Mart managers have said that the number of cows passing through marts is currently very low. This is due to large throughput of continental cows in the spring combined with only few dairy farmers selling cull cows as of yet.

But it is expected that if ground conditions deteriorate in the coming weeks that numbers will rise. In the west and northwest, numbers are expected to start rising again with the onset of housing due to poor weather.

The number of Friesian feeding cows on offer in marts is low, but where they are on offer, demand is quite strong so far and backed by a reasonably firm cull price in the factories in comparison to prime cattle prices. However, feeding cows are selling for about €1.00/kg for average-quality types, with better-quality cows carrying some flesh selling mainly from €1.05/kg to €1.15/kg. There are reports of Friesian cows with good levels of flesh selling at higher prices of over €1.30/kg in some areas, but, again, numbers on offer are low. Where Jersey-cross cows are on offer, prices are ranging from €0.60/kg to €0.80/kg.

The trade for continental cows is holding solid, but numbers are low. At the top of the market, there are some reports of cows making over €1.80/kg. However, numbers moving at these prices are low. The majority of fleshed continental cows passing through mart rings are selling from €1.55/kg to €1.70/kg.

Feeding cows are holding quite well, due to the relatively low numbers on offer and steady demand. Continental stores are selling mainly from €1.40/kg to €1.60/kg, with old cows making from the weight upwards.