Factory Kill Numbers Slip as Irish Cattle Supply Tightens
Irish Cattle Slaughter Running 5,000 Head Per Week Behind 2025
Irish beef kill numbers are currently running more than 5,000 head per week below the same period last year, adding further strain to an already pressured processing sector.
According to reporting by Agriland, weekly factory throughput has consistently trailed 2025 levels, reflecting tighter cattle availability across the country. The sustained shortfall is raising fresh concerns over plant utilisation rates and long-term processing capacity.
Lower supplies have already contributed to restructuring announcements within parts of the sector in recent weeks. While reduced throughput can help underpin farmgate prices in the short term, it also places pressure on processors facing high fixed operating costs.
Industry commentary suggests that the decline in available finished cattle reflects broader structural trends, including herd contraction and lower presentation rates. The reduced weekly kill is seen as significant enough to threaten efficiency across larger facilities that rely on steady volume to remain competitive.
Source: Agriland | 15 February 2026
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