Most processors had a better week in terms of reliability, but COVID-19 concerns remained for some, curtailing capacity, according to Thames Valley Cambac.
“Demand remained steady, although there was the odd shoot of optimism from some retail quarters with one major on promotion for the next 10 weeks , and another targeting Mother’s Day for a big push,” TVC said in its latest market update.
“Supplies were still ample but there were signs that the backlog will soon be through. All contract contributions stood on and monthly negotiated quotes were substantially higher bringing them back close to the market average.
“The star of the day was again reserved for cull sows, where quotes increased 10p on the back of improved continental markets.”
Prices in Europe were stronger all round with Spain adding another 7 eurocents on the back of improved exports, and Germany adding 9 eurocents, as their slaughter pig backlog diminished. Price quotes in sterling were enhanced by a stronger Euro that ended the week up 0.54p at 87.05p.
Supplies of weaner all classes tightened, but demand remained stifled by the slaughter backlog.
Straw availability is becoming a big concern for some fatteners, and there are fears that some accommodation will remain empty until harvest. There were no weaner or store price quotes issued by the AHDB.
European Prices (p/kg.dwt) w/c 28/02/21 Â Movement on last week
Tribune Spot Bacon               139.93           n/c
European Av. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 119.79 Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â + 5.21
Belgium                                  101.75            + 9.63
Denmark                                111.25            + 0.76
France                                    130.58            + 4.35
Germany                                113.17            + 8.49
Ireland                                    133.89            + 0.84
Holland                                  108.29            + 5.10
Spain                                      139.62            + 7.28
(Ref Weekly Tribune)