We have confirmed that member returns for the 2025 clip year will reach their highest level in ten years. Average returns per kilogram are 70% higher than last year, with prices increasing across all wool types.
Stronger Returns for the 2025 Clip Year
Returns for our members have increased across all wool types, with the average payment at 68p per kilogram compared with 40p a year ago. Cheviot wool is returning 85p per kilogram, while many core grades of Mule, Texel, Romney, Hill and Cheviot Cross are paying between 70p and 75p per kilogram.
Positive Outlook Beyond the 2025 Clip Year
We are also optimistic about the outlook for the 2026 wool season. Strong price gains at recent auctions over the past few months indicate that returns for the 2026 clip could increase by a further 25p to 30p per kilogram. Several core types could potentially return more than £1 per kilogram to members.
Why 2025 Clip Year Prices Are Rising
These figures reflect strong market demand and increased competition at the auctions, where multiple buyers are actively competing. This highlights the importance of the auction system. As the only marketplace where multiple domestic and export buyers compete directly, the auction system helps drive prices for all Northern Ireland sheep farmers.
Collective Selling Supports the 2025 Clip Year
With around 3,000 sheep farmers working together through us, the strength of collective selling continues to play a central role in securing improved returns for wool. Higher volumes not only strengthen auction competition but also reduce our operating costs per kilogram, benefiting all members.
Growing Demand After the 2025 Clip Year
Demand is also being driven through supply chain development and marketing initiatives. Our partner, British Wool, now works with more than 180 licensees, while consumer awareness continues to grow. Sales of fully traceable wool have increased again over the last year, with buyers paying a premium above auction prices.
Recent initiatives include new yarn and fabric collections and a retail collaboration with Shaun the Sheep.
Investing Beyond the 2025 Clip Year
Alongside improved prices, we continue to invest in activities that support long-term demand and value. Several shearing and wool handling courses are scheduled for 2026, helping ensure clips are presented to the highest possible standard.
Chairman’s Comment on the 2025 Clip Year
Commenting on the announcement, Chairman Brendan Kelly said:
“This is a strong result for our members and a clear sign the market is moving in the right direction. Prices are up across all wool types because there is real competition at auction, and that only happens when farmers sell together through us.
The auction is where prices are made. The more wool that comes through us, the stronger the returns will be for everyone. This is exactly what collective selling is designed to do, as we saw in 2021 after the Covid pandemic, working together to strengthen the market, deliver better value for wool produced in Northern Ireland, and maximise returns to our members.”