Factory Quotes Reflect Upward Push in Irish Beef Prices
Irish Beef Trade: Factory Quotes Show More Positive Trend Amidst Tight Supply
IRELAND – (May 26, 2025) – The Irish beef cattle trade is exhibiting a more positive trend this week, with some processors increasing their price offerings despite many holding steady. A noticeable variation in bull prices has emerged, reflecting the ongoing scarcity of factory-fit cattle.
According to Agriland.ie’s latest report on May 26, 2025, while most beef processors maintained price offers similar to last week, certain outlets have raised their bids. Notably, there’s a significant difference of up to 40c/kg within grades for under-24-month bulls across various outlets.
Current factory quotes for steers (bullocks) range from €7.50-€7.60/kg on the grid, with heifers generally fetching €7.60-€7.70/kg. Breed bonuses continue to be a factor, with Angus eligible cattle receiving up to 30c/kg, and Hereford bonuses typically between 20-25c/kg, despite the official conclusion of the Irish Hereford Prime pre-booked bonus last week.
Beef procurement staff are acutely aware of an impending shortage of cattle. Favourable weather conditions and strong trade earlier in the year led to more cattle being brought forward for slaughter ahead of schedule. While the long-term impact on supplies for the latter half of the year remains to be seen, all current indicators point towards a tight supply.
Cow prices largely remain consistent with last week, though some previously lower-paying outlets have upped their offers. Generally, ‘U’ grade cows are quoted at €7.40-€7.50/kg, ‘R’ grade at €7.20-€7.30/kg, ‘O’ grade at €6.90/kg, and well-fleshed ‘P’ grade cows at €6.80/kg.
For bulls, price quotes for under-24-month animals show considerable variation. However, stronger buyers are offering up to €8.00/kg for ‘U’ grade bulls and €7.90/kg for ‘R’ grade bulls. ‘O’ grade bulls are quoted at €7.70/kg and ‘P’ grade bulls at €7.60/kg. Under-16-month bulls are being quoted at up to €7.70/kg on the grid.
Processors appear to be striving for price stability, but the prevailing tight supply conditions are, in reality, exerting upward pressure on prices paid, as evidenced by official price trends.
Original source: Agriland
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