AIMS October Meat Inflation Spurs Budget Calls

AIMS’ October’s meat inflation report leads to calls for assistance at the Budget

The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has released its October meat inflation report. The data shows average prices fell by 1p/kg (0.08%) during the month. Prices for beef steak, mince, and several pork cuts eased slightly. Chicken also saw lower prices, except for thighs and drumsticks.

AIMS’ Head of Communications Tony Goodger said shoppers who visited several stores found lower prices in the protein category. He explained that supermarkets often cut prices in October to help families manage budgets before Christmas. These early reductions also build customer loyalty before the festive season begins.

Annual Meat Inflation Still Around 15%

Despite the small drop in October, AIMS reports that annual meat and poultry inflation remains close to 15%. Pork prices fell by about 6p/kg year on year, but other categories remain much higher than last year. Beef prices rose by 32.3%, while lamb increased 7.4%, and chicken gained 7%.
Goodger said continued demand for beef, combined with supply chain challenges, continues to drive overall price increases.

AIMS Urges Government Action in the Budget

With the Budget due later this month, AIMS is calling on the Chancellor to help reduce costs in the meat and poultry sector. The group believes targeted support can lower inflation and contribute to the government’s growth agenda.

Their proposals include:

Removing unnecessary financial burdens imposed by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).
Adopting the SPS agreement with the EU to reduce the cost of exporting and importing meat.
Moving planning decisions for farms and food processing sites to Westminster instead of local authorities.
Launching a Meat and Poultry Tech Investment Fund, jointly financed by government and industry, to boost efficiency and innovation.

Backing Growth and Food Security

AIMS supports the government’s ambition to “back the builders, not the blockers.” The group says farming and food processing form part of the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure and play a key role in export growth.
Goodger argued that national-level planning decisions would cut delays, reduce local authority costs, and protect businesses from ideologically driven protests.

He also called for joint investment in technology.

“A government and meat industry partnership could drive efficiency, support food security, and unlock new opportunities for growth,” he said.

AIMS Calls for a Joint Industry Strategy

Goodger concluded that a joint government meat industry strategy would give businesses the confidence to invest.

“Our four asks for the Budget would reduce costs, stimulate growth, and help secure the UK’s food supply chain,” he added.

Source: Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS), October 2025. Quotes by Tony Goodger, Head of Communications, AIMS.