Strong start at auction
We have reported a solid start to the 2026 wool selling season. With the first four auctions complete, Our partners British Wool has sold 3,000 tonnes of new season wool at an average price of £1.70 per kilo. The volume of wool sold season to date is slightly ahead of last year, and the average price achieved is 70p per kilo higher than in the first four sales last year.
All core types are selling at significantly higher prices, and clearances in the last three sales have averaged close to 90%, indicating that demand remains strong. The average price at auction is currently 35p ahead of the overall average for the 2025 season, which supports a positive outlook for sheep farmers.
Market recovery continues
Andrew Hogley, CEO, said the latest results demonstrate that the market’s recovery is continuing.
“We have seen a significant price recovery over the last nine months, with global demand for crossbred wool competing for supply. Auction prices are around 70% higher than 12 months ago in both the UK and in New Zealand.”
“It is very encouraging to see this consistent demand and the market holding steady at this much higher level. This improvement was much needed, especially for our members, but we acknowledge that it has been challenging for some manufacturers in the supply chain to absorb. The last few sales have seen good clearances and solid demand for all core types of wool, confirming the view that the market is in a much stronger position than it has been for years. We are confident that this should translate into a further improvement in returns for our members this season.”
“We continue to work with manufacturers, end brands and consumers to drive demand. We need to ensure demand is sustained at these improved price levels. Our work is having an impact, with more brands than ever choosing to use GB & NI wool in their products. It is also particularly encouraging to see growth in demand for fully traceable.”
Positive outlook for farmers
Our intake for the 2026 clip year is currently running slightly ahead of last season, indicating renewed confidence amongst farmers to sell their wool through our collective marketing scheme. With demand remaining robust, clearances staying high and prices continuing to strengthen, the outlook remains positive for Northern Ireland sheep farmers.