Another challenging week as processor staffing issues subdued demand for pigs

Last week proved to be another challenging for many processors, as they continued to battle with  staffing issues, according to Thames Valley Cambac.

This was compounded by the suggestion of an unofficial Monday Bank Holiday if England had won the Euros, which ‘put the jitters up some processors with a more disinclined workforce. Pigs were consequently rolled down the week as a precaution, TVC said in its latest market update.

While contract prices improved, helped by a good rise in the SPP, up 1.39p at 158.96p, demand was subdued by a shortage of staff and other factory problems. Supplies were plentiful bolstered by refugee’ pigs from direct suppliers.

The fresh meat market eased off a touch with inclement weather blamed for poor high street sales, but prices stood on. The cull sow market was well supplied but prices were unchanged.

European markets remained volatile with France and Spain seeing significant reverses. Prices quotes in sterling were compromised further by a weaker Euro that ended the week down 0.24p at 85.76p.

Weaner demand continued to struggle with little interest for any supplies outside regular movements, with prices subdued as a result. The AHDB quote for a weighted average 7kg weaner was up 17p at £38.93 but there was no 30kg store quote.

European Prices (p/kg.dwt) w/c 11/07/21   Movement on last week

GB SPP                                   158.96                + 1.39

Tribune Spot Bacon              161.30                  + 0.60

European Av.                         128.29                  – 2.09

Belgium                                  103.60                  – 0.29

Denmark                                 123.41                  – 0.35

France                                     142.70                  – 5.23

Germany                                 126.92                 – 0.36

Ireland                                     144.93                 – 3.86

Holland                                   122.12                  – 0.35

Spain                                       157.02                  – 6.03

(Ref Weekly Tribune)