Livestock sales up by £220m at auction marts in 2024

Higher prices for cattle and sheep in 2024 have more than offset the decline in numbers, leading to significant turnover gains at auction marts across the country.

Figures from the Livestock Auctioneers’ Association (LAA) show the total value of livestock traded at auction markets in England and Wales reached £2.45bn in 2024, up by £220m on the previous year

The LAA says the figures show the value to the farmer of a competitive marketplace and how the live auction ring is driving values and responding to supply and demand.

See also: Unprecedented beef trade as prices hit £7/kg

Increased values were seen across all livestock categories, with prime sheep up by £25 a head to average £137, prime cattle up by £105 a head, cull cows up by £61a head, and store cattle £71 a head higher.

Chris Dodds, executive secretary at the LAA, said:

“What we are clearly seeing with the latest figures is that the live auction ring really supports that producer confidence, ensuring competition remains in the beef supply chain, driving those values as supply tightens.

“While livestock values started to increase in the latter part of 2024, they have continued to rise beyond expectations into 2025.

“There have been record prices for prime cattle, cull cows, store cattle and calves recorded across the marts of England and Wales in the early part of this year.”

Prime cattle prices have continued to go from strength to strength at auction markets so far in 2025 and, as of mid-April, had increased by a further 43% on 2024 averages.

Throughputs

A total of 10.7m cattle, sheep and pigs were sold at livestock markets last year, down from 10.95m animals in 2024.

The LAA says supplies are expected to remain tight, and prices should hold accordingly.

“The liveweight trade is the good news story for the producer in these challenging times,” said Mr Dodds.

“Our markets are working tirelessly to achieve the best possible price for the livestock sold, while also providing that highly valued social hub, for farmers and their families, which makes our contribution to the wider rural economy and community so crucial.”