Consultation launched for future of Standard Quality Quotation (SQQ)
Representatives from the sheep industry are being invited to share their views on whether the most frequently used price measure for prime lambs should be amended.
Representatives from the sheep industry are being invited to share their views on whether the most frequently used price measure for prime lambs should be amended.
Standard Quality Quotation (SQQ) weight bands is an average price for all lambs marketed within predefined weight bands and has been used consistently over many years. Also used as an indication of the ‘target range’ for marketing lambs, the use of SQQ has raised questions whether it is still fit for purpose in the current market place.
Working in collaboration with Hybu Cig Cymru Meat Promotion Wales and Quality Meat Scotland, AHDB Beef & Lamb has launched a consultation to allow members of the sheep industry to share their thoughts through a short survey.
Laura Ryan, Strategy Director at AHDB Beef & Lamb, said: “As lamb production has evolved over recent years, our levy payers have asked us to investigate whether the SQQ weight bands accurately reflect the current market situation”
“If the consultation feedback indicates an industry appetite for change, AHDB are best placed to implement this and report a price that is more representative of modern marketing – ultimately helping our levy payers to make better decisions”
To capture views on the SQQ weight bands, AHDB Beef & Lamb approached a number of auction markets and processors in spring 2017, who offered a range of opinions, with the majority of them suggesting that the SQQ weight bands should be changed. AHDB Beef & Lamb have now worked with experts from HCC and QMS to undertake further analysis and consolidate options for an industry wide consultation.
The survey will be available until 31 December 2017 and the feedback will then be analysed. Results will be available in the New Year and if changes are needed, will be implemented in spring 2018.
For more information on the consultation and to complete the survey visit http://beefandlamb.ahdb.org.uk/markets/consultation-prime-lamb-reporting/
