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The past week has seen another increase in the supply of calves around the country. The average price paid for Friesian bulls continues to weaken slightly. The ICBF database has recorded sale data for 1,340 Friesian bull calves in the past week, with average prices of €102/head.
Light calves continue to sell from €70 to €80 in many areas, with better-quality calves making from €90 to €110. Farmers selling direct off-farm are making deals from €70 to €90/head for large groups of bull calves. Strong aged calves continue to make from €120 to €150, with farmer buyers still quite active. Exporters have stepped into the market, but the numbers secured so far remain small.
The number of Jersey-cross calves passing through marts is very small, but where on offer, prices of €10 to €30 are being recorded. Demand is small. The number of Angus calves on offer has increased and prices have eased slightly as a result.
Heifers are making from €190 to €240, while bulls are making €210 to €250. Where young light calves are on offer, prices are much weaker, with bulls making from €200 to €220. While the numbers of Hereford calves on offer has increased also, prices have held reasonably firm. The average Hereford heifer is making €250 to €270, with bulls averaging close to €300/head.
The supply of continental calves remains limited and prices are strong. Limousin and Blue calves continue to make from €200 for light plain calves to €360 for stronger types. Strong four- to five-week-old continental runners are making over €450/head.
Trade steady despite increasing grass buyer demand
Grass buyer activity increasing in recent weeks
Farmer demand growing at Ardee Mart
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