Despite the best intentions of some processors, last week proved to be another one which underachieved against the original plan, according to Thames Valley Cambac.
“Processing continued to limp along, hampered by understaffing and unreliable machinery,” TVC said in its latest market report. “There were indications of better ambition from one or two outlets, but their ability to process was compromised by poor factory reliability.”
“Prices were enhanced by a near penny rise in the SPP, with lighter, leaner pigs in the sample leading to a higher percentage within spec.
“Supply remained high and our average weights are climbing ever higher. Production costs continue to increase with another rise in feed raw materials, which in turn puts more financial burden on producers.”
Sow sales improved with better continental demand and prices, increasing by a welcome 3p. European markets look to have turned a corner with good lifts Germany, Spain and Belgium. The Euro continued to weaken and ended the week down 0.54p at 83.42p.
The weaner market remains badly compromised by the slaughter backlog, as unit turnarounds are
delayed and the ensuing backup on breeding farms, causing some major headaches. There was
insufficient data for AHDB to calculate any weaner or store pig prices.
European Prices (p/kg.dwt) w/c 20/02/22 Movement on last week
SPP 138.77 + 0.91
Tribune Spot Bacon 137.62 n/c
European Av. 105.70 + 1.68
Belgium 86.68 + 4.92
Denmark 90.93 + 1.77
France 127.31 – 0.56
Germany 104.28 + 3.53
Ireland 118.46 – 0.76
Holland 90.02 – 0.57
Spain 122.47 + 3.59
(Ref Weekly Tribune)