UK Meat Slaughter Figures Slide; August 2025 Sees Drop in Beef, Pig & Lamb Output

UK slaughter numbers across cattle, sheep and pigs dropped in August 2025 compared to the same month a year earlier, pulling down production of beef, pork and lamb.

These reductions matter for wholesalers, processors and exporters because they indicate tightening supplies, potential price pressures and shifts in trade flows. Lower output can raise costs, affect contract fulfilments, and force adjustments in import dependencies.

Market / Context

• In August 2025, prime cattle (steers, heifers, young bulls) in the UK saw slaughterings fall by about 7.3% year-on-year (153,000 head). Beef and veal output fell by 6.5% to roughly 68,000 tonnes.

• Clean sheep slaughterings also dropped 7.3%, at about 868,000 head, resulting in a 6.6% year-on-year decline in lamb and mutton production (~20,000 tonnes).

• Pig slaughter numbers were down as well, by 5.4%, with pigmeat production decreasing by 5.6%, to near 76,000 tonnes.

• For several livestock classes, average dressed carcase weights have stayed steady or shown minor variation, but declines in slaughter volume are the main driver of reduced meat production.

These trends come amid broader pressures: rising input costs, labour shortages, and supply chain constraints. Exporters may face tighter margins while domestic wholesalers might see reduced availability of certain cuts, especially beef and pigmeat.

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What to Watch

• Import vs export balance: As domestic production falls, dependence on imports may rise. Monitoring trade data will be key.

• Price movements: Reduced supply often leads to upward pressure on wholesale and retail prices—beef especially might see steeper increases.

• Feed, fuel, labour cost trends: Any escalation will further squeeze margins.

• Seasonal demand: The period ahead (autumn through winter) typically sees increased demand for lamb and beef. If supply remains tight, gaps could widen.

• Policy & regulation shifts: Support or subsidy changes (e.g. for livestock farming) could play a role in stabilising supply or offsetting cost pressures.

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Source: UK Government (Defra)

AIMS urges urgent talks with new ministers following Defra report on illegal meat imports

The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has urged early talks with ministers after a new Defra report on Britain’s biosecurity.

Defra has released Biosecurity at the border: Britain’s illegal meat crisis. The report warns of rising risks from illegal meat imports. It highlights the danger of animal disease outbreaks and the knock-on effect for food security and trade.

Tony Goodger, Head of Communications at AIMS, called for swift action:

“AIMS looks forward to working with both the new Secretary of State at Defra, Emma Reynolds, and at the Department for Business & Trade, Peter Kyle. With today’s publication from Defra Biosecurity at the border: Britain’s illegal meat crisis it is essential that both meet with us at the earliest opportunity. They must prioritise animal disease and the impact on domestic production and overseas trade within their new roles.”

Why it matters:
Industry groups have long raised concerns over illegal meat entering the UK through ports and airports. Enforcement remains patchy. Without stronger checks, the risk of outbreaks such as African swine fever or foot-and-mouth disease grows. This could cost billions and damage export markets.

What to watch:

• Whether Defra and the Department for Business & Trade agree to meet AIMS and other trade groups.

• How ministers respond to calls for tighter border controls.

• If tougher penalties and better surveillance on illegal food shipments are introduced.

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📌 Source: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), “Biosecurity at the border: Britain’s illegal meat crisis,” 2025. Industry response from the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS).

Weekly Market Update: Cattle and Sheep Trends – August 2025

The latest figures from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) offer a mixed picture for the UK cattle and sheep markets, with subtle shifts in pricing and throughput reflecting broader seasonal and environmental pressures.

Cattle Market Overview

In the week ending 23 August, the GB all prime average deadweight price remained largely stable, dipping marginally by 0.1p to 641.2p/kg. Steer and heifer prices saw minimal movement, each adjusting by just 0.5p. However, young bulls experienced a more notable decline, falling by 1.6p to 635p/kg.

Prime cattle throughput increased slightly to 32,500 head, marking a 3% rise compared to the same week last year. Despite this, year-to-date figures show a 4% decline in prime slaughter numbers, down by 49,000 head.

Cull cow slaughter surged by 11% week-on-week, reaching 8,500 head. Interestingly, this rise in volume was accompanied by a price increase, with the average deadweight price climbing by 3.4p to 511.8p/kg. Cows graded -O4L achieved a higher average of 544.7p/kg.

Store cattle prices showed varied movement. Native steers aged 12–18 months rose by £43 to £1,494/head, while continental steers in the same category fell by £9 to £1,734/head. Older store cattle generally saw price reductions, possibly reflecting producers’ focus on securing longer-term supply contracts.

Sheep Market Snapshot

Lamb prices faced downward pressure, with the GB NSL deadweight SQQ falling by 19p to 735p/kg. Estimated lamb slaughter rose by 11,000 head, totalling 197,000 for the week.

Liveweight markets reported challenges in lamb finish and quality, particularly in drought-affected regions across the North and West. These conditions are expected to persist, potentially influencing market dynamics in the coming weeks.

Liveweight finished lamb prices also declined, with the NSL SQQ dropping by 23p/kg to 317.1p/kg. This comes despite a reduction in store lamb throughput by approximately 1,600 head.

Source: AHDB

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see also:

• Australian Cattle and Sheep Market Update – Late August 2025
• Irish Lamb Prices Hold Steady as UK Market Softens

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Irish prime cattle prices are now outpacing GB, signalling a significant shift in the UK–Irish beef pricing landscape.

Price Trends & Timeline

After narrowing steadily through summer, Irish prime cattle prices have held above UK equivalents for four consecutive weeks. Earlier this year, in February, the disparity between the two markets reached its widest point, with GB prices significantly higher. A similar crossover last occurred in 2022 — but only briefly for about five weeks.

Supply Shortfalls & Demand Drivers

The main driver behind this price shift is a 19% year-on-year decline in prime cattle slaughter in Ireland over the four weeks ending 25 August, firmly tightening supply. Concurrently, demand has remained robust, both at home and through exports to key markets such as the UK, France, the Netherlands, and other EU countries.

Market Implications & Outlook

Stronger Irish prices may be offering support to GB market stability, helping offset demand softness due to inflationary pressures. Looking ahead, ongoing herd contractions and export demand are likely to maintain upward price momentum.

As the autumn season progresses, pricing will also reflect seasonal demand from retail and festive markets. How this trend evolves will hinge on supply dynamics and consumer purchasing power heading into year-end.

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Source: Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), “Irish beef prices above GB for the first time in three years: Beef market update”, published 5 September 2025. ahdb.org.uk

Venison: The Sustainable Red Meat

Wild venison is emerging as a sustainable alternative to beef, with growing attention on its lower environmental footprint and strong market potential.

Why it matters
For wholesalers, processors and exporters, shifting demand towards wild venison could open fresh opportunities. The meat is lean, high in protein, and sourced from deer that already need managing in the UK countryside. Unlike beef, no extra farmland or feed inputs are required, reducing pressure on land use and supply chains.

Market/Context
The UK deer population has expanded significantly in recent decades, putting pressure on woodlands and farmland. Culling is necessary for ecological balance, yet much of the venison has historically gone under-utilised. Industry experts note that replacing a portion of beef consumption with wild venison could help lower greenhouse gas emissions from livestock farming. Venison has fewer food miles when sourced locally, and offers wholesalers a premium product to position with sustainability-minded buyers. Export demand is also rising, particularly in Europe and Asia, where game meat is prized for both flavour and health benefits.

What to watch
Supply consistency remains a challenge, as wild venison depends on seasonal culls. Investment in cold storage, processing facilities and consumer education will be key for growth. Traders should also monitor evolving consumer tastes, with sustainability increasingly influencing purchasing decisions in retail and foodservice sectors.

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Source: BBC Future, 3 September 2025. 

Senedd Inquiry Demands Overhaul of Hybu Cig Cymru Governance

A Senedd inquiry has urged urgent reforms at Hybu Cig Cymru (HCC), the Welsh red meat levy board, after years of internal turmoil and leadership challenges.

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Why it matters

HCC is central to developing and promoting Welsh red meat, funded by a levy on slaughtered or exported livestock.
Wholesalers, processors, and farmers depend on the body to safeguard market visibility, drive exports, and represent their interests.
Without reform, industry trust in HCC risks further erosion, weakening the sector’s competitiveness.

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Market / Context

The report from the Senedd’s economy, trade and rural affairs committee highlighted serious issues at HCC, including bullying allegations, the chief executive’s departure under a cloud, and a subsequent staff exodus.
Committee chair Andrew RT Davies MS called this a “pivotal moment to rebuild trust, strengthen governance, and ensure accountability to levy payers.”

Key recommendations include:

• A full review of HCC’s governance and Welsh government ownership.

• Consideration of returning ownership to levy payers.

• More industry representation on the board.

• Clear, measurable performance and accountability targets.

• Stronger communication with farmers and processors.

Concerns were also raised over HCC’s financial sustainability, as falling livestock numbers shrink levy income. Farmers’ Union of Wales President Ian Rickman said the findings reflected long-standing calls for transparency and deeper engagement with levy payers.

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What to watch

• Government response: Welsh ministers have promised to review the committee’s report before issuing a formal reply.

• Future funding: HCC’s new chief executive, José Peralta, is pressing for increased resources to deliver its remit.

• Industry confidence: Rebuilding trust will be critical for ensuring levy payers see value for money and for securing the future of the Welsh red meat sector.

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Attribution

Source: BBC News, 3 September 2025 (BBC link)

Chicken Price Surge Drives Meat Inflation as Summer Heat and Holidays Boost Demand

UK meat and poultry prices edged up slightly in August, but chicken emerged as the main driver of inflation as hot weather and holiday barbecues fueled demand.

According to the AIMS Meat and Poultry Inflation Tracker, overall prices across the category rose just 0.25%, yet chicken jumped by 2.24%—the steepest increase among proteins.

“Looking at the chicken category as a whole, it appears that consumers have moved to convenience this month,” said Tony Goodger, Head of Communications at AIMS. “Diced breast was up 4.8%, no doubt BBQ demand driving this, while thigh fillets (+2.26%) and drumsticks (+2.67%) are also popular for barbecues and picnics.”

Rising feed, staffing, energy, and even security costs are further straining poultry production, adding to price pressures along the supply chain.

Red Meat Trends Diverge

Beef prices saw a modest 0.4% rise in August. However, roasting joints fell by 4.5%, likely due to supermarkets cutting prices as consumers shifted toward lighter meals in warmer weather. Lamb leg prices also dropped by 2.14%, while pork leg went against the trend, rising 4%.

“With beef and lamb roasting joints both costing in excess of £15 per kilo, pork leg’s value for money at under £6.50 per kilo could have encouraged switching for the weekend roast,” Goodger explained.

Inflation Still High Over the Year

Despite August’s relatively modest month-on-month movement, the annual picture remains stark. Over the past 12 months, meat and poultry prices have surged 15.6%, led by beef.

Beef now averages almost £20 per kilo across key cuts, with mince showing the sharpest increases; lean mince up 48.4% and standard mince up 37%. Beef steaks are also up 27% year-on-year.

Pork and chicken are increasingly seen as alternatives. Chicken has risen by 12.05% over the past year but remains attractive to households under cost-of-living pressures due to its versatility, quicker cooking time, and lower energy use.

Call for Government Action

Goodger warned that the drivers of inflation are numerous and complex.
“There are so many factors driving year-on-year meat and poultry inflation that the government must consider before the October budget if they wish to get overall food inflation under control,” he said.

Australian Cattle and Sheep Market Update – Late August 2025

The Australian cattle and sheep market update August 2025 shows a mix of trends as the month closed. National yardings slipped, yet slaughter volumes remained strong, particularly in Queensland and Western Australia.

Cattle Market

Cattle prices strengthened across all indicators. Values increased between 2¢ and 13¢/kg liveweight during the week. National yardings fell 3% to 56,148 head, largely due to expected rainfall in southern states. In fact, New South Wales dropped 16%, while Victoria recorded a sharper decline of 29%.

The Processor Cow Indicator jumped 13% to 368¢/kg lwt. Strong processor demand supported this rise despite lower yardings. Queensland continued to dominate supply, accounting for half of all national throughput. Its local indicator climbed to 357¢/kg lwt, close to a record high.

Meanwhile, the Restocker Steer Indicator increased by 11¢ to 487¢/kg lwt. Prices in Queensland surged by 16%, boosted by favourable seasonal conditions and strong restocker confidence.

Sheep Market

Sheep yardings also eased. Lamb numbers dropped by more than 36,000 head nationwide. As a result, the Heavy Lamb Indicator fell 27¢ to 1,129¢/kg cwt. However, Western Australia stood out, recording a significant 95¢ rise in prices.

Restocker lambs performed strongly in New South Wales. Prices there jumped 130¢ to 1,194¢/kg cwt. Furthermore, the National Restocker Lamb Indicator climbed 62¢ to 1,088¢/kg cwt, supported by new season lambs and firm demand from lot feeders.

Slaughter Volumes

Cattle slaughter rose 4% to 152,381 head nationwide. Queensland led the increase with an 8% rise. At the same time, sheepmeat throughput reached 512,950 head, up 7% and the highest since June. Lamb slaughter also rose 9%, driven by plant reopenings in South Australia and Western Australia.

Overall, the Australian cattle and sheep market update August 2025 highlights strong cattle demand and easing lamb prices, reflecting regional supply pressures.

Irish Lamb Prices Hold Steady as UK Market Softens – August 2025

The latest Irish lamb prices August 2025 show continued stability. After several steady weeks, base quotes remain firm at €7.70–7.80/kg plus QA bonus. Many processors are paying up to an upper carcase weight of 22kg, keeping trade confidence intact.

Irish Market

For the week ending 23 August 2025, the average Irish deadweight price held at €7.69/kg. This figure is unchanged from the previous week. However, prices remain significantly stronger than last year’s €7.18/kg. They are also well above the three-year average of €7.03/kg.

Throughput increased to 41,861 head last week. Even so, year-to-date slaughter totals 1.36 million head, which is 17% lower than 2024. Tighter supplies continue to define the season, limiting availability and supporting firm returns.

UK Market

In contrast, UK lamb prices eased in late August. Mainland Great Britain reported an average of €8.50/kg, a drop of 23c/kg. Northern Ireland also slipped slightly, with prices easing to €7.64/kg. This highlights the different supply and demand pressures across both markets.

Global Trends

Southern Hemisphere lamb prices remain competitive. In Australia, heavy lambs averaged €6.47/kg, narrowing the gap with Irish lamb to just €1.22/kg. By comparison, the spread was close to €4/kg in mid-May. Meanwhile, New Zealand prices eased slightly to €5.03/kg, although they remain near their highest level since late 2022.

Overall, the Irish lamb prices August 2025 report shows stability in Ireland, even as UK markets soften. Tight supplies across Europe and reduced lamb output in 2025 are likely to keep EU markets attractive for both Irish and imported lamb.

UK Cattle and Sheep Market Update – Week Ending 23 August 2025

The UK cattle and sheep market update August 2025 shows a mixed picture. Beef prices held steady, while lamb values fell sharply.

Cattle Market

According to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), the all-prime deadweight cattle average stayed firm at 641.2p/kg, slipping just 0.1p. Steer and heifer prices showed only minor changes. However, young bulls eased by 1.6p to 635p/kg.

Prime cattle slaughter reached 32,500 head. This figure was 3% higher year-on-year, although overall volumes for 2025 remain 4% below 2024 levels.

Cull cow slaughter rose sharply, climbing 11% week-on-week to 8,500 head. Despite the higher kill, average cow prices increased by 3.4p to 511.8p/kg. In addition, O4L cows achieved 544.7p/kg, underlining solid demand.

Sheep Market

In contrast, the sheep trade weakened. The new season lamb (NSL) deadweight SQQ dropped 19p to 735p/kg. This marks the steepest weekly fall since June. At the same time, estimated lamb slaughter increased by 11,000 head to 197,000.

Liveweight lamb prices also slipped. The NSL average fell 23p to 317.1p/kg. AHDB noted that poor forage in drought-affected regions of the North and West has slowed lamb finishing. Consequently, supply pressures could remain an issue in the weeks ahead.