Factory breakdowns continued to blight production at certain processors last week, trying the patience of hauliers and farmers alike, according to Thames Valley Cambac.
“This caused a not unsubstantial number to be rolled into this week. Most processors planned a full week ignoring the Bank holiday,” TVC said in its latest market update.
“Contract price contributions generally stood on, although one monthly negotiated fell, in line with its peers. Demand was fairly decent for a bank holiday week, and with ‘kids back to school’ on the horizon, there was a feeling that market improvement is imminent.”
However, the closure of the Cranswick’s Ballymena plant for 14 days due to COVID-19 is a ‘major problem’ in Northern Ireland, causing a major backlog on farms.
“It is a sharp reminder that this virus can disrupt without warning, and we urge each producer to make a contingency plan,” TVC said.
The cull sow market was livelier as prices appreciated by 2p to 3p on average. European markets were mixed with Denmark and France up 4 and 2.4 eurocents respectively, while Germany stood on and Ireland fell 2.8. Quotes in sterling were compromised slightly by a weaker Euro that ended the week down 0.28p at 89.47p.
Weaner demand remained sluggish with some fatteners more focussed on harvest and straw leading than making yards available. Supply moderated slightly, but there was little interest outside regular movements. There was AHDB price quote for a 30kg store pig, while the weighted average for a 7kg weaner rise by 46p to £42.76.
European Prices (p/kg.dwt) w/c 30/08/20 Â Â Movement on last week
European                                Av. 133.42      + 0.21
Belgium                                 112.70            + 0.80
Denmark                                129.80            + 3.20
France                  145.58            + 1.69
Germany                                131.52            – 0.42
Ireland                                    145.61            – 2.94
Holland                                   117.74            – 0.38
Spain                                      151.02            – 0.48
(Ref Weekly Tribune)