For a company in the farming industry

Background

Many businesses in agriculture and farming invest in new technologies or processes to increase their production. Unfortunately, are unaware that their activity is eligible for R&D tax relief. Presently, we assisted a dairy farming business with their R&D tax claim for research carried out. And, improvements made to the nutrition of their cattle. Research & Development claim for a company in the farming industry

The challenge

Following on, after reviewing the financial performance of the company over previous years, a dairy farming business noticed a significant decline in their herd’s milk yield. The directors decided that research and development should be undertaken to find out what caused the reduction in milk quality produced by their herd, and what could be done to improve this.

The solution

Following independent research, the directors sought assistance from a reputable university that identified factors such as underlying microorganisms and the overall quality of herd nutrition leading to the decline in milk yield. They tested soil samples and herd nutrition to explore possible reasons for the poor milk yield. Moreover, the dairy farm implemented a treatment programme which involved a fundamental change in processes on the farm.

These included alterations to:

• the feed delivery system
• nutritional supplements added to the feed
• applying different fertilisers
• specific sprays to improve soil quality.

Several different formulas of feeds and fertilisers were tested alongside continuous testing of the soil quality to monitor improvements.

Secondly, the company continued to seek innovation by using scientific advancements and sub-contracted a third party to conduct scientific analysis. At the same, time they instructed veterinarians to conduct ongoing testing on critical measures of the herd’s health. Specfically, testing designed cattle feed and measuring the feed’s integration into the herd.

ETC managed the R&D claims process for the company from start to finish. Therefore, from carrying out discussions with company directors to collating relevant data, ETC was on-hand to prepare and submit the R&D claim on behalf of the company.

If you think your or your client’s company has R&D expenditure, please get in touch.