Suckler farmers are getting a premium of €200 for top-quality weanling bulls. MartWatch analysis for the first half of 2016 shows that weanling bulls in the top 15% sold for 55c/kg more than the average of €2.42/kg.

Meanwhile, the difference between the average bull and the top third was €143/head.

Weight remains a key factor. The top third of weanling bulls from 200kg to 300kg sold for €3.12/kg, but the average 350kg bull sold for €2.42/kg – around €850/head.

The average weanling bull is selling for €18 to €25/head less than the same time last year.

Average prices for weanling bulls are back by 9-11c/kg on last year’s record prices. Weanling heifer prices in the same weight range are back by around €50/head.

Read more

Average mart prices back 10 to 15c/kg