46 Sheds of Success: How Applied Poultry Limited Shines with HATO

When Raja Ahmed moved from Pakistan to the UK in 2014, he brought over a decade of poultry farming expertise. After starting with breeders and spending time in layer production, he discovered his true passion in hatchery, broilers and layers in 2019. Today, with more than 20 years in the industry, Raja manages 46 broiler sheds stocked with Ross 308 across Lincoln, Nottingham, Birmingham, Chesterfield, Ashbourne, and Lichfield. 

Rather than owning the farms, Raja runs a management business that partners with farmers, operating each site to its full potential. Every shed is equipped with HATO lighting and OptiFarm, both integral to achieving consistent, high-level results. 

Lighting That Works as Hard as the Farmer 

When Raja took over his first farms, HATO lighting was already installed and its value quickly became clear. 

“If I had the choice from the start, I’d choose HATO again. The light distribution is the best, and the technology keeps improving.” 

Precise control over light intensity is essential for Raja. With HATO, adjustments are simple, accurate, and fully compatible with climate computers. HATO’s commitment to innovation mirrors his own drive to continually improve farm performance. 

Proven Solutions, Ongoing Innovation 

Across his sites, Raja uses a mix of HATO systems:

• CORAX is his go-to for performance and reliability, while four sheds are set to receive DDS, combining warm and cold white lighting.
• PULSA systems work well in sheds with suspended lighting lines, and HATO ED tube lights which are still running flawlessly after 20 years prove HATO’s durability. 

This blend of trusted products and new developments is exactly why Raja values HATO: dependable today, ready for tomorrow’s challenges. 

Better Light, Better Birds 

Since working with HATO, Raja has seen clear improvements in bird behaviour and welfare. Even light distribution eliminates dark spots and prevents huddling, while flicker-free lighting creates a calmer environment. The ability to fine-tune light intensity supports every stage of production, leading to healthier, more evenly spread flocks. 

From Early Hurdles to Lasting Success 

Initial installation brought minor challenges, such as blown fuses, but these were quickly resolved thanks to HATO’s robust design. Today, Raja sees HATO not just as a supplier, but as a trusted partner in creating the right environment for his birds and delivering consistent results across every farm. 

"I love HATO" - Raja Ahmed