Hybu Cig Cymru Governance Under Review After Senedd Inquiry

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.


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.


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.


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.


Attribution

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

Chicken Prices Drive August Meat and Poultry Inflation

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

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

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 Prices Show Mixed Movements in Late August

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.

 

Marfrig Ends Deal to Sell Uruguay Plants to Minerva

Marfrig Cancels Sale of Uruguay Plants to Minerva

Marfrig cancels Uruguay plant sale to Minerva after months of negotiations. The move ends a proposed deal that would have transferred several of Marfrig’s beef processing facilities in Uruguay to rival Minerva Foods. This sudden decision reshapes expectations for South American beef exports and adds fresh uncertainty to regional capacity.


Why it matters

The fact that Marfrig cancels Uruguay plant sale has direct implications for global beef trade. Uruguay is a premium supplier to Europe, China, and the Middle East. A change of ownership could have altered pricing structures, supply chains, and long-term contracts. By pulling out, Marfrig has maintained the status quo for now, which may bring short-term stability for EU and UK importers but raises longer-term questions.


Market/Context

The Uruguay beef sector is highly competitive, with Minerva already one of the largest exporters in South America. If the sale had gone ahead, Minerva would have further expanded its slaughtering and processing capacity. Marfrig has said it ended the talks for “strategic reasons,” without disclosing detailed financial terms.

This development comes as global beef demand faces volatility. Chinese buyers are still cautious, while high feed costs and exchange rate pressures weigh on South American producers. Uruguay remains attractive thanks to its traceability standards and pasture-based systems, but any shift in plant ownership can quickly affect export volumes.


What to watch

  • Whether Marfrig seeks alternative buyers for its Uruguay assets.

  • If Minerva pursues other acquisitions to expand its footprint.

  • Potential political and regulatory scrutiny around large-scale ownership consolidation.

  • The effect on EU and UK beef buyers heading into the seasonal Q4 demand peak.


Attribution

Source: Reuters

See also: Minerva Foods Completes Acquisition of Marfrig Assets

Irish Pig Prices Hold Steady Despite Earlier Declines

Irish pig prices August 2025 have stabilised in the final week of the month, following earlier declines. Factory quotes for Grade E pigs are averaging around €2.10/kg, with some processors offering slightly higher rates depending on weight and quality.
This recovery comes after mid-August prices dipped below €2.00/kg, driven by oversupply and weaker European demand. Improved export conditions, especially to Asian markets, have helped support the rebound. Domestic consumption has also remained steady, supported by retail promotions.
Supply levels have been consistent, with no major disruptions reported. Producers are monitoring feed costs closely, as global grain prices remain volatile.
Looking ahead, the outlook for Irish pig prices in September is cautiously positive.
If export demand continues to strengthen and domestic supply stays balanced, prices may edge higher as autumn approaches.
For those in the Irish pork sector, maintaining price stability will be key as market conditions evolve in the final quarter of the year.

 

 

See also: UK Cattle and Sheep Prices Stabilise Despite Challenges

Irish Cattle Supplies Tighten as Prices Hold Steady

The Irish beef market trends continue to reflect a tightening of cattle supplies across the country.  Prices are holding steady despite seasonal pressures. This stability is drawing attention from processors and exporters alike, as demand remains firm.

Cattle supplies in Ireland fell sharply compared with last year, even as weekly throughput showed a slight rise. Figures from the Agriculture and Food Development Authority (Bord Bia) indicate that 26,268 cattle were processed in the week ending 23 August, up 759 head on the week but 21% below the same period in 2024.

Prime cattle throughput for the year to date remains broadly in line with last year, but cow slaughter numbers are down 14% as higher milk prices and recent heavy culling have tightened supply. Overall cattle kill across Department of Agriculture–approved plants is 6% lower year-on-year.

Processors kept quotes stable this week, offering €7.50–€7.60/kg for steers and €7.60–€7.70/kg for heifers. Prices for young bulls under 16 months rose to €7.90–8.00/kg, while R-grade cows were quoted at €7.40–7.50/kg, with stronger prices available for higher-grading animals.

The average R3 steer price was unchanged at €7.58/kg, reaching levels last seen in May. Notably, Irish cattle now command a premium over the UK, where the average R3 steer price stood at €7.48/kg. In mainland Europe, young bull prices edged up slightly to €6.83/kg, leaving them around 75c/kg lower than Irish levels.

US Tariffs on Brazil Set to Reshape Global Beef Trade

US Tariffs on Brazil to Reshape Global Beef Trade – August 2025

The US tariffs on Brazil beef trade are set to reshape global flows. This decision creates both risks and opportunities for exporters in Europe, Asia, and beyond.

Why It Matters

Brazil is the world’s largest beef exporter. It has long supplied the United States, which remains the biggest global consumer of beef. However, the new 50% US import tariffs on Brazilian beef could make these products less competitive. As a result, rival suppliers such as Australia, Argentina, and the European Union may gain fresh opportunities in the American market.

For UK traders and processors, the move is significant. Shifts in global supply could affect wholesale beef prices and influence import demand in the months ahead.

Market Context

Brazil’s dominance in global beef exports comes from scale and competitive pricing. Yet higher duties may push its shipments away from the US. Instead, more Brazilian beef could flow into China, the Middle East, and North Africa. These regions are already facing inflationary pressure on food imports, which could intensify as extra supply enters their markets.

Meanwhile, Europe might benefit. If Brazilian volumes reduce in the US, exporters in the UK and EU could find stronger demand for high-value beef cuts. Furthermore, Australia’s competitive position may improve, allowing it to capture more of the US trade share.

What to Watch

Going forward, traders should monitor three key points:

  • Whether China absorbs the Brazilian beef redirected from the US.

  • If American importers increase orders from Australia or South American rivals.

  • How these shifts affect UK and EU beef trade competitiveness.

In conclusion, the US tariffs on Brazil beef trade are likely to cause significant changes. Global beef exporters must adapt quickly to remain competitive in 2025.


Source: Reuters, 27 August 2025, link

Love Lamb Week: Celebrating British Lamb from Farm to Fork

Why Love Lamb Week Matters

Every September, farmers, butchers, chefs, and consumers across the UK come together for Love Lamb Week. What began in 2015 as a grassroots farmer-led campaign has grown into a national movement. The aim? To celebrate the quality, sustainability, and versatility of British lamb while reminding shoppers, wholesalers, and caterers why this meat deserves a place on their menus.

In this article, I’ll draw on over a decade of experience in the meat and food trade to explain what Love Lamb Week is all about, why it matters to both producers and buyers, and how you can get involved — whether you’re a farmer, a butcher, or someone looking to put a delicious Sunday roast on the table.

Local butcher promoting British lamb cuts for Love Lamb Week

The Origins of Love Lamb Week

Love Lamb Week was launched by farmers concerned about falling consumption of lamb in the UK. Despite being a traditional favourite, lamb was increasingly overlooked in favour of chicken and pork. To tackle this, the initiative set out to:

  • Highlight the taste and quality of home-produced lamb.

  • Educate consumers about seasonality — autumn is when British lamb is at its best.

  • Promote lamb’s role in sustainable agriculture.

  • Support British farmers by increasing demand.

Today, it’s supported by farming unions, AHDB (Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board), butchers, supermarkets, wholesalers, and restaurants. It’s a prime example of industry working together to boost both awareness and sales.

Why Lamb Deserves a Place on the Plate

Lamb is more than just a roast for Easter or Christmas. Here are a few reasons why Love Lamb Week champions this versatile meat:

  • Superior Flavour
    British lamb is renowned for its distinctive taste. Grass-fed lamb develops a rich, tender flavour that’s hard to replicate with mass-produced meats.

  • Nutritional Value
    Lamb is naturally rich in protein, zinc, iron, and B vitamins — all essential for a healthy diet.

  • Cooking Versatility
    From slow-cooked shanks to barbecued chops, lamb adapts beautifully to different cuisines. Restaurants are increasingly featuring lamb in street food and international dishes such as lamb kebabs, curries, and tagines.

  • Supporting Local Farming
    Buying lamb supports British farmers, rural communities, and sustainable land management.

 

The Sustainability Story: Why Lamb Fits the Future of Food

One of the strongest messages behind Love Lamb Week is sustainability. Critics often point to livestock farming as environmentally damaging, but British lamb production has unique advantages:

  • Grass-Fed and Low Input: Most UK lambs graze natural pastures that aren’t suitable for crops. This means lamb converts grass into high-quality protein with minimal feed inputs.

  • Biodiversity Benefits: Grazing sheep help maintain landscapes such as the Lake District, Welsh hills, and Yorkshire Dales. Without them, biodiversity would decline.

  • Low Carbon Footprint: According to AHDB data, British lamb has one of the lowest carbon footprints of any red meat worldwide, thanks to efficient farming practices and climate.

  • Seasonal Production: Lamb is not a year-round factory product. Celebrating Love Lamb Week in September ties in with the natural peak season when lamb is abundant and at its best quality.

For wholesalers, caterers, and consumers conscious of sustainability, these points make lamb a compelling choice.

British lambs grazing on green pastures during Love Lamb Week

Opportunities for Farmers and the Trade

Love Lamb Week is more than a consumer campaign; it’s also an opportunity for the supply chain to build stronger connections.

  • For Farmers: It provides a platform to showcase farming standards, animal welfare, and sustainability credentials. Social media campaigns allow farmers to tell their stories directly to consumers.

  • For Butchers: A chance to highlight lamb cuts, educate customers on cooking methods, and run promotions. Many butchers find Love Lamb Week boosts footfall.

  • For Wholesalers and Caterers: An ideal time to launch lamb-based promotions, menu specials, and bulk offers. Schools, restaurants, and pubs often feature lamb during this week to support the campaign.

How Consumers Can Celebrate Love Lamb Week

If you’re a shopper or home cook, there are plenty of ways to get involved:

  • Cook a Roast: A traditional roast leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic remains unbeatable.

  • Try New Cuts: Cheaper cuts like neck fillet, shoulder, or mince are perfect for curries, stews, and kebabs.

  • Support Local Butchers: Buying from your local butcher ensures you’re supporting the farmers behind the campaign.

  • Experiment Internationally: Use lamb in global dishes — Middle Eastern koftas, Greek moussaka, or Indian biryanis.

Love Lamb Week isn’t just about tradition; it’s about discovering new ways to enjoy this meat.

Family enjoying a traditional roast lamb dinner

Recipes and Inspiration for Every Market

Here are a few ideas that suit home cooks, caterers, and wholesalers:

  • For Families: Quick midweek lamb stir-fry or lamb meatballs in tomato sauce.

  • For Restaurants: Moroccan lamb tagine with couscous, or lamb sliders for a modern twist.

  • For Wholesale & Catering: Bulk packs of lamb mince and shoulder for curries, school meals, or kebab production.

The campaign encourages sharing recipes online — a valuable way for businesses to connect with consumers and increase engagement.

Lamb chops supplied by Meatex UK

Looking Ahead: The Future of Love Lamb Week

Since its launch, Love Lamb Week has proven the power of collaboration between farmers, butchers, caterers, and consumers. Each year it grows stronger, with more retailers and restaurants joining in.

Looking ahead, the campaign is expected to expand further into digital marketing, export promotion, and education programmes. For wholesalers and foodservice suppliers, that means more opportunities to showcase lamb to both UK and international markets.

Join the Celebration

Love Lamb Week is more than a date in the farming calendar. It’s a celebration of taste, sustainability, and community. Whether you’re a farmer proud of your flock, a butcher keen to showcase local produce, a wholesaler seeking seasonal opportunities, or a consumer looking for a great meal, there’s a way for everyone to take part.

This September, let’s put lamb back at the centre of the table. Support local, cook something new, and join the nationwide celebration of Love Lamb Week.


FAQs

1. When is Love Lamb Week held?
Love Lamb Week runs annually from 1st–7th September, coinciding with peak lamb season in the UK.

2. Why was Love Lamb Week created?
It was started by farmers to raise awareness about British lamb, encourage consumers to buy more, and support sustainable farming practices.

3. How can businesses get involved in Love Lamb Week?
Farmers, butchers, and wholesalers can run promotions, share recipes, tell their stories on social media, and highlight the sustainability of lamb.

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