Texel breeders selling their wool through British Wool will see a significant increase in the value of their 2025 clip, with average member payments up 70% on the year before.
The average return now stands at 68p per kilo, compared with 40p a year ago, with prices increasing across every wool type. Cheviot wool is paying 85p/kg, with many core grades of Mule, Texel, Romney, Hill and Cheviot Cross returning between 70p and 75p/kg.
The organisation is also optimistic about prospects for the 2026 season. Strong gains at recent British Wool auctions suggest returns for next year’s clip could rise by a further 25p to 30p/kg, with several core types potentially exceeding £1/kg.
According to British Wool, the improved figures reflect strong market demand and increased competition at auction, where several domestic and export buyers are bidding actively. As the only marketplace where multiple buyers compete directly, the auction system plays a key role in setting prices for UK sheep farmers.
About 30,000 sheep farmers market their wool collectively through British Wool. The organisation said higher volumes not only increase competition at auction, but also reduce operating costs/kg, helping improve returns for all members.
Demand has also been supported through supply chain development and marketing activity. British Wool now works with more than 180 licensees, with more brands specifying British wool and consumer awareness continuing to grow.
Sales of fully traceable wool have risen again over the past year, with buyers paying a premium above auction prices.
Recent initiatives include new yarn and fabric collections, a retail collaboration with Shaun the Sheep and continued development of the British Wool brand.
British Wool chairman Jim Robertson said the results were encouraging for producers: “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 British Wool.
“The auction is where prices are made. The more wool that comes through British Wool, the stronger the returns will be for everyone. This is exactly what collective selling is designed to do – strengthen the market, deliver better value for British wool and maximise returns to our members.”
Alongside improved prices, British Wool said it continues to invest in long-term demand and quality improvements.
More than 100 shearing and wool handling courses are scheduled for 2026 to help ensure clips are presented to the highest possible standard.
The organisation has also partnered with the Woolmen Charity to support training, with 80 fully funded places available on selected 2026 Advanced Shearing Courses (machine only).
British Wool said the initiative supports the development of skilled shearers across the industry, helping candidates build on existing experience and progress to the next level of training.