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Hogget prices are again on the rise as plants raise base quotes by 20p/kg to 25p/kg in response to an extremely limited pool of factory-fit sheep.
Official base quotes start from 465p/kg, up from 445p/kg last week. However, reports indicate that 470p/kg is widely available at local plants as factory agents compete directly with buyers from southern Irish processing plants.
Irish plants are paying €6/kg on hoggets which converts to a sterling equivalent of 470p/kg to 475p/kg.
Current NI quotes are running around 35p/kg ahead of the same week last year, which equates to £7.70 on a 22kg carcase.
The hogget trade has gradually moved upwards since the start of the year, when base quotes were at 415-420p/kg. The 40p/kg price rise since early January is worth nearly £9 per head.
Marts
In the mart trade, good-quality hoggets are in high demand as supplies dwindle.
Mart managers report that hoggets suitable for the butcher and wholesale trade are making from £110, to close on £120 this week.
Ewes
Prices for fat ewes also continue to strengthen with exceptional lots selling to £150, with £120 to £140 more commonly available at the top end of the market for lowland types.
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