The beef trade has moved up a gear with €3.85/kg to €3.90/kg now being paid for heifers and €3.80/kg to €3.85/kg for bullocks.

Aberdeen Angus cattle are in particular demand with retail demand driving higher bonuses in some factories.

Last week’s kill was 33,019 and both slaughter numbers and prices are on the up.

Top-quality heavy dry cows hit €2/kg to €2.20/kg in marts this week

Factory agents are very active in marts, paying way in excess of quoted factory prices.

Top-quality heavy dry cows hit €2/kg to €2.20/kg in marts this week, which translates into a beef price over €4/kg.

Farmers are advised to do their sums on the factory v mart sales. Over the past week, the mart has been the better option.