The NWM can currently process approximately 120 lots per half-day, and auctions are often up to a day long, which is significantly less than the 120/140 lots processed per hour at the BWMB auction. However, it is the accuracy and clarity of the system, which is seen as its greatest asset.
"Open-cry lacks the precision of the current computerized system which gives a complete picture of the auction as it happens. It also enables us to cope with the results from wool core testing which have to be available to the buyer." Said Mr Richard Poole, European Business Manager at the BWMB, who welcomed the visitors to view operations.
The British Wool auction system is currently the only computerized wool auction system that manages the total national wool clip in the world and was seven years in development before introduction. The system was introduced to help provide an integrated stock and auction system for both the BWMB and also the buyer.
"I am very pleased to have had the chance to see the BWMB's operations, although we operate in a different way and sell wool primarily for apparel, the auction system is clearly the way forward for our industry in China." Explained Mr Xusheng.
As part of their trip, they also visited North of England Wool Grading Depot in Bradford, Wool Testing Authority Europe (WTAE) - the independent wool testing laboratories in Caernarfon and finally visited a Welsh sheep farm before returning to China.
BWMB operates a central marketing system for UK fleece wool with the aim of achieving the best possible net returns for farmers.
British Wool Marketing Board
marketing@alchempro.com
