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New Zealand cattle breeders now have access one of the world’s most advanced genomic testing services, with Performance Beef Breeders announcing a new partnership with global leader Weatherbys Scientific.
The collaboration marks Weatherbys’ first major partnership in the New Zealand beef sector and will give breeders the ability to access Weatherbys next-generation Bovine Versa 85K SNP chip through the DNA services of Performance Beef Breeders (PBB).
Weatherbys national business development manager for Australia and New Zealand Michael-John Barry said the company is excited to expand its support for the genetics-driven improvement of beef breeds across New Zealand.
“New Zealand cattle breeders are among the most progressive and innovative in the world, with a strong focus on data, performance and herd improvement,” Barry said.
“This partnership means we can combine PBB’s trusted on-the-ground sales and support with our world-class genomic testing services to provide fast, detailed and flexible options for genotyping.
“This not only expands the options available for breeders seeking genetic improvement in their herd, but it also brings cost-effective solutions due to our global scale.”
Barry said Weatherbys Scientific took considerable time to identify a strategic partner in NZ that could deliver premium customer service, has genuine capability in the beef genetics sector, and shares the company’s customer-first values.
“We were looking for a partner with strong market reach and a reputation for integrity, responsiveness and service, and we have found that in the PBB team,” he said.
Weatherbys Scientific, which operates internationally across livestock and equine industries, offers a suite of SNP-based genotyping and DNA profiling tests, including the next-generation Bovine Versa 85K SNP Chip, which builds upon the highly successful 50k chip.
PBB NZ general manager Jamie Tait said the partnership is driven by the demand for high-quality and innovative services.
“Genomic testing is becoming increasingly important, even beyond the realm of stud breeding, and in the past five years we’ve seen average year-on-year growth of 20%,” Tait said.
“It’s becoming a sales tool for our breeders. But farmers have preferences which are driven by many things including quality of results, speed, simplicity and a commitment to science.
“This is an opportunity to bring more choice into the New Zealand market.”
Barry said Weatherbys is looking forward to supporting PBB and ensuring New Zealand farmers have access to the cost-effective solutions that drive genetic gains.