BRITISH WOOL PRICES SET TO RISE AGAIN IN 2026
Wool prices continue to increase and British Wool calculates that the average returns for farmers for the 2025 wool clip were at their highest levels for 10 years and expects prices to lift by a further this year.
Figures show that core grades of Mule, Texel, Romney, Hill and Cheviot were fetching between 70p/kg and 75p/kg for 2025 wool and British Wool reckons that an increase of up to 30p/kg for the 2026 wool clip could be possible with farms likely to receive £1/kg plus for many core grades.
“Prices are up across all wool types because there is real competition at auction, and that only happens when farmers sell together through us,” said Jim Robertson, chairman of British Wool. “The auction is where prices are made. The more wool that comes through us, the stronger the returns will be for everyone.”
Farm businesses could see payments of £2.50 a fleece, based on a 2.5kg fleece or £4 for a heavier 4kg fleece as British Wool remains optimistic about the outlook for 2026. It said that strong price gains at recent auctions were a good indication that returns for the 2026 clip could rise further this year.
The figures reflect strong market demand and increased competition at British Wool auctions, where multiple buyers are actively bidding and highlights the importance of the auction system.
There are around 30,000 sheep farmers working together with British Wool, with the higher volumes allowing it to strengthen competition at auction and reduce operating costs per kilogram, benefiting its members.
Demand is also being supported through supply chain development and marketing initiatives and the business works with more than 180 licensees, with increasing numbers of brands specifying British wool as well as increasing consumer awareness. Sales of fully traceable wool have increased again over the last year, with buyers paying a premium above auction prices.
