Auction mart throughputs and stock values top £2bn in 2021

Livestock market sales in England and Wales in 2021 broke the £2bn barrier for the first time.

Overall turnover was up by £268m on 2020 levels to total £2.08bn, according to the Livestock Auctioneers’ Association (LAA).

Store and breeding stock accounted for 4.04 million head of total throughput in 2021, while slaughter stock made up the remaining 6.99 million head.

See also: Analysis: How livestock auctions fit in today’s meat markets

Chris Dodds, LAA executive secretary said: “The live sales system is working on behalf of not only the producer, but also the retailer and the consumer, by ensuring quality, home-produced red meat has been available despite all the challenges through both Brexit and the global pandemic.”

“Trade has been buoyant throughout the year for all types, while at the same time we have seen forward contracts and integrated supply chains fail across the agricultural sector.

“Supply and demand are key to everything, and when there has been a global lack of sheepmeat worldwide, for example, the markets need to adjust accordingly. The dynamic nature of the live sales system allows us to react as an industry, working on behalf of the farmer to secure the best price for their stock.”

Mr Dodds believes the past two years have re-emphasised the importance of the live sale ring and have provided a platform to present and sell stock at a fair market price.

“Despite the dual challenges of Brexit and a global pandemic, the livestock markets of England and Wales have maintained competitive trade throughout, and this has been reflected in the record prices achieved,” he said.