A well-managed larger operation benefits by spreading fixed costs over a larger revenue stream, Mills says. However, they need to be very efficient before they consider expanding. “It doesn’t do you any good to try and get bigger just for the sake of getting bigger,” he says. “If you aren’t efficient at the size you are currently, it doesn’t matter how much bigger you’re going to get, you’re not going to become any more efficient.” His advice is valid no matter the country or sector of agriculture.

It doesn’t do any good to get bigger just for the sake of getting bigger.

Managing debt level is critical to efficiency, Mills says. He’s adamant the producers he works with devote no more than 30 per cent of total gross revenue to servicing debt, as exceeding this level can put a severe strain on the business.

“Putting up quality forage and balancing the ration with supplements or concentrates helps optimize yield per cow,” Mills says. “Paying attention to details like breeding and heat detection are very important, even when you get busy in the summer. They make a big difference to your operation in the long term.”