Factory prices are holding firm, with cows on the increase at some plants.

Numbers presenting at beef factories fell by nearly 700 head in the past week, keeping prices buoyant with steers and bulls trading on a base of €4.05/kg and heifers on a base of €4.15/kg.

Cow prices are up 5c/kg on last week at some plants and static elsewhere, with P+3 graders on €3.20/kg to €3.30/kg.

«Market demand is very strong and there is no beef in store», said IFA livestock chair Angus Woods.