Hy-Line International - the world's leading layer breeding company - has strengthened its commitment to the Belgian and Dutch market with the formation of a new distributor, Hy-Line Benelux.

Hy-Line Benelux BV has been established as the new independent and exclusive distributor of the world's leading brown (Brown and Silver) and white (W-36 and W-98) egg layer brands for the Netherlands and Belgium. The establishment of Hy-Line Benelux clearly demonstrates Hy-Line's commitment to providing Dutch and Belgian egg producers with outstanding products, along with dedicated, professional technical support.

According to Dr John Greaves, president and chief executive officer of Hy-Line International, "Hy-Line products have been available in Holland and Belgium since 2001 and we have seen strong development in these two countries. They collectively represent one of the top market regions in the world. We therefore believe that it's time to establish our own local presence in order to provide direct and exclusive access to products that compliment the industries ability for highly efficient egg production.

We are committed to positioning layer breeds that fully meet the expectations of both the conventional and alternative production systems in this important market and I can assure all of our valued customers in Belgium and Holland that the Hy-Line breeds will provide the highest level of profitable return with their best of class feed efficiency and liveability - especially as feed costs continue to soar."

Hans Groot Koerkamp, managing director of Hy-Line Benelux added, "I am looking forward to cooperating closely with all players in the Dutch and Belgian egg layer markets. Hy-Line's major success in many large Western European countries like Great Britain, France, Italy and Spain shows that the combination of superior products, a dedicated team of experts and professional industry partners results in a winning combination for egg producers. We will work hard to repeat this success by helping our customers to realize the full genetic potential of the Hy-Line products."

Hy-Line Benelux will initially supply custom produced Hy-Line chicks and started pullets which will be accompanied by qualified technical service. A company controlled production infrastructure in the Netherlands and/or Belgium is planned.