05 May 2021
‘Market-top’ debate follows 5-10p/kg beef processor cuts
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Processor price cuts of 5-10p/kg have left beef finishers asking whether trade has hit a market top or if processors are “playing games” to draw out more cattle.
Many factory base prices remain unchanged at record highs, but some price cuts have caused concern for finishers who have paid through the nose for forward store cattle.
With cattle supplies tight in Ireland, steers 8.6% dearer on the year across Europe, and UK slaughter figures down, some feel the cuts are a ruse to scare finishers into selling cattle early.
Auctioneers say whether this is the case remains to be seen, but much will hinge on lockdown relaxation and the return of the food service sector this summer.
by Michael Priestley / Farmers Weekly
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