Lamb quotes are holding firm, but factory agent activity remains very strong at marts, particularly for top-quality well-covered lambs.

Heavy butchers’ lambs are holding firm price-wise, with the majority of top-quality heavy lambs over 50kg selling from €108 to €115 at the upper end of the market, with some reports of prices of up to €120 being paid for small numbers of top-quality types. Prices of heavy butchers lambs are ranging mainly from €106 to €112/head.

Factory demand is strong and steady, with agents continuing to actively source well-fleshed lambs. Lambs from 45kg to 48kg are selling mainly from €100 to €105/head for average types, with better-conformed and well-fleshed types selling to €110/head.

Those that are lacking flesh are having a negative affect on average prices. These leaner lambs are selling mainly from €87 to €92/head, which is similar to last week.

Heavy store lambs continue to be a strong trade, with continued firm demand. However, the numbers on offer are reducing quickly.

Those from 37kg to 42kg are selling mainly from €87 to €93/head, which is up a touch on last week.

Those from 34kg to 37kg are selling mainly from €75 to €82/head, with better-fleshed types making over €85/head. Lambs under 34kg are selling from €67 to €73/head mainly, but where quality and cover is poor, demand is easier, resulting in a slower sell.

Cull ewes remain steady, with good-quality fleshed ewes making from €80 to €100/head and upwards of €110/head for top-quality types. Plain and thin types are selling from €55 to €75/head.