The trade for hoggets has faced significant downward pressure over the last week, while, in contrast, demand for ewes with lambs at foot is outstripping supply.

It is clear that factory agents have been sent to sales with the aim of trying to maximise throughput, but with a clear message of purchasing sheep at lower prices. Average prices differ between sales, with some marts witnessing a reduction of €2 to €5 per head in each of the last two weeks, while others have had most of the fall in one week with prices easing by anywhere from €6 to €10 per head.

Hoggets weighing 50kg upwards are selling from €114 to €120, depending on quality and weight, with prices for top-quality 55kg-plus lots rising to €123 to €126 in cases where butchers are active or farmer interest in ewe lambs is present.

The trade for ewes with lambs at foot in comparison is being boosted by grass supplies. Twin lamb outfits range from €180 to €250 on average, with young ewes and strong lambs capable of topping this range. Single lamb units range from €130 for poor-quality lots, with aged or poor-quality ewes/lambs to as high as €180 to €200 for young ewe units.

The trade for cull ewes is largely steady, with fleshed lowland lots ranging on average from €90 to €110, with medium-sized ewes with a lower cover of flesh from €60 upwards.