Mixed trade at the marts

Prices for heavy bullocks eased yesterday, while prices for medium weight and light stores were improved, in a mixed trade at the marts.

Beef was not in plentiful supply at the sales, but where stock were on offer, prices were back by €20-€30/head for bullocks. The return at the live sales followed the trend of lower prices at the factories this week although this trend did not carry over to the heifer trade which was described as excellent.

However, there was no easing in the confidence of buyers of medium and light stores for which there was an improved trade showing gains of €10-€20/head, reflecting strong grass grown on farms leading to strong demand for autumn finishers.