The loss of the foodservice market because of the COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating to the American lamb industry. An estimated 40 to 50 percent of American lamb was marketed to dine-in restaurants as well as resorts, cruise ships and other foodservice operations. It is unknown when the foodservice market for lamb will return.
It is estimated the sheep and lamb industry will experience a 25 percent loss in consumer demand in 2020. This loss will translate into significant declines in slaughter and feeder lamb prices during the second, third and fourth quarters of 2020.