Prices increase as weather brews trouble for malting barley supplies

Malting barley premiums continue to soar to record highs in Europe, as the cold weather ensures cereal output remains low.

Prices now stand at around five times last year’s averages.

Brewing sector consultants RMI Analytics says prices will continue to rise. Citing French prices of €50-to-€55 a tonne, RMI estimates the European average at around €35 to €40 a tonne for barley. The French premium relates to malting barley rather than feed grain.