The transition from individual gestation stalls to group housing for pregnant sows represents one of the most significant improvements in pig welfare, now required across the EU and UK with evidence of clear welfare benefits.
Individual stall confinement prevents sows from performing most natural behaviours, causing significant frustration and stereotypic behaviours including bar-biting and weaving. The motivation of pregnant sows to explore, root, and move is strong; confinement that prevents this causes measurable welfare compromise. Group housing, when well-managed with appropriate space, feeding systems, and group composition, provides substantially better welfare. The transition has required investment and management skill but demonstrates that welfare improvement at scale is achievable through regulatory change supported by industry adaptation.