At Cogent, we’re committed to delivering forward-thinking solutions that support the long-term success of our customers. Our work with Cholmondeley Estate in Cheshire is a standout example of how automation and integration can transform dairy operations.

The Challenge

Cholmondeley Estate operates across two organic farms: Park Farm, with 239 autumn-calving cows, and Weaver Farm, with 370 spring-calving cows. As the estate progressed toward building a pedigree Jersey herd, traditional manual drafting using pull cords was becoming increasingly labour-intensive and unreliable. They needed a system that would:

• Streamline cow flow and reduce stress
• Deliver accurate heat detection and drafting
• Work seamlessly across two farm units

The Cogent Difference

In late 2024, Cogent installed Nedap’s SmartSort gates, integrated with our PrecisionCOW IFER4 collars, across both farms. This was more than a tech upgrade, it was a transformational shift in how the estate manages reproduction, cow flow, and labour efficiency.

While Nedap markets the SmartSort gates as delivering 99% accuracy, the farm’s real-world experience hasn’t quite reached those levels yet, but it is still representing a substantial improvement over the previous manual pull-cord system. 

"Cow flow is crucial for drafting, and this system makes it simple," said Rob Rozanski, Farm Manager. "The gates are quick to respond and reliable, and the cows aren’t spooked by the automated operation."

Cogent supported the team through every step, from selecting the right gate and collar combination, to ensuring seamless installation and ongoing support.

Key Outcomes

• Drafting Accuracy: The SmartSort gates deliver industry-leading performance, helping the farm streamline operations and reduce labour demands.
• Exceptional Heat Detection: The PrecisionCOW collars have significantly improved heat detection, a crucial benefit for a farm focused on genetic improvement.
• Automated Scheduling: Cows are now automatically drafted for breeding and routine procedures like foot trimming, ensuring consistency across teams and shifts.
• Labour Efficiency: Farm management protocols can be pre-set and executed regardless of which team members are on duty.

Breeding Strategy Aligned with Business Goals

The estate’s breeding approach is now structured and optimised:

• Jersey sexed semen is used to grow the pedigree herd
• Triple Impact beef semen is used for non-Jersey cows

By combining Cogent's elite genetics and breeding expertise with integrated technology, the estate is advancing toward its long-term herd goals with confidence.

Scalable and Future-Proof

As the estate works to improve its grazing platforms and expand its herd, the Cogent-integrated system is ready to grow with them. Minimal maintenance requirements and seamless integration mean the solution is both scalable and sustainable.

Why Cholmondeley Chose Cogent

Both Rob Rozanski and Head of Farming Neil Roberts had experience with Nedap systems, but it was Cogent’s proactive support, technical expertise, and understanding of their breeding goals that made the difference.

"Cogent helped us tailor a system that fits both our daily operations and long-term ambitions," said Neil.

A Partner for Progressive Farms

Cholmondeley Estate’s success story shows what’s possible when breeding strategy, automation, and customer support align. At Cogent, we don’t just offer products, we deliver integrated solutions that improve efficiency, profitability, and sustainability.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your farm’s evolution, talk to us today on 0800 783 7258 about how SmartSort gates and PrecisionCOW collars can transform your herd management.