HYBU Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) has welcomed a report which highlights the benefits of livestock markets to the rural economy.

The report, compiled by independent analyst Sean Rickard for the Livestock Auctioneers Association (LAA), asserts that markets across England and Wales contribute a total of £3.42 billion to the local economy when indirect expenditure is included, and found that they provide employment for over 3,000 people.

HCC works with Welsh livestock markets to provide insight to guide the business decisions of Welsh farmers.

Up-to-date prices from over 20 Welsh markets are available on the markets hub on the HCC website, along with averages and comparisons with historic prices.

Data is also available via text and social media.

John Richards, HCC’s industry development and relations manager, said: “We know that livestock markets make a huge contribution to the rural economy, both directly and in supporting a range of allied businesses.

“This report is very welcome in that it quantifies that benefit, as well as highlighting the other benefits that they bring – in helping farmers to identify supply and demand factors, and as social and cultural hubs.

“HCC has worked closely with our partners in the livestock market sector, in driving forward such issues as traceability as well as in gathering vital market data.

“A thriving mart sector is good for the red meat industry, and the rural economy as a whole.”