Lamb prices started to improve in July 2013. After 12 months of poor prices, lamb prices are now on par with prices received in 2009 and 2010 for this time of year. As illustrated by the 80 -94 pound price graph below, the price dropped to a 5 year low in June, but has rebounded in July and August.
5 Year Average Market Price by Month 80 – 94 lb Lambs
The 5 year average price by month is illustrated for the below 79 lb, 95-109lb and 110lb+ lambs in the graphs below. All categories of lambs except for 110lb+ reached a 5 year price low in June. In the 110+ lambs the 5 year low price was in April. All weight categories show an unusual price curve for the season. Generally price does not increase until September or October after the summer low. It is difficult to predict what prices may do this fall due to the unusual curve. It is expected that there would be continued demand at least until the Eid ul-Adha holiday in mid October.
5 Year Average Market Price by Month Lambs 79 lbs or Less
5 Year Average Market Price by Month 95-109 lb Lambs
5 Year Average Market Price by Month 110+ lb Lambs
Source: The prices on these graphs are weighted average prices for Ontario live market auctions as reported by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Red Meat Information.
