The Impact of Seasonal Demand on Live Lobster Prices

In the latest episode of The Market Current, Ben Fisher, senior price reporter at Undercurrent, provides an insightful analysis of the current drivers behind live lobster demand. This season, Fisher delves into the factors affecting pricing and market fluctuations, highlighting how recent trends are shaping the industry.

Valentine’s Day Demand and Its Effects

As Valentine’s Day approaches, the seasonal demand for live lobster has significantly influenced prices. Fisher notes that the combination of consumer interest during this holiday and adverse fishing conditions in the North Atlantic has led to increased costs for this seafood delicacy. The limited supply results in market pressures that could ripple through the industry.

Chinese Demand During Lunar New Year

Another pivotal factor in the live lobster pricing landscape is the impact of Chinese demand associated with the Lunar New Year. Fisher utilizes UCN‘s global trade platform to illustrate how these cultural festivities can further strain supply chains and elevate prices. Understanding these demand dynamics is crucial for stakeholders in the seafood market.

Upcoming Milestones for Live Lobster Assessment

As UCN‘s live lobster assessment rapidly approaches its one-year anniversary, it is set to join the ranks of frozen lobster tails and frozen lobster meat in the agency’s comprehensive US wholesale lobster assessment offerings. Launched in week 14 of 2025, this assessment aims to provide valuable year-on-year price changes along with indicators for 52-week highs and lows.

The Value of End-to-End Visibility

Fisher emphasizes one of the key advantages of UCN‘s price reporting agency (PRA) model: end-to-end visibility across the supply chain, starting from raw material at its origin to wholesale pricing in the United States. This approach, showcased through dynamic charts and a suite of data tools available in UCN‘s price and trade portals, exemplifies the measurable intelligence that industry players can leverage during pricing decisions.

Watch the Episode

To gain further insights into these pressing topics, you can watch the episode here:

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