The trade for lambs varied from mart to mart this week, with some sales seeing prices back €2 to €3/head on the week previous, while others commented that the trade was holding a strong position.

Factory-fit lambs weighing 46kg to 50kg sold from €103 to €110/head in the stronger sales.

In sales where the trade dropped down a gear, similar-weight lambs were selling for €100 to €108/head.

Heavier lambs weighing over 50kg sold from €110 up to €118/head, but, again, prices were that little bit more timid in certain sales, where lambs over 50kg were making up to €115/head.

Factory agents have been trying to ease the rising wave of prices that was happening of late and that was reflected in some marts this week.

Forward store lambs weighing 43kg to 45kg are selling from €90 to €98/head, but, as mentioned, there is variation in prices paid, with some marts seeing prices a little stronger and touching €100/head.

Good-quality store lambs weighing 37kg to 39kg are selling from €85 to €92/head.

Lighter lambs weighing 30kg to 33kg are selling from €60 all the way to €80/head, but prices vary significantly depending on quality.

Cull ewes

Demand for cull ewes is still holding up well after recent price increases.

Top prices for very heavy fleshed ewes touched €125/head this week.

On average, moderately-sized fleshed ewes are selling from €98 to €114/head.

Feeding ewes are making anywhere from €70 to €90/head.

Very light-framed ewes are selling back at €50/head.

Factory agents are very keen now for fleshed ewes and are willing to go the extra mile to secure attractive lots.