In the latest porcine news alerts for pig farmers and meat distributors across the UK, this year has seen an earlier than expected ease in pig prices relative to previous ones, with improved breeding resulting in heavier animals and the quantity reaching UK abattoirs giving strong clues to the reasons why. 

In a statement issued by Stuart Ashworth, the head of economics services for Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), Mr. Ashworth explained that ‘pig prices tend to show a seasonal profile, in line with other livestock prices.’ With the summer seeing pig prices at their height, they usually start in February, leading to an annual high, around late July/early August. After this period, prices generally fall back over autumn, towards October/November where they continue to run at a low level until the next year.

Higher slaughter weights and an increased number of animals reaching abattoirs are said to be two important factors thought to have contributed to the early fall in price of pig carcasses, with Mr. Ashworth adding:

“This earlier movement in price means that although the producer price remains historically high for the time of year, it's about 3% lower than this time last year.”

The fact that more animals with a greater mass have reached slaughter houses is the biggest reason for the change, hog roast caterers across the UK are certainly not complaining, offering a great chance to increase their revenue without sacrificing on quality or availability.

Lancashire-based catering company The Pendle Pig maintains a keen eye on the daily news and any activity in their industry. A spokesperson for the company responded to the news, saying:

“Hearing that pig prices are easing off early this year is an unexpected bonus for us and other caterers across Britain, as farmers are able to meet our supplier’s demands faster thanks to an increase in slaughter numbers and heavier weights in finishing pigs. In turn our suppliers are able to satisfy their client’s demands whilst having reached their targets easily.

“The cheaper we can purchase from our suppliers, whilst still in our busiest period, means greater profits for the company.”

The Pendle Pig operates across the entire Lancashire region, delivering high quality hog roast services for a range of celebrations, corporate events and informal gatherings. Formed earlier this year, the company is quickly gaining a strong reputation for their quality catering solutions. Visit The Pendle Pig website today at www.hogroastslancashire.co.uk/areas-we-cover for further details.