The autumn 2024 beef trade to date has been one of positivity with beef price quotes rising approximately 60c/kg above last year.
After a challenging 12 months from a weather perspective, most parts of the country have enjoyed mild, settled weather conditions throughout September, October and into November which has also been welcome.
Steer base price this week is at approximately €5.20/kg whereas in the same time of last year, steer base price was at approximately €4.60/kg – marking an increase of 60c/kg.
Heifer and steer beef price
Heifers are being quoted at €5.25/kg on the grid with €5.30/kg being quoted for suitable heifers with 300-400kg carcass weights at the higher-end of the price scale.
Steers are being quoted at €5.20/kg on the grid with €5.25/kg on offer for suitable steers with 300-400kg carcass weights at the higher-end of the price scale.
While November often sees kill sheets filled out for a week or longer in advance, this year is different with procurement staff particularly keen for in-spec prime cattle that are under 30 months of age. Cattle born in May 2022 are going overage this month.
Cows
The cow trade continues on positive footing with prices on a rising trend over the past number of weeks.
The table below shows the average price paid for P=3= cows by factory in the week ending Sunday, October 27.
Click here to view this data on the Agriland site.
Cow price has continued to move up with outlets quoting €4.50/kg for P grade cows this week and €4.60-€4.70/kg being quoted for O grade cows.
R grade cows are being quoted at €480-4.90/kg with higher rates being paid in several cases and €5.10/kg being quoted for U-grade cows this week.
Bulls
Under-24-month bulls are being quoted at €5.40-5.45/kg for U grades with €5.30-5.35/kg being quoted for R grades. O grade bulls are being quoted at €5.20/kg and €5.10/kg is being quoted for P grade bulls.
Under-16-month bulls are being quoted at €5.20/kg on the grid.