GB pig prices slip in the back end of Q3: Pork market update

Key points:

• GB pig prices have weakened during the back end of Q3 having held steady over summer
• Positive domestic demand is likely keeping GB prices relatively supported
• EU pig prices have seen some large downward shifts during Q3 which has put pressure on the UK market

SPP trends

In the last three months (July – September) GB deadweight pig prices have begun to edge downward, after strengthening through spring and into early summer. In July and August prices held relatively stable, with minimal weekly movements, averaging at 207.75p/kg.

However, through September prices have eased, with the EU spec SPP for the week ending 04 October standing at 205.65p/kg marking six consecutive weeks of decline.

Despite this recent trend, deadweight pig prices are only 3p below the same point last year.

GB deadweight standard pig price (SPP – EU spec)

Source: AHDB

Weekly estimated slaughter has picked up slightly in September, averaging 161,000 head, compared to 156,000 head in July and August. This increase in supply may be leading to some price movement.

However, demand is likely keeping prices relatively supported. Retail purchase data continues to show year on year growth for pig meat, with many key products benefiting from consumers switching from beef into pig meat due to the high price point of beef products. Our latest quarterly facings survey (Sep 2025) also highlights continued support from the major retailers for British product. Overall, 87% of fresh pork shelf facings were of British origin in September, the third consecutive survey result at this level.

AHDB’s latest Love Pork campaign is now live and will be running throughout October, with a new TV advert “This is British pork. But not as you know it!” enticing consumers with delicious recipes that are simple to make, are big on protein, big on taste and big on value.

How does the EU compare?

EU grade S reference prices continue to see greater volatility compared to the UK. While the UK has seen prices hold relative steady in Q3, only easing in recent weeks, the EU has seen a dramatic downward shift in pricing, counteracting the steep increase recorded in Q2.

Market commentary concludes that a combination of stronger than expected production paired alongside seasonally weaker demand have been the key driving force behind EU pricing trends this quarter. Although it is noted that export uncertainty has also weighed on the market in the most recent weeks, following announced duties by China on EU pork imports and the proposal for a tariff free US quota.

This trend has likely been adding downward pressure to the UK market and may continue to do so over the coming weeks. The price differential between the UK and EU reference price grew to nearly 40p in the week ending 28 September.

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