Strong demand for N.Z. lamb

Press, 21 November 1987, Page 31

Strong demand for N.Z. lamb

PA Wellington New Zealand lamb has been in good demand in Britain this week with particular emphasis on light weight carcases which are in short supply, the Meat Board says. Interest in carcases from the cutting-packaging sector is diminishing because of a need to prepare other meats for the Christmas trade, the board says. On the Smithfield market this week, New Zealand pl grade lambs have been quoted at 56-58 p a pound (NZ352-364C a kg). “The market continued in brisk form this week, with demand for most meats reported as good,” the board’s weekly report says. Pork and poultry has had a steady offtake with the retail sector awaiting the annual announcement of the ovenready turkey price from the supermarket trade, it adds. Domestic beef prices on Smithfield have consolidated at last week’s higher levels and in the same instances further advances were made. Domestic lamb at live auction eased in value over

the week’s trade by 2-3 p a pound, achieving an average level of 85.9 p a pound, 9-10 p higher than the average for the corresponding year last year.

Exports to France are seen as the main reason for the strength of prices at present The board says the United States market for imported manufacturing beef was firm again this week. Bull and cow beef prices increased US2c and USlc to 108 c and 106 c a pound cif respectively for January arrival (NZ3BIC and NZ374c a kg respectively). However very little meat has been available for trading, the board says. The domestic beef market has also firmed. “Further indications are that the increased volumes of turkey available this year will be disposed of by Thanksgiving and will not be a drag on meat sales after that event” Recent reported increases in farm prices are regarded as a sign of confidence in the future of beef with domestic consumers reacting positively z to the U.S. Lamb Promotion' Council’s “Check-off’ programme.