Increase in cattle on offer at marts

Marts: There was an increase in the numbers of cattle on offer at the marts yesterday where prices for both beef and stores were either maintained or improved on last week’s sales.

There is a very strong trade for the quality heavy continental beef bullock with the tops making the equivalent of up to 300c/kg (106p/lb) dw at the fall of the auctioneers hammer. There was an equally robust trade for the heavy beef heifers with the tops making the equivalent of 308-314c/kg (110-112p/lb) in the ring.

Trade for store bullocks was further improved by up to €10/head with the medium weights making up to €350 over €/kg, which is a very strong price given the majority of these animals will not be finished until next autumn when supplies will be a lot stronger and the price readjustments will have taken place.