Demand remained strong but most processors adjusted their plans to match availability as supplies remained on the tight side last week, according to Thames Valley Cambac.
Prices were boosted by the biggest weekly rise in SPP for over four and a half years, up 2.34p at 147.44p, and there were welcome increases in weekly contract contributions, with 3p being a common figure.
“There continued to be reports however, of resistance at retail level to price increases on the shelf. It is hoped that reduced imports and improved exports keep the market tight, as we are still nowhere near the returns needed to cover cost of production,” TVC said.
The fresh meat market was buoyant with many outlets chasing a cutter pig that is getting more and more difficult to source, as most producers are taking their pigs bigger – prices were up between 2p and 4p.
The cull sow market stood on, but the market was curtailed slightly due to the Ascension Day holiday in Germany. European markets were varied with Ireland and Spain improving again, but many others standing on. The Euro ended the week down just 0.05p at 86.81.
The weaner market is increasingly dominated by production costs, whether feed and/or straw, which is curtailing demand for all classes of stock, with some fatteners now sitting out of the market until harvest. There were no weaner or store pig prices announced by AHDB.
European Prices (p/kg.dwt) w/c 09/05/21 Movement on last week
GB SPP 147.44 + 2.34
Tribune Spot Bacon 150.25 + 2.06
European Av. 137.15 + 0.51
Belgium 106.00 – 0.06
Denmark 128.39 – 0.08
France 160.53 + 0.53
Germany 123.27 – 0.08
Ireland 148.79 + 1.99
Holland 127.35 + 0.27
Spain 165.72 + 1.03
(Ref Weekly Tribune)