PRESS RELEASE
As we approach the festive run, in Farm Stock (Scotland) farmer members have a great opportunity to capitalise on strong Southern European demand for well fleshed lightweight Scottish hill lambs.
A whole lamb is traditionally roasted by many Portuguese, Spanish and Italian families as part of their Christmas feast, in much the same way that British consumers might eat roast Turkey or Goose. The smaller lambs are traditionally favoured as they are small enough to fit in a bread or pizza oven.
Alex Norval who is heading up procurement for Farm Stock explained, “We have a number of processors actively looking for large numbers of lambs 10-16kg deadweight to fulfil orders from now on and specifically for the first fortnight of December 2024.”
He added, “Our producers are delighted that the lamb trade has lifted and specifically we have seen a jump in the demand for these lighter weight lambs, which are favoured by the Southern Europeans at this time of the year”.
Helen Marsden, who actively procures in South West Scotland noted, “It’s really important that farmers draw lambs correctly, with plenty of cover, ideally targeting a 2-3L-3H, to meet the export specification”. She added, “However you market your lambs this December, any producers unsure of the correct requirement should get in touch with their fieldsman to ensure that they maximise their returns”.
