Beef industry sees strong demand but faces rising prices

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association reported that mid‑2026 beef demand remains robust in the United States, despite higher input costs and cost‑of‑living pressures on consumers. CEO Colin Woodall said, “As we reach the midpoint of 2026, the beef industry continues to demonstrate strong demand, even as higher input costs and consumer pressures shape purchasing decisions,” and warned that “the increase in cost‑of‑living is causing some consumers to think twice before they make that beef purchase.”

In the United Kingdom, AHDB data showed total beef retail spend up 6.1% year‑on‑year, driven by a 9.7% price increase, while volumes fell 3.2% to 51,156 tonnes. Primary beef volumes declined, but mince held up better, and added‑value products such as sous‑vide grew 10.1%. Processed beef volumes continued to drop. Together, the reports highlight a market where consumer appetite stays high, but price pressures are reshaping purchasing patterns across both countries.