The gap between farmgate and retail pigmeat prices was greater in December 2014 than at any point in the previous two years, according to BPEX.
While the producer share of the final retail price of pork held at 38% last month, only slightly down on November’s level, the combination of farmgate prices falling slightly faster than retail prices, left producers with a 5% decline in price share, judged year-on-year.
“In light of both an increase in demand for certain pork cuts in the run up to Christmas, as well as retailers dropping prices to attract maximum holiday sales, there was some movement in retail prices in December,” reported BPEX. Â “Most notable was a 4% drop for boneless leg joints, for roasting, to their lowest price since 2011. However, this was in part offset by a 4% rise in traditional sausage prices.
“All reported cuts, with the exception of loin chops, were cheaper in December 2014 than 2013, reflecting the downward trend of most meat prices seen throughout much of last year.”