There is a little more positivity being inserted into the mart trade. Last week, we reported an easing of €2 to €3/head for factory-fit lambs, but this has since stabilised.

Most managers said recent sales were better than expected given factory price reductions, but prices have not recovered to September levels.

The majority of fleshed lambs are moving around the €2/kg mark. Fleshed lambs weighing 46kg to 50kg are selling from €96 to €102/head, while lambs in the same weight bracket but lacking flesh are trading at €86 to €92/head. Lambs over 50kg with a good flesh cover are selling from €104 to as high as €114/head with butcher competition.

The recent spell of fine weather has boosted buying for store lambs. Lowland store lambs weighing 40kg to 44kg are selling from €80 to €86/head. Hill-crosses are selling from €1.95/kg to €2.05/kg.

Some farmers are opting to buy ewe lambs instead of male stores to increase their marketing options, with premium prices being paid for select lots. Most farmers are securing a €10/head premium over wether lambs, but this can rise to €20/head and more for quality lots.

Hill breeding sales are in full swing. Scotch hoggets are selling from €100 to €165/head, with crossbred hoggets selling from €110 to €175/head. Lowland-bred hoggets continue to trade from €150 to €200/head. Second- and third-crop lowland ewes are selling from €110 to €150/head.

Cull ewe prices remain relatively stable. Fleshed ewes are selling from €80 to €105/head. Feeding ewes are selling from €50 to €70/head, with hill-bred ewes selling from €30 to €60.