Poor ground conditions in parts of the west and northwest resulted in higher entries at sales over last week, but with lower rainfall, the pressure to move stock is easing. As a result, some areas saw a slightly weaker trade over the weekend.

However, in the main prices are firm to slightly improved on last week. While weanlings are seeing the best trade, forward bullocks and heifers are said to be good also. Average prices are about €30/head to €40/head back on the same time last year for bullocks, while heifers are holding well with forward types on par with last year.

While factories are still putting pressure on to ease beef prices, factory feedlot buyers are in most cases absent from the ringside. The easing of beef prices has had some effect, particularly on forward types, but the cattle most affected are those that will not finish under 30 months. Where age is an issue, prices are running at least €100/head behind in-spec stock.

Steers

U grade slaughter-fit and short-keep bullocks over 600kg remain a strong trade and are selling from €2.20/kg to €2.35/kg or from €1,300/head to €1,400/head. Forward stores from 500kg to 600kg saw prices recover from the hit taken last week. The average 550kg bullock sold for €1,150, with top-quality lots making around €1,300/head. The number stores from 400kg to 500kg on offer is increasing and these have been a steady trade. The average 450kg steer is making €960 with U grades making over €1120/head.

Heifers

The heifer trade has held steady in the past week. While lighter store heifers from 400kg to 500kg are seeing prices run about €20 to €30 behind the same week last year, heavier types are steady and prices are even with the same week last year. The average 550kg heifer is making €1,145, while better-quality types are making up to €1,280/head. The number of short-keep heifers on offer is increasing from a low base and prices are ranging mainly from €1,200 to €1,400 depending on quality.

Weanlings

The weanling trade has held firm. Feeders are active for bulls over 400kg, with the majority of demand for better-quality types capable of feeding into a U or U+. Again, age is key, with feeders focusing on bulls about a year old or younger. Prices are ranging mainly from €2.40/kg to €2.60/kg for these. Weanling heifer and bull prices are running on par with the same time last year, with farmers and exporters the main source of demand.

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