GB lamb prices bounce back

Thursday, 23 December 2021

By Rebecca Wright

After faltering for the past two weeks, liveweight lamb prices have again moved upwards this week. In the week ended 22 December the GB liveweight NSL SQQ increased by almost 9p, to 280.43p/kg. Throughputs were slightly lower than in other recent weeks at 115,000 head, reflecting that the Christmas kill is now over.

GB liveweight lamb prices December 2021

Meanwhile, the GB deadweight NSL SQQ reflected the previous move in liveweight prices, dropping 11p, to 620.4p/kg for the week ending 18 December. Estimated kill for that week totalled 237,000 head, 24% down on the same week last year.  

British deadweight lamb prices December 2021

Industry reports suggest that staff absences for Covid related reasons have risen again. There is uncertainty over demand, due to the foodservice sector struggling with an increase in cancellations. January always tends to be a slower period for foodservice, but with rising Covid cases it could be even slower than usual. This will have an impact on demand throughout the coming weeks, until there is more clarity on whether there will be any new restrictions.

British estimated lamb kill December 2021

Cull ewe prices have also been performing strongly in recent weeks. In the week ending 22 December GB, liveweight cull ewe price averaged at £94.64/head. A more typical average level for this time of year would be around £60 or £70 per head.  These increases reflect those of the prime lamb market.


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