A much firmer trade was evident at ringsides over the past week.

In some areas heavy rain over the weekend and early in the week quenched the trade slightly, particularly for lesser quality types. However, in recent days mart managers report a steadying of the trade once again.

Demand for forward store cattle continues to be firm. Short-keep types continue to attract demand from agents and finishers, while forward store types are firm also. Bullocks from 500kg to 600kg are selling mainly from €2.20/kg to €2.30/kg for average-quality types. Top-quality U and U+ grades continue to fetch prices of up to €2.40/kg to €2.60/kg.

Store bullocks from 400kg to 500kg continue to be a firm trade. Prices are averaging from €2.20/kg to €2.30/kg with the top third making from €2.50/kg to €2.60/kg.

Heifer trade

The heifer trade continues to be strong, with forward stores strengthening slightly in the past week. Heifers from 500kg to 600kg are making from €2.20/kg to €2.30/kg, up €20 to €30/head on last week. The top third in terms of quality are making from €2.40/kg to €2.60/kg. Lighter store heifers from 400kg to 500kg are making from €2.20/kg to €2.40/kg on average.

The past week has seen an increase in the number of weanlings on offer due to the start of special weanling sales. Exporter activity is below last year, but the main players continue to be active at the ringside for various quality lots. Forward bulls over 450kg continue to be a tricky trade, with age a major factor. Bulls not suitable for finishing under 16 months are being met with weaker prices and reduced demand. Average quality types that are meeting weight-for-age targets are selling from €2.25/kg to €2.45/kg in many areas. Plainer types and Friesians are struggling to hit €2.00/kg if age is an issue. Bull weanlings from 300kg to 400kg are a slightly stronger trade and are selling from €2.30/kg to €2.40/kg for average quality types. The top third in terms of quality are making from €2.60/kg to €2.80/kg with ease. Weanlings under 300kg are being met with very strong demand and numbers available are low. Weanling heifers from 300kg to 400kg have seen prices strengthen by €15 to €20/head. Average-quality types are selling from €2.40/kg to €2.50/kg with the top third in terms of quality making from €2.70/kg to €2.85/kg.