beef fattening business plan pdf

Starting Beef Cattle Farming Business Plan (PDF)

Starting a beef cattle farming business presents a unique and lucrative opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs. The demand for quality beef continues to rise globally, making this an opportune time to enter the market. With a growing population and a steady increase in the consumption of protein-rich diets, the beef industry is poised for sustained growth. This demand creates a fertile environment for new entrants, offering a chance to tap into a thriving market. Beef cattle farming involves breeding cows to get calves, which are then raised and sold for beef. Beef cattle production is a very profitable business, and many farmers are making money all over the world by starting cow-calf operations businesses. However, to build a profitable, sustainable beef cattle ranching business, you require sufficient knowledge of how to efficiently keep the beef cattle, good business management skills, and a good beef cattle farming business plan. This article will outline how to start the cattle production business, and the beef cattle farming business plan – PDF, Word and Excel.

Beef cattle farming is a lucrative business project that is providing income for a lot of livestock farmers. There are some important things you need to consider before you setup a beef cattle production business. You need to gather the correct resources, decide on the size of your cattle farming project this includes the number of cattle; location of the beef cattle production business, as well as your target market. These decisions will be affected by the amount of capital you have, and the size of your target market. If you do not have a lot of capital, you can always start small and grow your beef cattle breeding project overtime. You also need to carry out market research (Who are you going to sell the cattle to? At what price?) and write a cow-calf operations business plan before you start the project.

Market Research

Market research is a pivotal step when embarking on a beef cattle farming venture. It serves as the compass guiding your business decisions and can ultimately determine your success in this industry. Assessing the local demand is essential; understanding the existing market, who your potential customers are, and their preferences can help you tailor your cattle farming approach to meet these needs effectively. It’s imperative to delve into the pricing dynamics of various grades of beef within your target market. This involves a comprehensive examination of not only the prevailing prices but also the factors that influence them. Identifying potential customers and understanding their preferences and price sensitivity is equally vital, as it enables you to tailor your pricing strategy to match their expectations. Additionally, recognizing the seasonality of cattle and beef prices is key, as these fluctuations can significantly impact your revenue and profit margins. A competitive analysis will help you understand the landscape of existing cattle farms, their strategies, and what sets your venture apart. Identifying your competitive advantages and crafting a unique selling proposition can be key to carving out your niche in the market.

As a crucial component of market research in the context of starting a beef cattle farming business, the selection of the appropriate cattle breed plays a pivotal role. This decision encompasses a comprehensive assessment of various factors, including the availability of breeds in your region, their feed conversion efficiency, the cost associated with acquiring them, and the specific demands of the market. Each breed possesses distinct characteristics that impact their suitability for your business, such as their growth rate, meat quality, and adaptability to local conditions. Additionally, you should delve into supply chain considerations, establishing efficient logistics and partnerships to transport and distribute your products effectively.

Land for Beef Cattle Farming

Land is an important factor when you are starting a cattle ranching business. When selecting land for your cattle farm, some important considerations include: availability of good grass and pasture for grazing, availability of good, quality water supply, land size in relation to size of your cattle herd and soil type as it affects forage production potential.  Other factors include availability of already made infrastructure like pens, sheds, buildings, as constructing new working facilities and buildings on a cattle farm is expensive.

A beef cattle farming venture requires huge tracts of land. This is because you will need spaces for grazing and other dedicated farm structures. You must consider the terrain; flat land that gently slopes is ideal. The soil characteristics are important as well – loam soil is the best. That soil type is best suited for consistent pasture and forage development. The availability of adequate pastures is yet another land consideration. You must ensure there are enough pastures. This connects to considering the quality of forage available. Ideally, you need pastures and forage mainly constituted of grasses and legumes. If the legumes composition is at least a third of the total, that would be great. Water availability is also a huge consideration. The best is to have a clean, fresh, and reliable water source. Preferably it should be within a 1 mile radius. This will be convenient for the cattle so that they do not have to go far to find water. It is advisable to check the quality of the water; especially if it is a natural water source. High salt and sulphur levels are detrimental to your cattle. Proximity of strategic road networks is of utmost importance for accessibility and mobility. Bear in mind that within the beef cattle farm, gravel roads are the best.

Housing for Beef Cattle Production Business

To be successful in the beef cattle ranching business, you need to provide proper shelter and housing for your cattle. Beef cattle can be negatively affected by mud, harsh winds, and extreme low temperatures. The design and type of beef cattle facilities should take into consideration the need to provide the required space, feed, shelter, water, waste management and livestock handling features. Beef cattle housing can broadly be in the form of cubicles, sheds, pens, corrals, barns, or open yards. However, it is important to ensure that there is enough shade for the cattle. That is why protection from the weather elements is a huge consideration in beef cattle housing. Protection from predators is also closely tied to that. Overall, the housing must be clean with good ventilation. Plus the beef cattle housing must generally be easy to clean. Ensure that there is dry surface, floor, or bedding. It is best to use dry straw on them; adding sand also helps in that regard.

The cattle housing must be big enough to allow free movement of the cattle. The housing must not be homogenous; there should be separate segments for different specific uses. For example, you need separate segments for calves, sick cattle, or newly arrived cattle. It is recommended that beef cattle housing must be set up on an elevated spot. This streamlines cleaning activities, drainage, and runoff. Take into account the prevailing wind direction in your chosen location – the beef cattle housing should be erected standing perpendicular to that. Other cattle handling structures include crowding pens, sorting corrals, working chutes & gates, squeeze gates and sick pens. However the necessity of the structures depends on the scale of the cattle farming business. The cattle ranch farm also requires good fencing. Pasture fencing for cow-calf operations business is a necessity, so as to contain the cattle and manage their grazing. This can be done by barbed wire, high tensile smooth wire or electric fencing. The costs of constructing the housing should be include in the beef cattle production business plan. 

Equipment For Beef Cattle Farming Business

Beef cattle farming equipment mainly comprises of feed and water equipment. For example, you need feeding bunks and, feeding bins (or troughs) or portable hay feeders. Water equipment can be in the form of or involve drinkers, tanks, canals, pumps, pipes, and the like. Other handy equipment is for handling the beef cattle. For instance, chutes are central to this. Chutes are narrow mechanisms or passages used to control and guide the beef cattle in certain spaces. There are several different types of chutes e.g. holding chutes, working chutes, and loading chutes. Headgates are also central to the use of chutes. Cattle guards or grids are important in controlling the movement of the beef cattle. Then there are general equipment such as protective clothing, wheelbarrows, buckets & pails, livestock trailer, manure spreader, tractors, and the like. Specialized equipment for operations such as dehorning and castrating are needed too. Your cattle farming business plan should take into account the cost of purchasing or renting the land, structures and buying the equipment. 

Breeding Stock for Beef Cattle Production Business

To start a beef cattle production business, you require the breeding stock. The breeding stock consists of male cattle which are known as bulls, and female cattle/cows. Alternatively, instead of using bulls, you can use artificial insemination for breeding the cattle. The selection of cattle breeding stock is basically two-tier. The first aspect involves choosing the cattle breed you want. Then the second aspect is choosing the individual cattle. You can choose to start with calves and rear them to maturity. You could also start with cows or heifers at various stages of development. Another approach can be to start with fully grown cattle. Always remember that choosing purebreds is the best way to go. Your overall choice should be informed by personal beef cattle farming goals. That should also go hand in hand with climatic considerations of your chosen location. Availability of cattle breeding stock is also another huge consideration.

There are a number of specific attributes to note when choosing your beef cattle breeding stock. You should consider the age; young livestock is usually the best to pick. Consider fertility or reproductive rate, and mothering or maternal ability. In beef cattle farming, feed efficiency and quality of meat are important factors. What is cattle’s performance and health status? What are their behavioural profiles? For instance, aggression in cattle is not a good trait. All of these specifics must be ascertained with the backing of comprehensive records. You must also be diligent enough to make physical inspections of the cattle. The idea is to note defects or desirable characteristics. The cattle breeds you choose will affect the beef production potential of your cattle farming business. Some breeds are better than others at producing cattle with good beef quality. Other characteristics which vary among breeds include calving ease, milking ability, feed conversion, diseases resistance, longevity and average birth weight. The most popular breeds used in the the beef cattle farming business include Angus, Brahman, Limousin, Hereford, Simmental, Shorthorn, Texas Longhorn, Nguni, Gelbvieh, Charolais, Africander,  Highlands among others. The beef cattle farming business plan should include the costs of purchasing the breeding stock.

Feed And Nutrition

Success in the beef cow-calf production business is also greatly affected by the feeding program. The feeding program of the beef production business should ensure that adequate nutrition is provided to both the cows and calves at all growth stages and during all seasons. This should be done while keeping an eye on the feed costs, as they greatly affect profitability of the beef cattle farming business. Failure to provide adequate feeding for the beef cattle results in low reproductive performance, poor growth of the calves and poor disease resistance. These factors all lead to reduced revenues for the beef cattle production business, thus lower profits. In beef cattle farming business, weight and grade of meat are the major goals which informs the feeding regiment. Feeding generally depends on the size of the cattle. The bigger the frame, the higher the grain content should be. Cattle f eeding programs of beef farming are usually based on pasture grazing, in combination with supplementary feed. The supplementary feed for cow-calf operations include hay, salts & minerals, concentrates, silage, commercial beef feed, fodder, corn and grains. The most important dynamic is feed conversion or efficiency. Do not make the mistake of thinking overfeeding is a good thing. It usually leads to the build-up of excess fat thus lowering the beef quality. That is why it is important to seek guidance from experts on feeding using the right rations. The feed costs should be included in the beef cattle production business plan. 

Health & Disease Management in Beef Cattle Farming

Ensuring the health and well-being of your beef cattle is of paramount importance in the successful operation of your farming business. A comprehensive approach to health and disease management is not only ethical but also integral to maintaining the quality and productivity of your cattle herd. To achieve this, preventative health measures are vital. This includes implementing a vaccination program tailored to your region’s prevalent diseases, providing access to clean water and nutritious feed, and maintaining a hygienic living environment. Regular monitoring and control of external parasites like ticks and flies are also crucial aspects of preventative care.

Disease monitoring and surveillance form another critical component. Regular health checks and veterinary consultations enable the early detection of potential health issues, while meticulous record-keeping helps track your cattle’s overall well-being. Staying informed about disease outbreaks in your area and having the ability to implement quarantine measures if needed is essential. Collaboration with a veterinarian ensures that sick cattle receive proper treatment and medication, administered according to recommended guidelines. Biosecurity measures should be in place to prevent disease introduction and spread, and continuous education and training ensure that both you and your farm staff are well-prepared to manage cattle health effectively. Prioritizing health and disease management not only benefits your cattle’s well-being but also contributes to the sustainability and profitability of your beef cattle farming business.

Beef Cattle Farming Business Model

The beef cattle farming business model involves a well-defined and cyclical process that begins with the acquisition of breeding bulls and cows. These animals form the foundation of your operation, as they play a crucial role in producing calves, which will eventually become your marketable cattle. The mating of bulls and cows leads to the birth of calves, and from that point onward, the focus shifts to feeding and raising these young cattle until they reach the desired market age, and you then sell them. This careful management ensures that the cattle are healthy, well-nourished, and ready for sale, optimizing their value in the market.

The central financial aspect of this business model lies in managing the costs associated with feeding the cattle, which constitutes the major expense. However, the revenue generated from selling the cattle at market age significantly surpasses these feeding costs and other operational expenses. This robust revenue-to-cost ratio results in a healthy profit margin for the business. The key to sustained success in this model is its repeatability throughout the year, which ensures a consistent and steady stream of income. By following this cycle of breeding, raising, and selling, you can create a reliable and profitable business model in the beef cattle farming industry.

Capital for Cattle Ranching Business

The amount of capital required for the beef cattle breeding business depends on the scale of the project. When starting a cow-calf operations business, most of the capital goes to acquiring the land, building infrastructure, and buying the breeding stock. You can get a loan from the bank, or funding from investors, to use as capital to start your beef cattle farming business. If you plan to raise capital from investors and a loan from the bank, you need a good cattle ranching business plan. If you don’t have access to investors and bank loan, you can use your personal savings and start small, and grow your business overtime. Beef cattle farming is profitable, so if you reinvest the profits you get, you can grow over time. Even if you are not planning to get a loan, you should still get a beef cattle farming project plan to guide you in starting and operating the business. It is essential for you to have a beef cattle farming business plan before you venture into the cattle ranching business, so that you know all the costs involved and you make an informed decision.

Market for Beef

The market for beef cattle is very huge and is ever increasing, annual beef global demand exceeds 75 million tonnes. You can sell live cattle or slaughter and sell as beef. The market for cattle/beef includes supplying to butcher shops, abattoirs, auctions, schools, companies, individual households, farmers, restaurants, organisations, supermarkets, events etc. It’s important for the beef cattle farming business plan to include a proper marketing plan to use in your beef farming business.

The export market for beef is also very huge! As you grow your cattle farming business you will be able to export the beef to other countries.  The largest importers of beef are Russia, United States of America, Japan, China, South Korea, European Union, Hong Kong, Egypt, Canada, Chile and Malaysia. Currently, the top producers of beef are United States of America, Brazil, European Union, China, India, Argentina, Australia, Mexico, Pakistan, Turkey and Russia.

Keys To Profitability in Beef Cattle Farming

Profitability is the ultimate goal for those venturing into the world of beef cattle farming, and achieving it involves a multifaceted approach. Efficient resource management stands as a cornerstone, demanding a meticulous allocation of resources like land, water, and feed. Implementing rotational grazing systems can maintain pasture health and maximize forage production, thereby reducing the need for costly supplemental feed. Breeding and genetics play a pivotal role in profitability as well. Selecting cattle breeds that align with market preferences and local environmental conditions is crucial. Furthermore, a focus on breeding programs to enhance genetic traits such as growth rate, meat quality, and disease resistance can significantly impact the bottom line.

Health and disease management cannot be overlooked, as cattle health directly correlates with profitability. Prioritizing preventative measures and proactive disease management not only ensures the well-being of your herd but also reduces costs associated with medical interventions and promotes higher growth rates. Market timing and pricing strategies are equally vital, demanding a vigilant eye on market trends and pricing fluctuations. Utilizing market data to determine optimal pricing strategies ensures that you maximize your returns when selling cattle.

Cost control and budgeting, combined with strategic marketing and branding, enable efficient financial management. Keeping a detailed budget that tracks all expenses and revenue sources is imperative, allowing you to control costs effectively. Building a strong brand identity for your beef products and fostering relationships with local buyers, restaurants, and markets secures consistent sales channels. Finally, a commitment to continuous learning and improvement ensures your profitability endures. Staying updated on industry best practices, emerging technologies, and research in beef cattle farming equips you to adapt to industry changes, enhance productivity, and reduce waste, ultimately driving the success and profitability of your beef cattle farming business.

Why You Need a Cattle Farming Business Plan

Establishing and managing a thriving cattle farming business requires meticulous planning and strategic foresight. A well-structured cattle farming business plan is not merely a formality; it serves as an indispensable tool that can profoundly influence the trajectory of your venture. Financial planning and management is a vital aspect of a comprehensive business plan. It entails detailed financial projections, helping you estimate initial startup costs, ongoing expenses, and potential revenue streams. With insights into your cash flow, you can effectively manage your finances, make informed decisions regarding resource allocation (such as purchasing cattle, feed, and equipment), and maintain financial stability. Furthermore, if you require external financing or investment to initiate or expand your cattle farming business, a well-structured business plan is essential. Lenders and investors will scrutinize your plan to assess the viability and profitability of your venture, making a comprehensive and well-researched plan instrumental in instilling confidence in potential stakeholders.

A well-structured business plan for a beef cattle farming enterprise serves as a vital tool in comprehending the profitability of the business and identifying the key factors that influence it. It provides a detailed financial outlook, allowing you to assess the projected income, expenses, and potential returns on investment. By meticulously examining these financial projections, you gain a deep understanding of the financial health of your cattle farming venture. Additionally, the business plan facilitates an exploration of the factors that impact profitability, including feed costs, market pricing, and operational efficiency. With this insight, you can make informed decisions to optimize profitability, mitigate risks, and ensure the long-term success of your beef cattle farming business.

Pre-Written Beef Cattle Farming Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel): Comprehensive Version, Short Funding/Bank Loan Version and Automated Financial Statements

For an in-depth analysis of the beef cattle farming business, we encourage you to purchase our well-researched and comprehensive cattle farming business plan. We introduced the business plans after discovering that many were venturing into the beef cattle production business without enough knowledge and understanding of how to run the cattle ranching business, how to keep the calves, lack of understanding of the financial side of the business, lack of understanding of : the industry, the risks involved , costs and profitability of the business; which often leads to disastrous losses.

The StartupBiz Global cow-calf operations business plan will make it easier for you to launch and run your beef cattle farming business successfully, fully knowing what you are going into, and what’s needed to succeed in the business. It will be easier to plan and budget as you will be aware of all the costs involved in setting up and running the cattle ranching business.

Uses of the Beef Cattle Ranching Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

The beef cattle farming business plan can be used for many purposes including:

• Raising capital from investors/friends/relatives
• Applying for a bank loan
• Start-up guide to launch your beef cattle farming business
• As a beef cattle farming business proposal
• Assessing profitability of the beef cattle production business
• Finding a business partner
• Assessing the initial start-up costs so that you know how much to save
• Manual for current business owners to help in business and strategy formulation

Contents of the Beef Cattle Production Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

The beef cattle farming business plan include, but not limited to:

• Marketing Strategy
• Financial Statements (monthly cash flow projections, income statements, cash flow statements, balance sheets, break even analysis, payback period analysis, start-up costs, financial graphs, revenue and expenses, Bank Loan Amortization)
• Risk Analysis
• Industry Analysis
• Market Analysis
• SWOT & PEST Analysis
• Operational Requirements (Including technical aspects of how to keep the cattle, feed requirements etc)
• Operational Strategy
• Why some people in beef cattle farming business fail, so that you can avoid their mistakes
• Ways to raise capital to start your cattle farm business

The Pre-written beef cattle farm business plan package consists of 4 files

• Beef Cattle Farming Business Plan – PDF file (Comprehensive Version – 121 Pages)
• Cattle Farming Business Plan – Editable Word File (Comprehensive Version – 121 Pages)
• Beef Cattle Farming Business Plan Funding/Bank Loan Version- Editable Word File (Short version for applying for a loan/funding – 51 pages)
• Beef Cattle Farming Business Plan Automated Financial Statements – (Editable Excel File)

The business plan can be used in any country and can be easily edited. The financial statements are automated. This implies that you can change eg the number of cattle, selling price of the cattle etc, and all the other financial statements will automatically adjust to reflect the change.

Click below to download the Contents Page of the Beef Cattle Farming Business Plan (PDF)

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The business plan which I purchased from your website saved me TIME and MONEY! The layout of the business plan was excellent. The financial statements were detailed and easy for me to edit. I will come back to purchase another business plan soon.

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StartupBiz Global provided a very professional and comprehensive business plan which I used for my business. The business plan was easy to edit, and I was able to get the funding which I wanted. I highly recommend their business plans.

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Get the Beef Cattle Farming Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

Click Buy Now  below to purchase using Paypal, Credit Card, or Debit Card. After you have purchased, you will immediately see the download link for the business plan package on the screen. You will also immediately get an email with the business plan download link. The Pre-written business plan package (PDF, Word, and Excel) costs $30 only!

If you want to purchase multiple business plans at once then click here: Business Plans Store.

The business plan package is a zipped compressed file containing the PDF, Word and Excel documents. To open the package after downloading it, just right click, and select Extract All. If you have any problems in downloading and opening the files, email us on [email protected] and we will assist you.

We wish you the best in your beef cattle farming business! Check out our collection of business plans  , and more business ideas .

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Cattle Fattening Business Plan: A Lucrative Venture in Livestock Industry

Starting a cattle fattening business can be a profitable and rewarding venture in the livestock industry. With the ever-increasing demand for meat products, particularly beef, this business presents a great opportunity for entrepreneurs. However, like any other business, a well-structured business plan is essential to ensure success and maximize profits.

Understanding Cattle Fattening

Cattle fattening refers to the practice of feeding cattle a high-energy diet to promote weight gain and enhance meat quality prior to slaughter. This process typically involves feeding cattle with high-quality forage, grains, and supplements to expedite their growth and increase their market value.

Before diving into the business, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and gain a comprehensive understanding of the requirements, challenges, and potential profitability of cattle fattening.

Developing a Cattle Fattening Business Plan

A well-structured business plan acts as a roadmap for success in any business endeavor. When it comes to cattle fattening, a business plan should outline the following key aspects:

• Market Analysis: Identify the target market and assess the demand for beef in your area. Analyze competitors and explore potential partnerships with local ranchers or meat processors.
• Startup Costs: Determine the initial investment required for purchasing cattle, infrastructure development, feeding equipment, veterinary services, and marketing expenses.
• Facility and Infrastructure: Design and construct appropriate housing facilities that provide a comfortable environment for cattle, including proper ventilation and feeding areas.
• Feeding Management: Develop a feeding plan with guidance from a professional nutritionist. Ensure a balanced diet consisting of forage, grains, and supplements that meet the nutritional needs of the cattle.
• Healthcare and Veterinary Services: Establish a relationship with a reliable veterinarian to ensure regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and prompt treatment of any illnesses.
• Marketing and Sales: Determine the most effective marketing strategies to promote your beef products. Explore local markets, restaurants, and potential partnerships with wholesalers or retailers.
• Financial Projections: Develop a detailed financial forecast that includes projected revenue, expenses, and profitability based on market analysis and operational costs.

Potential Challenges in Cattle Fattening

Running a cattle fattening business may come with its fair share of challenges. It is crucial to be aware of these obstacles and develop strategies to overcome them:

• Feed Costs: The cost of feed, particularly during periods of drought or fluctuating grain prices, can significantly impact profitability. Stay informed about feed prices and consider alternative feeding options.
• Disease Management: Cattle are susceptible to various diseases. Implement proper biosecurity measures and work closely with a veterinarian to prevent and manage any potential outbreaks.
• Market Volatility: The beef market can experience price fluctuations due to factors such as supply and demand, weather conditions, and economic conditions. Stay informed about market trends and adapt your strategy accordingly.

Improving Personal Habits and Seeking Professional Guidance

While the cattle fattening business plan can provide a strong foundation for success, it is also important to consider personal habits and seek professional guidance in order to achieve optimal results. Here are a few suggestions:

• Educate Yourself: Continuously educate yourself about the latest advancements in cattle nutrition, management practices, and market trends through books, online resources, and industry events.
• Implement Best Practices: Ensure you follow industry best practices in cattle management, healthcare, and feeding protocols to maximize productivity and profitability.
• Network and Collaborate: Build relationships with other cattle farmers, industry experts, and local associations to exchange knowledge and stay updated with industry developments.
• Consider Professional Assistance: If you find yourself overwhelmed or lacking expertise in certain areas, consider consulting a professional in cattle nutrition, veterinary services, or business management to ensure you make informed decisions.

Remember, success in the cattle fattening business requires dedication, perseverance, and continuous improvement. By following a well-structured business plan, improving personal habits, and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can increase your chances of achieving long-term success in this lucrative venture.

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Cattle Fattening Farm: A Business Opportunity

By: Fazal Jawad Seyyed, Hafsa Ashfaq

The case is based on the feasibility analysis of a feedlot fattening farm. Tariq Ahmad's eldest son, Faisal Ahmad, was looking into the prospects of setting up a cattle fattening farm near their…

• Length: 9 page(s)
• Publication Date: Dec 1, 2017
• Discipline: Finance
• Product #: LCA026-PDF-ENG

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The case is based on the feasibility analysis of a feedlot fattening farm. Tariq Ahmad's eldest son, Faisal Ahmad, was looking into the prospects of setting up a cattle fattening farm near their 200-acre family farm in a village in Tehsil Depalpur, Punjab. At the end of January 2016, the market prices of potato crops had collapsed at the time of harvest with an abundant supply of stocked potatoes in the domestic market. Tariq was worried about the shrinking margins in crop farming and asked Faisal to explore other opportunities within the agriculture sector to initiate an alternative source of income for the family. Faisal was attracted to the idea of setting up a feedlot - an emerging phenomenon in the beef sector in Pakistan that had gained traction over the years. Tariq encouraged Faisal to carefully assess the financial viability and risks associated with setting up a cattle fattening farm as a potential venture. By mid-February 2016, the situation in the domestic potato market had worsened, despite government efforts to facilitate exports. While Faisal was gathering the required data and information, he heard that the farmer who held the plot adjacent to Tariq Ahmad's family farm was selling his entire holding of 10 acres. Tariq and Faisal now had the option to either go for the feedlot or acquire additional land from the neighbour.

Learning Objectives

The case will introduce students in introductory finance courses to:

Learn about the challenges faced by the beef sector in Pakistan.

Assess the current situation and potential of feedlot fattening.

Understand the various costs involved in setting up a cattle fattening farm.

Estimate the cash flows provided by the fattening farm venture at different time periods.

Incorporate the effect of time value of money and apply capital budgeting techniques to assess viability.

Perform sensitivity analysis for the key variables, primarily feed costs.

Dec 1, 2017

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Industries:

Agriculture sector

Lahore University of Management Sciences

LCA026-PDF-ENG

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tenzin dorji

Paresh Sarma

This study examined the profitability of beef cattle fattening in the northern char area of Bangladesh. A total of 150 cattle fatteners were randomly selected from two districts epresenting the highest concentration of fatteners in the char area. Socioeconomic data as well as data on beef fattening were collected from the people selected at Pabna and Sirajgonj district. Descriptive statistics was used to analysis the socioeconomics characteristics of beef producers, the profit function was used to determine the profitability of beef market and regression analysis was used to determine the factor affecting profitability of beef cattle. In spite of beef cattle production was profitable agribusiness most of the farmers adopt traditional beef fattening system for beef fattening target the cattle marketing during the Muslim festival “Eid-ul-Azha”. Profitability margin equals BDT 13,350.84 per cattle. The benefit cost ratio of the entire enterprise was 0.52 that means cattle fattening enterprise is profitable and feasible business enterprise. The major problems facing the farmers include high cost of feeds, inadequate credit facilities, disease attack, illegal use of human drugs for cattle fattening, price fluctuation and inadequate extension services. A policy and research emphasis should be geared toward feeds production at affordable price to the fatteners and fatteners should be educated on how to formulate local feeds to reduce cost and access to feeds for better efficiency and discourage to use human drugs, tablets and injection for cattle fattening. These findings can be used by the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Development extension agents to promote beef cattle fattening in areas where beef cattle fattening is not practiced in the country.

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Business Plans for Beef Cattle Backgrounding Enterprises

Backgrounding is a feeding program that targets weight gain in feeder cattle to develop the skeleton and muscle tissue of the animals while minimizing fat deposition.

Backgrounding diets typically include high levels of forages and often include limited amounts of cereal grains and various by-products of grain production. Cattle feeders normally purchase lightweight feeder cattle for backgrounding programs, and design feeding programs considering the timing of marketing finished cattle.

The Business Plan

A business plan is important to evaluate financial and production decisions related to the business. A business plan identifies requirements for financing capital items, such as feeding pens, handling facilities and feeding equipment, or sourcing operating credit or financing feeder cattle purchases. In addition, development of the business plan formalizes production practices, such as feeding and health management programs, and describes the marketing program for cattle at the completion of the backgrounding phase. Completing a business plan is similar to planning for a road trip: business plans help you identify where you are going, and, similar to a road map, assist you in reaching your final destination.

Similar to other agricultural endeavours, feeding cattle involves risk. While the price of feed and market price of feeder cattle are the two largest variables that can affect profitability of cattle feeding enterprises, factors such as experience of the cattle feeder, size of operation, animal performance and health status of calves contribute to the success of the enterprise. To reduce risk, some backgrounders choose not to own their feeder cattle, but custom-feed cattle for other producers or cattle investors. A business plan identifies risk factors for each operation, and allows producers to evaluate alternatives to 100-per-cent ownership of feeder cattle and manage their risk accordingly. Risk management strategies form a critical component of the business plan, and will be reviewed by lenders and other stakeholders when assessing the financial viability of backgrounding cattle.

A business plan helps you to:

• Analyze the enterprise on paper and identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT);
• Make the transition from idea to implementation of the business enterprise;
• Provide lenders, cattle investors and other stakeholders with a clear understanding of your business and the requirement for external sources of capital or operating credit;
• Standardize operating procedures and identify marketing strategies for backgrounded feeder cattle;
• Establish performance and financial benchmarks and analyze year-to-year variance; and
• Manage your business more effectively.

Developing your Business Plan

A typed, professional appearance enhances business plans, especially if it will be presented to others. If this is not possible, a neat, handwritten business plan is still better than nothing at all. Elements of a business plan include:

• Title Page: Includes the business or farm name and contact information for the principal individual(s) responsible for the enterprise. Include the date the plan was created or the period of time that the business plan covers.
• Executive Summary: The executive summary is one of the most important components of a business plan. As the executive summary is the first and sometimes only part of the business plan that is read, it needs to be a concise summary of the business proposal that identifies the purpose or objective of the operation, outlines capital and credit requirements and indicates how funds will be used. It should be written last so that it summarizes the entire business plan and provides the readers with answers to the following questions:
• What is the purpose of this business plan (operational guide, financing proposal or both)?
• What is the nature of the business?
• What is the business structure (sole proprietor, corporation, partnership)?
• What is being produced or what services are being provided?
• Where will the product and/or services be marketed?
• What knowledge, skills and abilities do you have regarding feeding and care of cattle?
• Table of Contents: A single page listing topics and corresponding page numbers.
• Mission, Vision, Values and Goals Statements: These statements are typically one paragraph in length, and clearly state the objective of the enterprise, the short- and long-term goals of the producer and the values important to the individual. Animal welfare, environmentally sustainable production or verified beef production practices are examples of values producers may choose to incorporate in these statements.
• Industry Overview: The industry overview should be written to provide a reader who may have limited knowledge of the subject with a brief description of the cattle feeding industry. A simple diagram illustrating the structure of the cattle industry is often useful to include in this section to visually represent where backgrounding fits within the beef cattle supply chain. Current statistics should be included, and be sure to reference sources of information. Relevant information may include, but should not be limited to: beef cow numbers, number of feeder cattle by weight class, feed grain and forage production and number of cattle feeders. Industry trends and opportunities can be identified in this section. Once the reader has reviewed this section of your business plan, specific information related to your project can be put into the perspective of the larger industry.
• Business Description: This section includes information specific to your enterprise. Type of business, structure of business, relation to other enterprises, and size and scale of the operation, including land resources, should be identified.

Ownership of feeder cattle or custom feeding arrangements should be clearly identified in this section, as the content of subsequent elements of your business plan will be affected by this major decision. Custom feeding arrangements will be formalized, with a written contract outlining the responsibilities of both the cattle feeder and investor. Payment for services (cost per gain, yardage plus feed costs or cost per day), expectations of animal performance, health status of calves at time of placement, minimum number of days on feed, death losses and animal warranties should be clearly identified and drafted in the agreement. A copy of the contract should be included as an appendix to the business plan.

• Human Resource Management: This area describes your business and management experience in feeding and caring for cattle. It is important to identify if you will be paying yourself for the labour and management of the enterprise, or if the profit (loss) of the business will determine the return on your labour and investment.

If additional non-family labour is required for the backgrounding cattle enterprise, a description of employment variables, such as salary, benefits and provision for training, should be included. Development activities designed to improve management expertise should be included in this section.

A contingency plan should be identified in this section that details how the enterprise will be managed and day-to-day operations will proceed in the event of illness, injury or death.

• Operational Plan: This section outlines the production processes, sets performance targets and establishes costs that will be included in cash flow projections. Backgrounding cattle enterprises should include the following sections within the operational section of the business plan:

Feeding Program

Excluding the purchase of the feeder calf, the cost of feed represents the single largest variable in feeding cattle. Backgrounding diets are typically higher in forages to minimize fat deposition and promote frame and muscle growth. Purchasing or contracting some or all of the forage, grain and supplements prior to placing cattle in the feedlot can reduce the risk of significant price increases during the feeding period. It is recommended that nutritional advice be sought in the development of feeding programs and monitoring of animal performance. A feeding protocol can be developed as part of the operational plan to ensure consistency of feeding regardless of who is responsible for daily feeding.

Herd Health Program

With the assistance of a veterinarian experienced in feeder cattle production, a herd health program should be designed and implemented for all backgrounding enterprises. Treatment and vaccination protocols, implant strategies and post-mortem procedures can be developed and documented in the herd health section of the business plan. These protocols can form the basis for a sound record-keeping system as part of a quality assurance program. Annual review of each program within the operational plan allows for ongoing adjustment and fine-tuning of important production practices.

• Marketing Plan:

Cattle feeders who own their cattle inventory assume a higher risk than feeders who are custom-feeding cattle for other investors. While the potential for profit is greater, so is the potential for loss, and the business plan should reflect the reality of the cattle feeding business. Owning the inventory of cattle requires the development of a marketing plan within the business plan. Consider the following when developing your marketing plan:  

Identify the target weight for marketing feeder cattle. Lighter feeders can be placed on pasture prior to finishing in feedlots, or heavier animals can be marketed directly to feedlots.

Identify the time of year for targeted marketing. Normally, grass cattle are in greater demand during the early spring, and heavy feeders are generally marketed to feedlots during late summer.

Identify where off-type animals will be marketed.

Price Discovery

Backgrounded cattle can be sold via auction (regular, presort, satellite or electronic) or be forward-contracted to finishing cattle feedlot operators. Sale conditions, including weighing considerations, marketing commissions, shrinkage and delivery times, should be clearly identified for all marketing alternatives. It is important to recognize that prices for cattle (finished and feeder) are established at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Fluctuations in the value of the Canadian dollar relative to the United States currency represent significant price risk to the Canadian cattle feeder. Risk management plans should identify foreign exchange exposure and strategies to minimize negative effects. Development of marketing plans as part of the business plan allows producers to consider all of the factors that may affect market price for cattle at the end of the backgrounding period. Given the complexity of cattle marketing, producers are strongly encouraged to seek advice and marketing assistance prior to placing cattle on feed in a backgrounding program.

The Livestock Price Insurance Program (LPI) is an easy to use risk management tool that provides beef producers with protection against price risk, currency risk and basis risk. The program uses current and historical market information to set and offer market driven coverage in the form of an insurance policy. LPI protects against volatility in the marketplace and can be used to set a "floor" price on livestock, allowing for the security of knowing what your bottom line income will be. LPI can also be used to obtain a cash advance through the Advance Payments Program.

• Environmental Plan:

Environmental farm planning is an important component of risk management for any agricultural operation. Beef cattle backgrounding operations may require approval from Saskatchewan Agriculture's Agricultural Operations Unit prior to the construction of an intensive livestock operation (ILO). The Agricultural Operations Act requires ILO proponents to submit plans for manure storage, manure management and mortality management. The intent of this legislation is to ensure provisions have been made to protect surface and groundwater from contamination by run-off from livestock facilities. It is also important to discuss development of any ILO with your neighbours and your local municipality to address any concerns or identify any development bylaws that may be relevant to your enterprise. Saskatchewan Watershed Authority should be contacted regarding licensing requirements related to the provision of water for the cattle operation.

• Financial Plan:

The financial plan is an important component of your business plan, and usually includes present financial documents as well as pro forma financial statements that identify the financial changes that will occur to the enterprise over a period of time. Requirements for debt financing and repayment schedules should be included in the financial plan. It is important to identify any assumptions that are being made that may affect the accuracy of the financial statements. Examples of documents included in the financial section of the business plan are:

• Breakeven analysis of backgrounding cattle;
• Current income statement and projected income statements for an identified period of time;
• Monthly cash flow projections for the current and subsequent fiscal years;
• Loan amortization tables; and
• A current balance sheet and projected balance sheets for an identified period of time.
• Supporting Professionals:

Identify supporting professionals that provide services or advice for your operation in this section of your business plan. These can include business partners, such as accountants, lawyers or financial service providers, as well as veterinarians, nutritionists, consultants and marketing partners.

• Supporting Documents:

A personal resumé identifying your education, prior work experience and management and feeding experience related to beef cattle production should be included in this section. If other individuals will be involved in the management of the backgrounding enterprise, include their personal resumés as well.

For custom backgrounding operators, letters of intent from prospective cattle suppliers or investors should be included. If you have previously fed cattle for someone else, include letters of reference.

A business plan is an important document that allows you to evaluate your enterprise on paper. This document serves as a basis for obtaining financing and procuring cattle supplies. Operational plans are developed and performance benchmarks established in your business plan. Once completed and updated annually, your business plan will provide you with an overview of past performance and a plan for future years.

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Cattle Farm Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Cattle Farm Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their cattle farms. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a cattle farm business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Cattle Farm Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your cattle farm as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Cattle Farm

If you’re looking to start a cattle farm or grow your existing cattle farm company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your cattle farm to improve your chances of success. Your cattle farm business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Cattle Farms

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a cattle farm are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for cattle farms.

    Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a cattle farm.

If you want to start a cattle farm or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The example guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your cattle farming business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of cattle farm you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a cattle farm that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of cattle farms?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

• Give a brief overview of the cattle farm industry.
• Discuss the type of cattle farm you are operating.
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of cattle farm you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of cattle farms:

• Cow-calf: This type of cattle farming involves using mature cattle to breed calves that are then sold to producers.
• Backgrounding: This type of cattle farming involves growing feeder cattle that can be sold to producers once they reach a certain weight or age.
• Finishing: This type of cattle farming involves harvesting cattle to weight in a feedlot, readying them for sale to market.
• Specific Breed: This type of cattle farming specializes in breeding specific types of cattle such as Angus or Hereford.

In addition to explaining the type of cattle farm you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, the amount of meat sold, reaching $X amount in revenue, etc.
• Your legal business structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the cattle farm industry. While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the cattle farm industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your cattle farming business plan:

• How big is the cattle farm industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your cattle farm? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your cattle farm business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, schools, families, and corporations.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of cattle farm you operate. Clearly, individuals would respond to different marketing promotions than corporations, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other cattle farms.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes other types of meat farms such as poultry, fish, or pork farms, and meat alternative suppliers. You need to mention such competition as well.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What type of cattle farming business are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you make it easier for your customers to acquire your product?
• Will you offer products or services that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a cattle farm business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of cattle farm company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide live cattle, meat, or dairy products?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your cattle farm company. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your cattle farm located near a city, in a rural area, or adjacent to other farms? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your cattle farm marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in industry publications and networking events
• Reach out to local meat buyers
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your cattle farm, including answering calls, feeding and caring for cattle, scheduling employees, billing customers and collecting payments, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to acquire your Xth customer, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your cattle farm business to a new market.

Management Team

To demonstrate your cattle farm’s potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing cattle farms. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a cattle farm or running a small cattle breeding operation.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will your farm have 100 cattle on average and will 20% of your cattle be ready for sale every year? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your cattle farm business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a cattle farm:

• Cost of farming equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your farm lease or information about the type of cattle on your farm.

Writing a business plan for your cattle farm is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will have an expert cattle farming business plan, cow calf business plan or a beef cattle business plan. You will understand the cattle farm industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful cattle farm.

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Cattle Farm business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how Growthink’s business plan professional services can help you create a winning business.

Cattle Farm Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my cattle farm business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your cattle farm business plan.

How Do You Start a Cattle Farm Business?

Starting a cattle farm business is easy with these 14 steps:.

• Choose the Name for Your Cattle Farm Business
• Create Your Cattle Farm Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Cattle Farm Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Cattle Farm Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Cattle Farm Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Cattle Farm Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Cattle Farm Business Equipment
• Develop Your Cattle Farm Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Cattle Farm Business
• Open for Business

Learn more about how to start your own cattle farm company .

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Starting Beef Cattle Fattening Farming Business in South Africa – Business Plan (PDF, Word & Excel)

Posted by BizBolts | Agriculture , All Articles , Business Ideas , Business Plans , Livestock Farming

Commercial cattle farming and fattening form the backbone of the beef industry in the country. In a lot of cases, cattle fattening can be part of a diversified farming enterprise, which can help manage production and market risks. The majority of cattle sold through abattoirs come from feedlots. This livestock can be self-produced or brought in, with commercial feedlots being the major finishers of beef. Beef cattle fattening a a very profitable business to start in South Africa. First off let’s just familiarise ourselves with what beef cattle pen fattening is. Cattle pen fattening entails the feeding of beef cattle with a balanced protein-high diet for a period of 3-4 months under confinement. This is done to increase live weight of the cattle and improve the grade/quality of the beef so as to fetch higher prices when selling the beef cattle. Cattle fattening ensures that the cattle express their full potential for growth. Confinement of beef cattle in pens is meant to ensure that the genetic coding of the beasts is fully expressed in their growth and to minimize weight loss through movement.

The demand for beef in South Africa is very high. Over 85 000 metric tonnes of beef are consumed every month in South Africa. In case you’re wondering how you can start such a cattle fattening farming business then kindly read along. This article will outline how to start a beef cattle fattening business in South Africa, and the beef cattle fattening business plan – PDF, Word and Excel.

Before you start a beef cattle farming business in South Africa, there are some important decisions which you have to make. You have to decide on the size of your beef cattle fattening business ie how many cattle you will have at your cattle farm.  There are many different cattle breeds, so you have to select which breed you will use, location of your business, and your target market. The size of your beef cattle farming business will depend on the amount of capital you have, and your target market. It’s important that you get a good beef cattle fattening business plan before you start beef cattle fattening business in South Africa.

Business Model

Cattle pen fattening is the feeding of beef cattle with a balanced, high-protein diet for a period of 3–4 months under confinement. Animals can be fed in different ways in order to obtain a heavy carcass. When purchasing your cattle, it’s important to evaluate the potential for beef fattening because different types of cattle respond differently to feed. You should also consider the market price of various beef grades. You should take into account the cattle’s breed, gender, maturity type, and age. Some cattle are more suitable for fattening than others. It’s very important that you give your cattle the right quantity and type of feed. The success of your cattle fattening business depends largely on the ability of your cattle to gain weight and to produce high-quality beef. These factors are affected by the quality and quantity of your feed. Proper feeding techniques will ensure that your cattle will grow, utilize the feed efficiently, and produce good quality meat. This is how you can increase your profits from the cattle fattening farming business. Failing to properly feed the cattle will lead to losses.

Market Research

For any kind of business, you must conduct market research. You need to research your market in order to build a successful, sustainable cattle fattening business. You also require enough knowledge in order to effectively run your feedlot. In addition to good cattle fattening techniques, good management skills, and financial management, you must understand the industry you operate in. Researching and finding your market are essential when developing a cattle fattening business. Your market has a huge impact on your producer’s net sale price. In fact, your company’s profitability is determined by the market. From market research, you can determine the buying price of the cattle, the costs of the feed, the price margin, the feed margin, the feed conversion efficiency ratio, and the unit cost when selling. As a farmer, you should also be aware of the alternative markets available to you in order to choose the one that yields the greatest return . Ensure that you periodically check prices and market conditions. Market research also helps you know your buyers’ needs and demands. Local and international meat markets are constantly changing. As a result, your cattle fattening business should be market-driven. Customers are becoming more sensitive about animal welfare and the ethical rearing of all animals. These customers want more information about the meat they buy, especially where it comes from and how it has been raised. As a cattle fattening business, you are required to review your production methods and standards.

You need land – this is where you will build the beef cattle feedlots. Sustainability of the land must be thoroughly assessed beforehand. The location must be very strategic i.e. near major road networks and near reliable water sources such as boreholes, rivers or dams. Alternatively, or rather as a buffer, water reservoirs must also be setup. Beef cattle pen fattening is done with the cattle in confinement ie in pens/feedlots. The cattle won’t graze for pasture. This means that a beef cattle pen fattening business needs less amount of land as compared to a cattle ranching business.

Housing and Equipment for Beef Cattle Farming Business

The beef cattle will be housed in feedlots / pens. Feedlots are confined areas with feeding and watering facilities where the cattle are fed by hand or mechanically for the purpose of beef fattening. That’s where the cattle will be resident during the duration of their 90-120 days fattening process. Confinement of the cattle in feedlots is meant to minimise energy and weight loss through movement. The beef cattle fattening feedlots must be setup in such way that they protect the cattle from predators and adverse weather conditions. The housing must promote ease of access to food and water, free movement and adequate lighting to the beef cattle. The necessary equipment for a beef cattle fattening business in South Africa include the feeding and drinking troughs. Your commercial beef cattle farming business plan should include the costs of purchasing the equipment and the beef cattle feedlots.

Beef Cattle for Fattening

To start the cattle fattening business in South Africa, you need the beef cattle to fatten (also known as feeders). You can choose to either fatten your own cattle or you can purchase cattle for fattening from other farmers. Purchasing cattle for fattening needs a lot of skill. You must be experienced in evaluating the potential for fattening of different types of cattle (maturity type, breed, age, gender) in relation to the market price of different grades of beef. Different breeds of cattle have different growth potential, so you must be well-informed. Some types of cattle are more suitable for cattle fattening than others. If you make the wrong decision in buying the cattle, you will encounter a loss before you even start the beef cattle fattening business.

It’s also important to have good negotiating skills, so that you acquire the beef cattle at a good/low price. Buying expensive cattle will lead to losses in your beef cattle fattening business. You can source your cattle from other farmers or from rural areas where it is cheap. The prices of cattle vary throughout the year. You should always have money to buy cattle when the prices are favourable. Lack of money when the prices are favourable is a lost opportunity for profit. Be wary of cattle farmers who dispose of their diseased cattle. Take time to do proper due diligence to ensure that you’re buying healthy cattle – don’t just be roped in by the low prices.

Feed for Beef Cattle Fattening

As you can probably tell, feeding costs are high in the beef cattle fattening business. The correct types of feeds and the right mixture ratios are critically important in order to produce cattle with high weights and high beef quality. If these things aren’t done then the unfortunate result may be failure to meet slaughter weight targets or beef quality target. Proper feeding techniques will enable the cattle to efficiently utilise the feed and thus gain weight and produce good quality beef. Feeding can be done using a combination of complete commercial cattle fattening feeds and supplementary feeds eg maize. Cattle fattening is done to achieve two major things, increase in live weight (more weight results in more revenue when selling) and increase in the quality of beef (high quality beef fetches higher prices). Proper feeding regime will ensure that you achieve these objectives. Your beef cattle fattening farming business plan should take into account the feeding costs.

Profitability of Beef Cattle Fattening Business in South Africa

If done properly, cattle fattening business is very profitable in South Africa. The profitability of the beef cattle fattening business in South Africa depends on a variety of factors. These factors include: buying price of the feeders/cattle, the cattle fattening feeds cost, the feed conversion ratio, the selling price per KG, the feed margin and the price margin. Before starting beef cattle fattening, it’s important that you understand the margins and ratios. Understanding the margins and ratios will enable you to calculate your profit margins when buying cattle at a specific price. Thus you will make an informed decision before you buy the cattle. All those margins are explained in our beef cattle farming business plan.

Sales And Marketing Strategies

A feedlot farm’s marketing has many aspects. The kind of marketing strategies you employ will depend on the size of your feedlot. Small-scale feedlots have limited marketing needs compared to large commercial ones. In many cases, cattle from a feedlot are usually sold to butcheries, abattoirs, auctions, butcheries, or individuals. Your marketing efforts should be directed to these customers. You must promote your feedlot business to the right people so that you can generate enough revenue. One way you can market your feedlot is by having an online presence. Take advantage of social media and set up an affordable, basic website. You can also list your business in the yellow pages and online directories such as Google My Business or Maps. Do not neglect your online presence once it’s setup. Keep your social media pages active and your website up-to-date. Another way to promote your cattle fattening business is by participating in agricultural trade shows and events. This is an effective way to promote your business. Do not forget to create flyers, offer discounts, and connect with people within the farming industry.

The demand for beef in South Africa is very high. The average demand of beef in South Africa is about 1 million tonnes per annum. The beef industry is the second fastest growing commodity in agricultural sector following the broiler poultry sector. This is driven by income growth and support technological and structural change. You can supply your cattle/beef to Abattoirs , Livestock Auctions, Butcheries, Individual, Meat Processors etc.

Beef Carcass

Advantages of Cattle Fattening Business

There are many reasons why you should consider starting a cattle fattening business. The major advantage of feedlots is that the cattle are raised in the most economical way. Since a smaller space of land is required, you can raise a large number of cattle for beef production. Animals that are kept on feedlots are fed mostly corn and/or corn products in addition to being raised on less land. This means you will spend significantly less money. Another advantage to cattle fattening is that you can easily monitor the cattle closely. Furthermore, cattle are fattened earlier, which results in better meat consistency, and more meat can be distributed to meet the rising demand for beef. Cattle are raised for a shorter period of time in order to meet market requirements earlier. You do not have to be concerned about pasture due to droughts or bad weather conditions plus you can easily develop consistent meat quality and quantity by feeding your cattle the correct feed.

Keys to Profitability

When it comes to cattle fattening, it’s all about the right feed and the breed. Make sure that you choose the right supplements, and that your cattle are housed appropriately. Do not overwhelm yourself by buying a large herd of cattle. Start with a reasonable number and grow your business steadily. One of the biggest costs for a farmer is transportation. So ensure that your feedlot is not too far away from the market. Make sure that you keep an eye on the costs and stay up to date with current industry trends.

PRE-WRITTEN BEEF CATTLE FATTENING BUSINESS PLAN (PDF, WORD AND EXCEL): COMPREHENSIVE VERSION, SHORT FUNDING/BANK LOAN VERSION AND AUTOMATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For an in-depth analysis of the beef cattle fattening farming business in South Africa, purchase our beef cattle fattening business plan. We decided to introduce the business plans after noting that many South Africans were venturing into the cattle fattening business without a full understanding of the industry, market, how to run the business, the risks involved, profitability of the business and the costs involved, leading to a high failure rate of their businesses.

Our business plan will make it easier for you to launch and run a beef cattle farming business successfully, fully knowing what you are going into, and what’s needed to succeed in the business. It will be easier to plan and budget as the beef cattle fattening business plan will lay out all the costs involved in setting up and running the beef cattle farming business. The business plan is designed specifically for the South African market.

USES OF THE BEEF CATTLE PEN FATTENING BUSINESS PLAN (PDF, WORD AND EXCEL)

The beef cattle feedlots business plan can be used for many purposes including:

• Raising capital from investors/friends/relatives
• Applying for a bank loan
• Start-up guide to launch your beef cattle feedlots business
• As a beef cattle fattening project proposal
• Assessing profitability of the cattle fattening business in South Africa
• Finding a business partner
• Assessing the initial start-up costs so that you know how much to save
• Manual for current business owners to help in business and strategy formulation

CONTENTS OF THE BEEF CATTLE FATTENING BUSINESS PLAN (PDF, WORD AND EXCEL)

The business plan includes, but not limited to:

• Market Analysis
• Industry Analysis
• 5 Year Automated Financial Statements [ Income statements, cash flow statements, balance sheets, monthly cash flow projections (3 years monthly cash flow projections, the remaining two years annually),break even analysis, payback period analysis, start-up costs, financial graphs, revenue and expenses, Bank Loan Amortisation]
• Marketing Strategy
• Risk Analysis
• SWOT & PEST Analysis
• Operational Requirements
• Beef cattle fattening guide (Technical Details of how to choose, feed and raise the beef cattle)
• Operational Strategy
• Why some South Africans in the beef cattle farming business fail, so that you can avoid their mistakes
• Ways to raise capital to start your beef cattle fattening farming business in South Africa
• Directory [Contact Details for South African suppliers of feeds, equipment, Cattle Abattoirs, contacts of cattle fattening training companies in South Africa, contacts of cattle fattening farming organisations in South Africa]

The Beef Cattle Fattening Farming Business Plan package consist of 5 files

• Beef Cattle Fattening Business Plan – PDF file (Comprehensive – 87 pages)
• Beef Cattle Fattening Business Plan – Editable Word File (Comprehensive – 87 pages)
• Beef Cattle Fattening Business Plan Funding Version – Editable Word File (Short version for applying for a loan – 45 pages)
• Beef Cattle Fattening Business Plan Automated Financial Statements – (Editable Excel file)
• Cattle Abattoirs in South Africa -Supplementary PDF File

Testimonial 2

I am extremely pleased with the business plan and financial statements. The business plan is very detailed & it meets my requirements. I feel better equipped with tools that can help me secure funding.  I would have no hesitation of recommending your business plans to other people.

Testimonial 5

The BizBolts poultry business plan led us down the path from start to finish. Contact details of suppliers of key requirements were included in the business plan. It helped us crystallize our strategy, and the business plan was well received by the bank.

Testimonial 1

Many thanks to the BizBolts team for putting together a fantastic business plan, I could not have done this business plan on my own. I managed to get funding from investors to start my butchery business using your business plan.

Testimonial 6

It is with excitement and pleasure to inform you that I have been successful in securing a loan from my bank. This would not have been possible if not for the BizBolts Business Plan. Thank you for your help, my dreams are now coming true.

Testimonial 7

Thank you BizBolts for the business plan. I received the business plan immediately after payment, it was money well spent ! I was able to easily edit the business plan. After using the BizBolts business plan, I can wholeheartedly recommend their products and skills.

Testimonial 3

The business plan has a highly professional look and feel. The research really helps me look deep into the market that I am targeting, it’s well suited for the South African market. The business plan clearly outlined everything I need to start the business and the costs. It’s now easier to budget and plan. Thank you very much.

Testimonial 4

The business plan was very helpful, you did a great job of taking ideas and putting them into words as well as pointing out other aspects of the business plan I wouldn’t have thought of. I got funding using your business plan and it’s now 4 months since I started my poultry business, and everything is going well.

GET THE BEEF CATTLE FATTENING BUSINESS PLAN (PDF, WORD AND EXCEL) - R500 Only.

We decided to make the business plan affordable to anyone who would want to start the business, and the price for the pre-written business plan is only 500 Rand.

We have several payment methods which you can use.

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The business plan package is a zipped compressed file containing the PDF, Word and Excel documents. To open the package after downloading it, just right click, and select Extract All. If you have any problems in downloading and opening the files, email us on [email protected] and we will assist you.

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About The Author

BizBolts (Pty) Ltd is a business research company based in Johannesburg, South Africa. We sell prewritten business plans for various industries including livestock production, crop farming and retail businesses. BizBolts also publishes articles on business ideas, business news, business tips, personal finance, and entrepreneur profiles.

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