2008 in Review

Without a doubt everyone would agree that 2008 has been a profound year in terms of overall market and economic volatility. Today’s costs no longer apply to what they were only 12 months ago. We must persevere for now; it may be some time before we find ourselves back in a stable economic environment.

The Wild Bird Seed Category has not been immune; we have also felt trial and tribulation.  In late 2007 the U.S. governments to offset rising oil costs supported the building of ethanol plants to provide a cheaper/greener fuel alternative. Ethanol is a corn bi-product thus growers were committing more acreage to growing corn. The result of this decision meant that there was less acreage planted in other grain products in 2008. This resulted in the typical supply and demand situation causing the pricing to exceed all previous records. 2008 has also experienced rising and falling energy costs created by the world market causing additional monitory pressures on birdseed.

However not all is negative. Armstrong Milling is positive about our industry and its future, we have looked beyond the current market environment and continue to push forward on providing quality products, packaging and service. The following list shows Armstrong’s commitment to the future of wild bird feeding for 2008.

Ø The re-introduction of Royal Jubilee barrier bag packaging
Ø The re-introduction of Trail gas flushed Wild Bird seed
Ø AMCL is now HACCP Compliant
Ø Implemented new staff training programs
Ø Increased grain storage
Ø Upgraded computer software
Ø Added staff to increase customer support
Ø Improved logistics’ for more efficient service

The upcoming year we will likely see a slow improvement in the world economies. Canadians have faired well during past economic misfortunes and will undoubtedly continue to be positive about the future. As a company our mindset is to continue to be passionate about being the best in the world at blending and shipping wild birdseed. We will be the supplier of choice for wild bird seed customers looking to purchase a full range of products.
We look forward to working with all our customers, to create a positive 2009.

AMCL Management