Livestock

EuroTier 2026 is set to take place from 10 to 13 November in Hanover. (Image source: DLG)

The German Agricultural Society, DLG-organised trade fair for livestock professionals, EuroTier, has issued call for the Innovation Award EuroTier seeking technological innovations to address on-ground problems in modern livestock farming

The Innovation Award EuroTier in gold or silver goes to the winner who gets chosen following an in-depth technical evaluation by an independent panel of international experts appointed by the DLG. 

Alongside, the Animal Welfare Award is also seeking submissions for trendsetting offerings for the industry. This recognises products that promote species-appropriate behaviour and squarely supports animal health. Also presented by the DLG in cooperation with the bpt (German Veterinary Practitioners Association), this particular award is build on the gold or silver earned as part of the EuroTier Innovation Award. While animal welfare is only one of several criteria for the Innovation Award, the Animal Welfare Award specifically recognizes a product that meets the requirements for a higher animal welfare standard to an exceptional degree.

Decisive factors include innovations in animal welfare and animal health. Products that promote species-appropriate behavior and actively support animal health are particularly highlighted.

EuroTier 2026 that is set to take place from 10 to 13 November in Hanover, Germany, will be driven by the theme 'Intelligence in animal farming', promoting technologies that improve efficiency, animal welfare, and farm management, while also delivering benefits in terms of environmental and energy performance.

Registration for the EuroTier Innovation Awards 2026 automatically includes entry for the Animal Welfare Award 2026.

Award-winning products must be fully functional at the time of the exhibition and must be available on the market by EuroTier 2028 at the latest. The last edition of EuroTier included more than 210 world premieres entered into the innovation award scheme.

The application deadline for the EuroTier 2026 awards is July 31, 2026.

Murat Yakar, General Manager of Aviagen Arabia. (Image source: Aviagen)

Aviagen has announced the promotion of Murat Yakar to General Manager of Aviagen Arabia, marking a strategic step forward as the company continues to expand its footprint across the Middle East and surrounding regions

This appointment highlights Aviagen’s long-standing commitment to developing talent from within its own ranks. Murat was selected following a comprehensive internal process, reinforcing the company’s focus on identifying, nurturing and advancing high-potential leaders. His progression reflects a broader corporate philosophy centered on sustainable growth, leadership continuity and investment in people.

Since joining Aviagen in 2016, Murat has played a pivotal role across Türkiye, the Middle East and Africa. Over the years, he has taken on increasing levels of responsibility, contributing to key initiatives and playing an instrumental role in driving regional performance. His experience across diverse markets has equipped him with a strong understanding of both operational demands and customer needs, positioning him well for his new role.

Within his role, Murat will lead the establishment and development of Aviagen Arabia’s operations, a critical component of the company’s broader regional strategy. His leadership will play a pivotal role in driving growth, strengthening customer relationships and ensuring that Aviagen’s global standards are effectively implemented at a local level.

The timing of the appointment is particularly notable, as the poultry sector across the Middle East continues to evolve, shaped by rising demand, technological advancement and increasing focus on food security.

As Aviagen continues to build momentum in the TMEA region, the promotion of Murat Yakar represents more than a leadership change – it underscores a clear direction of growth, stability and confidence in the future. His appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for Aviagen Arabia, with a strong emphasis on expansion, customer collaboration and delivering long-term value across the region.

Zimbabwe Agri venture targets rural growth (Image credit: African Agri Council)

AAC IDS26 001 is a young agri input retail business in Zimbabwe that is steadily gaining attention for its practical approach to serving farmers

Based in the Pixie Combie area of Kadoma, the venture was launched in March 2026 and quickly showed signs of strong demand. Farmers in the area have been actively seeking reliable access to animal feed, day old chicks, veterinary medicines, and other essential supplies, highlighting a clear gap in the local market.

The business benefits from its location in a busy farming zone where poultry, livestock, and mixed farming activities are common. With no direct competition nearby, AAC IDS26 001 has been able to attract a steady stream of customers from surrounding communities. Its leadership also adds weight to its potential, with the CEO bringing 17 years of work experience and a strong commitment to supporting the country’s agricultural sector.

The company now aims to grow beyond a basic retail outlet and become a trusted one stop hub for farmers. Plans include expanding product lines, improving stock levels, introducing delivery services, and moving into road runner breeding. These steps are expected to reduce the need for farmers to travel long distances while strengthening the business’s position in the local market.

This opportunity has been featured within the Investment Discovery Sessions, an initiative by the African Agri Council that connects promising agricultural ventures with investors and financial partners. Designed to encourage real engagement and deal making, the platform helps businesses like AAC IDS26 001 move from early success to long term growth, while offering investors access to ventures with clear demand and expansion potential.

Natasha Hall as Vice President VIV Worldwide. (Image credit: VIV WORLD)

VIV Worldwide is entering a new phase of global development with the appointment of Natasha Hall as Vice President VIV Worldwide by Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs | VNU Group.

The move signals a renewed focus on expanding the international reach of the VIV brand and strengthening its role as a leading platform for the global livestock and agrifood industry. The announcement also comes at an important time as preparations gather pace for major upcoming VIV events around the world.

The appointment arrives just months ahead of VIV Europe 2026, which will take place from 2 to 4 June at Koninklijke Jaarbeurs in Utrecht. This edition is particularly significant as it marks the 25th anniversary of the event, one of the most recognised trade gatherings for professionals across the feed to food chain. At the same time, the organisation is also preparing to launch VIV Select India, which will make its debut from 22 to 24 April in New Delhi, opening new opportunities in one of the fastest growing livestock markets.

Hall’s promotion reflects the organisation’s confidence in her leadership and international outlook. Jeroen van Hooff, President and CEO of Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs, emphasised the impact she has already made within the organisation. "From the very start of her time at Jaarbeurs in 2025, Natasha has made a clear mark on the development of VIV Asia, where her international work experience and strategic vision contributed to growth, positioning and market connection. Her new role sets her up for the next step within the organisation and for further developing VIV as a globally leading B2B platform for the poultry and livestock sector."

In her new role, Hall will oversee the complete global VIV portfolio across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East and Africa region. Her responsibilities include the international VIV trade shows along with VIV Connect and the VIV Trade Forums. A key priority will be expanding the global network of exhibitors, visitors and industry partners while strengthening the international visibility of the VIV brand.

With more than a decade of experience in the exhibitions industry in Dubai, Hall brings strong international expertise to the role. "I see VIV as a unique global platform that brings together the entire feed to food chain, and I consider that integrated approach to be an important differentiating strength," said Hall.

Her appointment also comes during a milestone year for the brand. VIV Europe 2026 will celebrate its 25th edition and will also mark the decision to move the event to a biennial schedule from 2028 onwards. "VIV Europe has grown into a reliable and forward-looking platform where strategy, technology and business come together. The anniversary edition in June will once again bring hundreds of international exhibitors and thousands of professionals from the global feed to food chain to Utrecht — a recognised hub for agrifood innovation, science and sustainable chain development."