Reports from cattle sales show demand starting to rise from farmers purchasing cattle for summer grazing systems.

Some mart managers report that demand is slower to build due to inclement weather, but comment that with sale entries also smaller there is a similar boost in competition.

Strong floor

This has helped keep a strong floor under prices in recent weeks.

Angus and Hereford stores are selling on average from €2/kg upwards, with nice-quality types capable of slaughtering at a grade of O= or better and achieving heavier carcases selling up to €2.10/kg and as high as €2.20/kg.

Continental stores are averaging in the main anywhere from €2.10/kg to €2.30/kg, with top-quality lots with age on their side rising to €2.40/kg to €2.50/kg.

Beef prices

Beef prices have stalled, with factories quelling brighter prospects of a price increase at the start of this week.

Agents still do not want to miss out on any cattle, but they are being curtailed in paying more.

This leaves the majority of steers trading at a base of €3.65/kg and heifers at a base of €3.70/kg.

Regular sellers continue to secure 5c/kg higher, with this price easier to negotiate for heifers over steers.

Cows

Cows remain very much in demand, with P+3 grades averaging €3.00/kg to €3.10/kg, while O grading cows range from €3.05/kg to €3.20/kg.

R grades are trading in the main for €3.30/kg, but there is a 5c/kg swing either side of this price depending on your negotiating power.

U grades are tight in supply and, as a result, are meeting excellent demand.

This is being helped by a continued strong demand for manufacturing beef and factories active in the cow trade anxious for large-framed heavy cows. Prices range from €3.35/kg to €3.50/kg.

Bulls

The bull trade is also firm. U grading bulls average €3.65/kg to €3.75/kg, with R grades 10c/kg lower at a range of €3.55/kg to €3.65/kg.

O grading bulls have followed the recent price rise and prices are averaging €3.35/kg to €3.45/kg, with some prices of €3.50/kg reported for well-finished heavy carcase bulls grading O+.

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Camera at the Mart: steer trade up at Balla but plain heifers tougher

Weekly weather: much drier week with isolated showers