The British livestock markets have shown resilience and adaptability in the face of numerous challenges in recent times. According to recent data, there has been slight fluctuations influenced by a combination of factors including Brexit-related changes, the ongoing impact of global trade dynamics, and the rising cost of feed and other inputs.  For the most part, however, prices of beef and lamb particularly have remained at record highs.

In the beef sector, prices have remained strong, plateauing slightly around the middle of the year, but overall buoyed by a steady demand both domestically and internationally.  According to AHDB this has been ‘underpinned by strong cattle prices in Irish and European markets’.  The most recent deadweight GB steer price is just under 490p/kg according to the AHDB, an increase of 35p/kg compared to a year ago.  Warmer weather throughout July and August has brought robust demand as consumers fire up their BBQs for a 100% British Burger ????. The export market, particularly to the European Union, has remained critical, despite the logistical hurdles posed by new trade agreements. However, all the while, producers are facing increased costs for feed, which has tempered profit margins.

The sheep market has experienced a similar pattern, with lamb prices reaching an all-time high, creating a market of which industry analysts have never seen the like.  Wholesale prices have soared in the past year by more than 40% year-on-year to over £8 a kg, fuelled by a harsh winter leading to greater mortality in the early season.  Demand peaked particularly around Easter and Eid, when lamb is obviously a centrepiece.  Rising demand from religious groups has been a key factor.

Despite this, the industry is cautious about the future, especially with concerns over post-Brexit tariffs and the potential impact on exports. Cheaper Lamb from Australia and New Zealand continues to be a threat to higher-priced British product.  This becomes a real worry when supermarket chains relinquish commitments to supply 100% British in times of high demand, as Morrisons did earlier this year.  The availability of labor, particularly for shearing and other essential tasks, remains a concern, exacerbated by changes in immigration rules.

The pig sector, however, has faced more significant challenges. The market has been hit by a combination of rising feed costs and the impact of African Swine Fever in Europe, which has disrupted supply chains and led to price volatility.

Overall, the British livestock markets are navigating a complex landscape, but prices remain buoyant on the whole.  

If you’re a livestock farmer, Agri-Linc have an ever-growing range of equipment to suit your requirements, from consumables and cleaning products to electric fencing and livestock handling systems.  Browse the full selection right here .

Some of our favourites for livestock farmers include the Hustler attachments offerings, particularly the LX104 Round Bale UnRolla , fantastic for use in cattle and sheep operations, boasting the toughest galvanised slat and chain floor on the market and suitable for hay, silage and straw. Also check out the Hustler Softhands LM100 Round Bale Grab , with patented floating Equaliser bar, no tear-points design and five year warranty.

We have recently added a large selection of livestock handling equipment from brands such as JFC and Bateman, including livestock crushes, hurdles, gates, trailers, weighing systems and animal housing.  Some of the equipment has the added benefit of being grant eligible, check out the full range here . For smaller budgets, if your livestock farm is in need of a good cleanup, look no further than this range of handheld yard scrapers and for essential livestock consumables, Agri-Linc has you covered with the new Lodi range of products .

If you’ve got any questions or queries about any of the products mentioned in this blog or indeed anything else, we’re only a call away.  Get in touch with us on 01778 591225 – we’ll be happy to help.