Strong Sheep and Dairy Markets Boost Trade at Carnew Mart in 2026

At Carnew Mart, trade in both sheep and dairy sectors has demonstrated significant strength throughout the first half of 2026. According to yard manager Eugene Clune, the sheep trade, which began slowly, gained momentum from March onwards. Hoggets, in particular, saw increased demand, with recent sales achieving prices between €235 and €245 per head. Spring lambs also fetched high prices, ranging from €240 to €245, offering favorable returns for farmers engaged in early lambing.

The market for ewes remained steady with numerous sales achieving up to €500 for quality animals. This trend of strong sheep prices has been beneficial for farmers, providing a positive outlook for the remainder of the year.

Dairy Trade Dynamics

The dairy sector at Carnew Mart has witnessed a 'positive' trajectory in 2026, despite initial concerns regarding the trade's potential. Eugene Clune noted that the year started with a cautious outlook, but a successful clearance sale in January set a promising precedent. From March to April, the mart hosted five to six dairy sales monthly, with one sale in late March recording an average price of €3,500 per cow.

Throughout the year, dairy cows have been selling between €2,700 and €3,100, surpassing early-year expectations. This robust performance underscores the sector's resilience in the face of fluctuating milk prices.

Future Prospects

Interest in Friesian bull calves and heifer calves has been notably strong, suggesting potential growth in the dairy industry. The engagement of farmers in purchasing these calves indicates confidence in the future of dairy farming.

Overall, Carnew Mart has successfully navigated the challenges of the year, with strong performances in both sheep and dairy markets. These sectors' resilience highlights the ongoing demand and economic opportunities within the agricultural landscape.