This week’s Pig Marketing Summary, from Thames Valley Cambac, reported that there was some welcome stability in the market with most processors having a smoother running week. Supply continued to be on the tight side, but average weights are keeping stubbornly high.
There are many indications now that supply will tighten soon, and that will hopefully put a bottom in the market. All contract price contributions stood on, but there was minimal spot trade. The fresh meat trade still saw poor demand with little interest being reported from the high street.
However, the commencement of half term holidays for some may improve things. Cull sows stood on pricewise despite supply being a touch tighter. In Europe, Belgium and Spain added 4 and 3 euro cents respectively, and all quotes in sterling were enhanced by a stronger Euro that ended the week up 0.45p at 87.94p.
The Weaner Marketing Summary, for week commencing February 10, reported that demand improved a touch, albeit at little more money, and supply remained on the tight side. The prices announced by the AHDB saw no quote given for a 30kgs store pig, and the weighted average for a 7kg weaner fall by £1.90 to £35.39.