Cattle Trade & Prices Update

IRELAND - It was a mixed week for the cattle trade, as the weakening in the euro impacted on trade, particularly for prime cattle while cattle supplies seem to be slowing in some parts of the country.

13 October 2010

2 minute read

Europe

Quotes for R grade steers under the Quality Payment System eased slightly, with prices being quoted at around 294 and 297 cent/kg. Heifer prices also eased with quotes now making in the range 302 to 305 cent/kg. These prices exclude the 6 cent on in-spec Quality Assured stock. Cow prices were stronger and were generally in the range 244 to 255c/kg.

For the week ending 2nd October, supplies of cattle at export meat plants reached almost 34,400 head, which was 1,000 head below the corresponding week last year. To date supplies are running 10% or 112,000 head higher.

In the UK, trade remained steady during the week with demand levels maintained. Demand for round and forequarter cuts continue firm, with trade for steaks reportedly reasonable.

Reported cattle prices from the AHDB eased with GB R4L grade steers averaging at Stg 269.8 pence/kg dw (equivalent to 308.7 cent/kg dw) for the week ended 2nd October.

On the Continent, there was little change to report in the beef trade with on-going promotional activity helping to maintain trade. Demand for forequarter cuts remains reasonably good.

In France, Irish steer hindquarters are making 410-420c/kg, with German 80kg cow hindquarters making 370c/kg.
In Italy, R3 young bull prices increased by 2/c to 362c/kg, with O3 cow prices remaining unchanged at 251c/kg.
In Germany,R3 young bull prices are making 312c/kg, with O3 cow prices making 225c/kg.