Lamb prices have been increasing steadily over the last few weeks. Mart managers have reported price increases of €2 to €4/head for all classes of sheep, which is building on recent price improvements.

Lambs in the 45kg to 49kg weight range are moving at €107 to €118/head, or €62 to €69 over the weight. Fleshed lambs weighing 50kg and over are selling for in excess of €120/head, with a large number of lambs in that weight category selling for €122 to €126/head.

Store lamb prices have also seen a major boost in recent weeks. Forward store lambs weighing 40kg to 44kg are selling from €98 to €106/head, with some quality lots making €1 to €2/head more.

Lighter lowland lambs weighing 36kg to 39kg are selling for €85 to €95/head, with some nice-type stores making up to €102/head. Lambs weighing 30kg to 35kg are selling from €75 to €85/head.

According to mart managers, there are plenty of buyers available for store lambs, with the mild weather and short-term bright trade prospects helping the trade enormously.

In-lamb ewe prices are variable, with lots of different scenarios in play that could dictate price, such as the age and quality of the ewe, the scan rate and the number of buyers present.

In general, ewes scanned carrying 1.8 lambs are making from €170 to €190/head. Ewes scanned carrying singles are making €95 to €150/head.

Heavy fleshed ewe prices continue to climb. Large-framed fleshed ewes are selling from €120 up to €130/head. Most fleshed ewes are selling for €110 to €118/head and lighter-framed feeding ewes are selling back at €70/head.