As shown below (figure 1), online listings for shedding breeds, specifically focusing on joined articles, increased significantly in 2020, with 51,105 head listed, accounting for 17% of all terminal breeds offered and up 5% on 2019. Darren Old, of B R & C Agents, attributes the increased listings for the breed to 2020’s favorable seasonal conditions, combined with producers looking to cash in on demand and the current market strength. “Clients who would have normally sent their meat sheep to slaughter have been taking advantage of this demand, classing and offering their 2nd drafts for sale…while those with extra feed have been able to hang on to lambs for a little longer and market their sheep properly, with many looking to the box to do so, something previous seasons haven’t allowed.”
Clearance rates for shedding breed articles online has reached its highest average since 2016, sitting at 86%, up from 63% in 2019 - indicating the increased demand for the offering and a direct result of favorable seasonal conditions and producers looking to restock. Ian Featherstone, Elders Broken Hill, has found himself looking to shedding breed articles for his clients, particularly those who are looking to re-stock. “There is a bit of a mix behind purchasing decisions; traditional Merino breeders are starting to look into diversifying, as a result of the wool market, while others who were forced to downsize, or completely destock over the past four years have found themselves looking into alternative breeds”.
