Beef finishers reel from mounting losses as factory prices hold steady

The base quote for steers at the processing plants continues at 660c/kg. A year ago it was 792c/kg for R=3= steers inclusive of bonus/penalties as applicable

The processors are pointing to weak markets for beef and consumers opting for cheaper alternatives as the escalating fuel and energy costs squeeze on households in the current economic climate.

The beef trade at the factories remains steady at unchanged prices this week as the finishers continue to add up their rising losses on finishing of beef animals for the spring-early summer market 2026.

The base quote for steers at the processing plants continues at 660c/kg with the base for heifers at 670c/kg in general and suppliers reporting a "challenge" trying to get extra for their stock.