Up to a third of egg producers are cutting back on production or leaving the industry altogether, due to poor returns. That is according to a new survey of producers by the British Free Range Producers Association (BFREPA), and the reduction in egg supply is leading to shortages in some retailers.
BFREPA said it had surveyed 163 of its members this week, and 33% had either reduced their flock sizes, paused production temporarily or left the industry all together.
“In March we asked for a 40p per dozen rise in egg prices at retail level, and for the additional money to be passed down the chain to producers. While egg prices have risen by about 45p per dozen, many farmers have only received 5-10p of that rise,” said the organisation in a statement.
This week, some egg producers have drawn attention on social media to empty egg shelves in supermarkets, and have blamed retailers for not paying enough.
“Egg producers have been hit with huge hikes in production costs,” said BFREPA. “Feeding hens is now at least 50% more expensive than it was, and energy prices have soared in the same way that consumers have seen their domestic bills rise. Spending on fuel has grown by 30%, while labour and packaging also costs more.
“Many of our members are losing money on every egg laid, and our data shows that even those who are making a small profit do not see a long-term future.
“Fewer hens means fewer eggs and we warned in March that eggs could be in short supply by Christmas. Egg supply naturally tightens at this time of year as businesses and individuals prepare for Christmas, which may be exacerbating the situation. On top of this, avian influenza has resulted in the culling of laying hens too.
“We need to see farmers paid a sustainable price to restore confidence and optimism to the sector.”