Following his previous visit to the company’s manufacturing facility, James Wild MP recently returned to the Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co.’s Ingoldisthorpe sheep site to gain further insight into the company’s pioneering approach to British wool and wider challenges facing the UK wool sector.
Founded in 2005, the Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co. is a family-run business committed to traditional craftsmanship, sustainability, and bolstering the local economy. Their mattress collections, including the Sandringham Wool Collection, utilise 100% traceable British wool sourced directly from local farms, such as the Sandringham Estate.
This model ensures animal welfare standards are upheld and provides farmers with fair, upfront payments, offering a viable alternative to the fluctuating prices of traditional wool auctions.
During the visit, James met founder Amanda Oldfield, herself a practising shepherd. Amanda detailed the economic pressures confronting British sheep farmers, particularly the challenge of wool prices that frequently fail to cover the essential cost of shearing, which is also a critical aspect to ensuring high standards of animal welfare.
James discussed the shearing process and saw some newly sheered fleeces, and gained a clearer understanding of how the company’s transparent and sustainable supply chain directly supports farmers.
The discussion also focused on the governance of the British Wool Marketing Board and broader market issues, including the need for greater pricing transparency, diversification of wool products, and targeted policy reforms to boost demand and improve outcomes for farmers.
James Wild MP said:
“Returning to the Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Company gave me valuable insight into the challenges facing the British wool industry.Wool is an incredible durable natural product and I welcome the company’s commitment to fair and sustainable practices. I will continue to work to help secure a stronger future for this important sector.”
