Orion Farming Monthly Newsletter September 2026
We are still waiting for significant rain so that we can all get going. These dry conditions have been frustrating for everyone, but one thing is certain: they will change and it will rain. We just do not know when, or for how long.
Seed buying has been full steam ahead, with many members choosing older, more reliable varieties over newer options. Oilseed rape seed demand is higher than last year. If you are going to order, it is best not to delay, as some of the newer varieties are already selling out.
Stuart Goodinson - General Manager OFG
FERTILISER MARKET UPDATE
With fewer than 90 working days remaining until 18 December, and even fewer delivery days available for new orders, the window to secure nitrogen fertiliser and get it onto farm is narrowing rapidly. Delaying purchases increases the risk of a significant supply bottleneck ahead of the spring application season.
The UK Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is due to come into effect on 1 January 2027. Nationally, we expect farmers to try to avoid the additional tax by placing orders and taking delivery in October, November or December. This could pull a substantial portion of January to March demand forward, further intensifying an already tight nitrogen fertiliser supply situation.
If you have not already done so, it may be sensible to secure orders now.
SOLAR POWER
If you are considering solar to reduce exposure to global electricity price spikes, we recommend speaking with Mypower. Its agricultural division understands farming businesses and has helped local farmers.
Mypower will exhibit its solar PV and battery storage solutions at the Moreton Show on Saturday 5 September marking its 14th year supporting the event. Neil Stott and the team will be available throughout the day discuss how solar PV, battery storage and related technologies can help farming businesses reduce energy costs and improve long-term energy resilience.
www.mypoweruk.com / 01242 62089
WEEKLY UPDATES
Our separate fuel and straights updates are being combined into one weekly bulletin, with brief news from the chemical, seed and fertiliser desks also included.
ELECTRICITY
When your electricity contract is next due for renewal, please get in touch. Orion has favourable terms with npower and will be happy to help.
Quotes can be difficult to compare because suppliers include different costs or alter estimated usage. Please do not get caught out by a headline total that is not truly comparable.
FEED & LIVESTOCK
MOLASSES: PLAN AHEAD FOR WINTER The summer period for molasses finishes at the end of September. If you are in a position to do so, it may be sensible to fill your tank. Last winter's prices were between £10 and £20 per tonne higher than summer prices, mainly for the following reasons:
OCEAN FREIGHT This has had the largest and quickest impact on molasses prices. Freight has increased by $30 to $50 per tonne since the start of the Gulf conflict, driven by fuel bunkering costs, insurance and freight demand.
INTERNATIONAL MOLASSES PRICES As oil prices increase, biofuel alternatives such as bioethanol become more valuable. Because molasses is a major feedstock, bioethanol producers can pay more and drive up global market prices.
OTHER RAW MATERIALS The situation affects all key feed materials. Urea has risen by more than 50% since hostilities began, pushing fertiliser prices higher and potentially affecting crop usage and yields.
CURRENCY Molasses is traded in US dollars. Sterling moved from around £/$1.36 to as low as £/$1.32 in less than three months, creating roughly a £10 per tonne difference on its own.
UK TRUCKING COSTS Rising fuel prices are also increasing local transport costs. Hauliers have added fuel surcharges of up to 12%, translating into an increase of almost £5 per tonne.
Over the summer there has been no significant improvement in the geopolitical situation, so there remains potential for a further price increase.
GLW UPDATE The Feed & Livestock Committee met GLW representatives in August to review progress and ongoing developments. GLW has covered 100% of the Group's raw materials through to March 2027. It can also supply citrus pulp and pressed pulp, although pressed pulp tonnage may be limited by this year's crop. Availability will therefore be on a first come, first served basis for members in the south. If either product could augment your winter ration, please contact the office for a firm price.
TRAFFORD GOLD The Group's Trafford Gold contract has moved from KW to Duynie. Prices change monthly, but significant savings can be made on clamp loads. Please contact the office for a firm price.
TOTALLY IRRELEVANT, BUT QUITE INTERESTING...
The Royal New Zealand Air Force uses the flightless kiwi as its logo. Tomatoes were grown purely as ornamental plants in Europe for 200 years after they arrived.
