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Consumer Demand Remains High For Beef

When retail prices for any consumer product reach record-high levels, a corresponding drop in demand usually materializes in short order. However, according to CoBank, beef seems to be one of the exceptions. While retail beef prices have risen sharply in recent years, demand has not softened. In fact, USDA data shows the all-fresh retail beef demand index climbed to its highest level in at least 25 years during the second quarter.

New research from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange indicates this likely is a result of several factors currently shaping consumer food-buying behaviors.

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CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

Video: CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

CEOs of the Industry, Jim sits down with John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems, one of the most quietly impressive 26,000-sow operations in the U.S. John shares how he grew from operator to partner, how Pike built a people-first culture with long-tenured managers, and why they’re committed to weaning bigger, stronger pigs at 25+ days.

John breaks down how Pike stays efficient in a tough economic environment, the power of their shareholder-owned farm model, and how their work with PIC and a 240-head boar facility drives genetics and health outcomes. He also opens up about the innovations Pike adopts — and how they decide what’s truly valuable versus industry hype.

From Prop 12 and labor challenges to trade, consumer expectations, and sustainability, John chooses a hot-button issue and shares how Pike is preparing for the future. The episode closes with a rapid-fire “Fast Five” — mindset, leadership, daily habits, and three words that define Pike Pig Systems in 2025.

If you want a look inside a people-driven, purpose-driven, quietly elite pork system, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.