GB finished pig prices drop back once again

By Felicity Rusk

GB finished pig prices dropped back for the fourth consecutive week in a row in the week ending 15 August. The EU-spec SPP averaged 163.51p/kg, a third of a penny lower than the previous week. Nearly all weight bands recorded a decline on the week, with the exception of the lower and upper ends on the scale, although these represent a small number in the sample. The year-on-year rise continued to be eroded, shrinking to just under 10.5p.

Supplies increased, with estimated slaughter up by 4% (6,600 head) on the week to total 180,400 head. This is the highest weekly throughput since the end of March. There were reports of some factory breakdowns last week, resulting in pigs being rolled into this week.

Carcase weights were lighter than in the previous week, falling by 60g to average 85.64kg.

In the week ending 8 August, the EU-spec APP fell back by 1.23p to average 166.79p/kg. While the SPP also declined in the same week, it was not to the same degree. As such, the gap between the two measures narrowed to 2.95p.

Weaner market showed diverging trends in the week ending 15 August. Prices for 7kg weaners dropped by 10p on the week to average £42.30/head. In contrast, prices for 30kg weaners rose by £5.15 on the week, to average £61.71/head. This is the highest weekly price for 30kg since the start of March. Demand was reported as weaker, although supplies were slightly lower.

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