Two of the UK’s leading genetics companies, Cogent Breeding Ltd and Ai Services (NI) Ltd have today announced an enhanced working agreement that will build on their existing collaborative working arrangements, by delivering unrivalled genetic power, innovation and efficiencies to dairy and beef farmers across Northern Ireland.

The agreement follows on the success of the logistics and supply arrangement between the two companies which has brought significant efficiencies to the storage and distribution of semen throughout Northern Ireland since June 2025. 

Under the newly proposed operating model, 21 technician and sales roles within Ai Services will be merged with the Cogent team to deliver an improved and more effective service across the province. The new arrangements, which take effect from 17 July 2026, will apply solely to the technician service and sale of semen within Northern Ireland.

The new Ai Services bull stud, semen collection and laboratory facilities at Ballycraigy in Co Antrim will continue to focus on production of leading-edge bovine genetics for both local and export markets. Ai Services ownership and control of the Eurogene business based in Tipperary is completely unaffected.

The partnership which will trade as Cogent Ai Services will be directed by a joint steering committee representing the two companies, ensuring that Northern Ireland farmers have an input to operational and strategic development of the extended business. 

Larry Burke, CEO of Ai Services said: 

“We believe this agreement is very much in the interest of our farmer shareholders and the livestock industry in Northern Ireland - it reflects the evolving direction of the international genetics industry and keeps us at the forefront of the technologies which a global partner can provide. It builds on the strong collaboration between our two organisations over the past 12 months and will unlock further efficiencies while strengthening the synergies we have already achieved.

“This new approach enables a more coordinated and efficient approach to service delivery, ensuring farmers benefit from a seamless experience and the combined strengths of both organisations. It will streamline functions and be of direct benefit to our customers, while also allowing Ai Services to focus more fully on the husbandry, science and data capabilities that underpin the future of the genetics industry. This is supported by the £4million we have invested in our stud and laboratory facilities over the last two years.”

Stuart Boothman, Managing Director of Cogent, added:

“This agreement represents a positive and practical step forward for the industry in Northern Ireland. By bringing together complementary strengths through Cogent Ai Services, we can deliver a more efficient and coordinated service to farmers on the ground. 

“Customers will benefit not only from improved coverage and a more streamlined and precise approach, but also from an enhanced overall service offering. This includes access to a broader and more diverse range of genetics developed for future market needs, derived from the company’s world class beef and dairy genetic nucleus programmes. These genetics are available in the form of market-leading sexed semen technology (Ultraplus 4M High Purity), supported by advanced mating programmes and genomic testing portal. These, working together, will help to drive genetic progress and long-term herd performance. 

“All of this is delivered while continuing to maintain the high standards of service that customers expect.”

A consultation process is now underway for employees impacted by the new working arrangement. Service continuity will be maintained throughout the transition, and customers are advised to continue using the same phone numbers and usual channels.