Calf sale numbers have increased substantially in the past week. Despite this, the trade has held firm. Many mart managers have commented on the strong exporter activity at calf rings during the sales. The main demand for shipping calves is for those from €70 to €120/head, with the higher-value calves mainly destined for the Spanish market.

The average Friesian bull sold for €105/head in the past week according to ICBF figures, with the lower prices paid for youngest calves. Where stronger calves are to the fore, farmer buyers are paying from €140 to €160 for three- to four-week-old Friesian bulls. The number of Angus bulls and heifers on offer has started to increase. Prices range from €200 to €250 for bulls and €180 to €220 for heifers. Herefords are making from €240 to €280 for heifers and €250 to €320 for bulls.