Spot quotes continue to rise

WITH UK pigmeat supplies still on the tight side spot quotes are continuing to rise.

Quotes for the week commencing Mon 21 Feb saw most spot bacon traded in the 105 – 108p bracket with one or two plants short of pigs prepared to lift their bids to 110p.

Light cutters are worth 4 – 6p above this and 50 – 55kg pork weights at up to 116p.

The latest DAPP quote rose marginally to 100.9p but as better spot prices feed into the system this is likely to continue to rise in the weeks ahead.

Signs remain however that retail demand has not been particularly good and UK price rises are more due to chasing numbers and the higher value of imports than better consumer uptake.

Firm demand throughout Europe where the mainland “big six” average has risen to almost 98p/kg will lift the cost of imports and boost UK cull sow prices.

Most GB cull sow exporters were tendering bids in the 85 – 86p range with larger loads worth 2 – 3p more in some regions.

The Euro however continues to under perform and opened on Mon 21 Feb at 68.8p.

Rising finished pig prices are also reflecting in the weaner market with the MLC 30kg average improving to £32.83/head ex farm and private trades reported in the £34 – £36/head region.