Numbers as well as demand have increased at marts in the past week. The result has been a slightly improved trade, particularly for weanlings, with bulls outperforming heifers in many areas of the country.

However, the overall number of weanlings on offer continues to lag behind the same time last year, predominantly due to weather.

Average prices of weanlings are currently on par with the same time last year, and sellers in many areas are satisfied with prices.

Weanling bulls from 300kg to 400kg made €2.20/kg to €2.40/kg in the past week. In some cases, special sales have boosted prices, but in stronger suckler areas, prices are similar to the average.

Where there is a strong dairy influence, prices are much weaker as farmer buyers focus on quality. Exporters continue to be active at rings around the country also, with demand for well-muscled weanlings stronger this year than last year and prices of €2.70/kg to €2.90/kg for these are common.

The average 350kg weanling heifer sold for €790 per head, while the top third of heifers in the same weight category sold for €910. Lighter weanling bulls and heifers remain in low supply and are selling for €2.50/kg to €2.60/kg for average-quality types, or €640 for the average 250kg weanling.

The store trade has seen prices improve also. There has been a slight increase in factory agent activity and feedlot activity for fleshed stock and prices have improved as a result. In addition, strong grass supplies and positive fodder balances are tempting more farmer buyers back to mart rings, resulting in slightly improved demand as numbers on offer increase.

The average 550kg bullock is currently selling for €1,105, with the top third in terms of quality making €1,260, which is quite similar to the same time last year. Heifer prices are steady and similar to the equivalent steer, but lag €50 to €60 behind the same time last year. However, cattle with more than four movements, or nearing 30 months, continue to be met with poor demand.