The British beef market was top of the agenda when the NFU livestock board met today.
Discussions centred on the present market situation and the need for continued commitment to British beef by the whole supply chain going into 2011. NFU livestock board chairman Alistair Mackintosh welcomed the present price rise but warned it must continue. He said the industry couldn’t afford a repeat of 2010 where prices have fallen consistently below the cost of production.
“The price volatility of the current pricing situation has been down to an oversupply of domestic cattle, heavier cattle on the market and oversupply from Ireland,” said Mr Mackintosh. “However, after a meeting with the Irish Farmers Association, it is apparent that this situation is changing. It is clear they are facing increasing production costs and a fall in cattle numbers, which is combining with the current economic crisis. What this shows is that there is not going to be an abundant supply of Irish cattle next year.
“With this in mind retailers and processors need to give the right signals to British producers for them to have confidence in a secure domestic supply. This is especially important as we head into 2011 and see production costs continue to rise. It is essential that beef producers start to see a profitable price for their cattle.
“The NFU will continue to stress the need for retailers to commit to stocking British beef; especially as supplies from Ireland and South American can never be guaranteed.”
No comments have been made.