Farmers should shop around to get the best cattle prices, says the Scottish Beef Cattle Association, which has launched a new pricing service to provide more market transparency.

Prices paid by Scottish abattoirs for R4L steers and heifers have varied as much as 7p/kg over the last few months with similar differences for bulls, according to the SBCA.

Believed to be the first of its kind, the service is exclusive to SBCA members, who can log onto the association's website to receive up-to-date information on the best prices being offered by each of the main Scottish abattoirs.

Abattoirs include MacIntosh Donald, Mathers, Scotbeef, Scotch Premier, Stoddarts, Woodhead, ABP and Highland Meats.

Charlie Russell, SBCA director, said the association has been tracking prices for the last few months and has found the differences in net deadweight prices are significant and could be worth as much as £25 per head if members shop around.

"Farmers still have to take account of specific deals available, such as loyalty bonuses, haulage allowances and premiums for organic status or particular breeds.

"Nevertheless, our research with members indicates that this service will be much in demand," said Mr Russell.

"It amazes me that beef producers can be happy with an average weekly rise of say 2p/kg when greater price differences are available if you know where to look," he added.