British Wool Sales Report (24 April 2023)

British Wool saw mixed demand in BW162, combing types saw solid demand with firm prices but demand for carpet types was weaker with prices generally around 3% cheaper. On an underlying basis prices were down by an average of 2%. The mix of lots sold was however better than last sale which resulted in the headline average price increasing by 1.5% sale on sale.

British Wool prices are around 10p per kg lower than 12 months ago and this will feed through to the returns that we are able to offer our members for their wool. UK wool growers need higher prices if farmers are to cover their costs and a consistent supply of British wool to market is to be sustained.

British Wool’s offer in BW162 amounted to 1,539 tonnes spread over 230 lots. 171 lots with a total weight of 1,101 tonnes sold, a 71.5% clearance. A significant portion of the Mule, Hill and Mountain types in the offer were taken back into stock. Organic certified wool continues to attract a significant premium.

• Average clean price £1.142 / kg Average greasy price £0.749 / kg

 • British Wool Index 1.066 vs. 1.085 in BW161. The clearances by wool type were as follows;

• Fine wool 80%, • Medium wool 78%, • Mule wool 67,

• Hill wool 69%,

• Mountain wool 53%,

• Lamb 100%.

Price movements for key wool types Prices where comparable to BW161; Fine: Hoggs No1 – firm. Hoggs No2 – up to 5% dearer.

Ewes No1 – firm. Ewes No2 – up to 3% Cheaper. Lt Grey – firm. Medium: Hoggs No1 – buyers favour. Hoggs No2 – 1.5% cheaper.

Ewes No1 – 1.5% Cheaper. Ewes No2 – 2.5% Cheaper. Naturally discoloured – buyers favour. Lt Grey – sellers favour. Romney: Ewes No1 – up to 2% cheaper. Ewes No2 – 3% cheaper. Naturally discoloured – firm.

Mule: Hoggs No1 – firm to sellers favour. Hoggs No2 – sellers favour. Ewes No1 – 3% cheaper. Ewes No2 – 2.5% cheaper. Cotts – 2% cheaper. Lt Grey – firm to 2% cheaper.

Cheviots: Hoggs No1 – up to 3% cheaper. Hoggs No2 – up to 3% dearer. Ewes No1 & No2 – 2% cheaper. Blackface: Fine No1 – 2.5% cheaper. No2 – buyers favour.

Cotts – buyers favour.

Welsh: No1 – 4% cheaper. No2 – 3% cheaper. Coloured Kempy – 3% cheaper.

Swaledale: Lt Grey – 2.5% cheaper.

Source: BW