The NSA (National Sheep Association) is reminding its members and the wider UK sheep sector of the improving wool market, which is forecast to cover the cost of the shearing costs on many sheep units.

A significant recovery in wool prices can be taken advantage of with higher volumes through the British Wool system, explains Michael Priestley, NSA Policy Manager.

“After several gloomy years of rock bottom prices the wool market has improved. We currently have strong demand and farmers can expect to cover the cost of last year’s shearing on core wool types,” says Mr Priestley. “It remains to be seen whether the confusion over overseas shearer visas will impact on the labour force, but there is another year of visa concessions now confirmed.”

British Wool has reported that a further 1,000kg sold through the auction would return another 2p/kg on the average wool cheque.

“The message from British Wool is that those farmers who have left wool on the farm in previous years should send their clip in this time. Prices are 70% higher on the previous year and forecast to increase further next year.

“For example, a Welsh Mule type has gone from 44p/kg to 68p/kg for last year and is forecast to be around £1/kg next year, along with other Mules, Romneys, and Cheviots and Cheviot crosses.

“Fundamental challenges around covid caused a backlog of wool when the transport and hospitality sectors went on hold. This has been worked through and British Wool’s staff have been working hard to drive demand. As a result, more wool types are receiving a premium, traceable wool sales are up 10% to 15 brands, and there are 176 brands selling British wool rich products.”

British Wool's average farmgate returns by type