Frequently Asked Questions

A premium of 50p/kg is paid on fine wool grades (203 - 291), medium (305 - 399) and the following finer micron hill wool grades (614, 615, 653, 654, 655, 659, 668. 698).

Mule no.1 and no. 2 grades (423, 426, 430, 434) qualify for a 25p/kg premium.  

These premiums will be added to the 2018 graded advance payment. 

Ulster Wool is keen to identify and support new sheep farmers, encouraging them to be part of the collective strength of the organisation, ensuring they are able to maximise returns for their wool.

If you are a new producer this year or are new to the industry in the last 5 years, you may be eligible to register under Ulster Wool’s New Entrants Scheme. Click here for more information.  

Ulster Wool does not buy the wool directly, it is auctioned on behalf of producers throughout the year. At the end of October each year, 90% of the wool has been received by depots, but only 25% of the clip will have been auctioned. Therefore, the value of the wool is not known until all the wool has been sold. 

The wool market is a global market reliant on many factors outside Ulster Wool’s control. Auction clearances and prices can be volatile, with potential movements of up to 50% during the season. The amount of unsold stock can vary enormously.

Ulster Wool needs to maintain sufficient funds in order for us to have the ability to be proactive when selling in the auctions and make decisions whether to sell or hold stock so the maximum price can be achieved for farmers.

Contact the Muckamore depot to request wool sheets.