Euan Meldrum, Cobb Europe marketing manager, said: "Our customers did us proud, we had excellent representation from throughout the region – from Ireland to Saudi Arabia and Sweden to South Africa."

The programme was set up so delegates could learn about particular aspects of poultry production with practical visits and presentations each day. The first day covered the global economics of poultry production today. On days two and three, delegates went in broiler or breeder groups to cover hatchery and production.

The following days featured health and ventilation, including a visit to the Pluimveepraktijk Noord & Oost (North and East of Holland Poultry Practice) for practical demonstrations, with the event ending with a graduation and dinner in the region's historic capital Leeuwarden.

Eighteen Cobb personnel gave presentations during the event along with two industry experts – Dr Ron Meijerhof on the effect of incubation on broiler performance and Dr Tony Marangos on optimal broiler nutrition for Cobb products.

"Friesland provided a fine setting for the week and showed us just how much the sea and canals play in the day-to-day life of local people," commented Mr Meldrum.

Delegates at the seminar