IT Solutions for Animal Production (vit) is a leading German information and data service provider specializing in livestock breeding, genetic evaluation, and agricultural data management.

vit is internationally recognized for its expertise in breeding value estimation and genetic evaluation systems, particularly in dairy cattle breeding. The company develops and operates highly sophisticated evaluation models, including Single-Step genomic evaluations within one of the world’s largest Holstein populations, comprising more than 1.6 million genotyped cows. In addition, vit is also at the forefront of equine breeding, providing advanced genomic breeding value estimation and mating programs for horse breeding organizations. Through customized technical solutions for breeding organizations and farmers, vit enables the efficient use of information generated from an integrated database comprising of 120 million cattle through its wide range of practical applications and digital tools.

Furthermore, vit provides comprehensive services such as herd management systems, animal identification, performance recording, genomic data processing, and agricultural analytics with about 150 experts in animal breeding and management and IT services. The company collaborates closely with breeding associations, research institutions, and international partners to ensure high-quality data standards and scientifically robust evaluation procedures.

By combining agricultural expertise with advanced bioinformatics, quantitative genetics, and digital innovation, vit contributes significantly to the advancement of sustainable livestock breeding and precision agriculture. The company has established itself as a trusted partner in the global animal breeding industry and a driving force behind the future of genomic selection and smart farming technologies.

IFN Schönow GmbH is a service provider in the field of animal breeding. We specialise in modern genetic diagnostic analyses, molecular diagnostics and innovative laboratory services for livestock and semen analyses conducted in our reference laboratory. Drawing on our extensive scientific expertise, we support customers in the fields of animal breeding, research and biotechnology. Our range of services includes high-throughput SNP genotyping, parentage verification, genetic trait testing and the diagnosis of hereditary defects. Our portfolio is complemented by whole-genome sequencing and custom-developed genetic tests.

To ensure the highest standards of quality and efficiency, we rely on state-of-the-art technologies and standardised processes. These include established platforms such as the Illumina Infinium and the Thermo Fisher Axiom workflow, enabling us to process a wide range of commercial and custom SNP arrays. Secure data transfer ensures the safe handling of sensitive genetic information.

In addition to standardised analyses, we offer bespoke genetic projects tailored to the specific requirements of our customers.

Quality, safety and international standards are at the heart of everything we do. Our laboratory is accredited in accordance with DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025, holds ICAR certification and regularly participates successfully in ISAG ring tests. This enables us to guarantee reliable results of the highest standard.

The German Livestock Association (BRS), headquartered in Bonn, Germany, serves as the national umbrella organization representing the cattle and pig production sectors. Bringing together a diverse membership of legal entities across five specialized groups – dairy cattle, dual-purpose breeds, quality and performance testing, beef cattle, and pigs – BRS provides a unified platform for advancing German livestock breeding and animal husbandry.

As a non-commercial association, BRS fulfils its mandate through several core activities. It develops standardized rules and principles to ensure consistency across the industry, advocates on behalf of its members before policymakers, regulatory authorities, and national and international organizations, and fosters close collaboration with the scientific community. A particular emphasis is placed on supporting research initiatives spanning all disciplines of animal breeding and husbandry, as well as driving continuous improvements in livestock production quality.

Through this integrated approach, BRS bridges the gap between industry practice, policy, and science, positioning itself as a key stakeholder in shaping the future of sustainable and high-performance livestock production in Germany and beyond. The association welcomes both ordinary voting members and extraordinary non-voting members who share its commitment to advancing the sector.