M&S Invests to Make 100% British Beef and Lamb More Affordable as it Backs British Farmers

M&S Food is making high-quality British meat even better value for customers, with a new investment to make selected family favourite British beef, lamb and pork products more affordable. The investment will see prices of Diced British Beef (500g) fall to £6.00 from £7.00; British Lamb Mince (400g) reduce to £5.60 from £6.20 and British Pork Sausages fall to £2.00 from £2.60.

The investment will make it easier for customers to choose British meat, supporting the farmers who produce it. M&S sources only 100% British beef and lamb and is making this...

ANALYSIS: April 2026 UK Beef Market Overview

Industry reports indicate UK beef production is expected to decline 1.3% year over year (YOY) to 894,000 tonnes in 2026, driven by a significant reduction in cattle numbers and slaughter rates. Similarly, UK beef imports are projected to fall another 1% YOY in 2026. Lower import volumes from the UK's primary supplier, Ireland, are anticipated as domestic supply constraints limit export availability. As a result, the UK is likely to increase imports from alternative suppliers such as Poland, New Zealand, and Australia, supported by favorable market...

ANALYSIS: UK Cattle Supply Expected to Tighten by 2026

UK cattle supplies are expected to decline further in 2026, influenced by the reduced calf registrations observed in 2024 and 2025. Producer confidence remains mixed due to uncertainties about the industry’s future, impacted by policy changes such as farm payment reforms and potential inheritance tax adjustments. These factors might accelerate culling activities if producers decide to downsize or exit production, potentially affecting prime cattle availability at the beginning of 2026.

Expanding the beef herd requires time to cycle through production, suggesting that supply recovery in 2026 may be limited. Market analysts caution...