Notice the proliferation of branded products??? Some are producer coops. The successful ones are getting a consistent product out there.
My point is, if there's an opportunity, take advantage of it, don't whine that someone else isn't doing it for you,
If captive supplies, (contracts to purchase, two weeks in advance), were restricted, how well would these branded beef product alliances work? Do producer CO-OPs have ownership more than two weeks prior to slaughter? Are they not just "contracting" hooks?
I agree with you PPRM, lots of opportunities, but you need to be willing to assume some risk, and provide the product that meets the specs.
And not have organizations willing to impede your ability to be creative and resourceful, in providing a product that meets consumer's differenciated needs and desires.
It's all going to be sold, why not differentiate it, and market it into the market it is suited for, that's efficiency!