Scarcity of Lambs Driving the Trade this Week

IFA Sheep Chairman Sean Dennehy said supplies of lambs are extremely tight this week, swinging control back in farmers’ favour.

He said factories are struggling to secure lambs.  Agents are very active in mart sales in attempts to secure supplies.

Sean Dennehy said factories are freely paying €6.30/kg to 21.5kgs, with higher deals on price and weights offered to close out deals.

“Farmers should sell hard in very strong market conditions to maintain control of the trade,” he said.

He said farmers should only sell lambs to factories as they become fit.  The very strong store trade is ensuring alternatives for lighter and under finished lambs and it’s keeping the supply-demand balance in favour of farmers.

Sean Dennehy said based on all projections, there won’t be an oversupply of lamb for the year and orderly marketing is critical to maximise returns.

Cull ewes are making €3.30/kg, with higher deals available.