Poultry Network Podcast with Aaron McKenna
Our Head of Broiler Operations UK, Aaron McKenna, joined the Poultry Network Podcast to discuss how Pilgrim’s Europe is driving growth, innovation and sustainability across the UK poultry sector.
In the episode, Aaron shares his journey from growing up on a small mixed farm in Northern Ireland, through the company's graduate scheme, to leading Pilgrim’s Europe broiler operations across the UK. He also talks about completing his doctorate on Campylobacter with the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Queen’s University Belfast and AFBI – and how that research continues to inform his work today.
The discussion covers:
Ongoing investment in new builds and infrastructure to help farmers reinvest and grow
The balance between welfare, efficiency and affordability – including how 30kg/m² stocking densities support sustainable production
Sustainability innovations like rainwater harvesting, solar and anaerobic digestion projects at Stream BioEnergy, reducing waste and supplying renewable energy to local communities
Strong operational performance across 2024, with record efficiency and welfare results across UK farms.
Listen to the full episode here: EP21: Pilgrims Europe’s Aaron McKenna on Stocking Density, Performance and Sector Growth - Poultry Network