British Wool boosted by year of positive progress

BRITISH Wool has celebrated a year of positive progress at its annual general meeting and conference last week, reflecting renewed confidence across the UK wool sector, with rising wool prices, stronger consumer engagement and continued improvements in services for its farmer members.

- STAFF REPORTER

THE Princess Royal made a visit Devon last month to mark British Wool's 75th anniversary, touring the cooperative's grading depot in South Molton

(Chris Burgess)

The cooperative confirmed that its latest auction, held on November 4, achieved the highest average prices for nine years, with the British Wool index up 27% in the past two months. The average auction price reached £1.21 per kg, compared to £1.00 per kg last season, marking a significant boost for producers across the UK.

"All core types of British wool are now trading at significantly higher levels than last season," said Andrew Hogley, chief executive of British Wool. "If current trends continue, our members can expect stronger returns in the year ahead."

British Wool's annual general meeting in Bradford, West Yorkshire, also showcased a series of service improvements designed to make it easier for farmers to deliver and market their wool, including more convenient collection centres and enhanced support at regional depots.