The live trade for cattle has shown no signs of slowing with mart managers reporting another strong week of trading.

With demand for beef cattle solid, the live trade has raced ahead of finished prices offered by processors.

Prices for heavy-fleshed beef cows have ranged from 170p/kg to 200p/kg with some exceptional lots selling for up to 220p/kg. Feeding cows are selling from 150p/kg to 164p/kg, while Friesian cows are selling from 110p/kg to 130p/kg depending on quality.

Beef heifers are selling from 200p/kg to 220p/kg for top-quality U grade animals, which converts to a beef price of 363p/kg to 400p/kg. Plainer beef heifers are selling from 180p/kg upwards.

Continental-type beef bullocks have been selling from 202p up to a peak price of 230p/kg, which is giving a strong market alternative to farmers with limited power to negotiate with factories on price.