the idea does seem a very good way for the smallholder to make the best use of the market ,so to speak. One problem ,apart from those already mentioned, that may be hard to overcome is, a strike of foot and mouth or bluetongue or with poultry bird flu.... These are problems that would hit anyone with stock, but, it would need to be thought out carefully if money has already been taken for half a pig , or whatever , then you lose your stock due to government rules or just can't move your stock for possibly weeks or even months. Is there any glaring mistake in my theory ? I know that you would have most of the money for the 'product' so therefore most costs would be covered, but not so if you have to feed x number of pigs for a few extra weeks/months !! This isn't said to put anyone off the idea , just to see what could be done to avoid someone going down the pan !!!
Russ