Average weights continue to rise on farms, while fattening space remains tight, as the backlog of slaughter pigs continues to grow, according to Thames Valley Cambac.
This week’s trading for the period between Christmas and New Year was pre-planned for most part with the major processors having day and number requirements worked out well in advance, TVC said in its latest quarterly update.
“The backlog of slaughter pigs continued to grow, with many producers reporting continued excellent performance. Average weights continued to rise, and there will be little relief in that respect over the next couple of weeks,” it said.
Contract price contributions stood on and there was a touch more life in the fresh meat market, while the cull sow market planned a limited kill as the disruption at the Channel ports, caused by bans imposed on UK freight due to the new strain of COVID-19, eased.
“The backlog of slaughter pigs meant fattening space remained very tight, and movements were further constrained by the festive holidays,” TVC added.
No AHDB quote was given for a 30kg store pig, with the weighted average for a 7kg weaner quoted at £39.29.
European Prices (p/kg.dwt) w/c 20/12/20 Movement on last week
European Av. 116.93 – 1.94
Belgium 83.75 – 1.35
Denmark 115.99 – 1.81
France 130.68 – 2.33
Germany 108.09 – 1.74
Ireland 143.69 – 2.32
Holland 107.05 – 1.73
Spain 129.28 – 2.33
(Ref Weekly Tribune)
