The “feel-good factor” has returned to Forfar Mart and the number of stock going through the sale rings is on the up, claim operators Lawrie and Symington.
Mart manager, Daniel Johnston, said store cattle numbers were up around 20% on the year, while prime cattle and sheep input is also up 10%.
He said the company wasn’t dismayed by efforts from rival auctioneers to canvas more livestock from the Angus region, and said Lawrie and Symington was actively seeking and attracting new customers in Aberdeenshire and as far north as Orkney.
“We have also got new buyers from aberdeenshire that have never been here before,” he added.
“There’s a feel-good factor about the place which was lacking two years ago and myself and trainee auctioneer Gregor Hamilton are working hard to get the stock.”
Lawrie and Symington managing director, Hamish McCall, said: “We are pleased with the way things are going. The buyers are having to do the same we are having to do which is to cast their nets wider.”
On future plans, he said the company hoped to keep building numbers at Forfar and also look at utilising the centre’s facilities, including the Strathmore Hall, more for events including weddings, concerts and parties.