Most of these programs target high quality beef production. This program is dissimilar from most breed association programs in that CAB doesn't directly price cattle on a grid system. Rather, it identifies carcasses that meet several criteria for CAB designation and allows other value-oriented marketing programs to use CAB as a valuation tool. In addition to fed cattle marketing programs, most beef breed associations have developed commercial marketing programs that range from listing feeder cattle for sale to sponsoring group marketing ventures such as special sales. Judging from the proliferation of marketing services launched in the past few years, stiffening competition among breeds for commercial bull buyers will ensure a healthy array of options in the future.
Many firms now offer BCAs to cattle producers.
Most of these firms create their niche with cattlemen who are likely to produce certain types of carcasses and beef procurers who merchandise that type of beef. Many of them have been in existence more than 10 years. Their business has greatly increased in recent years and many of their innovations have been adopted by other programs. Generally, these agreements aim for the red meat yield target. Examples of these alliances are Coleman's Natural Meats, Laura's Lean Beef, Maverick Ranches Beef, and B3R Country Meats.