Mart managers have commented that the trade for store cows and the numbers on offer continue to be very strong. In many sales in the past few weeks, particularly in the west, cull cows are the backbone of the sales.

Prices for continental stores are holding firm, with prices of older and plainer continental cows ranging mainly from €1.30/kg to €1.50/kg, while good-quality younger cows and those carrying more flesh are selling mainly from €1.60/kg to €1.80/kg.

At the top of the trade, young cow heifers and heavy well-conformed cows are selling mainly from €1.80/kg to €1.95/kg, with some exceptional types still selling for more than €2.00/kg.

Friesian cull cows are selling from €1.10/kg to €1.30/kg for plainer stores, while those carrying more flesh are making from €1.30/kg to €1.50/kg.

Where Jersey-crosses are on offer, prices of €0.80/kg to €0.90/kg are more common. Good-quality British Friesian cows and those carrying flesh are selling from €1.40/kg to €1.60/kg in some areas.