CCA Announces Partnership with ViewTrak, BIXS Steps Towards Autonomy

by

One of the stipulations for funding the Beef InfoXchange System (BIXS), was that it one day become self-sustaining, and yesterday, the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association announced a step in that direction in its partnering with ViewTrak Technologies.

“Partnering with industry to expand BIXS’ reach and potential has always been our vision,” said Rob McNabb, General Manager of the CCA. “ViewTrak has a solid track record in the livestock information technology industry. With their strong financials, international experience, and a worldwide network, the Viewtrak team has the expertise and resources to help CCA maximize the BIXS system for the benefit of the entire supply chain and consumers seeking information on beef production.”

Hubert Lau and Ted Power | Photo: CCA
Hubert Lau and Ted Power | Photo: CCA

Based in Edmonton, AB, ViewTrak Technologies is a company that focuses on traceability. It was involved in the creation of China’s pork grading tool. It is also a partner in the Canadian Lamb Cooperative Grading Program and behind a web-based software program created for the South Dakota Department of Agriculture that allows producers to make quality beef marketing claims.

The partnership will see CCA and ViewTrak as the initial shareholders in a new, privately-held company, led by Hubert Lau, executive vice-president of ViewTrak. Lau will act as company president and chief executive officer, with Ted Power, president of Viewtrak, taking on the role of executive vice president of the new company.

The company will increase BIXS functionality and continue to expand BIXS’ role in the Canadian beef industry.

“The challenge and the opportunity for the Canadian cattle industry is to work together to create value by sharing information through the supply chain, so that everyone can realize the dream of increased profitability and competiveness,” said Lau.

Lau added that there is enormous value in collaborating to enhance the competitiveness of the industry.

“It’s a way to circle the wagons, to enhance the competitiveness of the industry, and create best practices that will allow the Canadian cattle industry and Canadian beef to dominate world markets. This is the vision for the new BIXS we’re creating.”

BIXS was established in 2009 and now holds 3 million detailed carcass records and 3.4 million animal birthdate records, making it the largest database of its kind in Canada.


Related:

Wake up with RealAgriculture

Subscribe to our daily newsletters to keep you up-to-date with our latest coverage every morning.

Wake up with RealAgriculture

Please register to read and comment.

 

Register for a RealAgriculture account to manage your Shortcut menu instead of the default.

Register