May sheep and lamb slaughter lifts
08 June 2012
The average eastern states weekly lamb slaughter for May, as collected by MLA’s NLRS, increased 13% year-on-year. With the lower prices at physical markets this year, more producers have reportedly locked in contracts to sell direct to works.
Many producers also opted to sell stock before the cold and wintry conditions took effect. As a consequence, processor and supermarket activity in physical markets has not been as strong as previous months, as many have already filled orders.
NSW and Victorian average weekly lamb slaughter both increased, up 2% and 21% year-on-year respectively. Average weekly lamb slaughter in SA lifted 10%, with reports from a number of processors that they are fully booked.
Eastern states average weekly sheep slaughter followed the increasing trend, settling 29% higher year-on-year. NSW recorded the largest average weekly sheep slaughter, up 68%. Lower mutton supplies in May were evident at saleyards, with many producers taking the opportunity to sell direct-to-works, with processors offering a greater return. SA and Victorian sheep slaughter lifted 13% and 29% year-on-year, respectively.