The dairy industry looks very different today than it did 20 years ago. Over the years, the evolution of dairying has been driven by things like technology adoption, automation, more access to data, an increasing herd size, and the use of genomic sires over proven sires.
Because of these changes, plus the adoption of the sexed and beef strategy, new tool development, and index formulation updates, we chose to adjust how we create genetics. By moving away from the industry’s ‘ideal cow,’ we can better support dairies in creating the right cows for their system: healthy, long-lasting, productive cows who aren’t too thin, dairy, tall, small, or narrow. Thus, we remain focused on creating diverse groups of balanced sires that help our customers profit from genetic progress.
For 80 years, we’ve never stopped improving, and it’s always been with your success in mind!
Strength Through the Evolution of Dairying: The ABS Journey
Our goal is to create a diverse portfolio of balanced sires that work well in a variety of genetic plans and help our customers get paid more for their milk and reduce challenges.
The Global Need for a Variety of Sires
While it’s easy to become hyper-focused on the industry’s most popular 100 sires, it’s important to recognize that global demand requires many sires. In 2024, 10,000 bulls were required to produce the 50 million units of semen that were sold. Why? Each farm has its own needs and goals, based on their milk market, geography, weather, environment, and so on. Thus, there’s a need for a variety of sires globally.
The global need for a large variety of sires to meet distinct herd goals around the world is REAL!
Laser Focused on Customer Goals
Our tagline remains the same: PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS. Everything we do on a day-to-day basis is done with your profitability and success in mind. For us, it’s not about making bulls that hit the “top list.” We focus on creating sustainable genetics that help you profit from genetic progress. We want to create a genetic plan that is tailored to your herd, maximizes your milk check by focusing on your market, and minimizes expenses by helping you improve weaknesses.
Our goal is to drive genetic progress faster, but it’s our duty to do it in a responsible way that preserves genetic diversity and protects our customers. Only marketing sons from a single genetic line can get you many spots in the top 100 lists, but it’s also reckless for the end user, often causing more harm than good.
This means genetics companies must uphold strong breeding programs to ensure success for producers who prioritize genetic diversity. However, it’s safe to say not everyone takes this as seriously as we do, which is unfortunate. Your future depends on it. ABS has been taking steps to maintain strong genetic diversity within our nucleus for years now.
Here’s how.
- The complete acquisition of De Novo gives us access to a wide range of bloodlines, high-ranking females, and desired IVF sessions.
- Purchasing high-ranking females or IVF sessions outside of ABS bloodlines guarantees our ability to create and offer diverse genetics.
- Because we have our own research and development department, we can create solutions for the future from within—most co-ops don’t have the ability to invest like we can.
For us, it’s not just about the genetics.
- It’s about tools like GENEadvance, Sexcel, and IVF Embryos that we can provide to customers.
- It’s about programs like Beef InFocus and St. Jacobs that meet our customers’ needs.
- It’s about challenging the industry in the best interest of our customers when necessary.
- It’s about guiding our customers as genetic experts, allowing them to PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS.
The future of ABS isn’t just about creating the next high-ranking product. It’s about a well-thought-out plan for our customers’ future profitability, sustainability, and success. It’s about us being with you every step of the way.
Want to profit from genetic progress with the best tools, programs, and diverse lineup the industry has to offer? Contact your ABS Genetic Advisor or complete the form below to start building your genetic plan.