Despite abundant cattle supplies and a record-high 13.1 million identified Angus cattle, Certified Angus Beef^® (CAB) had a record-low 14% acceptance rate in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, officials say. The year marked the seventh consecutive year of sales greater than half a billion pounds for the brand. CAB's 13,500 licensees worldwide sold more than 544 million pounds in 56 countries.

The largest outlet of CAB product continues to be retail, representing 52% of CAB total sales or 286 million lbs. Meanwhile, two divisions saw growth in FY 2006 — a 3% increase in foodservice totaling 187 million lbs., and a 10% increase in international sales. Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico increased business, while Vietnam, Guatemala and Singapore offered CAB products for the first time.

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