The past week has seen numbers and demand increase at ringsides across the country. Martwatch data shows that, where continental cattle are coming to the fore, prices are steady. However, in areas of a stronger dairy influence, and where there are lesser quality cattle, prices continue to be weak.
The past week has seen numbers and demand increase at ringsides across the country. Martwatch data shows that, where continental cattle are coming to the fore, prices are steady.
However, in areas of a stronger dairy influence, and where there are lesser quality cattle, prices continue to be weak.
The average 500kg to 600kg steer sold for €1.96/kg. However, in stronger suckler areas, average prices of €2.00/kg to €2.10/kg are more common.
In areas of dairy influence, lesser-quality steers are selling from €1.70/kg to €2.00/kg on average.
Angus stores continue to sell from €1.90/kg to €2.00/kg. Lighter store bullocks from 400kg to 500kg are selling from €2.00/kg to €2.10/kg on average, with better-quality stores making from €2.10/kg to €2.30/kg.
The heifer trade has strengthened slightly, with many mart managers commenting on increased demand for heifers from feedlot buyers.
Numbers on offer remain much lower than the equivalent steer. Heifers from 500kg to 600kg are selling mainly from €2.00/kg to €2.20/kg, with U grades making over €2.30/kg.
Weanling numbers continue to increase, but slower than the same time last year. Weanling bulls have seen prices firm up in the past week.
Bulls from 300kg to 400kg are currently selling from €2.20/kg to €2.30/kg on average, with the top third in terms of quality selling for €2.60/kg on average.
Exporter activity continues to be strong and there is a solid demand from specialist finishers for bulls over 450kg, but average prices of €2.00/kg are common.
Weanling heifer prices have dropped slightly in the past week and the average 300kg to 400kg heifer is currently selling from €2.15/kg to €2.25/kg on average, some €15 to €20 per head higher than the same week last year.
The top third in terms of quality are selling mainly from €2.50/kg to €2.60/kg.
Lighter types are selling from €2.50/kg to €2.70/kg on average, with better-quality types making up to €3.00/kg.
There has been increased demand from factory agents for fleshed cows. Factory-fit continental cows are selling from €1.80/kg to €2.10/kg, depend on quality. Feeding continentals are making from €1.60/kg to €1.75/kg. Friesian culls straight from the parlour continue to sell from €0.80/kg to €1.40/kg, depending on age and flesh.
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