Factory unreliability and the inability to complete a week’s plan is starting to have ‘serious repercussions’ with stock backing up on farm, according to Thames Valley Cambac.
“This, in turn, means that units are not turned round in a timely manner leading to some weaners being unable to move. This continuous unreliability – caused by many reasons, is straining the goodwill of producers and hauliers alike,” TVC said in it latest market update.
Demand last week was described as ‘decent’, albeit curtailed slightly by the numerous rolled pigs, while supply was enhanced by the good number of rolled pigs, with many producers reporting decent recent growth. All contract price contributions from the majors stood on, but there was downward pressure in the fresh meat market, which was challenged by large volumes of cheaper imports, TVC added.
The ‘blackspot’ was reserved for the cull sow trade, where prices fell 10p on the back of the crash in the German market, caused by the country’s ASF outbreak.
The subsequent loss of export markets outside the EU, caused turmoil in the European markets. Belgium fell 10 eurocents and Holland 5, while quotes in sterling were further compromised by a weaker Euro that ended the week down 1.09p at 91.32p.
Weaner demand remained ‘fickle’ with little interest outside regular contract arrangements. Supply was ample, and some batches went unsold. Concerns remained over poor straw yields this season, and the impact it may have on straw based fattening operations.
AHDB prices saw a 30kg store pig quoted at £52.69 and a 7kg weaner rise £1.87 to £43.45.