Beef

August 2026

• Finished cattle prices are recovering week-on-week, with deadweight steer prices averaging 605p/kg in the week ending 25 July. Firmer prices have also encouraged higher throughput, following a period of reduced prime cattle slaughter during the initial heatwave.

• Strong demand is continuing to underpin the beef calf market, with prices expected to hold firm until the end of August, when autumn-calving herds begin to increase supply. Auctioneers across the country are reporting prices of up to £700 per head for good quality beef calves. Concerns have been raised over the long-term sustainability of these prices, which are now no longer in line with finished product values. 

• In Scotland, after several months of decline, beef prices appear to be stabilising at around 600p/kg deadweight. Scottish R4L prices rose to 597p/kg dwt in late June. Liveweight trade has also strengthened, with auctioneers reporting increased demand and firmer prices in the ring.

• The UK and Switzerland have agreed an updated Free Trade Agreement, which will provide improved market access for several key UK agricultural sectors. UK beef producers will see a 35% reduction in export tariffs on fresh boneless beef, while most lamb exports will be able to enter the Swiss market tariff-free.

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