<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tom\u2019s herd is now among the top 1% in the UK for parent average \u00a3PLI<\/strong>, and his genomic-tested heifers<\/strong> have placed the farm as the 15th best milk-recorded herd nationally<\/strong>, but that wasn\u2019t the goal in itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The main aim has always been to breed a cow that suits his specific system and contract, rather than relying solely on standard industry indexes such as \u00a3PLI. That\u2019s where a custom index, developed with support from his Genus ABS representative, Richard Bostock, has made all the difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWe\u2019ve not been scared of using bulls a little lower on \u00a3PLI if they\u2019re right for what we need.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n The index focuses on traits that matter most to his milk buyer, such as fat and protein production as well as the addition of fertility, and feed efficiency. Selecting bulls with the right profile, rather than just the highest \u00a3PLI, has allowed Tom to make decisions that move his business forward in a way that\u2019s aligned with his own priorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One such decision involved using a bull which Tom previously would have discarded as a prospect based on his \u00a3PLI. While that bull didn\u2019t rank the highest against national indexes, his daughters have since proven to be excellent performers in the herd, particularly in second lactation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The results of this tailored approach are clear. Tom reports real gains in genetic consistency and component performance. Because he’s rearing all of his own replacements, those genetics are now across the herd, and the improvement is visible year-on-year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The breeding strategy includes the use of sexed semen on the best females and beef semen elsewhere, helping Tom make the most of each pregnancy and add value through the beef market, which continues to remain strong across the UK.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Calves stay on-farm until 56 days, in line with UK calf care and welfare regulations, and are collected by Gamechanger’s beef scheme to help maximise returns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Having started working with Genus ABS over 10 years ago, Tom benefits from a close working relationship with a team who understands both the goals of the farm and the genetics available. That relationship has helped ensure the bulls selected match the system, not just the stats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With access to a large and diverse bull portfolio, Tom can look beyond the top-line indexes and make breeding decisions that suit his specific needs, whether that’s improving solids, boosting fertility, or maintaining a smaller, more efficient cow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Looking ahead, Tom sees\u00a0labour availability\u00a0and\u00a0environmental responsibility\u00a0as key pressures on his business. He believes genetics can play an important role in addressing both of these.<\/p>\n\n\n\n By breeding cows that are more efficient, require less feed, and produce the same or higher outputs, Tom is confident that he can reduce inputs without sacrificing performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Watch the video below to find out more about Tom’s breeding strategy. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.absglobal.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/14\/2025\/07\/IMG_1654.jpg?w=1024\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGenetic progress that works on the ground<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Working with a partner who understands the system<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Genetics as a route to lower emissions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n