Beef prices continue to hold firm

Marts: There is a few more cattle coming through the system this week, but factory prices for beef are continuing to hold firm in the south and slightly harder in the midlands and northern regions of the country where the lift in supply has been less evident so far.

There appeared to be a wider variation in the prices available for beef yesterday, dependent on location. In the northern regions of the country competition for supply remained very strong with some producers being offered up to 102p-103p/lb for mixes of U/R cattle.

Across the south R's were generally quoted at 95p/lb with a bit more being paid dependent on supply and demand, but with a general report of more cattle being available there was a slight easing of pressure on the processors to increase prices further to get cattle. In the east of the country, Slaney Meats were quoting 97p/lb and paying at least 1p/lb more for good cattle.