Live exporters active in Carnew as market demands seek all types of weanlings

Carnew Mart’s weanling show and sale on Wednesday evening saw an entry of just shy of 300 weanlings go under the hammer.

Trade was lively, reflected in a clearance rate of about 97%, with top-quality bulls particularly in demand.

The top third of bulls in the 300kg to 400kg bracket sold for €5.39/kg, with the average price recorded at €4.75/kg and the bottom third at €4.12/kg.

Prices paid for heavier bulls weighing 400kg to 450kg was slightly higher on average at €4.86/kg and the top third at €5.30/kg and bottom third at €4.29/kg.

Live exporters remain active for weanlings of varying quality to service different market demands, while purchasing activity from farmers and specialist finishers has picked up significantly in recent weeks.

Light bulls weighing 200kg to 300kg sold on average for €4.63/kg, with the top third selling on average for €4.63/kg and the bottom third at €3.94/kg.

Heifers

The heifer entry was smaller compared with bulls, which is similar to the trend countrywide.

Heifers weighing 300kg to 400kg averaged €4.15/kg, with the top third selling for €4.64/kg on average and the bottom third for €3.66/kg.

Prices were stronger for heavier heifers weighing 400kg to 450kg, with better-quality heifers on offer.

The top third sold on average for €5.28/kg, with the average price at €4.61/kg and the bottom third at €3.85/kg.