NPA calls for supply chain support for pig producers

The National Pig Association is urging processors and retailers to offer stronger longer-term commitments to pig producers, as the sector finds itself in turmoil.

Processing backlogs have led to more finished pigs being kept on farm with independent producers often picking up the bill for additional feed and housing costs.

Pig farmers on contracts are also being impacted by the delays with several major processors asking suppliers to reduce pig numbers or even serving producers with notice.

See also: Further pig contracts at risk as sector struggles with backlogs

The wider market for pigs is tough with very little demand outside of contract due to the oversupplied market and a standard pig price which has fallen below the cost of production.

The National Pig Association (NPA) says this has left producers which have been served notice in an “extremely vulnerable position” with “nowhere to go”.

NPA chief executive Lizzie Wilson said: “We are extremely concerned about the position our independent pig producers once again find themselves in. Many are currently fighting for their futures.

“The crisis of 2021 and 2022 saw a number of independent pig farms leave the sector and, while we have seen more stability since then, the inexorable rise of the integrated sector has continued as processors have acquired more independent producers.”

Critical mass

The NPA has found that generally notice periods are being adhered to by processors, however it remains fearful that the sector could lose producers and critical mass within the industry, making the UK more reliant on imported pork.

Ms Wilson added: “We call on retailers, processors and the food-service sector to restate their commitment to British pork and, in particular, our under-pressure independent producers.

“That means ensuring pigmeat is priced fairly and taking a longer-term view when it comes to supply arrangements, including giving producers incentives to invest.”