British lamb prices have risen sharply. Consumers ask, “Why is lamb so expensive?” Many factors drive this increase. Demand is up. Weather is bad. Disease impacts supply. Imports face issues.
Rising Demand for Lamb
UK lamb demand rose 8% recently. Cultural and religious events boost sales. Easter and Eid see high consumption. French buyers compete for British lamb. This drives up domestic prices.
Adverse Weather Conditions
Cold and wet weather hurt lamb production. Lamb mortality rates rose early in the season. These conditions cut the British lamb supply. This leads to higher market prices.
Disease Outbreaks
The Schmallenberg virus hit sheep populations. Areas affected include southern England and Wales. The virus reduced lamb numbers further. This worsened supply shortages. It impacted market prices.
Import Challenges
New Zealand lamb prices dropped 20%. It costs less than £3 per kg. Australian lamb oversupply caused this. China reduced lamb orders. Red Sea attacks disrupt UK imports. Yemen militants delay shipments. This affects overall supply.
Supermarket Sourcing Strategies
Morrisons trials New Zealand lamb. It ends a seven-year commitment to British lamb. The trial covers 39 stores. Morrisons aims for accessible year-round prices. New Zealand lamb is cheaper to source. Other supermarkets maintain British lamb commitment. Waitrose, M&S, and Co-op stick to British lamb. They may face pressure to change policies. Market dynamics pose challenges.
Impact on Consumers
Consumers face higher lamb product prices. The question “why is lamb so expensive” is valid. Shoppers may change purchasing habits. They might seek alternative protein sources. Price increases affect budgets.
Future Outlook
The UK lamb market will stay volatile. Producers, retailers, and consumers must adapt. They must balance demand and supply. They must manage pricing pressures. Understanding cost drivers is key. All stakeholders need to stay informed.