Andrew Clements.
Across the south of England, the first quarter of 2024 started very quiet on the dispersal sale front.
However, even with a mediocre milk price, the good barren cow trade and lack of supply resulted in a strong dairy cow trade.
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As we are heading through the second quarter, we have seen a few more dispersal sales.
But, with the exceptionally wet spring having created increased fodder costs for many and several cheese producers being affected by seasonality, the trade for fresh spring milk has been selective.
By comparison, the autumn calving trade was strong.
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At Sedgemoor Auction Centre, we have seen a record first quarter for both turnover and numbers, with the average price per head only down 拢100 on 2023.
The large weekly entries of fresh milk have been absorbed by the regular market purchasers, with these weekly markets complimented by our monthly collective sales.
Replacements These sales provide replacements for pedigree and commercial producers, from fresh milk down to heifer calves.
The theme of all these sales has been a demand for strength and milk, with frailer types harder to place.
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Going forward, there are more dispersals in the pipeline 鈥� many of which are small in number 鈥� with a common theme being that the investment needed to continue is not justifiable with the current returns.
The dairy types that we have available over the next two months include pedigree, commercial, organic and cross-bred grazing cows 鈥� we truly do have something to suit all dairy producers.
As mentioned, the strong barren cow trade has certainly kept the base up for the dairy replacement trade, so let us hope the milk price returns to a more favourable level as soon as possible to enable continued good trade for those selling this year.
Andrew Clements is a partner at Greenslade Taylor Hunt. Call 01278 410 250 or email [email protected]
