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Strong factory agent and feeder activity has meant that, in many cases, farmers have decided to sell cows live in the marts rather than going direct for slaughter.
In recent weeks, the trade has been quite strong, with some mart managers saying that prices have strengthened again slightly in the last week, but particularly for slaughter-fit types. Good-quality heavy continental cows are currently making from €1.80/kg to €2.00/kg, with choice lots making up to €2.10/kg where there is competition at the ringside.
Plainer feeding continental cows are selling mainly from €1.60/kg to €1.80/kg, with fleshed Friesians making similar prices.
Plainer feeding Friesian cows are making anywhere from €1.20/kg for plain types to €1.50/kg for warm cows carrying some flesh.
The calf trade is drawing to a close, with only low numbers of young calves on offer. The number of runner, or reared, calves for sale is increasing and demand is said to be fairly solid. There are widespread reports of reared Angus and Hereford calves selling from €330 to €380/head. In some cases, Jan/Feb-born Friesian bull calves are making up to €300/head, but the numbers being sold are small. Friesian heifer calves are on offer in some areas also, but mostly private sales. Prices are reported to be running from €380 to €450 for reared Feb/Mar-born calves, with buyers more anxious for AI bred types with figures.
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