Scottish Wool Certification Logo Launched to Champion Provenance and Add Value for Farmers

Building on Success Across the Regions

Building on the success of the Welsh regional logo launched in October 2024. We have now unveiled our brand-new Scottish Wool certification logo – a major step forward in helping promote and protect wool produced by Scottish farmers.

The new scheme has been created to verify products made using genuine Scottish wool. Therefore giving brands and consumers a clear way to identify items made entirely from wool sourced in Scotland. As more shoppers move away from fast fashion and look for sustainable, traceable materials, the logo is set to strengthen demand for homegrown wool and furthermore create new opportunities across the supply chain.

Official Launch in Selkirk

The logo was officially launched on Monday 27 April at our Borders Depot in Selkirk. Where farmers, manufacturers, designers and industry stakeholders gathered to celebrate Scottish wool and its future potential.

First Businesses Certified

Several businesses have already signed up to use the certification, including Lochcarron of Scotland. Which has championed Scottish wool in kilt, coating and interior fabrics for many years.

Newly certified businesses also include:

All are producing goods using 100% traceable Scottish wool.

From Sheep to Shelf

The Selkirk launch event showcased the complete journey of wool from sheep to shelf, with live wool grading demonstrations, fibre supply chain displays and examples of finished products from Scottish businesses already adding value to local fleeces.

Guests also enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of Lochcarron of Scotland, seeing first-hand how heritage skills are helping create premium textiles for UK and export markets.

Industry Support and Inspiration

Among those attending was Di Gilpin, judge on Channel 4’s Game of Wool, who praised the initiative. She said Scottish wool carries a unique sense of place, heritage and creativity, adding that it continues to inspire modern fashion, interiors and craft.

Confidence for Consumers, Opportunity for Farmers

Commenting on the launch, Jim Robertson our Chairman said:

“Scottish wool is a valuable natural resource with a long history and a strong future. This certification gives confidence to consumers and brands that Scottish wool can be clearly identified and trusted for its provenance, quality and sustainability.”

For farmers, the launch is another positive signal that regional identity, traceability and sustainability are becoming ever more important in the marketplace – helping showcase the true value of British wool and supporting stronger returns in the years ahead.

The first blade shearing course of the season kicked off on the 26th and 27th of March at Fernhill Farm, setting the tone for another busy year ahead. With lambing season underway and shearing just around the corner, the timing couldn’t have been better for those looking to build or sharpen their skills.

Experienced instructor Andy Wear led the course, welcoming a mix of learners—some completely new to blade shearing, others returning to refine their technique. As with any good day on the farm, the session began with a proper introduction, helping everyone share their experience levels and learning goals for the two days.

🐑 Learning the Craft, Step by Step

Health and safety came first—no surprises there when you’re working with sharp blades and live animals. From there, Andy guided the group through the fundamentals: sheep handling, shearing technique, and wool care. He emphasised doing the job right—keeping stress low for the sheep and handling wool carefully to preserve its value.

Students also learned the tools of the trade. Andy covered blade preparation, maintenance, and sharpening in simple, practical terms—skills just as important as the shearing itself.

✂️ That First Sheep – A Big Moment

For many, the highlight (and biggest challenge) came when they sheared their first sheep. Organisers selected yearlings to give learners a manageable size and fleece to work with. It’s no small feat—there’s a lot to think about, and it takes both confidence and coordination.

Working in pairs meant learners always had help nearby. Tutors and peers supported each student through the process. That first sheep marks a real milestone, and it earned plenty of well-deserved congratulations.

☕ Time to Take It In

The days included regular pauses—not just for a brew, but to let everything sink in. Blade shearing isn’t something you rush. It takes time to develop a feel for it, and everyone progresses at their own pace.

Some learners managed to shear a single sheep by the end of the day, while others pushed further. Either way, the focus stayed on steady improvement rather than speed. Break-time conversations covered everything from shepherding to wool handling, helping create a relaxed, supportive atmosphere.

🔁 Day Two – Building Confidence

On the second day, participants revisited what they had learned, ironed out issues, and focused on personal goals. Some saw things really click, while others recognised their limits—but everyone left with a sense of achievement.

Blade shearing is a tough skill to master. It demands patience, technique, and physical effort. You hold sharp steel in your hand, work with a live sheep, and make constant decisions as you go.

🌱 A Rewarding Challenge

By the end of the course, every participant had made real progress. Whether they sheared their first sheep or simply deepened their understanding of the craft, everyone moved forward.

Due to strong interest and positive feedback from this first session, organisers have scheduled an additional blade shearing course for 29th and 30th April. Places will likely fill quickly, so anyone keen to take part should book early.

With the season now underway, courses like this play a vital role in keeping traditional skills alive while supporting the next generation of shearers. Judging by the energy at Fernhill Farm, it’s shaping up to be a strong year ahead.

 

   

Shearing Regional Lead: Experience, Standards and Supporting the Industry

We spoke to one of our Regional Shearing Leads Andy based in Wiltshire to learn more about his career, his role within British Wool, and his views on the future of the industry.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background in the shearing industry?

At 63, I live near Salisbury in Wiltshire and work as an agricultural fencing and livestock contractor. My shearing journey began at just 17, before moving into contract shearing at 21 for a local contractor.

Over time, I took on responsibility for a shearing run of 38,000 sheep, which I successfully managed for 10 years—building extensive hands-on experience and a strong reputation within the industry.

How did you become involved and what drew you to the role of Regional Shearing Lead?

In 2000, I was invited by Alan Derryman to join the British Wool training team, and have now been instructing for 25 years.

When the opportunity arose to become a Regional Shearing Lead, I stepped forward with a clear motivation—to ensure standards remain high. I am passionate about maintaining practical, effective training and continuing to deliver solid instruction to support the future of shearing.

What does the role involve, and what areas do you personally focus on?

As Regional Shearing Lead, I provide ongoing support to instructors across my area, acting as a reliable point of contact whenever guidance or assistance is needed.

I also works closely with the Shearing Co-ordinator, ensuring clear communication and consistency. My focus is on keeping everyone aligned and maintaining the high standards expected across British Wool training.

What makes British Wool training stand out

From your perspective, what sets these shearing courses apart from other training options?

British Wool courses are well-structured and delivered by highly experienced instructors who have spent years working in the industry.

With Highfield accreditation, the qualifications gained are recognised worldwide—giving trainees confidence that their skills and certification are valued wherever they go.

Why is formal shearing training important?

Formal training plays a crucial role in maintaining high standards of shearing and ensuring excellent animal welfare. It helps shearers develop consistency, efficiency, and confidence in their work.

Challenges facing the industry

What are the main challenges currently facing the wool and shearing industry?

One key concern is the potential shortage of overseas shearers, which could put pressure on labour availability during peak season. This makes developing home-grown talent through quality training more important than ever.

There is also a common misconception that wool prices are directly linked to shearing costs. In reality, shearing is a highly skilled profession, and shearers are paid for their expertise, efficiency, and commitment to animal welfare.

How can shearers help strengthen the industry?

Shearers play an essential role by consistently delivering high-quality work and maintaining strong welfare standards. They also help educate farmers on proper wool handling, storage, and care—ensuring fleeces retain their value and achieve the best possible return.

The rewarding side of shearing

What do you find most rewarding about working as a shearer?

For me, it’s about doing a job properly and taking pride in the result—leaving a well-shorn, tidy sheep behind.

I also value the strong sense of community within the shearing world. There’s a spirit of teamwork, shared learning, and mutual support that makes the work truly worthwhile.

Is there a particular moment that stands out?

Serving as Chairman of BISCA was a proud achievement, as was judging at two World Championships—an opportunity to see the very best shearers in the world up close.

If you had to sum up shearing in just three words, what would they be?

Hard, satisfying, rewarding.

Shearing Regional Leads: Supporting the Future of the Industry

The role of Regional Shearing Leads is vital in ensuring high-quality training, strong participation, and continued standards across the shearing industry. We spoke to one of our Regional Leads Lowri in Wales to learn more about her background, her work with British Wool, and her perspective on the industry today.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background in the shearing industry?

Based in North Wales, I am married with three children and run a beef and sheep farm. My connection to shearing came through family—marrying into the industry, as my husband is a professional shearer. I also spent three seasons working in New Zealand, gaining valuable experience and insight into large-scale shearing operations.

How did you become involved with British Wool and what drew you to the role of Regional Shearing Lead?

I have worked with British Wool for the past five years, starting by running the collection centre in Ruthin and now operating one from home. With my husband also working as a British Wool shearing instructor, stepping into the role of Regional Shearing Lead felt like a natural progression. My passion for the organisation is clear, with a strong belief that British Wool delivers the highest standard of training in the industry.

What does a Regional Shearing Lead role involve, and what areas do you personally focus on?

The role is centred around organising the logistics of shearing courses across Wales. This includes understanding demand, identifying training needs, and selecting the most suitable instructors. To ensure strong attendance and effective learning outcomes. Delivering high-quality training for the next generation of shearers is a key priority, alongside raising awareness of the important role British Wool plays within the industry.

From your perspective, what sets British Wool shearing courses apart from other training options?

The standout factor is the quality and experience of the instructors. They are highly skilled, knowledgeable, and dedicated to passing on best practice to future generations of shearers.

Why is formal shearing training important for anyone looking to develop their skills in the shearing shed?

Formal training allows shearers to develop and refine their skills while maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare. It also promotes continual improvement, efficiency, and confidence in the shearing shed.

What do you see as the main challenges currently facing the wool and shearing industry?

Like many areas of agriculture, the industry faces challenges in attracting and retaining new entrants. Maintaining high welfare standards and ensuring wool remains a valued and viable product are also key concerns in an evolving agricultural landscape.

In what ways can shearers help to support and strengthen the wool industry?

Shearers play a vital role by producing well-shorn, high-quality fleeces and maintaining excellent animal welfare standards. Engaging with training and industry initiatives is also essential in helping to raise standards across the sector.

If you had to sum up shearing in just three words, what would they be?

Addictive, rewarding, challenging — with a smile, “observations as a wife!”

The eyes of the global shearing community turned to Masterton in early March, as 27 international teams gathered for the 20th staging of the prestigious World Shearing Championships 2026. The event ran alongside the 63rd annual Golden Shears, one of the sport’s most iconic fixtures.

Steeped in history, the first World Championships were held in England in 1977. Over the past 49 years, the event has travelled the globe, with host nations including New Zealand, Wales, Australia, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, Scotland, Norway, and France.

This year’s championships featured around 150 competitors across machine shearing, blade shearing, and woolhandling disciplines, with both individual and team titles up for grabs. The standard was exceptionally high across all categories.

Strong UK Representation

The UK was strongly represented, with teams from all four nations – England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland – competing at the highest level. Among them were reigning world champions Gwion Evans (machine shearing) and Rosie Keenan (woolhandling). England’s blade shearing team featured father-and-son duo George Mudge and Andrew Mudge, while Northern Ireland’s woolhandling effort included sisters Ellen Murphy and Rachel Murphy.

UK Finalists

As the championship reached its climax and finals day, several UK based competitors made the finals. This included:

Machine Shearing:

  • Gavin Mutch – Scotland
  • Gwion Evans – Wales
  • Llyr Jones – Wales

Blade Shearing:

  • Andrew Mudge – England

Woolhandling:

  • Rosie Keenan – Scotland

New Zealand Dominates

After three days of intense competition, it was host nation New Zealand that dominated proceedings. They secured five titles, including all three team events—machine shearing, blade shearing, and woolhandling. Individually, Joel Henare claimed the woolhandling title, while Rowland Smith took top honours in machine shearing. The final title, individual blade shearing, went to Bonile Rabela of South Africa.

Team Results

The UK based teams all performed strongly in the teams’ championships with very respectable placings of:

Machine Shearing Team:

  • 2nd – England
  • 3rd – Scotland
  • 4th – Wales
  • Northern Ireland achieving 6th in the Teams B Final

Blade Shearing Team:

  • 4th – England
  • 5th – Wales

Woolhandling Team:

  • 6th – England

Reaction

Gareth Jones, Head of Member Engagement said:

Huge congratulations to all teams at the World Shearing and Wool handling Championships – there was real skill, commitment and spirit demonstrating the high standards we have here in the UK. All competitors can be very proud of their achievements in representing their country on the global stage.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, the next World Championships are set to take place in Australia in 2029, with early indications suggesting a slot in the first week of November.

Beyond the Show Ring: A New Story at Crufts

Every March, the dog world turns its attention to Crufts—the largest and most prestigious dog show in the world. While competition takes centre stage, a quieter trend is emerging among discerning pet owners: a growing demand for high-quality British wool pile products designed for everyday comfort.

Why Wool Pile for Dogs?

Wool pile fabrics—soft, brushed wool textiles—are becoming a premium choice for dog beds, crate liners, and mats. Their natural properties make them particularly well-suited for canine use:

  • Temperature Regulation: Keeps dogs warm in colder conditions and cool when temperatures rise.
  • Moisture Management: Absorbs moisture while remaining dry to the touch—ideal after walks or baths.
  • Durability & Resilience: Maintains loft and shape even with regular use.
  • Odour Resistance: Natural antimicrobial qualities help reduce lingering smells.

A Heritage of British Wool

Based in Halifax, Jackson Textiles is a family-owned business with over 40 years of experience producing high-quality wool pile fabrics. Proudly carrying the Shepherd’s Crook Mark, their products represent the best of British wool craftsmanship. As demand grows for sustainable, high-performance materials, the pet industry offers a promising new avenue—especially at a global platform like Crufts.

Wool vs Synthetic: What’s the Difference?

Synthetic pile fabrics, typically made from polyester or acrylic, are widely used due to their lower cost. However, they often lack longevity and performance. Over time, they can flatten, trap odours, and struggle to manage moisture effectively—leading to a less hygienic and less comfortable environment for pets.

Expanding Applications

From dog beds and crate liners to transport solutions and even high fashion, wool pile fabrics are proving their versatility. Discover more about Jackson Textiles expanding applications and innovation following our recent visit.

 

April at the Depot: Maintenance Mode

We caught up with Michael at our Borders depot to find out what actually happens when the wool depot shifts into “maintenance mode” each April.

Spoiler: it’s a busy month!


Getting Bags Ready for Members

Michael explains, “One of our first priorities in April is making sure empty bags are ready for our members. We prepare sheets with strings and labels, then send them out across all regions.”

With about eight weeks to cover the whole network, he says, “It takes careful planning to make sure everyone gets what they need on time.”


Servicing Machinery and Safety Checks

Maintenance mode isn’t just about bags. Michael shows us around the depot: “We service wool presses, forklifts, lifting gear, and calibrate the scales. Every bolt, seal, and weld is checked. It might sound boring, but it’s essential – we can’t have anything breaking down when the season starts.”

All lifting equipment also gets independently inspected every 6–12 months, and operators do daily pre-use checks to catch any issues early. Michael adds, “It keeps everyone safe, and it keeps things running smoothly.”


Can You Deliver Wool During Maintenance?

We asked Michael if farmers can still drop off wool: “Absolutely! Even though the cut-off date is 2nd April, all depots can still accept deliveries during maintenance. Any wool we receive is quarantined and held until the new season opens on 1st May. Then we process it fully.”

So if you’re worried about late deliveries, don’t be – your local depot has you covered.


What Happens When We “Pack Up”?

Michael explains packing up at the end of the grading season: “We consolidate wool into standard bales by grade. For small quantities or incomplete grades, we carefully combine them into suitable batches. Quality and consistency are really important, so buyers and manufacturers get exactly what they expect.”


Why Pre-Season Maintenance Matters

“Keeping our machinery in top condition is critical,” Michael says. “We service everything, do daily checks, and inspect lifting equipment. It prevents hazards and keeps the depot running efficiently. Safety is just as important as speed.”


Closing Sale Lots

Before the new season starts, Michael tells us they close all sale lots. Why? “It gives us a clear stock position, helps value any remaining wool accurately, and gives an idea of pricing trends for the season ahead.”


Still Have Wool to Drop Off? Don’t Worry!

Michael reassures, “April is busy, but if you still have wool to deliver, there’s no need to stress. Drop it off during maintenance, and we’ll have it ready for full processing once the season starts.”

Check our Depot Network to find your nearest depot or collection centre!

Breaking Into Farming Without a Background

At just 25 years old, Ben Rowson Jones is building a reputation in an industry he didn’t grow up in – yet one he now travels the world to be part of. His journey into agriculture wasn’t inherited; it was built from the ground up through curiosity, determination, and a willingness to learn the hard way.

Growing up in north Derbyshire, Ben had no family ties to farming. Shearing sheep wasn’t even on his radar – until a weekend job on a local dairy farm at 14 changed everything. That first taste of farm life opened a door, and Ben stepped straight through it.

Learning the Hard Way: Early Shearing Challenges

At 18, Ben bought three Ryeland ewes of his own and decided to try shearing. With no formal training, he used blade shears – and quickly realised how difficult it really was.

“The result? A nightmare,” he admits.

After several frustrating seasons using both blade and battery shears, Ben recognised that if he wanted to improve, he needed proper training. That decision led him to British Wool shearing courses.

A Turning Point: Discovering Professional Training

Signing up for his first course in January 2024 marked a major shift in Ben’s journey. The experience was physically demanding, but also deeply rewarding.

As Ben puts it, “the best things in life are never easy.”

By the end of the course, he had earned his blue seal – an important milestone – and, more importantly, the confidence that he was on the right path.

Building Skills and Confidence

That first course provided more than just basic knowledge. Ben developed a strong foundation in shearing patterns, equipment handling, and sheep control. It also sparked a deeper passion for the craft.

“I’d definitely caught the bug,” he says.

Learning from Experienced Instructors

A key part of Ben’s early progress came from the instructors. Their ability to simplify complex techniques – such as footwork, positioning, and rhythm – made learning accessible without being overwhelming.

Looking back, Ben recognises that their guidance was built on years of hands-on experience in the industry.

Like any physically demanding skill, shearing came with challenges. But over time, Ben found that small technical adjustments made a significant difference.

Refining his footwork and positioning improved his flow around the sheep, reducing strain and increasing efficiency. Conversations with instructors also introduced more advanced insights, from selecting the right combs to fine-tuning equipment setups.

From Local Beginner to Global Shearer

Since that first course, Ben’s progress has accelerated. Now holding a silver seal and working towards gold, he has completed two seasons in New Zealand – widely regarded as one of the world’s shearing heartlands.

He has also travelled extensively across the UK, becoming part of a tight-knit, hardworking global shearing community.

Future Goals: Growing a Shearing Career

Today, Ben is focused on expanding his own shearing run while continuing to work with local contractors. Competitive shearing is another major ambition, with plans to enter as many shows as possible during the 2026 season.

For those new to the industry, Ben highlights competitions as a valuable opportunity for growth. Not only do they help improve skills, but they also provide a supportive and familiar environment.

Many course instructors also serve as judges, and for Ben, seeing familiar faces in competitions helped build confidence and ease nerves.

A Journey Built on Persistence

From struggling through his first shearing attempts to working internationally, Ben Rowson Jones’ story is one of persistence, growth, and seizing opportunity.

It’s a powerful reminder that you don’t need a farming background to succeed in agriculture – just the drive to learn, the resilience to keep going, and the courage to start.

 

From Farmyard to Chairman

A Lifetime in British Wool

For Chairman Jim Robertson, wool has been part of everyday life for as long as he can remember. Growing up on a family farm, he left school and went straight to work alongside his father and grandfather. At just 20 years old, he secured his own tenancy – beginning a farming career that now spans more than 45 years.

Sheep have always been central to his work, whether breeding flocks or shearing sheep across the region. But Jim’s connection with British Wool started even earlier – as a young boy collecting scraps of wool after shearing and taking them to the local depot.

Today, decades later, he is Chairman of the very organisation that first introduced him to the value of wool.

“Sheep have always been at the heart of what I do – whether that’s breeding or shearing.”

Chairman Jim Robertson


Early Years – First Steps in Wool

As a child, Jim Robertson regularly travelled with his grandfather to British Wool grading depots.

At the time, wool was extremely valuable and nothing went to waste. Even the smallest fibres were collected. His job was to gather the little pieces of wool left behind after shearing – and even pick wool caught on fences and wire.

At the end of the season, he would bring a bag of these scraps – known as “pooks” – to the depot and receive payment.

“Every scrap counted back then. That was my first real connection with British Wool.”

As he grew older, Jim’s father taught him the traditional skill of hand shearing before he progressed to machine shearing. He later completed British Wool shearing courses and began shearing not only his own flock but also carrying out contract shearing for other farms.

His dedication to the craft even took him into competitions. A major highlight was winning the Silver Hand piece at the Royal Highland Show, one of the most respected shearing awards.

At one stage he was even asked if he would consider becoming a shearing instructor.

Cheviots on Chairman Jim Robertson's farm

Cheviots on Jim’s Farm


Joining the Board

Jim’s route into British Wool leadership came almost by chance. An advert appeared for a position on the board, and a neighbour encouraged him to apply.

“He said it would be good to have a Cheviot man on the board.” He applied – and was elected.

Nine years later, he remains part of the organisation’s leadership. After four years serving as a director, he stepped into the role of Chairman.

“It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m proud of how far we’ve come. British Wool is in a very strong place today.”

As Chairman, Jim Robertson guides the organisation and ensures strong collaboration between the board and executive team. He describes the role as acting as a bridge between the two, ensuring ideas, decisions and communication flow effectively.

“I don’t think I ever truly switch off,” he says. “The role certainly keeps the mind active.”

He believes the organisation’s strength lies in the people behind it. From directors to depot teams, British Wool brings together individuals committed to championing British wool and supporting farmers.


Championing British Wool

British wool stands apart from fibres produced elsewhere in the world. Britain produces an extraordinary diversity of fibres from different sheep breeds.

According to the Chairman, this uniqueness comes not only from the fibre itself, but also from the systems behind it.

Combined with the expertise within British Wool’s depots – from grading and sorting to testing and marketing – this diversity allows the fibre to reach a wide range of global markets.

“Until you’ve stood inside a depot and seen the process, you don’t fully appreciate the skill that goes into it.”


Challenges Facing the Industry

Like many parts of agriculture, the wool sector faces ongoing change.

One of the most significant challenges is the decline in sheep numbers, influenced by factors such as land-use changes, retirement within the farming community, and fewer new entrants. However, this trend is not limited to the UK.

“Sheep numbers are falling globally,” Jim explains. Despite this, he remains optimistic about the future of British wool and the opportunities ahead.

Cheviots on Chairman Jim Robertson's farm

Cheviots on Jim’s farm


Connecting Farmers and the Public

British Wool recently celebrated its 75th anniversary, marking the milestone with depot open days across the country. The events allowed farmers and members of the public to see first-hand how wool is graded, handled and prepared for sale.

“They were a fantastic achievement,” Jim says. “It really showcased the journey of our fibre and the skill behind it.”

Looking ahead, the organisation is focused on continuing to support farmers and ensuring wool remains a valuable part of British agriculture.

Encouraging farmers – particularly the next generation – to bring their wool to British Wool remains a key priority. By collecting and marketing wool collectively, the organisation can help secure stronger returns for producers.

“By bringing their wool to us, we can market it on their behalf and help secure the best possible return.”


The Most Rewarding Part of being Chairman

For Jim, the greatest reward of being Chairman is simple : the people.

From the board and head office team to colleagues working across the depot network, he believes British Wool is driven by individuals who genuinely care about what they do.

“Working alongside such committed, like-minded individuals is incredibly rewarding.”


Quick Fire

Proudest moment
Being elected Chairman.

Most rewarding part of the role
Working with the people across British Wool.

British Wool in three words
Professional. Loyal. Resilient.

Brand Spotlight: Thermafleece and Wool Insulation

At the heart of the Lake District, amid rolling hills and flocks of sheep, Eden Renewable Innovations Ltd. (ERI) has been creating sustainable products for over two decades. Their flagship brand, Thermafleece, has become a leader in the UK’s natural fibre insulation market, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional insulation.

Mark Lynn, Managing Director, explains,

“Inspired by the sheep in rural Cumbria, we create products that use natural, renewable resources to benefit people and the planet.”

Why British Wool Matters

Thermafleece products are built on the qualities of British wool, particularly that sourced from hill sheep.

“The wool we use comes from British Hill sheep; this coarser, coloured wool is ideal for insulation but not suitable for carpets or clothing. The crimp and elasticity of these fibres trap the air effectively, enhancing the thermal performance of the insulation,” says Mark.

Using local wool also supports the environment and the economy. “Using British wool reduces transportation distances, lowering the carbon footprint of the insulation whilst supporting local farmers and the UK wool industry,” Mark adds. “It’s a practical, ethical and environmentally friendly choice that suits both the needs of insulation and our own sustainability ethos.”

Watch to learn more:

Partnering with UK Farmers

Strong relationships throughout the supplier chain including farmers are central to Thermafleece’s approach.

“Over the past 25 years, we have built strong relationships with wool suppliers and producers across the UK. Today, we continue to manufacture Thermafleece in Britain, reinforcing our commitment to local production and sustainability,” says Mark.

Close collaboration with farmers ensures both quality and integrity. “Farming is something we care deeply about, we farm over 3,000 sheep ourselves, so we understand first-hand the standards, challenges, and dedication involved. By sourcing our wool from British Wool’s auctions, we help to strengthen the local supply chain, promote high welfare and quality standards, and play a part in securing the future of the industry,” Mark explains.

Wool: A Natural Choice for Sustainability

Beyond performance, British wool carries a strong sustainability story. “British wool contributes to a more responsible and environmentally aware society by being a natural, renewable, and locally sourced material. Using wool in insulation reduces energy consumption, improves indoor air quality, and supports the long-term health of buildings and occupants,” Mark notes.

For customers, choosing wool is not simply a purchase decision, but a commitment to something bigger.

“We tell our customers that choosing wool is more than just about buying a product – it is about supporting local industry, community, the environment and the British supply chain. Wool is 100% natural and renewable, planet friendly, temperature regulating and breathable, making it a healthy choice for buildings, their occupants and the environment,” Mark adds.

With pressures on British farming increasing, every choice matters. “By choosing wool and wool-based products, customers are making a positive lifestyle choice that supports British farming, rural livelihoods and a more sustainable future,” he concludes.

 

Case Studies

Here’s a selection of projects using Thermafleece insulation, highlighting environmental impact and performance benefits.

Wells Shepherd Huts, Preston

The Old Barber Shop, George Clarke Remarkable Renovations

16 Club Row, London