At Genus ABS, we understand that the best genetics or breeding strategies for your herd aren’t always what the industry rankings tell you. That’s why we focus on delivering balanced genetics that produce healthy, long-lasting, and profitable cows, while giving you the freedom to choose the traits that matter most for your farm, milk contract, and system.
But don’t just take our word for it. Hear how dairy farmers across the globe are improving efficiency, profitability, and sustainability with the help of Genus ABS.
TOM BLECHER, NORTH WALES
Dairy farmer Tom Blecher, based just outside Mold in North Wales, has been working with Genus ABS for more than a decade to shape a breeding programme that delivers for his system and milk contract.
Tom’s approach has always been forward-thinking. By using genomic testing, a custom index, and carefully selected sires, he has reshaped the performance of his herd for years to come. Tom has never relied solely on £PLI to make breeding decisions. Instead, he has built a tailored index with his Genus ABS Breeding Advisor that reflects the unique requirements of his herd and contract.
“We’ve not been scared of using bulls a little lower on £PLI if they’re right for what we need.” – Tom Blecher
By focusing on the right traits, not just the highest industry rankings, Tom has been able to make rapid genetic progress. For example, he used a bull that he might have previously overlooked on £PLI alone, but who ranked strongly on his Custom Index. Today, those daughters are some of the best in the herd, particularly in second lactation.
Tom is proof that the best plan is yours, not the industry’s and that with a tailored approach, you can profit from genetic progress while meeting your farm’s specific goals.
SLOWEY FARMS, USA
Based in Wisconsin, USA, the principles used at Slowey Farms apply just as well here in the UK. The Slowey family has been working with ABS since 1995, focusing on breeding medium-sized, efficient cows that last in the herd.
Their approach includes:
- Using Sexcel® on all heifers to support herd expansion.
- Breeding 40% of the milking herd to sexed semen to produce replacements.
- Breeding the remaining 60% to NuEra Beef® genetics to maximise calf value.
The result? Impressive milk yields with high butterfat and protein, alongside a steady supply of valuable beef-cross calves – a strategy that resonates strongly with many UK farmers balancing milk contracts and calf revenues.
4 CORNERS DAIRY – CALIFORNIA
The De Boer family in California runs 4 Corners Dairy, where their priorities include cow health, milk quality, and maximising calf value, goals shared by many UK dairy producers.
By working closely with ABS, they’ve built a breeding programme around:
- Improving health traits like feet, legs, and udders
- Selecting genetics to meet their processor’s requirements for high fat and protein
- Retaining ownership of high-value beef-cross calves
Their greatest success has come from combining genomic data with a custom index, allowing them to make more precise sire selections. This ensures they breed cows suited to their system while still progressing key economic traits like fertility, productive life, and milk quality.
Moving UK Dairy Forward with ABS
At Genus ABS, we’re not just here to sell you the next high-ranking bull. We’re here to help you:
- Create a breeding strategy tailored to your system and milk contract
- Balance genetic progress with long-term sustainability and profitability
- Use advanced tools like GENEadvance®, Sexcel®, and NuEra® to achieve your goals.
Our commitment is to stand alongside UK farmers, supporting you every step of the way to profit from genetic progress.
Want to profit from genetic progress on your farm?
Contact your local Genus ABS Breeding Advisor or complete the form below.
