Pig prices are continuing to rise as strong demand and tight supplies continue to create a healthy-looking marketplace, according to Thames Valley Cambac.
“Demand improved again with most major processors wanting to secure contract numbers, no doubt keen to capture the increasing retail barbecue trade,” TVC said in its latest market update.
“Supplies were very tight, reflecting the poor production seen last autumn/winter. Average weights continue to drift lower, but most producers are happy to keep pigs heavier than before, due to improved genetics.”
This is all having a positive impact on price, as a monthly negotiated contract contribution moved up double digits, and weekly quotes were up 4p to 6p.
“These inputs will have a positive effect on future market price indicators,” TVC added.
The fresh meat market was buoyant with quotes generally 2p stronger. However, the cull sow market is ‘reversing’, with prices easing another 7p, on the back of further Covid issues in German cutting plants
The German pig price fell 8 eurocents triggering a similar fall in Belgium, and to a lesser extent, Holland. France however, bucked the trend, adding 7 euro cents on the back of tighter supply.
Price quotes in sterling were enhanced slightly by a stronger Euro that ended the week up 0.11p at 86.90p.
Weaner demand remained strong for 30kg stores, but 7kg weaners continued to struggle. There is some general resistance developing among fatteners due the high cost of feed and straw, TVC added.
There were no weaner or store pig prices announced by AHDB.
European Prices (p/kg.dwt) w/c 25/04/21 Movement on last week
Tribune Spot Bacon 146.31 + 1.90
European Av. 135.75 – 1.39
Belgium 106.11 – 7.76
Denmark 126.19 + 0.16
France 155.18 + 6.34
Germany 123.41 – 6.78
Ireland 144.26 + 0.19
Holland 130.36 -2.09
Spain 164.77 + 0.21
(Ref Weekly Tribune)