Sheep sector sees declining output and flat returns
Suppliers to the Irish factories were disappointed with the absence of any boost in the prices for the pre-Christmas trade.
In a similar pattern to the livestock section, 2025 has experienced a sharp decline in the production of sheep meat for the processors.
The kill at the Irish factories dipped to under 2 million head during 2025, representing a drop of 18% and equivalent to 437,500 head less processed at the plants during the year.
This was influenced by lower supplies available from both southern Ireland and the North during the year.
Unlike the cattle, the decline in production did not boost prices in 2025.
For the later months in particular, suppliers to the Irish factories were disappointed with the absence of any boost in the prices for the pre-Christmas trade.
Bord Bia expects that production will continue to decline both within the EU and worldwide.
However, it is more cautious in forecasting that the lower production will lead to higher prices, pointing out that higher prices at consumer level can lead to shoppers opting for cheaper options.
They point out that lower production can have the benefit of forcing processors to pay higher prices but can also create challenges in securing markets at the higher prices.
The factories have resumed operations this week after the Christmas holidays, with the prices on offer largely unchanged.
The processors are quoting 755–760c/kg plus the quality bonus, with suppliers reporting that up to 785–790c/kg is generally being paid to regular suppliers and those with the larger numbers to offer.
