Jamie Mackay from The Country recently had his regular chat with Grant Edwards from PGG Wrightson Wool to dig deep on the state of the wool market.

Jamie touched on prices being paid for wool - and whether there were signs for optimism. Grant said prices for the best types of wool are looking up as there is a shortage of better wools. He emphasised that presentation of the wool is key to achieving a good price. With specialist wools, especially in the south of the country, PGG Wrightson are seeing over three dollars greasy. 

Jamie brought up Grant's recent presentation to the Primary Production Select Committee. Grant said the committee had reached out to some members of the wool industry to get a better understanding of the wool supply chain. He cautioned there is plenty of concern about the sustainability of the wool price. Grant said the response was positive with ministers on the committee fully engaged. Discussion about moving forward and what needs to happen was wide ranging.  

Jamie rounded things off by talking about new, meaningful and innovative uses for strong wool - like nappies! 

Grant pointed out the price advantage enjoyed by organic wools and saw this as a signal for the wider future of wool. A natural, biodegradable product, ethically produced.

He concluded by saying the long-term outlook is positive.