Staffing issues in UK meat factories, combined with a tightening in supply of finished cattle, is resulting in a significant increase in demand for Irish beef.

The downward price pressure evident in the market at the end of last week has disappeared, with Irish factories once again very active for stock.

This has allowed farmers with cattle to sell secure a base price of €4.25/kg to €4.35/kg for steers and from €4.30/kg to €4.40/kg for heifers.

The differential between the Irish and British price now stands at 50c/kg or €175/head.

The strong British demand is also seeing factories in Northern Ireland very anxious for stock.

Bord Bia figures show live exports to Northern Ireland for the first 26 weeks of the year were 61% ahead of the same period last year. Some 42,655 cattle were sent north.

The strong demand for finished cattle has filtered down into the live trade.

Around the ring

Mart managers are reporting factory agents to be very active around the ring for forward animals that will be factory-fit before the end of the year.

Analysis of Irish Farmers Journal MartBids data shows heavy bull weanlings in the 400kg to 450kg bracket up €100/head compared to 2020 and currently trading at 270c/kg to 290c/kg. Lighter bull weanlings are making €2.70/kg to €3/kg at marts.