75 Years of British Wool

For three-quarters of a century, British Wool has stood at the heart of the UK’s rural landscape- supporting farmers, celebrating craftsmanship, and promoting one of the most sustainable natural fibres on earth.

What began in 1950 as a mission to bring fair value to British fleece has grown into a cooperative of more than 30,000 sheep farmers, united by pride in their work and the enduring quality of their wool. Over 75 years, British sheep have produced more than 2.5 billion kilograms of fleece, enough to make nearly 13 billion pairs of socks!

Behind the Bale

To mark this milestone year, British Wool depots across the UK held exclusive open days. Visitors stepped onto the grading floors, watched skilled sorters in action, and experienced the fascinating journey of wool from farm to finished product. It was a rare chance to get behind the scenes of Britain’s world-class fleeces.

“British wool is more than a heritage fibre – it’s a fibre for the future,” says Andrew Hogley, CEO of British Wool. “Every time someone chooses a British wool product, they’re not only choosing sustainability, but they’re also supporting thousands of farming families and preserving rural skills that define our countryside.”

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From Past to Present: 75 Years of Progress

British Wool’s journey is one of constant innovation and adaptation. Over the decades, the organisation has evolved with the times while staying true to its roots.

Some standout moments include:

• 1970: The introduction of the Shepherd’s Crook Mark, guaranteeing authenticity and origin.
• 1999: Becoming the UK’s official shearing training body, helping over 1,000 shearers each year master a skill passed down through generations.
• 2021: Launching a digital marketplace, connecting shoppers directly with makers who use British wool.
• 2022: Rolling out a traceability scheme, giving consumers a transparent link from product to farm.

These milestones highlight British Wool’s commitment not only to tradition but also to innovation, ensuring the fibre’s relevance in an eco-conscious world.

The Spirit of Competition: World Shearing & Wool Handling Championships

British Wool is also cheering on the UK team competing at the World Shearing & Wool Handling Championships. This is the ultimate global showcase of shearing skill, speed, and precision.

Held every few years in a different host country, the championships bring together the world’s best to celebrate craftsmanship and teamwork on a global stage. The UK team’s participation continues a long legacy of excellence and passion for the craft of wool handling.

The championships take place in Masterton, New Zealand, between the 4^th and 7^th March 2026.

A Positive Outlook: Prices and Appreciation

British Wool’s final September auction saw a 7% uplift in prices, driven by strong global demand and healthy competition across all categories.

Chair of British Wool Jim Robertson noted that this upward trend reflects growing confidence in the market, particularly for carpet-grade wools, with China showing sustained interest in high-quality natural fibres.

Despite challenges across agriculture and manufacturing, the recent results reinforce the message that British Wool is gaining strength, with its value and versatility recognised more widely than ever before.

“Our members’ hard work and resilience are paying off,” Robertson said. “We’re seeing real momentum. Not just in the market, but in public appreciation for sustainable, homegrown fibre.”

British Wool’s History with  IWTO

As British Wool marks 75 remarkable years, IWTO joins in celebrating one of its longest-standing and “parent” members! It was an arbitration agreement between the British and French wool textile industries in 1924 that led to the creation of the IWTO. As other member countries joined the agreement, they called for a permanent organizing body. In 1930, the Statutes of the International Wool Textile Organisation were approved at the International Wool Conference held in Bradford, England. Et voila! The IWTO was born. Find out more IWTO history on iwto.org/about-iwto/history.

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