Ranger Magazine

May 2019

Despite the seasonal increase in consumption over the Easter period, we are still reporting expansion outstripping demand offsetting any seasonal benefits.

Large eggs are still the buzzword, although some retailers have been putting more emphasis on selling medium and mixed weight eggs.

It is a fine balancing act that we tread in making consumers aware of a hens’ laying cycle in relation to egg sizes. Over 40% of eggs laid are large or very large and with retailers demand for these grades being so strong, the large egg price has held firm whilst the medium egg price has been under constant pressure, having reduced by 10% over the last 10 months.

We are trying to raise awareness of other sizes without reducing the demand for large.

April 2019

The market has tightened somewhat with mediums being one of the main beneficiaries. I hope this indicates a balance in the market and not just a temporary respite leading up to Easter.

I asked the Ranger if we could reformat the statistics at the back of the Ranger. Whilst the information is all there for a producer to analyse, I think it is important to understand the trends and be able to glance at the statistics and get an immediate overview of the market.

Our introduction to Kantar and the rolling five-year data now available in the Ranger clearly shows the growth of free range and where that growth is being driven. Whilst all egg is in growth with all retailers, free range is the main beneficiary with discounters such as Aldi and Lidl leading the way.

March 2019

The BFREPA Awards Dinner and Conference is now confirmed at the NEC, Birmingham on the 14th and 15th October. 

The new venue allows both events to be staged together with enough capacity for accommodation for those members attending both. We will announce details of tables and rooms in the coming weeks.

We have commissioned ADAS to prepare a report on Improving the Value and Sustainability of Laying Hen Manure, the results of which will be published at the Industry Seminar in the Cotswolds on the 23rd May. The report will cover spreading of manure on land and alternative uses of manure. The event will be made available to those not attending the seminar, and the details will be in the next available Ranger.

The seminar in the Cotswolds, for over 100 members, was sold out within days of being released. Those fortunate enough to subscribe to the event will receive their invitations over the next few weeks.