INCREASED DEMAND FOR ELECTRIC FENCING CONTRACTOR CAPACITY

With more people turning to electric fencing as a cost-effective and flexible option for a range of fencing applications, Gallagher are predicting continued growth in demand for the installation of systems which will create opportunities for fencing contractors.

“Electric fencing is widely recognised as a practical system for livestock farmers, either for temporary or permanent configurations,” comments Mark Oliver from Gallagher UK. “More farmers are turning to electric systems as a way of improving flexibility of grassland management to increase productivity.

“We are also seeing interest from new markets. Electric systems have been widely used for many years and new developments including solar energisers have increased the breadth of where systems can be used successfully. We have seen particular growth in more extensive farming systems where access to mains electricity can be an issue, or where regular replacement or charging of batteries can be an issue.”

He says that recently electric fencing systems are increasingly seen as viable options in other applications. Smallholders, equine centres and free range poultry units are among businesses turning to electric options.

“The flexibility of electric fencing is a particular attraction as it is easy to relocate or reconfigure fences, or to expand a fence.

“We have seen particular interest in the use of our fencing systems as a predator deterrent keeping animals like foxes out as opposed to keeping farmed animals in.

“Electric fences work by creating a psychological barrier. After the first contact with an electric fence, foxes will stay away as they will not receive a shock from the same fence twice. We are seeing strong interest for this reason among for keepers of domestic birds, gamekeepers and notably on poultry units of all sizes and all species.”

Mark says that increased demand means there are more opportunities for fencing contractors, both existing Gallagher users and new contractors.

He believes that becoming a competent electric fence builder can add another option to a contracting business, enabling it to offer a wider range of potential solutions.

“In many cases electric fencing can be the most cost-effective and suitable option while in others it can offer increased flexibility. Either way, having the option to provide an electric solution could help contractors grow their business, especially as the interest in these solutions is growing across so many sectors.”

He says that Gallagher has an unrivalled track history in innovation and the development of robust fencing solutions. In recent years the company has introduced a comprehensive range of solar energisers including the new solar station capable of powering fences up to 80km long and of working efficiently in a wide range of the typical weather conditions experienced in the UK.

“Adding solar options to our established range of energisers has helped increase the situations where electric fencing offers the best options. And all Gallagher energiser come with an industry leading seven-year guarantee.

“We would like to talk to fencing contractors interested in expanding their existing electric capabilities or those looking to add a new option to their portfolio as the opportunities are clearly there to grow our businesses together,” Mark concludes.

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