Upcoming Trade Shows in UK for Livestock & Poultry

The UK livestock and livestock industry experienced notable shifts in 2021, which were provoked by changes in meat production, value fluctuations and persistent challenges. Although challenging, the period allowed for the sector to adapt and respond quickly. In a departure from the trend of the past decade, total meat production in 2021 decreased by 0.8%, reaching 4.1 million tons. While cattle and sheep meat production saw declines, pig meat production rose by 4.0%, offsetting the overall decrease. Poultry, comprising 48% of home-fed meat production, maintained stable levels. The total value of meat surged by 5.9% to £9.1bn. Notably, home-fed pig production witnessed a 2.6% decrease in value due to falling prices. In contrast, the value of cattle and sheep production saw substantial increases of 10% and 12%, respectively, continuing the upward trajectory from 2020. Home-fed pig meat production in 2021 reached its highest level since 1999, totaling 982 thousand tons - a 4.0% increase from 2020. However, lower prices resulted in a 2.6% reduction in its overall value. The average clean pig deadweight price experienced a 7.8% decline to £1.48 per kg, further complicated by a 12% increase in the cost of compound pig feed. The COVID-19 pandemic continued to impact the pig industry due to blockages for export. This led to unexpected excess production across Europe. Hopes for increased exports to China were dampened by their domestic herd recovery post-African Swine Fever outbreaks. As COVID-19 restrictions eased, foreign butchers returned home and concerns arose about accessing seasonal labor. Despite the current situation, slaughter throughput remained above the 5-year average for most of the year, increasing overall by 1.9%. However, a backlog of approximately 200,000 pigs at the year's end prompted difficult decisions for pig farmers. The UK government responded with supportive measures such as temporary visas for butchers and private storage aid.