Schotman Hatcheries: An integrated entity embraces independence

Schotman Hatcheries is a typical example of the Dutch poultry industry. It embraces independence, but also includes extra services to its hatching eggs and day-old broiler chicks. Results show that it pays off. By Wiebe van der Sluis, Rooster 45, Doetinchem, the Netherlands The Dutch poultry industry is characterised by a unique open structure. Each link in the production chain is owned by independent producers who buy and sell products, and who often own the birds that they produce. This means