Beef cattle supply has peaked lower this year

THERE is very little overall change in beef prices at factories this week, but any movement is positive from the farmer’s perspective, in the form of small price increases particularly for younger stock which are scarce in some regions.

Overall base prices being quoted by processors range from 295 to 300 cents/kg (105p to 107p/lb) for steers, and heifers are worth in general 5 to 8 cents/kg (2p to 3p/lb) more. Some farmers are negotiating higher prices for good quality stock.

The intake has stabilised at 33,500 to 34,000 head, having changed very little over the past two weeks.