Its all in the timing, says the HGCA
By Vicky Houchin
THE Home-Grown Cereals Authority launched an autumn campaign this week encouraging farmers to make better use of market information.
Careful timing of when to sell can make a huge difference to the price producers receive, said the HGCA. Farmers who heeded HGCA advice to sell forward in May enjoyed an extra £15/tonne.
“Cereal growers are struggling with the lowest prices in real terms for 30 years, the effect of a strong Pound and the impact of an uncertain harvest. Judging the right time to sell their grain and to which market has never been more important,” said HGCA chief Executive Tony Williams.
HGCA marketing information services mi Saturday and mi oilseeds, launched earlier this year, were developed for the grower to keep an eye on the markets. The new mi prospects incorporates the former HGCA weekly digest, and is described as a readable combination of in-depth analysis, editorial, market commentary and news published fortnightly. The HGCAs main weekly statistical publication mi bulletin has been redesigned with clearer tables and improved information.
“With cereal prices at around £70/tonne, there is a major incentive for everyone to look at how they can maximise their returns and cut costs. Making market information work for a farm business or trader can help deliver real benefits at such a crucial time in the industry,” said Mr Williams.
Richard Butler, NFU Cereals Committee chairman welcomed this new launch as very timely. “There is real pain in arable farming at present which has been illustrated by the Banks where loans to arable farmers has grown 25% on 1997.”
“It is vitally important for farmers to have accurate and independent information. Their levy money is largely paying for the service and as the industry becomes more market related in what they produce it is important to use such a publication,” said Mr Butler.
The HGCA publications are available by e-mail, fax or post, and subscribers are only charged for the cost of delivery.