Much-improved weather and the increased grass buyer and feeder activity created a lift in mart prices over the past week. Feedlot buyers were noticeably active for all short-keep types, with Angus, Hereford and continentals being snapped up where on offer. In the main, improved store demand helped to lift prices for all store bullocks.

In the heifer rings, a similar trend was evident, with a noticeable lift in some marts. Demand for light weanling bulls is strong, driven by exporters sourcing for the Turkish market. There have also been reports of them sourcing light bulls direct from farms in a bid to secure the required supplies.

Forward weanling bulls over 400kg have been met with a slightly improved trade also, as feeder activity has improved for them also, while farmer buyers are the main purchasers of all other weanling types. The cull cow trade remains strong for forward and slaughter-fit types. However, continued strong supplies of thin store cows has seen prices slip slightly.

Steers

Short-keep and slaughter-fit bullocks are a very strong trade with agents actively sourcing all available animals. The numbers of bullocks over 600kg on offer outside special sales remains low, which is helping prices. Average Martwatch prices have improved by about €50 to €60/head in the past week as a result. The average 600kg steer is making €1,350, with U grades making €1,470. Light stores have seen prices improve due to more grass buyer activity. The average 450kg bullock is making €1,040, with the top third making €1,200.

Heifer

Demand for heifers has improved also, but it has not been as sudden a jump as the equivalent bullock. The average forward 550kg heifer is making €2.20/kg, which is on par with the same week last year. The top third of forward heifers are making €2.30/kg to €2.50/kg. Lighter store heifers are selling from €2.20/kg to €2.35/kg, with better-quality heifers making up to €2.60/kg or €1,170/head. Where plainer-quality Angus and Hereford and hungry continental heifers are on offer, €1.90/kg to €2.10/kg is common.

Weanlings

The weanling trade has improved also. Weather and export activity have been two major positives for the trade. Feedlot buyers are snapping up forward bulls, but the supply of these is quite low. Light bulls under 300kg are seeing improved exporter demand, both in marts and on the land, and prices of €2.50/kg to €2.80/kg are common. The weanling heifer trade has seen an improvement also and prices are now running very close to the same level as last year.