With factories running reasonably tight on finished cattle, there was a bite to the trade at the special store and factory heifer sale at Mohill Mart on Saturday.
The ringside was packed with farmers and they were actively buying all types. It definitely paid farmers to hold on to heifers from autumn to sell now. Most heavy heifers on offer were 2017-born, but this did not really affect price. Buyers were more focused on weight and shape, with the best-quality heavy heifers met with a flying trade. Mart manager Stephen Hannon said that while the trade was very strong on the day, prices were a touch higher two weeks ago.
The quality of heifers overall was very strong, with almost all being R and U grades. The best heifers sold mainly from €750 to €850 along with the weight. Those around 600kg were easily selling from €1,350/head to €1,490/head, with plenty of buyers present and actively bidding for all types.
Heifers from 500kg to 600kg sold mainly from €1,200/head to €1,440/head, with most selling for around €1,300/head. There were some Angus heifers in that weight bracket also, which sold for about €2.00/kg.
Heifers from 400kg to 500kg were available, but in smaller numbers than heavy heifers. They were a good trade for good-quality types, but there were a few plainer types on offer also. Prices in the main ranged from €1,100 to €1,200.
Types around 450kg sold for in or around €1,000/head but there were only small numbers of these on offer.
The special sales continue in Mohill in the coming weeks:
Ringside Comment: demand outstripping supply as numbers increase