THE WILD WAY
To our valued customers and friends in the Wagyu industry,
Greetings from North Carolina! We hope your 2024 is off to a WILD start. The first quarter has already set the tone for a busy year for the Wilders team, between breeding cows, selling beef, and continuing to build our brand!
We’ve already hit a few major milestones this year, implanting just shy of 100 fullblood Wagyu embryos, and artificially inseminating over 150 fullblood Wagyu females, all within three days. Our team also attended the NCBA CattleCon in Orlando where we had our very own trade show booth — an opportunity to continue educating the cattle industry on why Wagyu beef is the best in the world.
And this is all on the heels of our biggest year yet! In 2023, we hosted our first production sale: StayWILD’23. We’re now entering a new era, and continue to be overwhelmed by the support of our customers and grateful for both our growing and longstanding relationships in the communities we serve. We owe our success to all of you.
It may come as a shock that we have decided to cancel our StayWILD’24 production sale despite our strong momentum heading into the year; however, we feel this tough decision was the right decision for our long-term goals. Here‘s why:
1. We are a beef company first. In our sale catalog for StayWILD’23, we represented Wilders Wagyu as a “beef company first.” In an honest moment of self-reflection, we realized it was our number one priority to maintain that heritage for our nationwide, fullblood Wagyu beef program in 2024. Some key initiatives we will be working on include consistency, quality, supply chain logistics, additional retail locations and products, our subscription program, sale promotions, agritourism, and building a loyal customer base.
2. We are data-driven. Proving carcass data through progeny studies has to be a top priority if we want to be a leading Wagyu seedstock program. We recognize that we need to continue improving our processes — and we want to lead that with vulnerability and transparency. So, read on to gain an inside look at our most recent progeny test, our approach, and how you can keep up with our progress.
3. We value customer service. At StayWILD’23, we made a lot of commitments to the programs that invested in our genetics and we are proud to say that we have followed through on all of them. Our team has personally delivered each animal from that production sale as promised and coordinated several ranch visits thereafter, ultimately offering better assistance for our customers’ programs. This journey is only the beginning, and we feel it is key to help other operations build a solid foundation for the overall success of the Wagyu industry in the United States.
4. We sense sale fatigue. We believe that our industry is experiencing a season of sale fatigue. There are too many operations trying to claim market share in the fullblood Wagyu seedstock genetics area without establishing commercial and buyer pipelines. The seedstock buying dollars cannot keep up with the amount of “seedstock genetics'' hitting the market. The Wagyu industry has to hold its production sales to a higher standard other than high Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs). To go-to-market as a true seedstock producer and to be worthy of a production sale, the operation must consist of the highest level genomics, health protocols, volume, industry involvement, customer service, and proven carcass data.
Our team is as motivated as ever to become the premier Wagyu beef and seedstock program in the United States. This goal will take time, and we are excited to tackle this head-on and continue building on what is already a rock-solid foundation.
We have our sights set on our StayWILD’25 production sale — slated for November 1st, 2025 — as we firmly believe this offering will represent the best Wagyu genetics in the country. In the meantime, our mission is to continue stewarding these genetics, Cultivating Culture, and Crafting Wagyu.
We feel grateful for each one of our supporters, colleagues, and customers and honored to walk this WILD journey together. As the Wagyu industry continues to evolve and Wilders Wagyu grows into its full potential, we look forward to seeing each of you. Until then, stay safe and StayWILD.
We Are A Beef Company First
At Wilders Wagyu, we are a beef company first. We pride ourselves on working tirelessly to produce the highest quality 100% fullblood Wagyu beef. With a highly dedicated team of skilled professionals, we’ve honed our expertise in every aspect of Wagyu beef production. Our commitment to excellence starts with our deep-rooted appreciation for the land, the animals, and the community that sustains us. From selecting the finest genetics and maintaining the health and well-being of our cattle, to implementing meticulous feeding regimens, we spare no effort in ensuring that every cut of Wilders Wagyu beef reaches the pinnacle of flavor, tenderness, and marbling that Wagyu is renowned for worldwide.
A Wild Summer Ahead
This summer season, we are amplifying our presence at key farmers markets across Eastern North Carolina, including the Wrightsville Beach Farmers Market, the Wilmington Farmers Market at Tidal Creek, and the North Hills Midtown Farmers Market nestled in the heart of Raleigh. These venues not only serve as platforms to showcase our premium Wagyu beef product, but also as educational hubs where we are able to engage with people in the community, sharing industry insights about the farm-to-table journey.
Our growing retail location in downtown Clayton, North Carolina has become a destination where locals and visitors alike can experience the essence of our farm's offerings firsthand. From succulent cuts of Wagyu beef to Berkshire pork, our freezers are stocked — inviting customers to indulge in all that we have to offer. In our own backyard, the General Store located on our farm offers a rustic retreat where customers can experience the “WILD Way” first-hand.
Furthermore, we're thrilled to continue expanding our culinary footprint across North Carolina through partnerships with renowned, local restaurants. By collaborating with these chefs and eateries, we know our premium Wagyu beef will become a centerpiece on their menus. This endeavor not only enhances our brand presence and awareness in the state, but also fosters a deeper connection between us and the local people who taste the exceptional quality of Wilders Wagyu.
Our farm is nestled perfectly between Raleigh and Wilmington — a prime location not only granting us access to bustling culinary scenes, but also positions us as a pivotal link between urban and rural communities.
representing nc
in australia
Last year's journey to Australia was more than just a trip for Reid and Jaclyn; it was an experience that shaped their vision for leading Wilders Wagyu. It wasn't just about exploring new horizons; it was about diving deeper into the inner workings of the industry and forging meaningful connections with those who share a passion for Wagyu.
Reid, Jaclyn, and their three kids are excited to announce they will be returning to Australia for the upcoming WagyuEdge conference. Reid is honored to have been invited by the Australian Wagyu Association to speak and share his insights on the future of Wagyu -- a testament to his expertise and dedication to pushing the boundaries of the industry.
"We are thrilled to share more about Wagyu the WILD way and our exciting plans for the future," says Reid. “We’re taking bold steps to increase our transparency by not only conducting our progeny testing program, but publishing the results for the world to see.”
From humble beginnings to becoming a driving force in the Wagyu world, Wilders Wagyu remains committed to excellence every step of the way. This upcoming opportunity in Australia is not just about sharing knowledge -- it's about inspiring others to join us in this remarkable step towards a brighter, more sustainable future for Wagyu.
wild ProGeny Test 2024-1 (PT1)
Since the beginning of our seedstock journey, we have always been committed to advancing the Wagyu industry in the United States. We continue to challenge our team to ask what we can do better, and how to share the steps we take and what we learn with our communities and customers. By producing and collecting high volumes of data, we hope to provide transparency and create a foundation for the Wagyu breed.
One of the main areas of focus this year will be our WILD Progeny Test 2024-1 (PT1).
What is the test?
We will assess the performance of six unique sire lines through collected carcass and growth data over 28 months. We will define the qualities that each sire contributes by measuring the progeny produced across the different matings.
Why is it important?
We will be able to apply data in a quantitative approach to Wagyu breeding programs, further creating efficiencies at all stages of production to optimize future offspring. By utilizing our terminal fullblood Wagyu herd for this test we will be able to maintain our “beef company first” approach and build out our fullblood beef supply chain. Most notably, the data we will receive back on our herd’s genetics will be able to further justify our seedstock program and provide our customers with confidence in their WILD genetic purchases.
Are we publishing the data?
We will report the data collected from this test with the Australian Wagyu Association, consistent with their BREEDPLAN reporting process. We will publicly share key insights concluded from the test across the industry in an effort to better the Wagyu breed.
Project Timeline
how are we conducting the test?
Through meticulous planning and execution, we will continue to gather comprehensive data on genetics, age, weight, feed cost per head, days on feed, carcass weight, average daily gain, data population of the sire line within the test and carcass quality data. Collaborative efforts have been made with the Australian Wagyu Association to ensure data collection is consistent with their reporting guidelines.
Our Sires - We ensured genetic diversity and representation with our six distinct sire lines. MAYURA L0010 is the link sire. Artificial insemination dates were recorded in January of 2024. Pregnancy check results will be released after April of 2024.
Upon Calving - detailed information including date of birth, birth weight, sex of the calf, and calving difficulty scores will be recorded. Dam details will also be documented to provide comprehensive lineage information. Weaning data, including 200-day weights and docility scores, will be collected to gauge growth and temperament traits.
As the Progeny Matures - additional data points will be captured through yearling assessments including 400-day weights and ultrasound scans (between 300 and 800 days) to evaluate carcass traits and development. At 600 days, weights will be taken again. Then pre-slaughter live weights will be recorded to provide insight into final weight gains and efficiency.
At the Time of Harvest - CWT hot weights will be recorded and camera images will be captured off the hanging carcasses. The most anticipated data will be collected related to carcass qualities, such as marbling score, marbling fineness, and ribeye area.
The Culmination – the test will yield a wealth of invaluable data that will serve as a foundation for:
Informed decision-making in breeding programs
Facilitating the selection of superior genetics for enhanced carcass quality
Growth traits within the Wagyu breed
The Milestones – Each achieved discovery will demonstrate our commitment to advancing the Wagyu breed through rigorous scientific evaluation and collaboration with industry partners.
We are confident that the insights gained from this study will contribute significantly to the continued improvement and sustainability of Wagyu cattle breeding programs worldwide.
PROGENY TESTING METRICS OUTLINE
Our Services
Our team is all about "Wagyu the WILD Way," an approach that impacts and develops the Wagyu industry by putting relationships at the forefront. Our commitment to our customers goes beyond transactions -- it's about fostering partnerships grounded in value and support. The wide array of services we have implemented into our program allow us to work together towards your goals and success.
Personalized support services
Wilders Wagyu offers a comprehensive Wagyu Breeding program that encompasses various components, like planned matings, which are conducted through program evaluations and informed by a data collection program. You’ll not only benefit from these breeding strategies, but also have access to our internal database.
CALF BUYBACK PROGRAm
We sell our bulls with the assurance of buying back calves at established premiums. You’ll enjoy exclusive access to purchase top-tier genetics tailored to your specific herd needs, and rest easy knowing there is a solid market for your Wagyu calves.
FROZEN GENETICS
Program partners gain exclusive entry to our frozen genetics inventory, ensuring access to prized genetic resources. The inclusion of our cutting-edge Vytelle satellite facilities further enhances the offerings, providing advanced reproductive services. This includes recip and embryo transfer services and donor boarding, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to genetic optimization and reproductive technology.
Through Vytelle’s integrated technology platform, generations of genetic gains can be made in just a few years. This allows producers to sustainably deliver more protein with fewer inputs, helping to ensure meat and milk are viable, competitive food choices for future generations.
Check out upcoming opportunities for In Vitro Fertilization collection at Wilders Wagyu. To register or inquire about a date, please contact our Director of Agriculture, Jake Newbold via phone or by email.
Jake Newbold - Director of Agriculture
Phone: 919.316.0643
Email: jake@staywild.com
Contact us to help grow your wagyu herd today!
farm to need program
In collaboration with our nonprofit organization, OneCompassion, our Farm to Need program is dedicated to bridging the gap between local farmers and those with hunger needs within our community. All donations to our Farm to Need program through OneCompassion are used to purchase goods directly from local farmers and producers. OneCompassion then helps these producers distribute their products to local food banks and charitable organizations, ensuring that those facing food insecurity have access to nourishing resources. Through this symbiotic relationship, the Farm to Need program not only supports local agriculture but also addresses pressing community needs.
The Farm to Need program took flight in 2023 at our StayWILD'23 production sale. After purchasing a donation lot of $1900 per embryo (four embryos in total), Alsobrook Ranch’s generous contribution laid the foundation for a ripple effect of compassion and support. Mr. Alsobrook’s commitment to the cause was met with equal fervor by Reid and Jaclyn, whose matching donation fueled the program's momentum. Together, their collective efforts raised over $15,000, propelling the Farm to Need program into action.
Our team is actively seeking more farmers and producers willing to join this noble cause. Whether through donations or partnership, your involvement can make a tangible difference in the lives of those struggling with food insecurity. Together, we can cultivate a stronger, more resilient community -- one meal at a time.
Join us in our mission to help those in need and make a meaningful impact through the Farm to Need program. To become a participating partner or to donate, please click the button below, scan the QR code, or visit onecompassion.org/farm-to-need.
