At first glance, ordinary, nothing special remarkable man. But talking more, at once you notice the unusualness of this person. Very clever, wise, and most importantly a dedicated to his job, Mr. Pon devoted almost his entire life to Holsteins...

You have come a long way from a simple farmer to the owner of the world's largest holding of artificial insemination. What helped you?

I never stayed at one place and always followed my father's advice: "Do not be average, look for greater!". 

I started with twenty cows. Then I had a great desire to inseminate them only with the best bulls. I knew that Holsteins are brought to Europe fromCanadaand the USA., and so I went there to learn more about everything. During the trip I met people involved in artificial insemination. We started to order semen and then I became a representative of Semex inEurope.

My dairy business grew rapidly, I had 200 cows and then I thought, if I have everything, why not to help my neighbours. But it was not easy, because dairy business in theNetherlandswas just going up. I have arranged seminars, trying to convince people about the benefits ofHolsteinbreed. I actually became a preacher ofHolsteins. Only four years later, my efforts had worked. I supplied semen throughoutEurope. The money helped to purchase several farms. However, I was not happy – I thought I can and I want more! And Semex refused in partnership. But this did not stop me. I created holding Koepon, and eventually bought the company Alta Genetics, to develop the dairy business.

Taking into consideration your long experience what are major problems to face in dairy business?

On the first place I would mention the management, motivation and investments. Of course, there are many other things, but surely these are the main aspects. Why management? It is necessary to organize production and to establish all the links. The team with which you are working is very important too. Proper motivation encourages all team members to work cohesively to achieve positive results. Investment? Without this it is impossible to do any manufacturing. We need to invest in equipment, animal comfort, feed base. Outcome depends on investment.

What are your impressions of the visit Ukrainian farms?

I visited "Ukrainian dairy company” and my impression was incredible. Fermat is very modern and successful. Similar I saw in theU.S.only. By the way, I think the best farms are in theU.S.. Owners chose the right direction. This is the example for allEurope.

You can read more in "Milk and Farm" magazine, №5, June, 2011