Stronger supply set to weaken beef prices

THERE were signs of beef prices coming under more pressure again yesterday in some areas of the country as supplies of cattle to the factories increased.

There were more variations than normal to the pattern of the trade with some factories easing back up to 6 cents/kg (2p/lb) and improvements of 3 cents/kg (1p/lb) in other areas for bullocks.

The one factor common to all areas was an increase in the supply of cattle with more cattle being moved out quickly once they have cleared premia retention.