The survey, begun in 1994, has developed into one of the most viable measures of Cobb breeder performance worldwide.

Pablo Cardenas with the Cobb700 flock award

Flock data is collected annually measuring key performance metrics including hatching and total egg production, hen livability, feed consumed, hatchability and chicks per hen housed.

In addition to the award for the overall top-performing US company, the top six regional performances are also recognised.

The Pablo Cardenas Farm had a total of 170.14 eggs and 140.60 chicks (adjusted to 65 weeks).

Mr Cardenas purchased the farm 10 years ago after managing it for the previous owner. He also works on the second shift in the maintenance department at a local company.

He used conventional nests for many years and had just installed double belted nests before his latest flock placement. His upgrade on the houses also included sealing the environment and installing improved ventilation.

Mr Cardenas commented: “We really like the new nests and the performance we’ve achieved with the upgrade.”

Steven Stapp, breeder manager of the Tyson complex, stated: “With uniform pullets produced from the rearing house and with improved egg gathering practices, we should expect this kind of result each time. Pablo is great to work with – always willing to do whatever we ask of him.”

Cobb North America technical service director Ken Semon commented: “The leadership at Tyson Nashville Complex has proved that it takes team effort and attention to detail to yield outstanding performance. They strive for excellence and it’s reflected in the performance ranking of this flock.”