Processors and farmers face interesting battle

While beef prices quoted at the factories are unchanged, most processors are having to very reluctantly pay extra to get sufficient stock.

Steers are being quoted at a base price of 380c-390c/kg (135p-139p/lb) with the base for heifers at 10c/kg over the steer prices.

Very few steers are being bought for less than 385c/kg, and heifers are making at least 395c/kg. Above that, local demand and supply determine how much has to be paid to get stock.