Published in the Jameson Journal, July 2026

With prices at their highest levels for over two years, the lamb trade is one of the leading prices on farm at the moment.

Tight supplies, strong exports, and exceptional seasonal demand have kept prices elevated over the last few months.

Abattoirs have been paying in excess of 940p/kg for top-quality spring lambs, while hoggs have been selling for up to 900p/kg. In local auction marts, tight-skinned continental spring lambs have made more than £193 per head.

Hogg prices lifted before Easter, and the period between Easter and Qurbani was exceptional. Lambs have been slower to come to the market, with lambing on most farms now appearing to be getting pushed back to April. Supplies remain tight, with GB estimated weekly throughput down by 17% year on year to roughly 165,000 head in mid-May.

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) production figures also indicate that supplies were stretched during April, with total lamb production down by 10% on the year to 21,000 tonnes.

Strong demand supporting the market

Demand for lamb has been strong in the run-up to the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha, which includes the Qurbani feast. The lead up to these festivals is now a key driver for prices.

Looking ahead, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) forecasts 2026/27 to be 2% lower year on year, with slightly fewer ewes being lambed. This should help support prices in the coming months.

Export demand driving confidence

Europe remains one of the UK’s largest export markets for sheep meat. The EU’s sheep flock has been steadily declining, with a further 5% reduction estimated compared with last year.

UK lamb appears to be priced competitively, and tight supplies in European markets are improving the UK’s export opportunities, particularly in France and Belgium.

Further afield, the US also presents a significant opportunity for lamb exports. Lamb prices there are at a record high, with demand reported to be up 6% and prices increasing by more than 50% in the last year. While the UK is yet to fully establish its place in the American market, the potential remains considerable.

Overall, the outlook for lamb production in the UK going forward is extremely positive.

For help and advice on lamb rearing, call 01765 689666.