BWMB to explain their work to visitors at Kent show

With a multi-faceted role in the wool supply chain it is easy for farmers and others to think that all BWMB does is run depots where wool is delivered, says BWMB’s Wool Marketing Manager Stephen Spencer.

"The BWMB stand at the Kent County Show will allow visitors to gain a full understanding of all the roles the BWMB undertakes within the wool industry, from grading and selling wool, through to wool promotion and work with the Campaign for Wool to promote wool on a global stage," he explains.

"The BWMB is the only producer organisation in the UK which is active at every level of the supply chain, providing training to novice shearers and helping to maximise the price farmers receive for their wool."

Unfortunately, the continuing uncertainties in the world economy mean wool prices have been lower than expected over the 2012 selling season, but an increase in demand in the early part of this year has helped to offset that and BWMB is hopeful of continuing price improvements, he adds.  The first sale of the new selling season on Wednesday 3th July saw a 100% clearance of available wool with prices increasing.

Mr Spencer will be judging the show’s Fleece competition using his previous experience as a wool grader to find the best fleeces from a varied selection of breeds.

Also on hand at the event will be BWMB English Southern Board Member Trevor Richards who will be able to answer producers' questions and queries on BWMB matters of all types.

Mr Richards says all producers are welcome to visit the stand and learn more about BWMB's work on their behalf.  "For many producers once they've delivered their wool to the depot that's the last time they think about it. But there is much they can do to help BWMB achieve the best possible price for their wool when it comes to auction."

“It is BWMB’s competitive auction system which enables it to maximise returns, but this is also dependent on wool being delivered to BWMB in as good a condition as possible.  No one else offers the level of service or competitive edge that the BWMB does or is able to provide the level of valuable feedback on wool quality which our highly trained graders can,” said Mr Richards.

New entrants to sheep farming are encouraged to visit the BWMB stand at the show.  “We are keen to encourage new entrants wherever possible and are actively working on a new entrant’s scheme.  We would like to hear from as many new entrants as possible this season” he added.

British Wool Marketing Board