This week’s Pig Marketing Summary, from Thames Valley Cambac, reported that trading for the short week of Christmas was pre-planned for the most part with the major processors having the next two weeks’ day and number requirements worked out in advance.
Supply generally matched demand with most producers’ content with the festive plan. Whilst all the various contract contributions stood on, there was another good lift in the SPP, up another 1.15p at 161.82p. This helped most contract prices to improve.
The fresh meat market was very subdued with many wholesalers done and dusted for Christmas. There was minimal sow trade, with most producers happy to keep any culls into the New Year. However, prices were down 4p on poorer continental demand. In Europe, there were substantial falls led by Germany which fell eight euro cents due to excessive marketing, possibly driven by the proximity of ASF.
This affected all its near neighbours with Belgium the biggest casualty, down nine euro cents. Price quotes in sterling were enhanced however, as the Euro strengthened to end the week up 1.62p at 85.13p.
The Weaner Marketing Summary, for week commencing December 15, reported thatmarket sentiment was little changed, but supplies tightened a touch. The prices announced by the AHDB saw no quote given for a 30kg store pig, and the weighted average for a 7kg weaner rise by 20p to £41.80p.