Support Urged for Last Remaining Small Abattoir in Sussex

Downland Traditional Meats Limited, based in Henfield, West Sussex, welcomed Andrew Griffith MP recently as the Arundel and South Downs representative visited the region’s last remaining small abattoir to discuss the growing challenges facing the sector.

Griffith met with owner Luke Smith – a farmer who manages 2,000 acres, 70 native breed cattle and 700 breeding ewes – to better understand what is needed to keep vital infrastructure like this alive in the UK’s food supply chain.

Following the recent closures of Tottingworth in East Sussex and Turners in Farnborough, Downland is now the sole small abattoir left operating in the South East. With farmers now travelling significantly further for slaughter and processing services, Downland has been forced to dramatically increase its throughput, putting further strain on already limited resources.

Mounting Operational Pressures

Running a small abattoir has become increasingly difficult, and Downland is no exception. Key challenges include:

• Rising veterinary and inspection costs, with steep increases in fees for official vets and meat hygiene inspectors

• Environmental compliance pressures, with changes to waste removal rules from the Environment Agency at the start of the year

• Lack of skilled labour, making staffing difficult and expensive

• Short-term lease, preventing access to finance or loans needed to upgrade ageing equipment

• Collapse of secondary by-product markets, such as hides and sheepskin, removing a valuable income stream

These headwinds are compounding financial strain at a time when demand for local, traceable, and sustainable meat is rising. Small abattoirs like Downland play a unique role in supporting native and rare breeds, many of which are not accepted by large-scale processors.

Call for Action

During the visit, Griffith expressed his concern for the future of the industry:

“I am grateful to Luke Smith for taking the time to show me around his Downland Traditional Meat facility. There is a real crisis here for local farmers trying to supply local, sustainable, British meat and are dependent on parts of the supply chain that aren’t making money and are not able to get the sort of investment that they need to stay up with modern standards.

The government must continue the Smaller Abattoir Fund, which was set up by the last government, and ensure it is fair and accessible.”

Original source: Sussex World

UK Food Inflation Hits Annual High as Beef Prices Surge

UK food inflation has reached its highest annual rate since May 2024, with rising costs for beef and fresh produce identified as key drivers, according to recent industry data. A prominent steakhouse chain co-founder has highlighted a significant increase in the price of beef, impacting the broader food sector.

Figures released by the British Retail Consortium (BRC), which represents major supermarkets and retailers, indicate that food prices climbed by 2.8% in the year to May. This marks the highest annual rate since May 2024, when food inflation stood at 3.2%.

Industry experts in agriculture point to a combination of strong consumer demand and constrained supply, partly attributed to a lack of government support for production, as primary factors behind the particular surge in beef prices.

Tomas Maunier, co-founder of the Brazilian-inspired steakhouse chain Fazenda, operating eight restaurants across the UK, described the current climate for the meat industry as “tough times.” He revealed that while his firm has absorbed the majority of increased operational costs, approximately 2% has been passed on to customers.

“Beef, specifically, has seen its cost rise by around 20% over the last 12 months, with a substantial portion of that increase occurring in the past six,” Mr. Maunier stated. He also noted that escalating production expenses and the increase in the national minimum wage are contributing to the overall cost burden, which ultimately affects consumers.

Nick Allen, Chief Executive of the British Meat Processors Association (BMPA), commented that intense competition among supermarkets had previously helped to suppress beef prices. He suggested it was inevitable that these rising farm-gate costs would eventually reach shoppers. “It’s no surprise. The farm price for beef has been consistently climbing to record levels,” Mr. Allen explained, cautioning that the industry faces a “real struggle” to meet demand. He further argued that government schemes have, in his view, prioritised environmental initiatives over direct production support.

Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the BRC, acknowledged that consumers of red meat “may have noticed their steak got a little more expensive” in recent times.

From the farming perspective, Jilly Greed, a fourth-generation arable farmer and suckler beef producer in Devon, underscored the fundamental economics at play. “It is entirely the maths – it’s about supply and demand,” she told the BBC. Ms. Greed elaborated that a “5% shortfall in cattle on the land,” coupled with a “1% increase in consumer demand,” has combined to drive the current price increases.

The ripple effect of these higher base product costs is impacting the entire supply chain. As Mr. Allen observed, “The base product is the highest it’s ever been, and sooner or later that has to filter through to the consumer.” The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), funded by farmers and growers, has also noted that UK cattle prices have been rising at “unprecedented levels” since early 2025. While some of this rise is being passed on to shoppers, AHDB’s latest beef market update indicates that not all of the increased cost is currently being transferred.

Original source: BBC News

Integrated Beef Schemes: A Guide to What’s Available and How They Benefit UK Farmers

UK – [May 27, 2025] – As dairy beef continues to grow its share of prime cattle slaughter in Great Britain, integrated beef schemes are becoming an increasingly vital component of the supply chain. These programmes link dairy farmers, beef producers, retailers, and processors, offering significant benefits such as guaranteed minimum prices, financial security, and streamlined operations.

Integrated beef schemes are designed to provide a reliable home for dairy-bred calves, ensuring a consistent supply for the beef market while offering farmers the stability of forward contracts and more accurate budgeting. Some even extend to integrated lending and fixed forward prices to assist with cash flow.

Here’s a look at some of the prominent integrated beef schemes operating across Britain:

• Elite Beef Scheme (Woodhead Bros, Myton Food Group): Relaunched in 2022, this scheme, in partnership with Buitelaar Group, involves 140 grower/finisher farms. Woodhead Bros retains ownership on growing farms, while grower-finisher cattle can be farmer-owned with company financing. Payments are linked to the UK weekly standard base price, with a guaranteed minimum price, and bonuses are based on the standard EUROP grid.
• Koyu Wagyu: A newer scheme aiming for “premium prices for premium beef,” Koyu Wagyu seeks dairy farms to supply calves, as well as rearers, growers, and finishers. Dairy farmers receive a fixed price per calf. Funding is offered via Oxbury, with farmers guaranteed a premium above the base price, plus an additional bonus for marbling.
• Warrendale Wagyu: Now in its eighth year, Warrendale Wagyu works with 1,000 UK farmers. Dairy farmers use Wagyu sires supplied by Genus and receive a payment per calf plus a premium at slaughter. Farmers own the animals, with finance options available, and prices are reviewed every six months based on a cost-of-production model, including a base price for finishers that increases with marbling scores.
• Meadow Quality Beef Scheme: Launched by the farmer-owned co-operative Meadow Quality (MQ), this scheme offers flexibility, allowing farmers to choose when to sell animals back through MQ (e.g., as forward stores or at finishing). While farmers purchase animals, MQ has partnered with Oxbury for finance options. The scheme primarily uses British Blue and Aberdeen-Angus sired dairy crosses.
• ABP Gamechanger: In its seventh year, this exclusive partnership between processor ABP and Sainsbury’s focuses solely on Aberdeen Angus beef. Calf prices are reviewed monthly, with dairy farmers receiving a fixed forward price. ABP owns calves at the rearing farm, paying rearers a management fee, while finishers purchase weaned calves with finance options. Cattle must be fed predominately grass or forage-based diets.

These schemes collectively highlight the evolving landscape of beef production, offering structured pathways designed to improve efficiency, traceability, and financial predictability across the supply chain, from calf to consumer.

Original source: Farmers Weekly 

Red Dragon Porc: Welsh Pig Farmers Unite to Boost Local Pork Value

A new co-operative, Red Dragon Porc Cyf, has been established by eight pig farmers from Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire in partnership with Fishguard-based butcher and meat processor Martyn Lloyd. This initiative aims to enhance the value of locally produced pork by reducing food miles, improving animal welfare, and increasing producer margins.

The collaboration was facilitated by Farming Connect’s Agrisgôp programme, which brings together farmers to develop business ideas and build confidence through action learning. The co-operative allows pork from herds born and reared within the region to be processed at a new low-throughput abattoir on the Lloyds’ farm at Cilshafe, significantly reducing transportation distances and stress on the animals.

Martyn Lloyd, who had struggled to source low food miles pork for his customers, saw the development of the abattoir as a solution. “We could get beef and lamb and we have our own poultry, but what we were missing was pork. We did our best to find Welsh pork for customers, but that pork came with a lot of food miles, and that doesn’t fit with our business ethos,” he explained.

The co-operative has already seen success, marketing £43,000 worth of pork by the end of 2024, including award-winning sausages at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair. The new abattoir has created four full-time jobs, with potential for more as sales grow.

Will Kerr, one of the co-operative members, noted the benefits of the collaboration. “As a group, we are more powerful. It gives us many advantages, and we are already getting a better price for our pigs,” he said. Kerr, who runs six Welsh pig breeding sows alongside beef and sheep enterprises, had previously faced challenges in marketing his pork individually.

Another member, Ed Walker, who produces around 600 pigs a year on an outdoor system at his 46-acre Model Farm near Tenby, highlighted the value of collective marketing. “As eight producers, we are on a par with commercial farmers as we can offer consistency of supply, but we are still individual small producers too,” he said.

Red Dragon Porc Cyf is now accepting new members and plans to expand to other areas over the next few years. The co-operative meets regularly, fostering collaboration and shared values among its members.

Original source: Wales247

South East’s Last Small Abattoirs Face Uncertain Future Amidst Rising Costs and Workforce Shortages

The owner of one of the South East’s few remaining small abattoirs has voiced significant apprehension regarding the long-term viability of the sector, citing increasing financial pressures and a challenging workforce landscape.

Luke Smith, who operates Down Land Traditional Meats in Henfield, West Sussex, has warned that without enhanced government financial assistance, his slaughterhouse faces an uphill battle for survival. Such a closure would have a direct impact on local farmers who supply independent butchers and farm shops rather than larger supermarket chains.

A key concern is the escalating cost of animal waste disposal, which has surged to an alarming £5,000 per week. Compounding this financial strain is an ageing workforce; Mr. Smith revealed the average age of a slaughterman is currently 63, with limited interest from younger generations in entering the profession.

“The abattoir itself is currently operating at a loss,” Mr. Smith explained, adding that his wholesale butchery operation is presently sustaining the wider business. “We are in urgent need of support and funding to continue.”

The challenging environment for small abattoirs is reflected in broader industry trends. The number of abattoirs across the UK has plummeted dramatically from approximately 2,500 in the 1970s to just 203 by 2023. Specifically, smaller facilities in England saw their numbers decline from 64 in 2019 to 49 by 2023, with five more closures reported in 2024 alone.

Local farmer Edward Perrett, from Ditchling, West Sussex, who relies on Down Land Traditional Meats for his farm shop’s supply, underscored the importance of nearby processing facilities. “Having a short journey to an abattoir is beneficial for animal welfare and helps manage costs,” Mr. Perrett stated, expressing concern that the abattoir’s closure would significantly complicate his operations.

The plight of small abattoirs has garnered political attention. Andrew Griffith, Conservative MP for Arundel and South Downs, voiced his backing for Mr. Smith, describing the issue as a “real crisis” in a “vital, sometimes neglected part of our food supply chain.” He suggested that while previous government grants were helpful, more substantial support and a reduction in bureaucratic hurdles are required.

Responding to the concerns, a spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) affirmed the government’s commitment to the meat processing sector. They acknowledged the “vital contribution” of small abattoirs to maintaining a resilient food supply chain and their role in offering a competitive market route for producers of rare and native breeds. DEFRA highlighted an ongoing £5 billion investment in farming, touted as the largest ever budget for sustainable food production, alongside reforms aimed at boosting farmers’ profits and unlocking rural growth.

Original source: BBC News

Irish Beef Trade: Factory Quotes Show More Positive Trend Amidst Tight Supply

IRELAND –  (May 26, 2025) – The Irish beef cattle trade is exhibiting a more positive trend this week, with some processors increasing their price offerings despite many holding steady. A noticeable variation in bull prices has emerged, reflecting the ongoing scarcity of factory-fit cattle.

According to Agriland.ie’s latest report on May 26, 2025, while most beef processors maintained price offers similar to last week, certain outlets have raised their bids. Notably, there’s a significant difference of up to 40c/kg within grades for under-24-month bulls across various outlets.

Current factory quotes for steers (bullocks) range from €7.50-€7.60/kg on the grid, with heifers generally fetching €7.60-€7.70/kg. Breed bonuses continue to be a factor, with Angus eligible cattle receiving up to 30c/kg, and Hereford bonuses typically between 20-25c/kg, despite the official conclusion of the Irish Hereford Prime pre-booked bonus last week.

Beef procurement staff are acutely aware of an impending shortage of cattle. Favourable weather conditions and strong trade earlier in the year led to more cattle being brought forward for slaughter ahead of schedule. While the long-term impact on supplies for the latter half of the year remains to be seen, all current indicators point towards a tight supply.

Cow prices largely remain consistent with last week, though some previously lower-paying outlets have upped their offers. Generally, ‘U’ grade cows are quoted at €7.40-€7.50/kg, ‘R’ grade at €7.20-€7.30/kg, ‘O’ grade at €6.90/kg, and well-fleshed ‘P’ grade cows at €6.80/kg.

For bulls, price quotes for under-24-month animals show considerable variation. However, stronger buyers are offering up to €8.00/kg for ‘U’ grade bulls and €7.90/kg for ‘R’ grade bulls. ‘O’ grade bulls are quoted at €7.70/kg and ‘P’ grade bulls at €7.60/kg. Under-16-month bulls are being quoted at up to €7.70/kg on the grid.

Processors appear to be striving for price stability, but the prevailing tight supply conditions are, in reality, exerting upward pressure on prices paid, as evidenced by official price trends.

Original source: Agriland 

HCC Seeks Industry Input for Vision 2030

Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), the red meat levy board, is actively engaging with levy-payers to inform its crucial new strategic document, “Vision 2030.” This comprehensive plan will set the organization’s priorities and guide its support for the Welsh red meat industry over the next four years.

To gather vital industry perspectives, HCC has launched an online survey, accessible to all levy-payers. The survey, which went live on Monday, May 20, 2025, will remain open until Friday, July 25, 2025.

José Peralta, Chief Executive of HCC, underscored the significance of this consultation. “HCC’s strategic purpose, underpinned by the Red Meat Industry (Wales) Measure 2010, comes from its vision document. As we look towards the culmination of the current vision, we must also plan for the next,” he stated. “I have met with a number of key stakeholder groups in recent weeks to start this important discussion. The survey is the next step to gather industry views on the industry’s challenges and priorities, and what HCC can do to support it.”

The online survey is a key component of a wider engagement initiative planned throughout 2025. This extensive outreach will also include direct meetings and HCC’s attendance at various livestock markets and industry events across Wales. The first of these direct engagements took place at NSA Welsh Sheep at Tregoyd Farm, Brecon, on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, where HCC representatives were available to discuss industry concerns and opportunities.

HCC urges all levy-payers to participate actively in this process. “Our survey will form part of a wider engagement plan delivered throughout 2025,” Peralta explained. “We would ask levy payers to come and talk to us at forthcoming events, or fill the online survey to make your views heard. It is vital that stakeholders from across Wales contribute to the process so that HCC is fully informed of the complex challenges within our industry.”

By providing your insights, you can directly influence the strategic direction of HCC and help shape a resilient and prosperous future for the Welsh red meat sector.

Click here to access the HCC Vision 2030 survey: https://hcc.wales/en/news/hcc-to-consult-on-future-strategic-direction

Original source: HYBU CIG CYMRU

China and Other Nations Reject In-Transit Brazilian Chicken Cargoes Over Bird Flu

Brazil’s poultry industry is facing immediate logistical and financial challenges as countries, including China, are rejecting chicken consignments already in transit following the confirmation of Brazil’s first bird flu outbreak on a commercial farm.

Ricardo Santin, president of the Brazilian meat lobby ABPA, stated on Tuesday that the rejection of these cargoes, representing 39% of the global chicken trade, will vary from 14 to 28 days based on the shipment date and the discretion of destination countries’ veterinary services. This situation places major meat processors like BRF SA and JBS SA in a “tight spot,” dealing with increased logistics costs and significant uncertainty.

The outbreak in Montenegro, Rio Grande do Sul state, triggered health protocols leading to rejections from countries such as China, Mexico, and Chile, among others. Santin noted that easing these restrictions for in-transit cargo, particularly from regions distant from the outbreak zone, is a possibility but will necessitate negotiations.

Santin highlighted the difficulty in calculating precise losses due to the varied scope and duration of trade bans, which depend on individual health protocols and ongoing talks with importing nations. He recalled that China had imposed a nationwide ban on Brazilian chicken for approximately three weeks last year following a Newcastle disease case, also in Rio Grande do Sul, before narrowing it to a state-wide restriction.

Original source: Reuters 

Emily Norton Appointed New Chair of AHDB

STONELEIGH, UK – May 21, 2025 The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has announced the appointment of Emily Norton as its new Chair. Ms. Norton takes over the leadership role from Nicholas Saphir, who has completed his tenure.

The appointment marks a significant transition for AHDB, the statutory levy board for the red meat, dairy, cereals and oilseeds, and horticulture sectors in Great Britain. Emily Norton brings a wealth of experience to the position, poised to guide the organisation through its strategic objectives and continued support for the farming and growing industries.

Further details regarding Ms. Norton’s background, vision for AHDB, and the transition process are expected to be elaborated upon by the organisation. Her leadership will be key in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing British agriculture, from sustainability and innovation to market development and producer support.

Original source: AHDB 

The newly announced UK-EU reset deal is being hailed as a transformative moment for Britain’s food industry, with sweeping changes aimed at easing trade frictions and lowering costs for consumers and businesses alike.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the agreement as a “win-win” that restores Britain’s position on the global stage. Among the most impactful provisions are those targeting the food and drink sector, which has faced years of disruption since Brexit.

Key Food Trade Reforms

• Simplified Border Checks: A new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement will remove many routine checks on animal and plant products. This is expected to reduce delays, cut costs, and improve the freshness and availability of goods on both sides of the Channel.
• End of Meat Export Bans: The EU’s longstanding ban on UK exports of sausages, mince, and some other chilled meats—imposed in 2021—will be lifted. This opens the door for British producers to re-enter a vital European market.
• This change is part of a broader veterinary agreement that also reduces red tape and health certification requirements for British food exports. In exchange, the UK has agreed to align with EU sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) rules and grant long-term access to UK fishing waters.
• The lifting of the ban is expected to significantly benefit British meat producers and exporters, reopening a vital European market that had been largely inaccessible for over four years.
• Lower Prices and Greater Choice: With fewer bureaucratic hurdles and faster transit times, retailers anticipate a broader range of products and more competitive pricing for consumers.
• Industry Reaction: Karen Betts, Chief Executive of the Food and Drink Federation, welcomed the deal, noting that Europe remains the UK’s largest customer and supplier. “Trade in both directions has become complex and challenging,” she said. “A high-quality agreement will have clear benefits for consumers and businesses.”

Strategic Importance

The food and drink sector has been one of the hardest hit by post-Brexit trade barriers. Exports to the EU have fallen by a third since 2019, and importers have struggled with rising costs and logistical headaches. The new deal is seen as a vital step toward reversing that trend and restoring confidence in cross-border supply chains.

Retailers and manufacturers are now urging the government to work closely with industry to implement the changes smoothly and ensure the UK has a voice in future EU regulatory decisions that could affect British competitiveness.