Dr Walling correctly points out that the market is expanding and changing "JSR is a company that understands that the main areas of growth in the pig industry are now outside the UK." JSR are developing a strong presence here in Asia and intend to expand not only their current operations but also actively look for potential new markets.

"In Asia the pig Industry is moving forward," continues Dr Walling. "The Global economic crisis has led to many ventures being put on hold, or delayed, throughout many regions of the world. The role that continued investment in research and development will play in helping to feed a growing global population cannot be underestimated."

"JSR already has strong connections in Asia," explains Dr Walling, "We have established nucleus herds in Japan and Korea and have a growing presence in China and Vietnam. We cannot expect everyone to come to the UK to find us; we are in Asia because we recognise the importance of the market, the passion of the pig breeders and their commitment to the industry – we will continue to push the international side of the JSR business and we are now a truly global company – it’s a very exciting time."

"The UK industry has seen some tough times," admits Dr Walling, "and we will of course continue to support the UK industry but our aim is to set up large breeding programmes, in locations across the globe." JSR already operate nucleus herds in the UK, Japan and Korea and are well on the way to setting up facilities in Canada and China. "We will work in specific markets and supply the technology that will support that market – it’s not just about selling pigs, it’s the science and technology in the first instance and then the technical support and expertise that comes as part of the whole package," enthuses Dr Walling.

"We continue to look for local partners because while we have the expertise in genetics and breeding stocks, it is our local partners who know the local market and information like that is so valuable to running a successful pig breeding business like JSR," concludes Dr Walling.