Lamb trade slips with base quotes back to 865c/kg

Processors quoting this week have shaved 10–20c/kg off the lamb prices, and some are being less open with what they are offering than usual, and considered to be cautiously measuring the returns from the export markets.

The downward turn in the lamb trade at the factories is being described as "disappointing" and is "discouraging to producers", as returns slip well behind 2024 prices.

Processors quoting this week have shaved 10–20c/kg off the lamb prices, and some are being less open with what they are offering than usual, and considered to be cautiously measuring the returns from the export markets.

The suppliers are reporting waning interest by the factories in large numbers of hoggets this week, as the new-season lambs become more available and the seasonal changeover accelerates.

Base prices on offer for the spring lambs have been reduced to 865c/kg at a number of the centres. Adding on the quality bonus of 10–20c/kg leaves the returns back from the €9/kg hopes of producers.

However, some suppliers are reporting up to 900c/kg can be obtained by regular suppliers and for larger numbers, while accepting the market is now under more pressure.

Hogget prices at the factories have slipped to about 700c/kg for this week.

Trade has also slipped at the live sales at the marts. Auctioneer at Kilkenny, George Candler said producers were taking up to €25/head less than last year for the spring lambs, describing it as "disappointing and discouraging" for breeders.

The top call for the 450 head on offer on Monday was €220 for a pen of 10 butchers' spring lambs weighing 51kg. A lot of two weighing 60kg made €210, and eight weighing 54kg sold for €195. Factory lots sold for up to €134 over.

At Corrin on Monday, the top price was €210 for a pen of four butchers' spring lambs weighing 49kg, while two weighing 51kg made €207 and nine at 50kg sold for €196.