Factory price reductions instigated last week have been felt in some mart sales. Where the trade was affected, prices were back by between €2/head to €5/head for factory fit lambs.

However, numbers of fleshed lambs available in sales was limited this week and there has been some more farmer competition for lambs as the ewe lamb trade steps up a gear. Factory-type lambs weighing 45kg to 48kg are making €93/head to €102/head, or €48 to €54 over the weight.

Heavier butcher types are making from €105/head up to €110/head, with some higher prices reported for top-quality lots.

Ewe lambs fit for breeding this year are making €100/head to €125/head. In some special breeding sales prices for choice lots reached €140/head and higher.

The store lamb trade is holding relatively steady. Better grass availability has brought out more customers. Lambs weighing 40kg to 44kg are selling from €82/head to €90/head, while lambs weighing 36kg to 39kg are selling from €78/head to €82/head.

Lambs weighing from 30kg to 35kg are selling from €70/head to €75/head. Some ewe lambs in these weight ranges have attracted more farmer buyers and prices were €5/head to €10/head better.

Breeding ewes

Breeding ewe sales continue to show variable results. There are some high prices being paid comparable to last year but clearances are disappointing.

Hoggets in general are selling from €140/head to €175/head. There are some top-quality lots moving at €180/head to €200/head but not to the same frequency as previous years. Lighter-framed lots are selling back at €130/head. Breeding ewes are selling from €130/head to €165/head, with top quality lots making €180/head.