Yet another strong week for GB cattle prices

Wednesday, 31 March 2021

By Bronwyn Magee

GB finished cattle prices lifted yet again in the latest week. The GB all prime averaged increased 3.6p on the week before, averaging 391.8p/kg for the week ending 27 March. This measure is now 56p higher than the same week last year, and 53p above the five-year average.

Estimated throughput lifted 4.2% (1,400 head) on the week before to total 33,600 head for the week. While prime slaughter has increased in recent weeks, estimated throughputs remain below that of last year, down 1,500 head (4%) on the same week in 2020. Tighter supplies of cattle, in combination with strong retail demand, is helping to support the higher prices.

All prime categories saw price increases this week, with averages for R4L steers and heifers breaching the 400p/kg mark.

GB deadweight prime cattle price movements (w/e 27 March):

  • All prime: 391.8p/kg up 3.6p
  • Steers (overall): 393.1p/kg up 3.9p
  • Steers (R4L): 401.3p/kg up 4.1p
  • Heifers (overall): 391.9p/kg up 3.4p
  • Heifers (R4L): 402.1p/kg up 5.0p

Cull cow prices were virtually unchanged on the previous week, with the overall GB price lifting just 0.1p to average 267.7p for the week ending 27 March. Cull cow prices continue to trend well above those seen last year, amid a tighter supply of cattle. Prices are now 37p above the same week in 2020 and 40p higher than the five-year average. Estimated slaughter was also relatively steady on the week before, dropping back just 1% (60 head) to 9,100 head.


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