Factory returns fall by up to €200/head since January

The beef price pattern year-to-date has shattered the predictions of a strong price being delivered on the back of tighter supply

The vibes over recent weeks of 'more positivity' in the factory trade have failed to convert into cash for the cattlemen supplying stock and quotes for this week remain largely unchanged at last week's rate.

The clear blue skies are a big improvement in the weather as the season moves closer to May Day, but the expected sun to shine on beef prices at the factories for finishers remain well below the hopes.

It has been a spring like few others for beef finishers with the official prices showing a drop of up to €200/head in the value of the typical factory animal since January — in a very sharp contrast to the regular trend — which has shattered the expectations of the cattle men.