The British Hay and Straw Merchants Association has reported that prices for big bale barley straw slipped back below the five-year average in August and September.
Prices have been generally falling this year. At the beginning of 2019, prices for big bale barley straw were down 22% on the previous year. However, at this time, prices were still relatively high, 25% above the five-year average according to data from the British Hay and Straw Merchants Association.
Prices were at record levels last year, however, the wet start followed by drought affected crops and straw availability.
The story is similar for wheat straw, with prices still strong at the beginning of the year compared to the five-year average but down compared to last year. Prices dipped earlier for wheat straw than barley straw and have been level with the year-year average since July.
AHDB analyst Jennie Tanner said: “This year the harvest was better early on with a dry start and though it rained later on, more straw is available.”
