The warning comes as Lynx Purchasing publishes the spring 2026 edition of its regular Market Forecast. The report uses insight from the range of suppliers that Lynx works with, as well as official inflation data, to look at food and drink pricing across the coming months.
Rachel Dobson, managing director of Lynx Purchasing, commented: “There was a widespread freeze across the UK at the start of January. That’s been followed by stormy weather and prolonged rainfall. It all combines to make British producers nervous about the impact on both crops and livestock.
“Produce, from root veg and brassicas to soft fruit and salads, could be delayed and damaged. Equally, the wet weather affects the availability of feed for cattle, while spring lambs are vulnerable to the cold. This is all likely to push up the prices hospitality operators should expect to pay as they plan menus for spring and Easter.”
Areas flagged up in the spring 2026 Lynx Purchasing Market Forecast include:
- Beef: Prices are expected to remain tight across all cuts, and operators should spotlight the high quality and animal welfare standards when promoting British beef.
- Lamb: Offering slow roast and Mediterranean spiced lamb dishes is a way to make the most of less in-demand cuts.
- Fish: Cold winter weather means salmon will be smaller and so more expensive, mackerel will cost more until new quotas start May, while higher labour costs have pushed up prices for crab products.
- Vegetables: Colder weather builds sugar levels in root vegetables including carrots, swede, parsnips and beetroot, adding depth of flavour. Broccoli, kale, and savoy and red cabbage remain good quality menu options.
A free copy of the spring 2026 edition of the Lynx Purchasing can be downloaded from the website at www.lynxpurchasing.co.uk.