While the numbers on offer are still small, there have been reports of sale numbers being well up on the same time last year. However, it is only early days.

Forward store cattle over 550kg are still being met with strong demand as specialist finishers continue to secure numbers. The prices being paid are running a little ahead of the same week last year for both bullocks and heifers in that weight range.

The weanling trade has started strong and steady also, with plenty of buyers for the numbers that are turning out. While bull prices are running just slightly ahead of this time last year, heifers are on par.

The main talking point continues to be the cull cow trade. The numbers on offer and the prices achieved at the top of the market are leaving sellers very satisfied.

Steers

The bullock trade is strong. Types from 550kg upwards continue to be in demand. Prices of these are running about €25/head to €30/head above the same week last year and are up marginally on last week.

The average 650kg steer is making €700 along with the weight while the top third are making well in excess of €800 over.

Bullocks from 500kg to 600kg are selling mainly from €2.00/kg to €2.10/kg, but where R grades are plentiful, €2.20/kg to €2.30/kg is more common.

Prices for store bullocks from 400kg to 500kg are up by €25/head to €30/head on last week.

Heifer

The heifer trade is similar to the bullock trade. Prices are well up compared with the same last year.

While heifers over 600kg are scarce, where they are available, they are making from €2.20/kg to €2.30/kg for good-quality R grades. Forward stores from 500kg to 600kg are up about €50/head on this time last year.

The average 550kg heifer is making €600 to €700 along with the weight. Store heifers from 400kg to 500kg are selling from €2.20/kg to €2.30/kg in many areas, with U grades making up to €2.50/kg.

Weanling

The weanling trade has started strong again, with most mart managers reporting that the quality on offer has been good in the past week or two, which has helped prices.

Heavy bulls suitable for feeding and finishing under 16 months are in demand, with plenty of feeders active for them. Bulls from 300kg to 400kg are a steady trade and are selling from €2.20/kg to €2.40/kg for average quality types, with heifers selling at similar prices. Lighter bulls and heifers are a strong trade also, with prices ranging mainly from €2.30/kg to €2.45/kg.

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