The beef market is ‘worse than it has been in years’ according to the National Beef Association’s national director Chris Mallon.
With the fall in the price of the Euro and large quantities of beef in Ireland, the finished cattle market is going through a tough period with many farmers finding it hard to make a profit.
Chris also pointed blame at the numerous deductions that have been put in place, including penalties for cattle weighing over 400kg.
Chris said that these upper weight limits were making it increasingly hard for farmers to make profit on some cattle.
Chris was speaking at one of the National Beef Roadshow events in Newark that are aimed at discussing with farmers these and other issues the beef sector is facing.
The roadshow, which was visiting six livestock marts between March and May, is also aimed at showing support for the role the marts play in the industry.
Earlier this month, NFU chief livestock adviser John Royle said it was important for the NFU to lobby others to spend money effectively for the good of the beef industry.
“We all need to better understand our roles, what works and how we can all better support the various campaigns & promotional activity.
“We will examine how we can reduce duplication and identify any gaps, find out if through promotion of new and innovative products we can drive consumer demand.
“By working together to better understand how promotional activity is best used on an industry scale, it is hoped we can, help improve returns for the many hard pressed livestock producers who have experienced a difficult year with low farm gate prices and uncertainty within the market.
“We all know that British beef and lamb are quality products. I believe our industry can be more joined up when it comes to promoting red meat to the market place and help secure more sales, both at home and abroad.
“Anything which can showcase British farming and livestock farmers, not just for the food they produce, but for the value the British farming industry adds to the economy, employment and our beautiful and diverse countryside is a step in the right direction.
“We hope this meeting will help bring together those of us with an interest in building a long term sustainable beef and lamb industry to develop ideas that resonate with consumers.”
