Retail sales and consumption trends remain largely unchanged this week. High temperatures forecast over the weekend will not alleviate consumption challenges. Even though demand is slow, good quality packing material is moving. Some quality issues are appearing in stores as the season progresses. Demand for the food service sector should continue to improve as we approach peak holiday period. The market for Queens has stabilised and most outlets are transitioning to larger pack sizes.
Across Europe, markets for the old crop remain weak, with few active buyers. Factories are clearing contracts to the best of their ability, but some contracted stocks are now being sent for cattle feed. Stores have generally cleared well but there are still sizeable quantities being retained for July/early August delivery including some free buy. In Scotland the area entered for seed certification is up almost 4%.
