Venison demand leads to increase in Deer population
Following an increase in venison sales across the UK, deer production in Scotland is to increase thanks to the establishment of a new group. Venison sales rose from 2006’s £32million to £43million in 2009, a 34% increase.
However, of the 3,500 tonnes of venison which was consumed a mere 50 tonnes came from farms, with most coming from an annual wild cull. In recent years cull numbers have fallen and as there are only 15 deer farms in Scotland, venison imported from New Zealand have increased.
The Scottish Venison Strategy Group’s main aim is to involve more people in the production of farmed venison in Scotland which will reduce reliance on imports. An estimated additional 25,000 farmed deer each year is required to meet the demand.
The chairman of the group is James Withers: also CEO of Scotland Food & Drink. The group is to research into understanding better the current and future market of venison. The group is also to monitor farm units which should encourage new sector entrants.
Mr Withers is reported to have said that Scotland is not producing enough venison, so they want to encourage farmers and land managers to consider the opportunity. He goes on to say that the returns on deer are very good, however those interested should consider processing capacity and fencing costs.
Scottish Venison Partnership chairman, Stephen Gibbs, supports the new group and claims that increased production of venison through farming was the only viable solution. He went on to say that the UK market is very buoyant and they knew the dealers wanted home-produced meat. He does not think the demand will lessen any time soon.
Richard Lochhead, rural affairs secretary, welcomed the initiative confirming that farmed venison production needs to be increased by one third to keep up with demand.
