Associations

Penn Ag Industries Association Poultry Council 2215 Forest Hills Dr., Suite 39 Harrisburg, PA 17112

Pennsylvania Certified Organic Leslie Zook, Executive Director 106 School Street Suite 201 Spring Mills, PA 16875 Phone: 814-422-0251 Fax: 814-422-0255 E-mail: [email protected]

Mills Selling Organic Feed

These mills also sell organic pullets, but they may not sell to producers whose goal is less than a 1,000-bird laying flock.

Kreamer's Feed Mill 215 Kreamer Avenue PO Box 38 Kreamer, PA 17833

Organic Unlimited 120 Liberty Street Alglen, PA 19310

Powls Feed Mill 1934 Lancaster Pike PO Box 15 Peach Bottom, PA 17563

Publications

" Choosing a Chicken Breed: Eggs, Meat, or Exhibition ," by Doug Akers, Pete Akers and Dr. Mickey A. Latour, Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service.

" Poultry Breeds for the Small Farm ," by Jonathan Moyle, Poultry Specialist; F. Dustan Clark, Extension Veterinarian; Scharidi Barber, Instructor in Poultry Youth Programs; and Tom Tabler, Extension Professor.

"Proper Handling of Eggs from Hen to Consumption," by Phillip J. Clauer, Poultry Extension Specialist, Virginia Tech. This article will discuss how you can ensure that your eggs will be of the highest quality and safe for consumption.

"Rearing Chicks and Pullets for the Small Laying Flock," by Melvin L. Hamre, Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota. Good layers develop from healthy, well bred chicks raised under good feeding and management programs. Buying the right type of chick is important for the most economical production.

"Small Laying Flock," by Melvin L. Hamre, Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota. A well-planned and well-managed small laying flock can be a source of fresh eggs, personal pleasure, and, sometimes, profit.

"The Small Laying Flock," by Fred Thornberry, Extension Poultry Specialist, Texas A&M; University.

"Small Poultry Flocks" (requires Acrobat Reader). Very good older USDA publication. Covers all aspects of small-scale poultry production.

Prepared by Paul H. Patterson, professor of poultry science; Gregory P. Martin, extension educator in poultry; Emily K. Shoop, extension educator in poultry; Lynn F. Kime, senior extension associate; and Jayson K. Harper, professor of agricultural economics.

This publication was developed by the Small-scale and Part-time Farming Project at Penn State with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Extension Service.

This fact sheet, including its text, graphics, and images ("Content"), is for educational purposes only; it is not intended to be a substitute for veterinary medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a licensed doctor of veterinary medicine or other licensed or certified veterinary medical professional with any questions you may have regarding a veterinary medical condition or symptom.

• Farm Management
• Production Economics

• Poultry Production & Management
• Poultry Physiology
• Composting (mortality/litter)
• Emergency Preparedness/Response
• Farm Safety
• Animal Welfare
• Food Safety (Eggs & Poultry/products, Feeds)
• Veterinary Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

• 4-H Youth Development
• Small Flock Poultry: Exhibition, Urban, and Backyard

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How To Start Egg Production Business [PLAN]

• by Olaoluwa
• February 23, 2023 August 28, 2024

EGG PRODUCTION BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE

Egg production is an area of business that continues to attract tremendous interest from investors. These investors may or may not have the required expertise to handle the writing of a comprehensive business plan.

This article will seek to provide a guide on how to write a small scale egg production business plan.

Executive Summary

Eggs are a very good source of protein in our diet. Hence it can be easily seen why the demand for poultry eggs is inelastic. Eggs are used widely in most foods and confectioneries.

Here is a business plan for the production of table eggs from poultry of 2,500 birds from point of lay for commercial production of table eggs by use of the battery cage system.

Read: How To Start Egg Distribution Business Plan

In our business, 2,500 laying birds are housed in a battery system for one and a half years. After which the number will be increased to 5,000 birds in the second year. The number of growing birds is projected to increase in multiples of 2 annually.

Our professional knowledge of animal husbandry and experience in poultry farming gives us a competitive advantage when it comes to administering medications, health care, and feeding nutrition.

It is projected that at peak production in the first year of bird keeping about 60 crates of 30 eggs are produced daily, generating a revenue of about $273,750 per annum at the rate of $12.5 per 30 egg crate.

Other streams of income for this business are from the selling of the spent layers after a year and a half and also selling of the bird’s droppings from the farm for manure. Total gross revenue for could cap at $2,190,000 per annum from 20,000 laying birds.

Business overview

As mentioned earlier, poultry egg consumption cuts across all spheres of people and industries. There are different forms of poultry production ranging from parent stock for meat, quail production, egg production, turkey, geese, and ostrich farming.

Other specializations in the trade are brooding, liquid egg packaging, and point of lay, retail of eggs, hatchery and selling of day-old chicks and so on. Our area of interest is poultry egg production.

Business Description

The poultry egg production business is all about the rearing of egg-laying birds from a day old to 14 weeks. This could be done either in a caged system or an open system. In the caged system, the birds are transferred to their cages from their nursery where they were kept as chicks. Feeding and medication are administered daily and periodically to the birds.

From Weeks 19-22, the birds start to lay eggs.

To simultaneously create wealth and generate employment by producing high-quality poultry eggs.

To use state of the art technologies to create an effective poultry egg production system.

Value Proposition

Wealth creation by poultry farming

Critical Success Factors

Expertise: Professionalism and technical knowledge of bird keeping are highly imperative. Training of farmworkers and hiring of professionals is sacrosanct. Bird keeping is a very risky business without professional knowledge of the rules of the game.

Funds: Before starting an egg production business you must be careful to make sure you have the right amount of capital you need. Calculations need to be made as to the total amount of feed the birds will consume from inception to when they are spent. Breaking their feeding routines will adversely affect egg production.

Bio-security: The poultry farm must be protected against disease pathogens and vectors. This is achieved by placing wire meshes on all entrances, sterilization foot baths, and car baths, also restriction of un-authorized persons from entering.

Housing: Good ventilation is of paramount importance. The position of a poultry house to access ventilation is very essential. Furthermore, adequate spacing is a very critical success factor.

Water: Clean water should be made available to the birds constantly. It would be pertinent to have a close source of clean quality water for the pen’s operation.

Feeding: Care must be taken to provide the birds with the adequate nutrition they require to function. This would include the right amount of vitamins and medications.

Management: Workers should be closely observed to prevent cases of pilfering, indulgence, misappropriation among others.

Operational Detail

A typical day starts by 6:30 am. Workers come to the pen and fumigate or apply disinfectant to the foot baths and car baths respectively. They then change into their overalls and disinfect themselves by washing their boots and hands in the disinfectant. Next, each nest is observed for fatigued, sick or dead birds. I found the birds are quarantined and recorded. Due diligence is carried out to make sure water flows un-interrupted in the pen.

Next, a measured amount of feed is applied evenly to the birds. After that, the eggs are collected in baskets or crates. The total number of eggs collected is recorded along with the morbidity rate, mortality rate, and any other abnormal behavior observed.

Strategy and Implementation

Quality eggs from the farm are taken to a depot where the products are sold to consumers. Advertisement of our eggs is spread by word of mouth and on social media.

Financial Projections

It is projected that for the first year the financial projection for the egg production business will be as follows.

Year                                        # of birds                                              Projection First Year                                   2,500                                                  $273,750 Second Year                               5,000                                                   $547,500 Third Year                                 10,000                                                $1,095,000

The egg production business plan is a summary to give readers who wish to go into poultry farming and in particular egg production and sales, a head start. If done properly with all due diligence, it could spiral into a money-spinning business.

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Small Business Trends

How to start an egg farm.

The Egg Farm sector in the United States had a market size by revenue of $10.1 bn this year alone. Egg production as an industry is also expected to increase by 1.4% in 2023.

But egg farmers are facing a few headwinds. The industry’s market size declined 3.2% on average between 2018 and 2023. Wondering how to start a farm of your own? Read this.

A Simple Guide to Starting Egg Farming

Here are a few steps for new farmers.

Check What Permits May be Needed to Raise Poultry in Your Area

Here’s a link for keeping hens in your yard. Permits for businesses depend on where you grow this food. For example, A Washington State Egg Handler/Dealer License is needed.

Learn Everything You Can About Egg Farming

There’s some good information if you’re looking at a small-scale operation right here . For example, one of the quickest ways to get started is to have a flock of 50 to 100 hands in an existing facility.

Choose which Poultry Breed to Keep

Deciding on the breed of chicken to keep is more nuanced than one might initially think. Chickens serve different purposes—some are excellent for meat production, some are prized for their aesthetic appeal, and others are prolific egg layers.

Regional climate plays an important role in this decision; certain breeds, for example, are less tolerant of high temperatures. Additionally, various chicken breeds produce eggs of different sizes and colors.

For those prioritizing egg production, popular breeds like Rhode Island Red and Leghorn are often the go-to choices because of their high yield.

Obtain or Build Suitable Housing for Baby Chicks and Egg Laying Hens

Purchasing day-old chicks is often the safest bet for newcomers as they come with fewer health risks compared to older birds. The housing for your hens should be dry, well-ventilated, and adequately protected from predators.

It’s advisable to keep hens and chicks in separate quarters to minimize the risk of disease spread. Adding new chickens to your existing flock is generally safe when the newcomers are at least eight weeks old.

One often overlooked point is that baby chicks should be kept on burlap or similar material, as they can confuse loose bedding with food, leading to digestive issues.

Consider the Best Farming Practices for Hen Health and Animal Welfare

While caged systems might seem efficient, studies show that hens fare better when they can roam freely. Caged hens often exhibit signs of stress and their health can deteriorate due to lack of movement.

They do not have the space to stretch or spread their wings, which are natural behaviors. On the flip side, free-range and cage-free systems allow hens a degree of natural behavior, improving not just their quality of life but often the quality of the eggs they produce.

Therefore, it’s not just an ethical consideration but also a business one to allow your hens some freedom.

Developing a Sustainable Farming Model

Sustainability is key in modern farming practices. Developing a sustainable egg farming model involves implementing environmentally friendly practices, such as using renewable energy sources, practicing responsible waste management, and adopting sustainable feed options.

This not only reduces the environmental impact but also appeals to eco-conscious consumers.

Begin Egg Production

Consider cage-free housing when you ramp up egg production.

• Hens need a good diet. Their food needs protein and fat to produce good eggs. Their feathers will benefit.
• Some conventional cages have wire mesh floors so hen’s manure falls through. And sloped floors so eggs roll to conveyor belts.
• Good egg products come from hens kept in enriched colony housing units.
• A hen’s health is improved when they can roam outside to lay eggs.

Establishing Efficient Egg Collection and Storage Systems

Efficiency in egg collection and storage is vital for maintaining the quality and freshness of your products. Investing in automated egg collection systems can save time and reduce labor costs. Proper storage facilities, including temperature-controlled environments, are essential to preserve the quality of the eggs until they reach the market.

Selling Eggs

There are multiple avenues to explore when you’re looking to sell eggs, each with its unique advantages and challenges. Indeed, tens of thousands of eggs find their way to consumers through these various channels.

• Farmers Markets – Eggs from both hens and ducks are often well-received at farmers markets, where consumers value locally sourced, fresh products.
• Roadside Stands – These are particularly effective if your farm is near a well-traveled road. People tend to appreciate the authenticity that comes with buying directly from a farmer. Note that some states or local areas might require you to have a license to sell this way.
• Grocery Stores – You can establish a partnership with local grocery stores to have a steady, consistent outlet for your eggs. However, these stores may have specific quality and packaging requirements you’ll need to meet.
• Online Stores – If you have the capability to ship your eggs, an online storefront can significantly expand your customer base. Just ensure you’re compliant with shipping regulations and that the eggs are packaged securely.
• Restaurants – Local restaurants, especially those that focus on using local ingredients, can be excellent partners for an egg farm. They often prefer the high-quality, fresh eggs that local farmers provide.
• Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) – This involves customers committing to buy a certain amount of eggs for a set period, providing the farmer with a guaranteed market.
• Subscription Services – Delivering a consistent supply of eggs to customer’s doorsteps on a regular subscription can generate a reliable income and customer loyalty.
• Wholesale to Bakeries – Bakeries require a large number of eggs and could offer you bulk orders, although likely at a lower price per egg than other outlets.

As you can see, there’s a range of options to consider, each with its own set of prerequisites, so you’ll need to do your research and perhaps even some trial and error to figure out what’s best for your farm.

Building Strong Relationships with Suppliers and Vendors

For a successful egg farm, building strong relationships with feed suppliers, equipment vendors, and other key partners is crucial. These relationships ensure a steady supply of necessary inputs and services, contributing to the smooth operation of your farm.

Good relationships can also lead to better pricing and terms, positively impacting your bottom line.

Why Egg Farms Are a Good Business to Get Into

Most egg farms contribute to the employment and economy in several different states. Egg farmers provide 112,723 jobs. Here’s a link to the total economic impact .

Glassdoor has the average salary for an egg farmer pegged at $49,450.

The 4 Types of Egg Farming

Egg farming is a good choice when sorting through organic agriculture business ideas . If you’re going to produce eggs, you need to choose from one of four different business models.

Conventional Cages (Factory Farms)

This type of hen housing was designed to protect the hens from predators and the elements. Raised floor cages were brought in the 1940s. And conveyor belts in the 1960s.

UEP Certified guidelines for hen care were released in 2002.

Enriched Colony Housing Units

Each hen has more square feet with this system. Orange folds are added as privacy curtains. Scratch pads for laying hens equals more egg production.

Cage Free Systems

Cage-free hens can wander freely. However, even cage-free farms restrict the chickens to the hen housing structure. Still, the birds can perch on roosts and lay eggs in nests.

Hens are not caged here. They are cage-free, and they get to roam around outside. The cost of feeding the chickens is lower. Part of their natural behaviors includes foraging. The hens can at least partially feed themselves.

This option is an integral part of having a green business model. Plus, any enclosed area is harder to keep clean.

Here’s a handy comparison of these egg farming business models:

How Much Land Do Egg Farmers Need?

When you’re just starting out, a standard area of 2 acres is typically recommended for an egg farm. However, this is a general guideline and your specific needs may vary.

It’s crucial to consult local and state ordinances that may have restrictions on the type or number of birds you can legally keep. Penalties for non-compliance can be severe.

When beginning, a manageable flock size is between 50 to 100 hens, allowing you to gauge your resources and hone your skills in poultry care.

Here’s a graphic on the best states to start a farm . And some information on the steps aspiring farmers should take.

Create an Egg Farm Business Plan

There are several steps you need to take to get this right. An important part is the financial plan. Your farm business plan should include projected income, operational costs, and startup costs.

Do Market Research

Finding the most profitable eggs is important. Social media can help identify current trends. Cover items like demographics, market size, and key competitors. You may also research other types of farms, like how to start potato farming.

Assess Market Demand and Trends

Before diving into egg farming, it’s crucial to assess the current market demand and trends. This involves understanding consumer preferences, such as the growing demand for organic or free-range eggs, and adapting your farm’s production to meet these trends. Analyzing market demand helps in making informed decisions about the scale of your farm and the type of eggs you plan to produce.

Form a Legal Entity and Register Your Egg Business

Your business structure and your location will determine how you need to proceed. Many small businesses in the egg industry will only need to register a business name with local and state governments.

Becoming a legal entity is as simple as filling out a federal tax ID for many businesses.

Name and Brand Your Egg Farm Business

The vast majority of successful brands and names are simple. Avoid hard-to-spell names. Grab a domain name, preferably a .com

Open a Business Bank Account

Get a federal EIN . These offer personal liability protection. And a line of credit to sell more eggs.

Is an Egg Farm Profitable?

According to IBIS World, this food is a $10 billion industry. With the right hens, you can be part of the 13% growth in profit from 2017 to 2022.

What Are The Downsides of Egg Farming?

There are some drawbacks to this type of chicken farming.

• You can lose many hens to poultry diseases like Fowl Cholera.
• Chicks can only be hatched in the presence of non-acidic clean water. The ground will need to be tested before you begin.
• Methane, carbon dioxide, and other greenhouse gases are produced.

Implementing Effective Biosecurity Measures

Biosecurity measures are essential to protect your flock from diseases and pests. Implementing strict biosecurity protocols, such as controlling access to your farm, regular health checks for your birds, and maintaining cleanliness, can prevent outbreaks that could be devastating to your business.

Exploring Value-Added Products and Services

Consider diversifying your business by exploring value-added products and services related to egg farming. This could include selling chicken manure as fertilizer, offering farm tours, or producing and selling egg-related products like mayonnaise or egg powder. Diversification can provide additional revenue streams and reduce dependence on a single income source.

The Bottom Line

Egg farming is among the most ancient agricultural activities, tracing back thousands of years. It’s an ever-evolving field, especially in the modern era, where there is a growing emphasis on ethical treatment and welfare of hens and male chicks.

This has led to new guidelines and even laws that dictate how these animals should be housed, fed, and cared for. Alongside this, the industry also has rigorous food safety checks in place to ensure the health of the consumer.

These safety protocols often include regular inspections, quality control measures, and stringent hygiene practices.

In essence, entering the egg farming business today means adapting to a landscape of both age-old traditions and cutting-edge best practices

Egg Farm FAQs

Do hens lay eggs all year round.

Yes. But they need 14 to 16 hours of light. These animals produce in those conditions.

What do You Call an Egg Farm?

Here are some ideas .

How do I Start Egg Farming?

Start small with about 50 hens. If you’re wondering how to start farming without money, that’s impossible.

Is Egg Farming Ethical?

Yes, but you need to care for the birds properly, including what they eat. However, a large percentage still suffers from broken bones. And some hens have thei r beaks cut with a hot blade.

Food safety is handled at several levels to reduce Salmonella enteritidis (SE) and other issues.

Are Free Range Systems Best for Keeping Hens?

These chickens produce better-eating eggs. It’s becoming a standard practice. They can dust and bathe outside.

Here’s a great example of a Free Range Organic egg farm in Chilliwack, BC.

Image: Envato Elements

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Poultry Farm Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Poultry Farm Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their poultry farms. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a poultry farm business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Poultry Farm Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your poultry farm as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Poultry Farm

If you’re looking to start a poultry farm, or grow your existing poultry farm, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your poultry farm in order to improve your chances of success. Your poultry farming business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Poultry Farms

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a poultry farm are personal savings, credit cards, USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans, bank loans, and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and USDA FSA loans are the most common funding paths for poultry farm.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a chicken farm.

If you want to start a poultry farm or expand your current one, you need a business plan. We detail each section of a traditional business plan for a poultry farming business.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of poultry farm you are operating and its status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a poultry farm business that you would like to grow, or are you operating poultry farm businesses in multiple locations?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the poultry farm industry. Discuss the type of poultry farm you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of poultry farm you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of poultry farms:

• Breeder Farms : this type of poultry farm produces hatching eggs for delivery to the hatchery. After the 21 day incubation period, the hatchery then delivers the baby chicks to the broiler houses.
• Broiler Farms: this type of farm produces a 2.5 lb. to 8 lb. bird in 4 to 8 weeks which is processed for various types of retail sale to consumers, grocery stores or fast food chains as whole birds, cut-up breast, wings, thigh, drumsticks, deboned breast meat, or further processed pieces.
• Pullet Farms: this type of poultry farm produces pullets and roosters to be delivered to a breeder hen house at 20-22 weeks old when they are sexually mature to breed and lay eggs.

In addition to explaining the type of poultry farming business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of chickens and/or turkeys produced, number of production contracts, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the poultry farm industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the poultry farm industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your poultry farming business plan:

• How big is the poultry farm industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your poultry farm business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your target market.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your poultry farming business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: processors, grocery stores, and restaurants.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of poultry farm business you operate. Clearly, processors would respond to different marketing promotions than restaurants, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most poultry farm businesses primarily serve customers living in their same region, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

Finish Your Poultry Farm Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other poultry farm businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes producers of other meat such as beef, pork, or fish, as well as producers of meat alternatives. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other poultry farms with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be poultry farms located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What kinds of poultry do they produce (breeders, broilers, pullets)?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you use superior production methods?
• Will you provide services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a poultry farm business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of poultry farm company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to traditional poultry, will you provide organic or cage-free poultry?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the products and services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your poultry farm company. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your poultry farm located near a processing facility, near a transportation hub, etc. Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your poultry farm marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in trade papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local agriculture extension offices
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your poultry farm, including animal care / feeding, flock supervision, animal transportation, sourcing feed, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to sign your 20th production contract, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your poultry farm to a new location.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your poultry farm’s ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing poultry farms. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing farms or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you supply 50 restaurants, or produce 2,000 birds for processing each month? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your poultry farming business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a poultry farm business:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your farm title or lease, or blueprints of the production facility.  

Putting together a business plan for your poultry farm is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the poultry farm industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful poultry farming business.

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Poultry Farm business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how Growthink’s professional business plan consulting services can create your business plan for you.

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The Big Book Project

Agribusiness Training & Startup Tools

Poultry Business Blueprint: How to Plan, Launch, and Grow a Profitable Poultry Farm

Last updated on November 15, 2021 by Temi Cole 1 Comment

I’m about to share with you my 15-point blueprint for writing a winning poultry farming business plan.

(Step-by-step.)

The best part?

You’re going to get linked to LOTS of business planning resources including real-life case studies within these steps.

Let’s take a look together…

• Step #1: Get ‘The Most Complete’ Poultry Farming Business Plan Template
• Step #2: Download “The Poultry Farm Business Plan Analysis Playbook”

Step #3: Download Poultry Plan It (eBook)

Step #4: download poultry project reporter 2.0 – insider’s guide, step #5: download sample poultry plan data, step #6: use business management templates (keep sheet).

• Step #7: Download Business Records for Poultry Keepers eBook (USDA Bulletin 1614)

Step #8: Subscribe To Poultry Project Reporter 2.0 (Fill-In-The-Gap PDF Builder) Software

Step #9: download zero debt: poultry farming business plan (2021) pdf ebook, step #10: download grow agribusiness faster classes, step #11: download poultry project hub pdf ebook, step #12: take the poultry farmer’s business quiz, step #13: download poultry project planning toolkit ebook v.1, step #14: download poultry business start-up: recommended digital tools of the trade, step #15: get a 1-to-1 poultry farming business planning review, step #1: get the best poultry farming business plan template.

A poultry farming business plan template is usually the no.1 request I get asked for as the author of The Big Book Project.

Emails like this are a good example:

Up until now, it’s been an obvious MISS as part of The Big Book Project…

…ready-made business planning consultancy for the beginner.

I always had it in mind to plug in the gap.

It’s in me to do.

With the experience of 10+ years serving start-up entrepreneurs with strategic business planning consultancy…there are countless benefits to offer here.

However, I didn’t want to rush.

I wanted the solution I delivered to ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS. And be handed over in a way that is:

Write Your Poultry Business Plan - in Just 90 Mins!

Poultry Project Reporter 2.0 - fastest way to write your project report online.

• self-explanatory
• self-driven

…the more flexible, yet comprehensive the planning materials are – the easier they will be to use and act on.

( And business does come down to action at the last .)

The Ultimate Poultry Farming Business Planning Template

My first step was to construct what I consider to be the most complete poultry farming business plan template possible.

The kind of thing that covers both bases of:

• helping to provide clarity to your thoughts for rolling out a successful poultry business launch
• communicating an attractive proposal to potential stakeholders and investors

Pouring in over 50,000+ hours of strategic business consulting experience which spans:

• global best practice insights and technology
• corporate currency exchange
• project management
• financial advisor and stockbroker
• freelance business management advisor

…I decided upon the following outline template:

Executive Summary

What is the business?

Why is it needed?

How will it deliver?

What are the financial rewards of investment?

Industry Analysis

Industry snapshot

SWOT & PESTLE (situational) analysis

Competitive forces

Vision & Mission Statement

Key function

Aspect of life

Product type

Scope and audience

Principles & promise

Feel good and standards

Poultry farm slogan

Competitive Analysis

Products and services

Marketing and sales

Key strengths

Marketing Strategy

Physical evidence

Leadership team

Professional profile

Financial Plan

Profit and loss

Balance sheet

Labour budget

Key performance indicators (KPIs)

It’s 38-parts that together spell out every critical element of poultry business success.

You simply won’t find a more comprehensive effort to fully load a poultry farming business plan with ALL ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS.

Want a breakdown of what each part really contains?

That’s EXACTLY what’s up next…

Step #2: Download The Poultry Farm Business Plan Analysis Playbook

As shared above, I’ve taken the time to draft what I am absolutely certain is THE market leading poultry farming business plan template – FULL STOP.

It’s got it all.

But what about the detail? And how should it be used?

Business planning analysis: the KEY to using my business plan template – like a PRO

Like so many business planning template solutions out there like bPlans, for example, they do a good job of setting a solid format, BUT…

…where they FALL SHORT is in giving you some real-life examples of how to APPLY the template .

In other words,

Most business planning tools out there don’t give you examples of how real poultry businesses measure up with the tool.

And because of this, those other planning tools leave you GUESSING what to do with it.

So you end up using it as a first-time pupil uses an exercise book:

Unskillfully and regrettably (“…don’t want to go back there again if I can help it…”).

When actually, what you NEED is a dynamic, “can’t put it down”, interactive ACTION plan – with bite.

…this is the reason I wrote this series of poultry farming business planning analyses.

Here’s what my business plan analysis will do for you…

To take all the guesswork and wandering out of planning your poultry business.

And to show you EXACTLY HOW a real-life poultry start-up success story marries up with my winning business planning formula…

…giving expert insight into how BEST to use the template to plan your own success.

The result?

(Way much better than just templates or homework…)

Step-by-step,   proven insights of what REALLY works and why in every step of writing your own poultry business plan.

= 1st rate consultancy & on-the-shoulder advice – at your own pace ( & at only a fraction of the price ).

You can access The Poultry Farming Business Plan Analysis Playbook here (Downloadable PDF version is available to paid subscribers )

So, why is an eBook the IDEAL partner to helping your write your poultry farming business plan?

(I’m glad you asked!)

Poultry Plan It: the blueprint to winning investment for your poultry business

Rather than present you with empty template boxes to fill out (which – let’s face it – offers zero value, both to you and potential investors)…

…instead,

My eBook called, Poultry Plan It – shows you EXACTLY how to:

• skillfully deliver and
• expertly pitch

…your poultry business plan to achieve 1 thing:

To Win Investment .

(Simple. My eBook “Poultry Plan It” shows you how to get investors to take your poultry business seriously .)

Read The Poultry Business - Like Never Before!

Chicken Snippets Newsletter - deep poultry analysis to sharpen your acumen, by email.

Does this eBook sound like what you need?

Try the first chapter called “ Poultry Plan It: Executive Summary ” right here .

Want to unlock the whole eBook as PDF download?

Become a paid subscriber and get “ Poultry Plan It ” by instant PDF download .

Have you ever wanted to see:

…how the financial PROs estimate future poultry investment returns?

…which poultry production models generate the most profit?

(I mean REALLY SEE?)

Then the Poultry Project Reporter 2.0: Insider’s Guide was written just for you.

Poultry Project Reporter 2.0 – Insider’s Guide: the ‘grain-by-grain’ financial analysis EVERY poultry business plan needs

I wrote the Poultry Project Reporter 2.0 – Insider’s Guide for two pressing reasons:

• …to plug in the gap of a general lack of ‘detailed, long hand’ financial poultry business calculations available online to help with planning profits.
• …a ‘case study based’ user guide for license holders of my proprietary software ‘Poultry Project Reporter’ – to find out ALL the inside hints and tips for producing rock solid financial projections.

Here’s a quick snippet of the level of breakdown I provide:

…literally, grain-by-grain, high precision detail.

BUT at the same time super simple to follow.

(With lots of visual content to really help you ‘get the picture’.)

Want to hear it from a reader?

This feedback email was sent by a start-up poultry farmer.

He emailed me within minutes of receiving a mailshot of a FREE chapter from the Insider’s Guide.

So what’s actually ‘ inside ‘ the Poultry Project Reporter 2.0 – Insider’s Guide?

A great question.

Here’s what you get:

Totally comprehensive and also a great handbook to accompany my proprietary software Poultry Project Reporter 2.0 .

Want to grab a copy of the PPR 2.0: Insider’s Guide?

Become a paid subscriber today and instantly get the inside track on financial planning for your poultry farm business.

Have a read of this:

…and there are many more requests like this in my inbox.

It seems when it comes to business planning help, poultry farmers and professionals alike are interested in scanning sample data too.

( Not just templates )

Sample papers: a GREAT way for self-assessing if your business plan is up to scratch

If you ask me, examples are without doubt the BEST way to learn.

Whenever I’m looking to work out a business model I always look for working models that already exist.

Never contrived or manufactured formulas.

As an adult, I don’t like to be spoon-fed. I learn best when I’m left a little room to figure things out myself.

Let’s take it back to class…

…why are past exam papers and examiner notes such a popular revision method?

SELF-ASSESSMENT.

(i.e. finding out for yourself how you measure up against standard.)

My preferred method of advanced learning.

And I don’t think I am alone in this.

This is exactly why I put together these sample poultry farming data plans – both layer and broiler models.

I left out any country bias, so these are a universal fit to any and every economy.

What do the samples contain?

There are 2 typical planning problems that these plans are designed to solve:

• Input and output VARIABLES,
• related to the SCALE and MODEL of your farm.

Master The Poultry Business - Like a Pro!

Poultry Courses Online - most actionable and interactive online poultry course.

In other words, these samples are shortcuts or crib notes for literally telling you if your planning progress is:

• en-route for success, or;
• taking a wrong turn .

I’ve arranged the samples according to the following attributes :

Broiler farming rearing models

• All-In-All-Out

Layer farming rearing models

Input/Output variable

• Feed consumption
• Production (meat or eggs)
• Broiler by product

These lists above are like ingredients to prescribed recipes.

Or, elements of an equation for solving a problem.

Mix them together in the right order and you answer critical questions within your poultry farm business plan.

Want an example?

The sample plans above will answer questions like,

“How much manure will a 2,000 bird broiler farm produce annually over 6 years, using the 4+1 rearing method?” Or, “How many eggs will a 5,000 layer farm produce annually over 6 years, using the 1+2 rearing method?”

Simply pull the relevant data set and immediately land your finger on the answer.

A convenient ‘plug-in’ to EVERY poultry farming business plan

Would you like a free sample?

Click on this link for a free egg production dataset for a 500-bird layer farm using 1+3 rearing system .

Now, are you ready for EVERYTHING?

Become a paid subscriber to gain instant access to ALL current sample plans PLUS future updates.

Another short falling of traditional business planning templates is that they are  start-up focused .

It makes the value gained from them short-lived.

Think of it this way…

When you’ve finally launched your business, that’s just the beginning and not the end.

At the very least, you should have another 6 years on top of actually running your business.

If your templates are ONLY valid for start-up,

Then what do you use to keep your ongoing plans in order ?

Crush investment risk with my business management templates

Arguably, running the business is a far more risky phase of investment – most of all because now you have made a material commitment.

Therefore, you carry the potential of loss.

And business management also just happens to be the most challenging discipline to hold.

Because you’ve got SO MUCH going on all at the same time.

And staying organised becomes more and more difficult with every day that goes by.

CHAOS costs …

• you lose foresight, you lose track of progress and ultimately you lose money.

ORGANISATION profits …

you gain vision, you gain awareness and ultimately make money.

Business Management Templates

These templates are designed to help you stay on top.

What’s included?

Advance Your Poultry Project - Into Maximum Profits!

Advanced Poultry Pickup - hands-on, 1-to-1 poultry business consultancy - anywhere.

Download the ‘Keep Sheet’ for future reference.

Want to start making business management plans?

Become a paid subscriber and access this suite of business management templates today.

Step #7: Download Business Records for Poultry Keepers eBook

This is a USDA eBook (United States Department of Agriculture – Farmers’ Bulletin 1614) from 1929.

(That’s right – it’s almost 100 years old!)

But testament to ‘things done well’…

…this evergreen piece of invaluable financial coaching for poultry farmers still holds true today, as when it was 1st published.

Business Records for Poultry Keepers: “Simply…DON’T attempt to write your poultry business plan without it.”

The motto of the eBook? “It literally pays for poultry farmers to keep records of current operations to guide their efforts in profitable directions.” In fact the book gives the following 6 great   reasons why you need this download : (1) “… reduce the guesswork in poultry farming by helping the farmer to determine the actual reasons for poultry profits and losses,” (2) “… show the relative efficiency of different methods of production and marketing,” (3) “…make it possible for a poultry keeper to compare his results with published information (benchmark) on many poultrymen’s problems,” (4) “… show the financial progress a poultry keeper has made in his business,” (5) “… furnish information for credit statements when funds are borrowed,” (6) “… help to prevent disputes by serving as a check on business dealings.”

What is included in this eBook?

Business Records for Poultry Keepers

• Usefulness of poultry records
• Receipts and expenses
• Egg-production record
• Labor record
• Sales records
• Records of eggs and poultry for household use
• Pen records
• Incubation and hatching records
• Diary or notes on management
• Making use of the records 

Want to pick up a copy?

Download the eBook here.

When I began writing The Big Book Project, I had one goal in mind:

To demystify investment proposal writing for start-up farmers.

By trawling the endless blog posts and comments in the small agribiz space online,

It became clear that MANY of us have the ambition to start up.

• see borrowing as the only root
• underestimate their business plan as just a means of getting a loan
• grossly misunderstand how to model production to make a profit

…and I desperately wanted to change turn this on its head.

Only, I made up my mind that I wasn’t going to go the traditional consulting route .

• Too expensive
• VERY limited
• Anti self-sufficiency ( clients grow dependant )

So, what were the alternatives to consulting?

• Perhaps, author a book
• Develop a proprietary software
• Run online courses

…these were just a few.

Then after extensive research and thinking things through…

…I settled for all 3 of the above alternatives, wrapped up into one package:

A book, plus bespoke software and an online course.

Enter: The Big Book Project

The Big Book Project ( https://thebigbookproject.org )

• An online eBook – pushed by a blog.
• A spin-off digital business planning tool called Poultry Project Reporter.
• And an online poultry farming course called Advanced Poultry Pick-Up.

In 2 years only,

the blog amassed 170,094 new search engine visitors  alone

PLUS , a little over 8,000 newsletter subscribers too.

Mission accomplished.

(Well, almost – “… but what about that software? “)

Actually, one of the most popular enquiries received through my blog is for help writing poultry business proposals .

With all the best intentions in the world, there’s just not enough of me to go around the entire subscriber base giving out 1-to-1 proposal writing help.

So, I did the next best thing.

I made my advice automated (with the help of some handy digital tools) and wrote it one time only.

The result was Poultry Project Reporter and now we have just launched version 2.

What is Poultry Project Reporter 2.0?

Poultry Project Reporter 2.0: the fastest way of writing a professional poultry farming proposal

If you are looking to write a watertight poultry business proposal,

Then this Poultry Project Reporter 2.0 is a solid investment for you.

Here’s why:

Essentially, all you have to do is type in your data into the input field and then leave the publishing (complete with PDF download) – even the calculations to PPR 2.0

Are you ready to take a closer look at Poultry Project Reporter? Take a look at the dedicated Poultry Project Reporter 2.0 website

Poultry farming as a topic is MASSIVE worldwide.

It seems, when it comes to the subject matter of poultry farming, every country is both ‘ stalking it ‘ and ‘ talking it ‘ online.

These stats from my blog above tell the tale of poultry farming and its popularity. It literally reaches every country in the world .

And despite all this talk about poultry farming business plans…

…I find a large percentage of the ‘audience’ has no capital funding availability (whether saved or borrowed) . Of course, this is totally natural and a reality for the majority, AND if you ask me a great ADVANTAGE.

Take this reader of my blog:

It seems many see a lack of capital as a barrier to entry when it comes to layer or broiler farming.

“But who said anything about needing significant capital to start up a profitable poultry business ?”

One of the BIGGEST attractions to poultry farming surely is the LOW BARRIER to entry , LOW SETUP costs and yet HIGH profitability and cash flow potential.

But as with many theories, I suppose it remains ‘up in the air (talked about)’ until someone makes it tangible…material…possible.

This is the principle that encouraged me to step up to the plate in an attempt to ‘bat out of the park’ all doubt surrounding it…

…and finally, answer the question:

Can you start up a poultry farm with zero capital?

Yes, you can start a poultry farm with no available capital.

Here’s how…

Zero Debt Poultry Farming: the MOST REWARDING way to start, scale and establish a leading egg or chicken business

In my line of work as a consultant (professional problem solver) – the one discipline that keeps my craft alive is RESEARCH.

And as such, I come across all kinds of neat fixes that may not be for the time I find them,

But are bound to come in handy some time.

So, much like a handyman or craftsman, not wanting to let anything go that could be of use,

I end up keeping a stash of these in a ‘kind of’ strategic toolbox.

When enough time passes by whilst researching related topics,

I get enough of a head of steam to begin compiling an eBook.

This is my process.

And using this I wrote ‘ Zero Debt Poultry: Business Startup Plan ‘.

It’s a strategic playbook and secret formula for how (with no borrowings or savings) you:

• turn your poultry startup idea into a market-leading farming enterprise
• BEFORE you yield your 1st egg or carcass .

Want the PDF download?

Become a paid subscriber today and download Zero Debt Poultry Business Startup Plan .

I had to refrain from using the phrase, “Masterclasses”…a bit presumptuous for my liking.

Aren’t we always needing to ‘add on’ – even after many years of experience? Are ever really the finished article?

Whatever your answer to those questions is,

I do think what is indisputable is the benefit of someone else’s EXPERIENCE when you don’t have any…

… experience saves loss …

…loss of:

…and in the case of business startup, the benefit of experience in some critical areas can be the difference between success and failure.

And where so much is riding on you making it work,

Getting the right experience is HIGHLY valued.

Equally, identifying the most advantageous area of learning carries importance.

So, what area of learning would you say has the most impact on farming success?

According to this study , ‘ Farm Business Management Skills a Missing Link For Smallholder Farmers: A Case Of Malingunde, Malawi ‘ (European Journal of Business and Innovation Research 2016): Just one of many studies which declare a link between business management discipline and better economic output . Other quotes from the study bear reference to previous works: “Generally, management is a human responsibility and skill that drives economic activities and development ( Oghojafor et al, 2012 ).” “Smallholder farmers need to be better equipped with business management skills if they are to play a central role in improving agricultural productivity ( Mohit, 2012 ).”

So, there you have it – business management is the most influential skill set you could acquire for succeeding with your poultry startup.

But is there really a shortage of business management material on the internet?

Not according to Google,

As you can see above, it took Google 0.6 seconds to return almost 6 BILLION results for the search term ‘business management’.

That’s a FLOOD of management content.

But…I ask:

• Is all of it good ? Or at least suitable for a startup poultry farmer?
• Also, where do you begin ?

To save you ENDLESS wandering from page to page online,

I have neatly packaged a power-packed portfolio of business management tutorials tailor-made for EVERY startup farmer…

…called “Grow AgriBusiness Faster Classes”

Grow AgriBusiness Faster Classes: instantly download 15 years of 1st class management expertise ( & speed up your poultry profits )

The purpose of these tutorials is to make common with you some of the most valuable business management lessons learned in my 15 years of management.

They span a corporate and independent consulting career, including:

• global best practice
• financial investments
• small business strategy

But the goal is simple…

…to make hard things simple for you to ‘master’ (…there, I’ve said it now…) to save you any potential material losses of getting it wrong.

These lessons should help you to get it right, 1st time.

The GREAT thing about these tutorials also is that they are all written from 1st hand experiences and lessons learned . Nothing academic – all true to life .

Here’s currently what is included :

Want to access the Grow AgriBusiness Faster Classes?

Become a paid subscriber today and fast forward your management abilities.

Are you currently working on a feasibility plan & business proposal for your future poultry farm?

Then this resource is the ideal pocketbook and project reference guide for equipping you with EVERYTHING you need to draft a winning plan.

It’s called the Poultry Project Hub…

Poultry Project Hub: a jampacked project resource library giving you 100’s of angles on planning optimal profits

This has to be the most plentiful online digital resource for assisting your poultry business proposal writing .

Here’s a quick round-up of its contents:

In short, the Poultry Farming Project Hub contains:

“…over 20,501 words, 200+ rows of data tables, as well as 30+ screenshots/images, sample calculations, case studies and more.”

If you are looking for:

• sample plans
• expert poultry business consultancy
• step-by-step calculations
• definitions and equations for investment metrics
• case studies
• detailed ‘explainer’ articles on hard to understand model concepts

…then this is an unmissable opportunity for you.

Visit the library and its FREE resources now.

Want to download the entire library in PDF instead?

Become a paid subscriber and get the PDFs.

This is very simply – a little bit of light relief if you are finding the whole exercise of business planning a little…frustrating.

There are 15 questions in this quiz.

Each covering a key poultry farming discipline.

It’s multiple choice and nothing too heavy.

Ideally, you might use them to sharpen up your general strategic business awareness.

Try the poultry business quiz.

I made this as a complementary guide to be read alongside sample poultry plans.

To help you better DIRECT the planning process.

To have you asking the right questions and taking the right approaches to assemble your poultry business plan successfully.

Plus, I provide insight into:

• production modelling options and,
• uncover flawed assumptions.

These points above are often sticking points and wrong turns for many when building a plan.

This eBook helps you avoid the loss of time and effort getting tied up in with grey spots.

And here’s how…

Poultry Planning Toolkit eBook: avoid common planning errors by having this on your desk as you work

I’d go as far as saying that you shouldn’t begin writing your poultry farm business plan UNTIL you’ve read this.

It does the job of ironing out all the usual sticking points that trouble and prolong planning.

Issues such as:

• modelling choices
• how best to plan your earnings
• how to measure profitability
• how to do capital planning

…are opened up with ease and made plain.

Here’s the chapter line-up :

• Broiler vs. Layer
• Reverse Engineer your Earnings
• Modelling for Cash Flow
• Frameworking
• Cost & Price Inputs
• Gross Profits
• Capital Planning
• Return on Investment
• Scenario Planning

I designed it to answer ALL the key strategic planning questions.

I’d say, the real value of this eBook is that it prevents false starts by filling in the common knowledge gaps .

A great time saver.

Take a few minutes to read a chapter for free .

Want to download the entire PDF eBook?

Become a paid subscriber today and get expert direction for writing a successful poultry business plan.

This one is quite simple.

If it’s ever cross your mind to ask,

“Hey Temi, what website software do you use?”

“What service do you use to send out those email messages?”

For example, I use WPMUDEV as my web hosting partner. They are just right for The Big Book Project currently. It’s true that there are many cheaper web hosting services out there, But the operative word here is * SERVICE* . When I fail, they pick up the pieces and always ensure The Big Book Project is constantly online. No downtime, no curveballs, no disasters…you see everything coming LONG before it hits, giving plenty of time to react successfully…PLUS, when trouble hits, they REALLY know how to rescue a WordPress website . Hands down. I have no complaints and many good things to say…if you are looking for an expert WordPress website support team – I couldn’t recommend them highly enough . Learn more about WPMUDEV here. (The link above goes to their website and of course costs you nothing. If you decide to hire them, I get a small payment back. The money side has no influence though. I personally use them and happily recommend their service.)

My other tools of the trade including:

• graphic design tool
• online payment gateway
• document management tools
• email marketing platform
• accounting program (inc. invoicing, quotations etc).

…are all neatly listed in the crib sheet.

It’s exhaustive. And comes with 10 years of self-employment and business ownership experience.

Lots of valuable, ‘hard-to-find’ gems to give you plenty of advantage.

(*Plus there are some GREAT time and budget savers in here to help you save the pennies, without compromising on  quality.)

Want to download my Digital Tools of The Trade crib sheet?

Become a paid subscriber today and get a headstart on digital business services.

Whilst I don’t write business plans, I do review them from time to time.

From your point of view, it might be a useful pointer in the right direction.

Just the thing you need to get you out of a rut and to finally complete your plan.

A bit like this:

…always good to see REAL LIFE RESULTS gained by readers of The Big Book Project who put the advice into action .

Want me to take a look at your poultry farm business plan?

Become a paid subscriber today and book your business plan review.

Now over to you…

Are you currently writing a business plan for your poultry farm?

Have you already drafted your plan?

Either way, I’d be interested to hear from you.

Leave a comment below.

Reader Interactions

Write your poultry project proposal in just 90 mins.

February 22, 2024 at 1:44 pm

My first time to visit this web site. I am impressed and subscribed soon. Hope I will be benefited from the package. Inspired by quick response of the system and tells how efficient and profitable the poultry business too. I will keep myself long in the transaction. Regards, Assefa T.

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How to Start an Egg Business

From writing a business plan to collecting eggs, everything you need to know.

• Swarthmore College

• Ohio Wesleyan University
• Brandeis University
• Northeastern University

Treehugger / Julie Bang

• Urban Farms
• Planting Guides
• Indoor Gardening

Maybe you've been raising laying hens for your family and wanted to expand, or perhaps you're starting fresh with a new flock and already know you want to get into the business of selling eggs. Either way, raising chickens who produce farm-fresh eggs can be a fun and profitable venture. There are just a few things to consider when starting your own egg business that will ensure your success.

Know Your Market

Treehugger / Julia Cook

You'll need to make sure that a market for homegrown eggs exists in your area. And you'll want to see what prices others are commanding per dozen. When looking at other local egg offerings, consider: are the chickens fed organic feed? Are they "pastured," where they spend all day out on the grass, eating bugs and the growing tips of plants as well as chicken feed?

You'll want to determine where you will sell your eggs. Many states have exceptions for farmers selling eggs on a small scale.     But if you want to go beyond that, you may need to set up a USDA-inspected egg washing facility.   If looking locally, how much turnover does your local food co-op or grocery store have for eggs? Many places can't keep stock of good, local eggs, but in some towns or rural areas, there may be an oversupply.

Know the Laws

As mentioned above, depending on your state and local laws, you may need to set up special facilities to clean your eggs. You may be allowed to, or prohibited from, recycling egg cartons from other companies to package your eggs. If you put the word "organic" on your eggs, you will probably need to meet organic standards, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Your county extension agent is a good place to start to find out what local and federal laws may apply to your egg-selling business.

Write a Business Plan

The second step after knowing your market is to formalize your marketing plan by writing a business plan . A small farm business plan will not only identify your target market, but it will also look at how you might grow your business down the road, what price to set your eggs at, what costs contribute to producing the eggs, and what profit you can hope to generate.

Decide How Many Chicks You Want

With your business plan in place, you can work backward from the number of eggs you plan to sell each week, to how many chicks you need to get to meet that goal. Figure that during her prime, a laying hen will, on average, produce three to five eggs a week. If you plan to sell 10 dozen eggs a week, or 120 eggs, you can do the math to determine that 25 or 30 chicks will be a good number to start with.

Make sure you've done the hard work and that you have a market that can support the number of chicks you are getting for your flock.

You can also figure out pricing. What are your expenses each month for feed and other costs? Divide that by the number of dozens of eggs you plan to sell, and make sure you're charging well above your break-even point. You may have to spread the investment of building a chicken coop or putting up fencing over several years to make a profit, though, so don't calculate initial investment when setting your price.

Raise Your Chicks

Be sure when you choose your chicks, you're picking a breed that is very productive in the egg-laying department, and that also are hardy enough to survive in your climate. If you are in the north, you will want to consider supplementing with light in the winter, so that your hens produce eggs all year round.

Raising laying hens on pasture can make for better eggs, and discerning customers now know the difference. Deep, rich orange yolks bursting with flavor is what many now expect - and what you should easily get from hens with access to grubs, grasses, and the ability to roam over several acres to find the tastiest meals. On top of pasture, you'll want to provide high-quality feed and possibly additional calcium for strong shells. You can also supplement with food and garden scraps.

Collect and Clean Eggs

How you collect and clean eggs is extra important when you are selling them to others. Make sure that you know how to properly clean your eggs so that you minimize the risk of salmonella poisoning.

Package and Sell Eggs

Once collected, it's time to package and sell your eggs . Consider your business plan when thinking about how to package your eggs. A nice label with a graphic logo can go a long way toward selling your eggs over another local brand. Make sure to follow all the requirements of your local and state laws when packaging and selling eggs.

Reassess and Reevaluate

With any business, ongoing assessment and evaluation of the success of the business are key. If things are not running smoothly with your egg business, it may be time to reassess - the markets, your infrastructure (coop and fencing), and even whether continuing to sell eggs is the right choice for you. Don't be afraid to reevaluate your egg business from time to time to make sure it's working well for your small farm .

“ Sale Of Eggs In Minnesota .” State of Minnesota Department of Agriculture .

“ Egg Sales & Licensing .” State of Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

“ Sanitation Requirements .” U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Golson, Terry. The Farmstead Egg Guide & Cookbook. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt . 2014.

Hermes, James. “ How To Feed Your Laying Hens .” Oregon State University.

• These Animals Are Easy to Raise on a Small Farm
• Best Urban Farming Certifications
• How to Start a Small Farm Business
• Starting Your Small Farm from Scratch
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• 13 Best Examples of Cover Crops for Your Small Farm
• How Long Do Chickens Live?
• The Types of Fences Available to Use on the Farm
• How to Start a Small Farm
• Should You Raise Turkeys?

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Eggs Farming Business Plan Sample

Published Jun.16, 2022

Updated Apr.22, 2024

By: Jakub Babkins

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 2

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Table of Content

Eggs farming business plan for starting your own business

Are you looking for how to start an egg farm business? An egg farming business is based on raising hens on a farm so to sell eggs for human consumption. The business is profitable because eggs are directly or indirectly part of nearly every meal we eat today.

If you intend to start this business the foremost step is to devise an operational plan. In this egg farming business plan pdf we’re documenting the business plan of an egg farming startup, Eateries. However, if you lack experience in making business plans, it is recommended to hire experts and professionals. Many firms presently also offer services to create a business plan online .

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Eateries will be located in San Jose, the U.S. The business will be premised on egg farming. However, innovative features are introduced to make it competitive and adaptive to technological developments. 

2.2 Management of eggs farming

Before starting an egg farming business, it is vital to prepare a poultry egg farming business plan. It will enable you to systematically deal with every niche of your business. There are many poultry egg farming business types and your business plan will be based on the type of business you are going to operate. In such cases, it is always recommended to hire business plan professional services to develop a business plan for you.

Eateries will be managed by a web of managers and workers. Since the business requires doing a myriad of hectic tasks such as managing the hens, sorting and feeding them, and regulating their egg production, therefore the management is not going to be simple. The detailed qualification and job description of staff that will be hired to manage various operations will be given in the later sections.

2.3 Customers of Eggs farming

The customer base of egg farming enterprise is very wide and is divided into the following groups:

• Hotels & Restaurants
• Food Production & Agricultural Industries

2.4 Business Target

The targets of Eateries include establishing a good reputation among its competitors. Meanwhile, we aim at establishing a high CSAT score. Our financial goals to be met within the first three years are demonstrated in this table.

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Eateries will be owned by Robert Smith. Smith is an MBA from the prestigious Harvard Institute. He hasn’t any experience of working in the field. Just after graduation, he made a small farm egg business plan and carried out his startup successfully.

3.2 Why eggs farming is being started

Smith was always an animal enthusiast. He started poultry farm egg production business to earn profit while doing the work he loves. Besides, Smith believed that the usual farming techniques used on farms are cruel to animals and are only centered on making profits. 

Therefore, he decided to open organic egg farming business to set an example of earning profit while continuing it with humane practices.

3.3 How the eggs farming will be started 

Step1: Plan & Take Down

The foremost step is to take down an enterprise plan. Since it is a consuming task we’re attaching poultry egg farming business plan pdf for your help. However, you cannot move on with just this chicken egg farming business plan pdf without adjusting it your intended market, financial expenditures, and goals.

Step2: Fund & Recruit

The next step is to direct your funding to acquire the financial and human resources you will be needing.

Step3: Manage the Business 

Managing a farming enterprise is tough and just like the case of worm farm business plan , you’ll need hard-working staff to sort and regulate the hens. To get ideas on how to manage your farm efficiently, you may also visit indoor shrimp farm business plan .

Step4: Ensure You Exist on Google

The next step is to ensure that you have a strong web presence. Especially if you want to sell eggs and products both offline and online, it will be imperative to be in the top searches on the web.

Step5: Market

The last step is to publicize your merchandise, your services, and the things that can brand you better than your competitors. It will help you get in contact with your intended audience and boost your sales.

Services of eggs farming

In your chicken egg farm business plan, you’ll have to construct a list of products you’ll be offering. Usually, the products in small egg farm business plan are eggs and chicken meat. However, in this egg farming business plan pdf you can see that Eateries will be offering turkey meat and poultry litter as well. If you plan to offer more services in this domain you will have to do little adjustments in this business plan for egg laying farm.

Our main products will be eggs, both white and brown. We will sell them in packs. 

• Chicken Meat

We’ll also sell chicken meat in large quantities to merchants and hotels. 

• Poultry Litter & Organic Fertilizer

Poultry litter comprises feathers, excreta, non-edible organs, and other waste products related to poultry. They all together make a great organic fertilizer so this will also be our major product.  

• Turkey Meat

We’ll also be farming turkeys and will sell their meat as well.

Marketing Analysis of eggs farming

Before you start chicken egg farming business you should bring off a market analysis of the market you’re going to serve. It includes studying the market trends, no. of businesses operating, and profit-generating methods adopted by others in the field. After studying that, you have to compile them in your eggs farming business plan for reference. Moreover, in your egg farm business plan you have to do market segmentation i.e. dividing your intended population into distinct groups to develop a targeting and tailored strategy. 

5.1 Market Trends

According to IBISWorld, the market size of egg farming business is $10bn as of 2022. More than 32 thousand businesses are successfully operating in the U.S. and due to increasing market demand, there is room for more. Most of the farm corporations sell white and brown table eggs and therefore, adding turkey meat and fertilizers to the services will benefit Eateries a lot.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

In this egg farm business plan pdf we’re listing groups of customers as recognized by Eateries. If you’re looking for how to start an egg farm business you must search for your own customer groups and include them in your chicken egg farming business plan.

5.2.1 Retailers

Our major customers will be salespeople and owners of large stores. They are expected to buy all our products in large amounts. Therefore, we’ll be offering several discounts to them to guarantee their long-term retention.

5.2.2 Hotels & Restaurants

Our second group of desired customers will be hotels and restaurants. They will buy eggs and meat from us in large amounts to prepare meals to serve their customers.

5.2.3 Bakeries

The last category of our desired customers includes bakeries. To cook their products such as pizzas, burgers, and even loaves of bread, they will need to procure eggs and chicken and turkey meat. They are also likely to make purchases in large chunks.

5.2.4 Food Production & Agricultural Industries

They are expected to buy poultry litter from us to turn it into useful and expensive organic fertilizer.  As soon as we achieve the independent capability to produce organic fertilizer, this customer group will become a major contributor to our profit margins.

5.3 Business Target

• Maintaining an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 on our online platforms
• Attaining a CSAT score of more than 90% during the first year of our launch
• Boosting our sales by 30% every year 
• Acquiring independent capability of producing organic fertilizer by poultry litter 

5.4 Product Pricing

Our prices are a little bit higher than those of our competitors. It is because we’re especially aiming to keep the hen healthy and humanely. Moreover, the prices of our turkey meat are also higher as we feed them with costly organic foods rather than instant and artificial feeds.

Marketing Strategy of eggs farming

If you are planning to institute a farm that sells eggs to business, you must also include the strategy to get in contact with the desired enterprises. In this small farm egg business plan we are documenting the sales strategy of Eateries. If you are making an egg farming business plan you may take more promotion ideas from business plan for farmers market or oyster farming business plan.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

• We have acquired a large area in which temperature is controlled to facilitate a favorable environment for farming. This will help us in getting healthier, and more nutritious eggs and meat.
• We do not subject the poultry to inhumane treatment, unlike many others.

6.2 Sales Strategy

• We’ll offer a 40% discount on our eggs for the initial 3 months of our launch.
• We’ll offer a 20% discount on chicken meat and turkey meat for the initial 2 months of our launch.

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

Personnel plan of eggs farming

When you draft an eggs farming business plan, you must include a list of required workers along with their job descriptions. It is essential as managing a farm is a hectic doing. Even garlic farming business plan gives a tough time even though garlic is a static species with no excretion and cleaning requirements.

In this poultry egg farming business plan pdf, we’re listing the personnel plan of Eateries.

7.1 Company Staff

• 5 General Workers
• 10 Cleaners
• 1 Accountant 
• 2 Record Keepers
• 1 Veterinary Doctor
• 1 Web Developer

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial plan of eggs farming.

To ensure that your small farm egg business for sale yield the expected profits, it is essential to draw specific and realistic profit expectations meanwhile devising the strategy to materialize them. For that, you need an in-depth and 100pc accurate financial analysis in your business plan for egg laying farm. In this schedule, we are documenting the financial plan of Eateries, however, if you have any added aspects to your enterprise, you may also want to visit state farm agent business plan

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 Break-even Analysis

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 profit monthly.

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

All tables in PDF

• How do I start an egg business?

You can start it by making a chicken egg farming business plan and then executing it in letter and spirit. If you need to know what an egg farm business plan looks like you can see this egg farm business plan pdf

• Is selling eggs a good business?

Yes. It’s a good startup due to the use of eggs in almost everything edible. 

• How much can you make on the egg farm?

You can make as much as $10-30k per month in profit depending on your sales. In this egg farming business plan you can see how much Eateries made in the initial 3 years of their launch.

• What are the 4 types of egg farming?

The 4 types of egg farming are as follows:

• Barn egg production
• Organic egg production
• Free range egg production
• Laying cage egg production

Download Eggs Farming Business Plan Sample in pdf

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

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How Much Does It Cost To Start An Egg Production Business?

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Startup Costs

Introduction.

Egg production has become one of the most lucrative businesses in recent years, and the industry continues to grow rapidly. According to the latest statistics, the US egg production industry is worth $10 billion and is expected to grow by 3% in the coming year. With the increasing demand for eggs, it comes as no surprise that more and more people are consider egg production as a viable business opportunity.

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• How To Sell Egg Production Business in 9 Steps: Checklist
• Rephrased: Evaluating an Egg Production Business - How?
• How to Develop a Business Plan for Egg Production: A Step-by-Step Guide

However, like any other business, egg production requires a significant investment. There are a number of one-time startup costs that need to be covered before you can start earning a profit. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the costs associated with opening an egg production business in the US.

Before we dive into the startup costs, let's take a quick look at the different business models for egg production in the US. The most popular model is contract farming, where farmers enter into contractual agreements with egg companies to produce eggs according to set specifications. This model is particularly popular for small and medium-scale producers who benefit from guaranteed markets and stable prices provided by the egg companies.

• Construction and installation of poultry houses and egg-laying areas: This is one of the biggest expenses when starting an egg production business. The cost of construction will depend on the size of the operation and the materials used. On average, a 10,000-bird capacity house can cost between $20,000 to $30,000 to construct.
• Purchase of egg-laying chickens and necessary equipment such as feeders and drinkers: The cost of purchasing chickens will depend on the breed and age of the birds. On average, a laying hen can cost around $5 per bird. Necessary equipment such as feeders and drinkers can cost around $2 per bird.
• Acquisition of vehicles for transportation of feed and eggs: This will depend on the size of the operation, but a small truck can cost between $20,000 to $30,000.
• Cost of building storage facilities for feed and eggs: Depending on the size of the operation, this can cost between $10,000 to $20,000.
• Installation of ventilation and heating systems within poultry houses: This will also depend on the size of the operation, but on average, it can cost around $10,000.
• Purchase of feed and medication for egg-laying chickens: This will be an ongoing cost, but on average, a laying hen requires around 120g of feed per day. The cost of feed can vary, but on average, it can cost around $10 per bag of feed.
• Recruitment and training of farm staff: The cost of recruitment and training will depend on the size of the operation, but it's important to invest in quality staff to ensure smooth operations.
• Cost of obtaining necessary licenses and permits: Depending on the state and local regulations, this can cost between $1,000 to $5,000.
• Legal fees for drafting and reviewing contracts with egg companies: This is an important cost, as it ensures that your business is protected in case of any legal disputes. Legal fees can vary, but on average, it can cost around $2,000 to $5,000.

Starting an egg production business requires a significant financial investment, but it can also be a highly profitable venture with a steady income stream. By understanding the startup costs associated with egg production, you can take the necessary steps to plan and budget for your business.

Starting an egg production business involves several initial expenses. These costs vary depending on the size of the venture, location, and other factors. Here are the estimated startup costs for an egg production business:

• The cost of construction and installation of poultry houses and egg-laying areas depends on the type of construction materials, the size of the structures, and the amount of labor involved.
• The price of egg-laying chickens may vary depending on the breed and age of the birds. Necessary equipment such as feeders, drinkers, and lighting systems should also be taken into account.
• The purchase of vehicles will depend on the size of the operation and the distance between the farm and market.
• The cost of building storage facilities for feed and eggs is influenced by the size of the farm and the amount of feed and eggs to be stored.
• Installation of ventilation and heating systems helps to regulate temperature and humidity levels within poultry houses. The cost of installation is determined by the number of houses and the type of ventilation system used.
• Purchase of feed and medication for egg-laying chickens is an ongoing expense that can affect the production and health of the birds.
• Recruitment and training of farm staff includes hiring farm managers, caretakers, and other workers to oversee the daily operations of the farm.
• Getting the necessary licenses and permits is important to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Legal fees for drafting and reviewing contracts with egg companies should be considered when entering into agreements with egg purchasers.

Starting an egg production business requires a significant investment. However, the contract farming model can help reduce marketing costs and provide a reliable market for egg producers.

1. Construction and installation of poultry houses and egg-laying areas

One of the main expenses when starting an egg production business is the construction and installation of poultry houses and egg-laying areas. According to recent statistics, the cost of building and equipping a standard poultry house ranges from $3 to $10 per square foot , depending on the materials used, size of the house, and location.

The cost of constructing a hen house for commercial egg production depends on various factors such as the number of birds, design of the house, location, and type of materials used. A standard commercial poultry house is usually between 20,000 to 30,000 square feet and can accommodate up to 20,000 laying hens .

The cost of installing egg-laying areas also varies depending on the type of flooring, feeder, and waterer system used. The cost of installation ranges from $1 to $5 per bird , depending on the level of automation and the number of hens per unit area. For instance, a 6-pack cage module that can house up to 180 hens may cost between $40 to $60 per unit .

In some cases, egg producers may consider using pre-fabricated poultry houses that come fully equipped with feeding and cooling systems, lighting, and ventilation. The cost of such pre-fabricated houses ranges from $6,000 to $20,000 per unit depending on the size and design.

• Example: A poultry house designed for 20,000 laying hens of commercial egg production with good ventilation and lighting can cost up to $150,000.
• Example: A commercial egg producer who intends to start with 5,000 laying hens may require about 700 square feet of floor space. The cost of building and equipping the hen-house may be about $25,000 to $35,000.

2. Purchase of egg-laying chickens and necessary equipment such as feeders and drinkers

When starting an egg production business, purchasing egg-laying chickens and necessary equipment is crucial. According to the latest statistical information, the cost of purchasing 500 commercial egg-laying chickens can range from $750 to $1,500 depending on the breed and age of the chickens.

In addition to the cost of the chickens, necessary equipment such as feeders and drinkers must also be purchased. The cost of these items can range from $1.50 to $10 per item depending on the quality and quantity needed. As a general rule, it is recommended to have one feeder and one drinker per 25 chickens.

It is important to note that additional equipment may be necessary depending on the size and type of egg production operation. For example, incubators for hatching chicks, brooders for raising young chickens, and egg grading machines for packaging eggs may all be necessary for larger operations. The cost of these items can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

• Example: To start a small-scale egg production business with 500 chickens, the total cost of purchasing chickens and necessary equipment such as feeders and drinkers would be roughly $1,500 to $2,500. This does not include additional equipment such as incubators or egg grading machines.
• Example: For a larger egg production operation with multiple barns and thousands of chickens, the cost of purchasing necessary equipment such as feeders and drinkers alone could be in the tens of thousands of dollars.

3. Acquisition of vehicles for transportation of feed and eggs

Acquiring vehicles for the transportation of feed and eggs is an important aspect of running an egg production business. The costs associated with this item can vary depending on the type and size of the vehicle needed, as well as the distance between the farm and the egg company.

According to recent statistics, the cost of a new delivery truck for transporting eggs can range from $30,000 to $60,000 USD. This investment is necessary for ensuring that the eggs are delivered safely and efficiently to the egg company, which is crucial for maintaining a good relationship with the supplier.

In addition to the cost of the vehicle itself, there are other costs associated with transportation that should be taken into consideration. These costs can include fuel expenses, maintenance costs, insurance premiums, and driver salaries. The total amount spent on these expenses will vary depending on the size and distance of the delivery route.

One way to reduce transportation costs is to consolidate deliveries with other nearby egg producers. This can be done by pooling resources and sharing delivery routes, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of transportation. Farmers can also consider purchasing used vehicles or leasing them instead of buying new vehicles, which can help to lower initial costs.

It is important to note that the transportation of feed and other supplies to the farm is also an important cost consideration. The cost of a delivery truck for transporting feed can range from $20,000 to $40,000 USD, and additional expenses such as fuel, maintenance, insurance, and other operating costs will also need to be taken into account.

• Key takeaway: Acquiring vehicles for transportation of feed and eggs is an important investment for egg producers, with the cost of a new delivery truck ranging from $30,000 to $60,000 USD and additional expenses such as fuel, maintenance, insurance, and driver salaries also needing to be considered. Consolidating deliveries with other nearby egg producers and purchasing used or leased vehicles can help to lower initial costs.

4. Cost of building storage facilities for feed and eggs

Building storage facilities for feed and eggs is one of the key investments for egg production. The cost of building storage facilities depends on several factors such as the size of the facility, location, and the type of materials used.

The latest statistical information shows that the average cost of building a 10,000-square-foot storage facility for feed and eggs is around $150,000 to $200,000. However, this cost can vary depending on the location and materials used. For example, building a storage facility in an urban area may cost more compared to a rural area due to higher land prices and building costs.

The cost of building storage facilities for eggs can be higher compared to feed storage due to the need for specialized equipment such as egg packing machines and refrigeration units to maintain egg quality. Building a storage facility for eggs may cost an additional $20,000 to $30,000 for the specialized equipment required.

In addition to the initial construction cost, there are also ongoing costs associated with maintaining the storage facility such as electricity, maintenance, and repairs. On average, these ongoing costs can amount to around $10,000 to $15,000 per year.

To reduce the cost of building storage facilities, some egg producers opt for used or refurbished equipment. However, it is important to ensure that the equipment is in good condition and meets the industry standards to avoid issues with egg quality and safety.

• Key takeaways:
• The cost of building a storage facility for feed and eggs ranges from $150,000 to $200,000 for a 10,000-square-foot facility.
• The cost can vary depending on location and materials used.
• Additional costs for specialized equipment for egg storage can add up to $20,000 to $30,000.
• Ongoing costs for maintenance and repairs amount to around $10,000 to $15,000 per year.
• Used or refurbished equipment can be used to reduce costs but must meet industry standards.

In conclusion, the cost of building storage facilities for feed and eggs is a significant investment for egg producers. Careful planning and consideration of factors such as location and materials used can help reduce costs. Additionally, ongoing maintenance and repairs must be considered to ensure proper functioning of the storage facilities.

5. Installation of ventilation and heating systems within poultry houses

The installation of proper ventilation and heating systems is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of the flock, as well as maximizing production efficiency, especially in areas with extreme temperatures or humidity. According to the latest statistics, the cost of installing ventilation and heating systems in poultry houses varies based on multiple factors, such as the size of the farm, the type of system, and the region. Generally, farmers can expect to invest between $20,000 to $50,000 for ventilation systems and $10,000 to $30,000 for heating systems.

While these costs may seem high, they are necessary investments for long-term profitability and sustainability. Ventilation systems help to regulate temperature, humidity, and air quality, which can prevent the outbreak of diseases, reduce mortality rates, and improve egg quality. Heating systems can also help maintain a consistent temperature, especially during colder months, and prevent stress on the flock, which can affect laying performance and egg quality.

There are various types of ventilation systems available to farmers, including natural, mechanical, and hybrid systems. Each system has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the costs vary. Natural ventilation systems, which rely on natural air flow, are the most cost-effective option, but may not provide enough ventilation to maintain optimal flock health. Mechanical systems, which use fans and ducts to circulate air, are more expensive but can provide more consistent ventilation throughout the house. Hybrid systems combine natural and mechanical systems for a balance between cost and effectiveness.

Heating systems can also vary based on the type and fuel source. Some popular options include propane or natural gas furnaces, radiant heaters, or heat pumps. Farmers should consider the size of their flock, the climate in their area, and the cost of fuel to determine the most cost-effective heating system for their operation.

In conclusion, the cost of installing ventilation and heating systems in poultry houses can range from $20,000 to $50,000 and $10,000 to $30,000 , respectively, depending on various factors. While these costs may seem high, they are necessary investments for maintaining optimal flock health, maximizing production efficiency, and ensuring long-term profitability. Farmers should carefully consider the type of ventilation and heating systems that best suits their operation and budget.

• Example of natural ventilation system: windows, vents, and open doors
• Example of mechanical ventilation system: fans and ducts
• Example of hybrid ventilation system: combination of natural and mechanical ventilation
• Example of heating system: radiant heater
• Example of fuel source: propane or natural gas

6. Purchase of feed and medication for egg-laying chickens

The cost of feed and medication for egg-laying chickens is one of the most significant expenses in an egg production business. According to recent statistics, the average cost of feed for a laying hen per year is around $15 to $20 . However, the actual cost depends on various factors, such as the type of feed, breed of birds, and production system.

Medication is another essential expense for egg production. The average cost of medication for a laying hen per year is approximately $2 to $3 . This includes the cost of preventive medications such as vaccines, as well as treatments for common ailments such as respiratory infections, parasites, and mites.

The cost of feed and medication may vary based on the production system. For instance, farmers who opt for organic or free-range egg production may incur higher costs for feed and medication as they use specialty feeds and avoid using antibiotics and other medications. Additionally, the cost of feed and medication may also depend on the breed of chicken. Certain breeds may require higher protein feeds and have specific health concerns, thus increasing the cost of feed and medication.

To minimize the cost of feed and medication, farmers can explore alternative feeds, such as using local grains and forages, or partnering with other livestock farmers to share feed costs. Additionally, adopting best management practices, such as proper hygiene and vaccination protocols, can reduce the need for medication and lower overall costs.

It is essential to keep track of feed and medication costs and adjust them as needed to ensure profitability while maintaining the health and welfare of the birds. Farmers can use budgeting and monitoring tools to track spending on feed and medication and adjust them as needed to ensure a healthy flock and a profitable business.

• Example: A farmer who has 500 egg-laying hens and uses a commercial feed may spend an average of $10,000 to $15,000 per year on feed alone. Additionally, the cost of medication may add up to $1,500 to $2,000 per year.
• Example: A farmer who opts for free-range production and uses specialty feed may spend up to $25,000 to $30,000 per year on feed. Additionally, the cost of medication may be higher due to the use of organic or natural treatments.

7. Recruitment and training of farm staff

The recruitment and training of farm staff is an important aspect of any egg production business. According to recent statistics, the average cost of recruiting and training a new employee in the agriculture industry is around $4,295. This includes advertising costs, recruitment agencies fees, and training fees.

However, to attract and retain the best talent, egg producers should be willing to invest in competitive compensation packages and ongoing professional development opportunities. These can include flexible work arrangements, health benefits, retirement plans, and access to training and certifications programs.

One effective way to reduce recruitment and training costs is to establish relationships with local educational institutions, such as high schools, community colleges, and universities, and offer internships, apprenticeships, and scholarships to students interested in pursuing a career in agriculture.

In addition, egg producers can leverage digital tools and social media platforms to promote their job opportunities and engage with potential candidates. This can include creating dedicated job boards on their website, posting job ads on LinkedIn and Indeed, and sharing employee testimonies and success stories on Facebook and Twitter.

• Example 1: ABC Egg Company partners with the local vocational school to offer a 12-week training program for aspiring egg production workers. The program covers topics such as animal welfare, biosecurity, and basic farm maintenance, and includes paid on-the-job training and mentoring by experienced egg farmers. Upon completion of the program, participants receive a certificate of completion and may be offered a full-time position with the company.
• Example 2: XYZ Egg Farms offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan. In addition, the company invests in ongoing training and development opportunities for its employees, such as workshops on food safety, management, and marketing. These initiatives have helped XYZ Egg Farms attract and retain top talent in a competitive labor market.

8. Cost of obtaining necessary licenses and permits

Before starting an egg production business, it is important to obtain all the necessary licenses and permits as required by the local and state authorities. The cost of obtaining these licenses and permits varies by state and local regulations and can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.

For example, in California, the cost of obtaining a permit to operate an egg laying facility is around $700, while in Minnesota, the cost is approximately $1,000.

In addition to the permit fee, there may be other expenses associated with obtaining licenses and permits, such as hiring a consultant to prepare the application, paying for inspections, and meeting environmental standards.

In Texas, for instance, the cost of hiring a consultant to prepare the permit application can range from $2,500 to $5,000, and obtaining environmental compliance can cost up to $10,000.

It is also important to note that there may be ongoing fees associated with maintaining these licenses and permits and complying with regulatory standards.

For instance, in Pennsylvania, egg producers are required to pay an annual fee of $50 for each farm and $0.05 per bird.

It is crucial to thoroughly research the licensing and permit requirements in your state and local area and budget for the associated costs in your business plan.

• Factors that may affect the cost of obtaining necessary licenses and permits:
• State and local regulations
• Types and size of egg production facility
• Consultant and inspection fees
• Environmental compliance and standards

9. Legal fees for drafting and reviewing contracts with egg companies

Starting an egg production business through contract farming involves drafting and reviewing contracts with egg companies. These contracts provide guidelines for the production of eggs according to the company's specifications. Legal fees for drafting and reviewing these contracts may vary depending on the complexity of the agreement, the fee structure of the attorney, and the geographical location of the business.

According to a survey, the average cost of drafting a simple contract ranges from $300 to $1,000. However, if the contract is more complex and requires additional legal advice, the cost may exceed $5,000.

Reviewing an existing contract usually costs less than drafting a new one. The average cost for reviewing a simple contract is between $200 to $500. If the contract involves complex legal issues, it may cost up to $2,000 to review.

Contract farming in the egg production industry is subject to federal and state regulations. Legal fees for ensuring that these regulations are met can vary depending on the state and the nature of the legal matter. However, the average cost of a regulatory compliance consultation ranges from $200 to $500.

It is essential to have an experienced attorney draft or review contracts for egg production businesses. Failing to do so could result in costly legal disputes down the road. Some egg companies may also provide templates for contracts, but it is recommended to have a legal professional review them before signing.

• Example 1: A small-scale egg producer in Ohio enters into a contract with an egg company that requires additional clauses for animal welfare. The draft contract is reviewed by an attorney who charges $300 for the service.
• Example 2: A medium-scale egg producer in California enters into a complex contract with an egg company that requires legal advice for export regulations. The legal fees for drafting the contract exceed $5,000 due to the complexity of the agreement and the need for export compliance.
• Example 3: A large-scale egg producer in Texas seeks legal advice on federal regulations regarding the production of organic eggs. The legal fees for regulatory compliance consultation are $500.

Starting an egg production business can be a lucrative venture, but it requires a significant investment. By understanding the startup costs, you can plan and budget accordingly to ensure the success of your business.

Overall, the total cost of opening an egg production business in the US can range between $50,000 to $100,000 depending on the size of the operation and the location. However, it is important to keep in mind that these are one-time costs. Once the business is up and running, there are ongoing expenses such as feed and labor costs to consider.

One of the advantages of the contract farming model is that it provides guaranteed markets and stable prices, which can help to ensure a steady income for small and medium-scale producers. Additionally, investing in quality staff and ensuring compliance with state and local regulations is crucial for the long-term success of the business.

Overall, egg production can be a profitable and rewarding business opportunity for those willing to make the initial investment. With proper planning and budgeting, you can successfully launch your own egg production business and enjoy the steady income it provides.

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Layer Farming Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Agriculture Industry » Livestock Farming » Poultry » Poultry Business Plan

Are you about starting a layer farming business? If YES, here’s a complete sample layer farming business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE to raise money .

Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a layer farming business. We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample layer farming marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for layer farms. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

There are loads of business opportunities in the poultry industry and layer farming is one of them. Layers are chickens that are specifically raised for the purpose of laying eggs – commercial egg production.

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Layer poultry farming means raising egg laying poultry birds for the purpose of commercial egg production. Layer chickens are a special species of hen which need to be raised from when they are one day old. They start laying eggs commercially from 18-19 weeks of age.

Layer poultry farming is a profitable business that has evolved from small scale into a global industry in most countries where it is carried out.

Countries like Nigeria , United Kingdom, Brazil, Greece, Philippines, China, Japan, Thailand, Caribbean countries and even South American Countries have been farming layer chicken on a large scale for a long time. united states isn’t far from the trade as there are lots of people who are making huge fortune from farming layer chicken alone.

It is important to state that starting a layer poultry farming business comes with its own fair share of challenges, but that does not rule out the fact that it is indeed a profitable business venture. An aspiring entrepreneur can either choose to start a layer poultry farm on a small scale or on a large scale depending on their financial status.

Below is a sample layer poultry farming business plan template that can help you to successfully write your own with little or no difficulty.

A Sample Layer Farming Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The agricultural industry of which poultry farming and egg production is a subset of is no doubt among the leading industry in most countries of the world; it is the industry that produces chicken and eggs for the populace.

Because of the significant role the agriculture sector plays, the government of most countries ensures that they go all the way to subsidize seedlings, fertilizers, farm implements and machinery for farmers and also encourage entrepreneurs to go into commercial farming (poultry farming inclusive).

Hens, various birds, quails, guinea fowls, ducks et al are all birds that can be comfortably reared in a poultry. Chicken and birds are widely consumed in all parts of the world hence there is a large market for poultry farmers. If you are looking towards starting a livestock breeding business, then one of your options is to settle for poultry farming. Poultry farming is a highly thriving and profitable business venture.

Asides from the fact that people consume birds and chicken, supply of eggs is also a major source of revenue generation for poultry farmers. Players in the poultry farming and egg production industry basically raise chicken for meat and egg production. The eggs produced may be sold for use as table eggs or hatching eggs.

The Poultry Farm and Egg Production Company Industry that layer poultry farming business is a part of is indeed a very large industry and pretty much thriving in all parts of the world especially in developed countries such as United States of America, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia and Italy et al.

Statistics has it that in the United States of America alone, there are about 30,000 licensed and registered poultry farm and egg production companies directly responsible for employing about 280,800 employees and indirectly responsible for employing roughly 1,339,900 people.

The industry rakes in a whooping sum of $10 billion annually with an annual growth rate projected at 6.1 percent. It is important to state that establishments with a lion share of the available market in this industry are Cal – Maine, Land O’Lake, Inc., Michael Foods and Rose Acres Farms.

Statistics also has it that an estimate of about 35 companies are involved in the business of raising, processing and marketing chickens on a commercial level; they export chicken and eggs to other countries of the world. It is on record that Americans consume more chicken than anyone else in the world.

So also, in 2015, almost 9 billion layer chickens, weighing 53 billion pounds, live – weight, were produced. More than 40 billion pounds of chicken product was marketed and measured on a ready-to-cook basis. If you are looking towards leveraging on the agriculture industry to generate huge income, then one of your best bet is to start a layer poultry farm and egg production business.

One thing is certain about starting layer poultry farming and egg production business, if you are able to conduct your market research and feasibility studies, you are more likely not going to struggle to sell your eggs and chickens because there are always food processing companies and consumers out there who are ready to buy from you.

2. Executive Summary

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a world – class poultry farm company with strong bias for rearing layer chickens. Our poultry farm will be based in the outskirt of Houston, Texas – United States. We have done a detailed market research and feasibility studies and we were able to secure hundred hectares of land to start our layer poultry farm and egg production business.

Our layer poultry farm is going to be a standard commercial poultry farm, so will be involved in raising layers for egg production on a commercial level; we will export live layers – chickens and eggs, to other countries of the world. We are in the commercial layer poultry farming and egg production line of business because we want to leverage on the vast opportunities available in the agriculture industry to contribute our quota in growing the U.S. economy.

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is well positioned to become one of the leading commercial layer poultry farms in the United States of America, which is why we have been able to source for the best hands and machines to run the company.

We have put processes and strategies in place that will help us employ best practices when it comes to commercial poultry farms and egg production as required by the regulating bodies in the United States of America. At Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC, our customer’s best interest will always come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics.

We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely. We will cultivate a working environment that provides a human, sustainable approach to earning a living.

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a private registered commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company that is owned by Mrs. Grace Milton and her immediate family members. The layer poultry farm will be fully and singlehandedly financed by the owner – Mrs. Grace and her immediate family members at least for a period of time.

Before starting Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC, Mrs. Grace Milton has gathered robust experience working for some of the top brands in the poultry farms industry in the United States of America. She is of course well experienced and highly qualified to run this type of business.

3. Our Products and Services

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a standard commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company that is committed to raising chicken (layers) for both the United States’ market and the global market. We are in the commercial layer poultry farms and egg production line of business to make profits and we are going to do all we can to achieve our business goals, aim and objectives.

These are the areas we will concentrate on in our commercial layer poultry farms. If need arises we will definitely add more poultry produce to our list;

• Raising, processing and marketing chickens on a commercial level; we export chickens, processed chickens and eggs to other countries of the world
• Table eggs produced by battery chickens (white)
• Table eggs produced by battery chickens (brown)
• Hatching eggs
• Specialty eggs
• Table eggs produced by free-range chickens

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our Vision is to become one of the leading commercial layer poultry farm and egg production brands not just in the United States of America but also on a global stage.
• Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a world class and registered commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company that is committed to raising layers – chickens, and producing eggs for both the United States’ market and the global market. We want our chickens and eggs to flood the nooks and crannies of the United States and other countries of the world.

Our Business Structure

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a privately owned and managed commercial layer poultry farms and egg production business that intends starting small in Houston – Texas, but hope to grow big in order to compete favorably with leading commercial poultry farms and egg production companies in the industry both in the United States and on a global stage.

We are aware of the importance of building a solid business structure that can support the picture of the kind of world class business we want to own. This is why we are committed to only hire the best hands within our area of operation.

At Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC, we will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, hardworking, creative, result driven, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stakeholders (the owners, workforce and customers).

As a matter of fact, a profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more as agreed by the board of trustees of the company. In view of the above, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Operating Officer

General Poultry Farm Manager

Human Resources and Admin Manager

Accountant/Cashier

• Sales and Marketing Executive
• Field Employees
• Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Responsible for the planning, management and coordinating all farm activities across the various sections on behalf of the organization
• Supervise other section managers
• Ensure compliance during project executions
• Providing advice on the management of farming activities across all section
• Responsible for carrying out risk assessment
• Using IT systems and software to keep track of people and progress of the growth of chickens and other birds
• Responsible for overseeing the accounting, costing and sale of poultry farm produce
• Represent the organization’s interest at various stakeholders’ meetings
• Ensures that layer poultry farming goals desired result are achieved, the most efficient resources (manpower, equipment, tools and chemicals et al) are utilized and different interests involved are satisfied. Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations
• Enhances department and organization reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.
• Defining job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carrying out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Oversee the smooth running of the daily office
• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC
• Serves as internal auditor for Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC.

Sales and Marketing Manager

• Manage external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Model demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customers
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects
• Write winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develop, execute and evaluate new plans for increasing sales
• Create new markets cum businesses for the organization
• Empower and motivate the sales team to meet and surpass agreed targets

Field Workers/Contract Staff

• Responsible for daily collection of eggs
• Responsible for feeding chickens and other birds as instructed by the supervisor
• Responsible for cleaning poultry and the entire environment
• Change the water for the birds as instructed by the supervisor on a regular basis
• Handles poultry farm implements and machines (hatchery) as instructed by the section manager/supervisor
• Assist in handling the chicken and other birds et al
• Carries out task in line with the stated job description
• Assist in transport working tools and equipment from the poultry farm and back to the designated store room
• Handles any other duties as assigned by the line manager

Front Desk/Customer’s Service Officer

• Welcomes clients and potential clients by greeting them in person, online or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the creative director in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries

6. SWOT Analysis

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC do not intend to launch out with trial and error hence the need to conduct a proper SWOT analysis.

We know that if we get it right from the onset, we would have succeeded in creating the foundation that will help us build a standard commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company that will favorably compete with leading commercial layer poultry farms and egg production companies like Cal – Maine, Land O’Lake, Inc., Michael Foods and Rose Acres Farms in the United States of America and in other parts of the world.

We engaged the services of a core professional in the area of business consulting and structuring to assist our organization in building a well – structured commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company that can favorably compete in the highly competitive commercial poultry farms and egg production industry in the United States and the world at large.

Part of what the team of business consultant did was to work with the management of our organization in conducting a SWOT analysis for Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC. Here is a summary of the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC;

Our strength as a commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company is the fact that we have healthy relationships with loads of major players (agriculture merchants) in the industry; both suppliers of poultry feeds and medications and buyers of live layers (chickens) and eggs within and outside of the United States of America.

We have some of the latest commercial poultry farming hatchery, tools and equipment that will help us raise and produce eggs in commercial quantities with less stress. Aside from our relationship (network) and equipment, we can confidently boast that we have some the most experienced hands in Houston – Texas on our payroll.

Our weakness could be that we are a new commercial poultry farm and egg production company in the United States, and perhaps it might take us sometime to attract big time customers in the industry. We are aware of this and from our projection will overcome this weakness with time and turn it to a major advantage for the business.

• Opportunities:

The opportunities that are available to us as a standard commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company cannot be quantified. We know that there are loads of households and businesses such as grocery stores, hotels and fast food restaurants that can’t do without a daily supply of live chicken and eggs. We are well positioned to take advantage of this opportunity.

Some of the threats and challenges that we are likely going to face when we start our commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company are global economic downturn that can impact negatively on household spending, bad weather cum natural disasters (draughts, epidemics), unfavorable government policies and the arrival of a competitor (a commercial farm that engage in the rearing of chickens and other birds) within same location.

There is hardly anything you can do as regards these threats and challenges other than to be optimistic that things will continue to work for your good.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The Poultry and Chicken Egg Production industry has greatly benefited from campaigns advertising the health benefits of chickens and eggs as a good source of protein. No doubt, the increased demand of chicken and eggs from households and food related businesses and of course the growing popularity of specialty and processed eggs have rapidly improved revenue growth for the industry.

In the face of this growth, profit margin has suffered from rising feed costs and also regulations regarding animal welfare. As a matter of fact, one of the new trends is that with the recent advancement in technology, poultry farmers can now comfortably predict and produce large quantities of chickens/birds and eggs per time.

8. Our Target Market

Indeed, the target market of those who are the end consumer of commercial poultry farm produce and also those who benefits from the business value chain of the poultry farming and egg production industry is all encompassing; it is far–reaching.

Every household consumes produce from commercial poultry farms be it chicken or egg. So also, almost all hotels and fast restaurants sell meals made from chicken and eggs. In essence a commercial poultry farmer cum layer farmer should be able to sell his or her chickens and eggs to as many people as possible.

In view of that, we have positioned our business to attract consumers of chicken and eggs not just in the United States of America alone but in other parts of the world. We have conducted our market research and survey and we will ensure that we meet and surpass the expectations we set for the business. Below is a list of the people and business that we will market our live chickens and eggs to;

• Individuals
• Restaurants
• Fast food eateries
• Grocery stores
• Agriculture merchants

Our competitive advantage

It is easier to find entrepreneur flocking towards an industry that is known to generate consistent income which is why there are more commercial poultry farmers in the United States of America and of course in most parts of the world.

Statistics has it that there are 2.2 million farms in the United States of America, covering an area of 922 million acres. These goes to show that there are an appreciable number of farmers in the United States of America but that does not mean that there is stiff competition in the industry.

As a matter of fact, entrepreneurs are encouraged by the government to embrace commercial farming cum poultry farming and egg production. This is because part of the success of any nation is her ability to cultivate her own food and also export food to other nations of the world.

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is fully aware that there are competitions when it comes to selling live layers and eggs all over the globe, which is why we decided to carry out thorough market research so as to know how to take advantage of the available market in the United States and in other parts of the world.

We have done our homework and we have been able to highlight some factors that will give us competitive advantage in the marketplace; some of the factors are effective and reliable layer poultry farming and egg production processes that can help us sell our produce at competitive prices, good network and excellent relationship management.

Another competitive advantage that we are bringing to the industry is the fact that we have healthy relationship with loads of major players (agriculture merchants) in the industry; both suppliers of poultry feed, medications, buyers of live chickens and eggs within and outside of the United States of America.

We have some of the latest commercial poultry farming hatchery, tools and equipment that will help us raise layers and produce eggs in commercial quantities with less stress. Aside from our relationship (network) and equipment, we can confidently boast that we have some the most experienced hands in Houston – Texas in our payroll.

Lastly, all our employees will be well taken care of and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups commercial poultry farms and egg production companies in the United States) in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is in the poultry farms and egg production line of business for the purpose of maximizing profit hence we have decided to explore all the available opportunities within the industry to achieve our corporate goals and objectives. Below are the sources we intend exploring to generate income for Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC;

10. Sales Forecast

From the survey conducted, we were able to discover that the sales generated by a commercial layer poultry farm and egg production business depends on the size of the poultry farm, the types of birds available in the poultry and of course the size of their marketing network.

We have perfected our sales and marketing strategies and we are quite optimistic that we will meet or even surpass our set sales target of generating enough income/profits from the first year of operation, and build the business from survival to sustainability within the shortest period of time.

We have been able to critically examine the layer poultry farms and egg production business, we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast.

• First Fiscal Year-: $250,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $600,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $900,000

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown that can impact negatively on household spending, bad weather cum natural disasters (draughts, epidemics), and unfavorable government policies. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

We are quite aware that the reason why some commercial poultry farms and egg production companies hardly make good profits is their inability to sell off their live chickens and eggs as at when due.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the poultry farming and egg production industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall business goal of Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC.

Over and above, we have perfected our sale and marketing strategies first by networking with agriculture merchants and businesses that rely on a daily supply of live chicken and eggs. In summary, Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC will adopt the following strategies in marketing our commercial farm produce;

• Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to stakeholders in the agriculture industry, grocery stores, households, hotels and restaurants and agriculture produce merchants’ et al.
• Advertise our business in agriculture and food related magazines and websites
• List our commercial layer poultry farms and egg production business on yellow pages ads
• Attend related agriculture and food expos, seminars and business fairs et al
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Engage in direct marketing
• Encourage the use of Word of mouth marketing (referrals)

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Any business that wants to grow beyond the corner of the street or the city they are operating from must be ready and willing to utilize every available means (conventional and non – conventional) to advertise and promote the business. We intend growing our business which is why we have perfected plans to build our brand via every available means.

We know that it is important to create strategies that will help us boost our brand awareness and to create a corporate identity for our commercial layer poultry farm and chicken egg production business. Below are the platforms we will leverage on to boost our commercial layer poultry farm brand and to promote and advertise our business;

• Place adverts on community based newspapers, radio and TV stations
• Encourage the use of word of mouth publicity from our loyal customers
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Badoo, Google+ and other platforms to promote our business.
• Ensure that our we position our banners and billboards in strategic positions all around Houston – Texas
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas in and around our neighborhood
• Contact corporate organizations, households, landlord associations and grocery stores by calling them up and informing them of Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC and the poultry produce we sell
• Advertise our business in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site
• Brand all our official cars and trucks and ensure that all our staff members and management staff wears our branded shirt or cap at regular intervals.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

If you want to get the right pricing for your live layer chicken and egg, then you should ensure that you choose a good location for your commercial layer poultry farm and chicken egg production business, choose a good breed of layers that will guarantee bountiful harvest (eggs), cut the cost of running your poultry farm to the barest minimum.

Of course, you should try as much as possible to attract buyers to your poultry farm as against taking your eggs and chickens to the market to source for buyers; with this, you would have successfully eliminate the cost of transporting the goods to the market and other logistics.

We are quite aware that one of the easiest means of penetrating the market and acquiring loads of customers is to sell at competitive prices, hence we will do all we can to ensure that the prices of our eggs and layers – chickens are going to be what other commercial layer poultry farmers would look towards beating.

One thing is certain; the nature of commercial layer poultry farming and egg production business makes it possible for layer poultry farmers to place prices for their eggs and live chickens based on their discretion without following the benchmark in the industry. The truth is that it is one of the means of avoiding running into a loss.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is all inclusive because we are aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation of the United States of America. Here are the payment options that Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards/Point of Sale Machines (POS Machines)
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via mobile money transfer
• Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our clients make payments for our live chicken and eggs purchase without any stress on their part. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website to clients who may want to deposit cash or make online transfer for our chickens and eggs.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

When it comes to calculating the cost of starting a commercial poultry farm , there are some key factors that should serve as a guide. The different types of birds to be raised in a commercial poultry farm determine the total cost of setting up the business.

Besides, in setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting / leasing a big facility, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business.

The tools and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked. As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a commercial layer poultry farm and egg production business, it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money.

Below are some of the basic areas we will spend our start-up capital in setting up our commercial layer poultry farm and egg production business;

• The total fee for incorporating the business (commercial layer poultry farm) in United States of America – $750.
• The amount needed to acquire/lease a farm land – $50,000
• The amount required for preparing the farm land (poultry fencing et al) – $30,000
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services (software, P.O.S machines and other software) – $3,300.
• Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580
• The total cost for hiring business consultant – $2,500
• The total cost for payment of insurance policy covers (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) at a total premium of – $9,400
• The amount required for the purchase of the first set of layer chickens – $10,000
• The cost for acquiring the required working tools and equipment/machines/hatchery et al – $50,000
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
• The cost of launching an official Website – $600
• Additional Expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al) – $2,000

Going by the report from detailed research and feasibility studies conducted, we will need an average of $500,000 to start a standard commercial layer poultry farm and chicken egg production business in the United States of America.

Generating Funds/Startup Capital for Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC

No matter how fantastic your business idea is, if you do not have the required money to finance the business, the business might not become a reality.

Finance is a very important factor when it comes to starting a business such as commercial layer poultry farm and egg production business. No doubt raising startup capital for a business might not come cheap, but it is a task that an entrepreneur must go through.

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a family business that is solely owned and financed by Grace Milton and her immediate family members. They do not intend to welcome any external business partners, which is why she has decided to restrict the sourcing of the startup capital to 3 major sources. These are the areas we intend generating our startup capital;

• Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Apply for loan from my Bank

N.B:  We have been able to generate about $150,000 (Personal savings $100,000 and soft loan from family members $50,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $350,000 from our bank. All the papers and documents have been signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited with the amount.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the number of loyal customers that they have, the capacity and competence of their employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be long before the business closes shop.

One of our major goals of starting Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers is to retail our live layer – chickens and eggs a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and retraining of our workforce is at the top burner.

We know that if this is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry, and they will be more committed to helping us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Leasing of farm land and building of standard poultry (cages): In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Application for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging, Marketing/Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the needed hatcheries, creates, furniture, racks, shelves, computers, electronic appliances, office appliances and CCTV: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party/launching party planning: In Progress
• Compilation of our list of products that will be available in our store: Completed
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – key players in the industry: In Progress

• Farmer Health/Safety
• Poultry Management
• Eggs – Breeders
• Eggs – Layers
• Meat – Broilers
• Meat – Turkeys
• Bird Management
• Manure Management
• Sponsored by Cobb
• Commentaries
• Feed & Nutrition
• Cobb Vantress
• Sponsored By Neogen
• New Products
• Sponsored Pages
• Back Yard Poultry
• Poultry Producer Sponsors
• Advertising
• Poultry Events
• Agriculture Marketing
• Production & Management
• Eggs - Breeders
• Eggs - Layers

Small-Scale Egg Production (Organic and Non-Organic)

Egg production on a small scale is one of the oldest animal farming enterprises in recorded history. A small investment may yield several years of income.

In the United States, egg production followed these principles until early in the twentieth century. Then new systems emerged for producing eggs in more specialized facilities, making the operation more efficient. In addition, population shifts from farms to towns and cities increased the demand for fresh products. These changes encouraged many dairy farmers to include egg production as an additional enterprise.

The late 1950s and 1960s saw drastic changes in the industry. Co-ops, feed companies, and other private firms organized egg production into a coordinated industry.

This meant that egg production on a farm changed from a secondary to a primary enterprise with specialized production methods. The result was virtual elimination of small-scale egg farming.

Small-scale layer production has made a comeback since the 1980s because of changing consumer demands. Backyard egg producers may see a local market for their surplus eggs. New markets are continually being developed to supply specific niche market needs, especially for organically produced brown eggs (although white eggs also are popular). Layers raised organically and used for producing organic eggs are more valuable at the end of their production cycle and can be sold as roasting chickens. Conventionally grown layers have less value because of size and body structure and are sold to make protein supplements for pet food or sold to a live bird market as a stewing hen.

Many states and private organizations certify organically produced meat and eggs. Check the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) Certified Organic website to find the certifying body for your state or area. To obtain organic enterprise certification in Pennsylvania, contact Pennsylvania Certified Organic by phone at 814-422-0251 or check the Pennsylvania Certified Organic website for more information.

As with any new enterprise, you should research markets before starting production. You should conduct some market research because growers often overestimate their ability to sell in a given market. The major markets for eggs from small flocks are specialty stores, farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and neighbors. Additional niche markets exist for people who want organic, fertilized, or free-range eggs. Since very little information about these markets is available for any given geographic area, developing them requires research and time. Check with your state department of agriculture and local extension office to see if a local marketing support program exists to help register you as a vendor of locally produced food.

Getting Started

One of the most practical ways to get started is to begin with a flock of up to 1,000 birds and use existing facilities when feasible. A unit of this size allows you to learn the necessary production and marketing skills without making a large investment. Costs are limited to a layer house, nests, and feed and watering equipment.

Start your flock with young pullets (16-18 weeks old) from a reputable dealer. Buy birds that are ready to begin producing eggs. Make sure they are certified by the National

Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP) to be free of Salmonella pullorum, Salmonella typhoid, Salmonella enteritidis, and mycoplasma. A list of NPIP hatcheries is available from the USDA. Before your pullets arrive, check that their litter is dry and all feeders and drinkers are clean and in good working order.

Check for any local ordinances that may prohibit the keeping of poultry at your location. Often these ordinances prohibit the type or number of birds you can keep in one location. Residential associations for some communities may have even more restrictions on the keeping of livestock within their jurisdictions. Please review these ordinances for any concerns prior to starting your enterprise.

More than sixty breeds of chickens are used for commercial poultry production. Many breeds lend themselves to either egg or meat production and some breeds may be used for both (i.e., dual purpose). Most breeds producing white eggs efficiently tend to be lean, light in weight, and do not lend themselves to meat production. Most breeds producing brown eggs are larger, heavier bodied, and when finished laying can be used as roasting chickens.

Production Considerations

You will need at least 1.5 square feet of floor space per bird, covered with clean straw, wood shavings, or sawdust. One feed pan usually provides enough space for 20 birds. Sufficient watering equipment should be available for 20 birds per cup, 12 birds per nipple, or 1 bird per linear inch of trough space. Birds do not lay eggs at the same time, so nests can be supplied at the rate of one nest per five hens. Nest box bedding should be different from floor litter and must be kept clean and dry.

Lighting stimulates hens to lay eggs. If you want to produce eggs year-round, you will need to install adequate lighting in your facility. Gradually increase the length of time hens are exposed to light when they arrive at your farm. Start with 12 hours of total light per day at an indoor intensity that just allows you to read the fine print of a newspaper at night (0.5- to 1.0-foot candles). Increase daylight length by 30 minutes per week until you reach 16 hours of light per day. Additional outside light exposure is fine; you should just have the supplementary lights begin and remain on before and after dawn and dusk.

Ventilation of poultry enclosures is necessary so that adequate air exchange can take place to keep littered floors dry. Ventilation needs will vary with ambient temperature. If the temperature is too hot or cold for you, it will be for your layers as well. Misting water around the outside of poultry enclosures may be necessary to keep your layers cool during the extreme heat of summer months. Additional litter materials may be necessary to provide insulation during the winter can aid to protect hens from cold floors and drafts.

Conventional layer mash feed can be purchased at your local feed store. Certified organic feeds are also available, but they are sometimes more difficult to find and are more costly. All hen mash should contain at least 3.5 percent calcium and 16 percent crude protein. Additional free-choice calcium may be provided after birds are 45 weeks old to aid in good shell formation, especially during hot weather. Water should be given free choice, and container-based watering systems should be emptied and cleaned every other day at a minimum. Use a bucket to carry waste water away from living areas to reduce the potential for disease and to prevent the litter from becoming damp or wet.

This publication outlines conventional and organic cage-free production methods. The conventional method recommends molting the flock to stimulate a return to laying. Molting involves resting the hen for a short period of time with cessation of lay. This is done by reducing the hours of daily light back to the day length utilized during pullet rearing (10 hours) and feeding a lower energy and calcium diet–more like a pullet’s diet. This modification in feed and light will result in an involution of the oviduct and a rebuilding of this organ. After a period of rest and rebuilding, normal feeding and light schedules are resumed. This production practice extends the flock’s productive life without replacing the flock. Molting also increases egg size and quality for a period of time. Flocks may be molted more than one time, but this is not recommended for small flocks.

Many breeds are suitable for producing organic eggs. However, usually the brown egg layers with larger, heavier body types have better value as meat value and greater return after laying has ceased.

Health Considerations

Biosecurity and sanitation are necessary to prevent disease outbreaks. Biosecurity involves isolating birds by age-group, restricting human access to buildings, keeping the buildings clean, and properly disposing of dead birds. To prevent the introduction of diseases, new birds should be isolated and observed for disease symptoms for one month before allowing contact with other birds.

Because of cannibalistic tendencies often seen in birds, housing of flocks should be done in an all-in, all-out fashion so that birds kept together are of the same age and size. If smaller birds are being raised as replacements, they should be kept in separate housing and seen first each day. Dead birds should be composted in a compost pile large enough to cover the birds with 6 inches of composting material surrounding the body or double-bagged if disposed of in municipal waste receptacles.

Beak trimming should be done at between 7 and 14 days of age in the flock. Dog toenail trimmers can be used to remove 1/16 inch of the upper beak to render the tip of the beak dull. This will keep the birds from injuring neighboring birds if they do peck. Shiny objects such as plastic soda bottles and pie pans can be hung in the house for flocks that are exhibiting aggressive behavior toward one another.

Consulting a veterinarian regularly is a good management practice. If high mortality suddenly appears in your flock with no apparent cause, contact your veterinarian and your state department of agriculture immediately. Most states have veterinary diagnostic laboratories that could aid in the diagnosis of any disease problems with your flock. In Pennsylvania, contact the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) at the Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services (717-772-2852). You can find more information on the Pennsylvania Animal Diagnostic Laboratory System website . Remember, if antibiotics are prescribed, follow all label directions. Viral diseases do not respond to antibiotics, so their use is not normally recommended.

Regulations for Selling Eggs

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture regulates the sale of eggs from small flocks. If an egg producer has fewer than 3,000 laying hens, sells the eggs within five days from the date of lay, and sells the eggs predominantly within a 100-mile radius of their production or processing facility, then the following summary of regulations applies:

• All eggs must be maintained at 60°F or less from the time of gathering to the time of sale. This also applies to eggs sold at farmer markets or at roadside stands. All commercial flocks of more than 3,000 hens are required to store eggs at no less than 45°F.
• Each carton, flat, or container of eggs must be labeled with the producer’s name and address, date of lay, statement of identity (eggs), net contents (in 3/16-inch-high letters), and “Keep Refrigerated.”
• If you do not weigh the eggs, or if they are of mixed size, and you do not wish to assign a grade, they must be labeled as “Unclassified.” You also must remove dirty, leaker, or loss eggs. Loss eggs are inedible or contaminated eggs discovered when held to a bright light (candling).

There are three consumer grades of eggs–Grade AA, Grade A, and Grade B. To market your eggs on these terms, they must meet the requirements for the consumer grade. If you would like to grade your eggs and need further information for consumer graders, contact the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Egg Division at 717-787-5107, or write to Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Eggs, Fruits, and Vegetables Division, 2301 North Cameron Street Harrisburg, PA 17110 or find them online .

Local Regulations

All agricultural operations in Pennsylvania, including small-scale and part-time farming operations, operate under the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law. A specific part of this law is the Nutrient Management Act (also known as Act 38). Portions of this law may or may not pertain to your operation due to the number and/or size of animals you have. However, all operations may be a source of surface water or groundwater pollution. Because of this possibility, you should contact your local Soil and Water Conservation District to determine what regulations may pertain to your operation.

Risk Management

There are several risk management strategies you may employ for your operation. You should insure your facilities as well as your flock. This may be accomplished by consulting your insurance agent or broker. You may also insure your income through a crop insurance program called AGR-Lite. To use AGR-Lite you must have five years of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Schedule F forms. You can then contact an agent who sells crop insurance and insure the income of your operation. For more on agricultural business insurance, see Agricultural Business Insurance.

Sample Budgets

Sample enterprise budgets for small-scale production of conventional and organic eggs, plus information on initial resource requirements, are included in this publication. The budgets assume the purchase of 1,000 birds, a 1,500-squarefoot building, nests, and feed and watering equipment. All other budget factors not listed in the budgets (e.g., land) are considered to be constant over time and are not listed. The budget assumptions for each production system are as follows:

• Conventional small-scale production. Assumes that birds are housed at 18 weeks of age, molted at 70 weeks of age (after 52 weeks of production), and sold at 110 weeks of age (providing an additional 30 weeks of production). Feed for the entire period amounts to 142 pounds per bird. Spent layers are then sold as stewing hens.
• Organic small-scale production. Assumes that birds are housed at 18 weeks of age and sold at 70 weeks of age (a total of 52 weeks of production). Feed for the 52 weeks amounts to 90 pounds per bird. Spent layers may be sold as organic roasting chickens and are more valuable than commercial stewing hens. Mortality is estimated at 4 percent of the flock.

These budgets should help ensure that you include all costs and receipts in your calculations. Costs may be difficult to estimate in budget preparation because they are numerous and variable. Therefore, think of these budgets as an approximation, then make appropriate adjustments using the “your estimate” column to reflect your specific production situation. More information on using livestock budgets can be found in Enterprise Budgeting Analysis.

You can make changes to the interactive PDF budget files for this publication by inputting your own prices and quantities in the green outlined cells for any item. The cells outlined in red automatically calculate your revised totals based on the changes you made to the cells outlined in green. You will need to click on and add your own estimated price and quantity information to all of the green outlined cells to complete your customized budget. When you are done, you can print the budget using the green Print Form button at the bottom of the form. You can use the red Clear Form button to clear all the information from your budget when you are finished.

Sample Budget Worksheets

• Sample Small-Scale Egg Budget-Brown Eggs
• Sample Small-Scale Egg Budget-White Eggs

Initial resource requirements: white egg flock

2 acres (needed land includes building and waste disposal)

1,040 hours

• Egg collection and grading costs: $11,200-12,000 per flock
• Pullets: 1,000 birds x $5.00 = $5,000
• Buildings, equipment (including egg cooler): $26,800-28,000

Total capital investment: $42,000 – 45,000

Initial resource requirements: brown egg flock

• Egg collection and grading costs: $5,700-6,200 per flock
• Pullets: 1,000 birds x $6.00 = $6,000
• Buildings, equipment (including egg cooler): $26,000-28,000

Total capital investment: $38,000 – 41,000

For More Information

Bureau of Food Safety and Laboratory Services Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture 2301 North Cameron Street Harrisburg, PA 17110-9408

Department of Animal Science The Pennsylvania State University 324 Henning Building University Park, PA 16802

Associations

Penn Ag Industries Association Poultry Council 2215 Forest Hills Dr., Suite 39 Harrisburg, PA 17112

Pennsylvania Certified Organic Leslie Zook, Executive Director 106 School Street Suite 201 Spring Mills, PA 16875 Phone: 814-422-0251 Fax: 814-422-0255 E-mail: [email protected]

Mills Selling Organic Feed

These mills also sell organic pullets, but they may not sell to producers whose goal is less than a 1,000-bird laying flock.

Powls Feed Mill 1934 Lancaster Pike PO Box 15 Peach Bottom, PA 17563

Kreamer’s Feed Mill PO Box 38 Kreamer, PA 17833

Organic Unlimited 120 Liberty Street Alglen, PA 19310

Publications

• “Proper Handling of Eggs from Hen to Consumption,” by Phillip J. Clauer, Poultry Extension Specialist, Virginia Tech. This article will discuss how you can ensure that your eggs will be of the highest quality and safe for consumption.
• “Rearing Chicks and Pullets for the Small Laying Flock,” by Melvin L. Hamre, Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota. Good layers develop from healthy, well bred chicks raised under good feeding and management programs. Buying the right type of chick is important for the most economical production.
• “Small Laying Flock,” by Melvin L. Hamre, Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota. A well-planned and well-managed small laying flock can be a source of fresh eggs, personal pleasure, and, sometimes, profit.
• “Small Poultry Flocks” (requires Acrobat Reader 3.01). Very good older USDA publication. Covers all aspects of small-scale poultry production.
• “The Small Laying Flock,” by Fred Thornberry, Extension Poultry Specialist, Texas A&M; University.
• Henderson’s Chicken Breed Chart
• Breeds and Varieties of Chickens (Mississippi State)
• Choosing a Chicken Breed: Eggs, Meat, or Exhibition (University of Purdue)

Prepared by Paul H. Patterson, professor of poultry science; Gregory P. Martin, extension educator in poultry; Lynn F. Kime, senior extension associate; and Jayson K. Harper, professor of agricultural economics.

This publication was developed by the Small-scale and Part-time Farming Project at Penn State with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Extension Service.

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