Processors blame difficult retail trading as demand remains flat

With only nine full weeks remaining before Christmas, demand remained poor, as the major processors continue to blame difficult retail trading, according to Thames Valley Cambac.

“Supplies are markedly lower leading to hope that a shortage may trigger price improvements,” TVC said in its latest market update. “However, the poor uptake has dampened any price appreciation with all processors resisting any contribution increases. There were, however, small glimpses of hope in the fresh meat sector with better demand a feature.”

“Coincidently, the latest AHDB pork promotion starts this week – Feed the Family for Less. Retail activity is planned across eight major supermarkets, and the campaign will be seen across TV, press and social media.”

European prices were lower with France and Holland quoting less, and pressure on all prices from a weaker Euro that ended the week down 0.56p at 86.82p, while cull sows took a 5p knock on the back of poorer continental trade.

There was little demand for weaners outside regular contract commitments, as raw materials remain volatile and uncertainty in the finished market leaves fatteners with little confidence.

AHDB issued a weighted average 30kg store price at £49.23, but there was insufficient data for a 7kg weaner quote.

UK and European Prices (p/kg) w/c 16/10/22          Movement on last week

SPP                                          200.55                         + 0.19

Tribune Spot Bacon                204.48                         n/c

European Av.                          174.25                         – 1.56

Belgium                                   156.72                         – 1.01

Denmark                                 144.73                         – 0.94

France                                     211.85                         – 3.55

Germany                                 173.65                         – 1.12

Ireland                                     182.33                         – 1.17

Holland                                    156.54                         – 1.71

Spain                                       193.96                         – 1.25

(Ref Weekly Tribune