High demand for day-old chicks
THE demand for day-old chicks (DOC) is on the rise ahead of the festive season leading to shortages as long queues of customers are being witnessed in Bulawayo.
It has become a norm during the festive season preparation for demand of DOC to increase as farmers will be looking to take advantage of the season and increase their revenue.
Day old chicks on high demand
During a snap survey yesterday, Business Chronicle observed that most day-old chicks outlets were inundated with scores of people jostling to gain entry to place orders for the chicks.
Speaking to the Business Chronicle, Mr Enock Machingauta of Stock Feed Centre and a supplier of DOC said there is a high demand of chicks, which has seen every supplier countrywide experiencing the shortage of chicks.
“Every supplier of day-old chicks is experiencing this high demand. It has affected everyone countrywide and this only happens during the summer season,” said Mr Machingauta.
“During the summer time, there is a reduction in eggs laid by the chickens and also the hatching system will be affected meaning the production of chicks and supply will be reduced due to the high demand and less laying of eggs.”
Mr Machingauta said they have reduced the number of daily bookings so as to accommodate everyone.
A customer is allowed a minimum of 50 DOC.
Early this year, the Competition Tariff Commission (CTC) received complaints that some distributors were selling chicks only if one buys all the feed required to raise the birds.
CTC noted that this was a widespread marketing practice that inhibited competition.
The practice was said to be exploitative in nature as it compelled farmers to access chicks on condition they also buy stock feed.
Day old chicks on high demand
A prospective buyer , Mr Israel Mumvuri said the limitation on bookings affects their business and the demand has also led to price changes.
“During the festive season we will be expecting to make some profits but now everything is in disarray since there are no chicks,” said Mr Mumvuri.
He said one chick is now being sold at US$1,50 up from the previous price which was set at US$1.-Chronicle.cl.zw
