Explore how Scottish sheep farmers can retain more value from wool through stronger supply chains, local processing and supportive policy.

Join us at Kilburns Farm, Balmerino, for an honest, farmer-led exploration into the future of Scottish wool.

While rooted in practical peer-to-peer learning, this event moves beyond business as usual. We will tour host Rachel Ives’ farm to showcase her regenerative approach, explore how wool fits into a nature-friendly system, and navigate the real-world challenges faced on the ground.

The second half broadens the conversation, bringing together farmers, supply chain pioneers, and policymakers to tackle the systemic barriers holding our industry back. Together, we’ll dive into the newly published National Wool Strategy, explore how to retain more value at the farm gate, and address critical infrastructure gaps; such as the lack of a Scottish scouring plant.

NFFN isn't afraid to step into uncomfortable spaces to challenge current models, spark constructive debate, and drive real policy change. Whether you are a sheep farmer, industry representative, or policymaker, or really into wool, join us to help shape a thriving, nature-friendly, and resilient wool economy for Scotland.

Includes: Farm walk, networking, refreshments, and panel discussion.

Speakers:

Rachel Ives

Rachel farms at Kilburns Farm in Balmerino, Fife, where she has transformed an intensive arable system into a thriving, diverse organic operation centered on nature-friendly practices. By integrating livestock to restore soil health and actively processing her sheep’s wool into a unique regional yarn, Rachel demonstrates how aligning business models with natural capacity can yield both ecological and economic resilience.

Chima Onyeiwu

Chima is the Head of Supply Chain and Innovation at Johnstons of Elgin, bringing extensive expertise in technical innovation, sustainable sourcing, and supply chain operations within Scotland's luxury textile sector. With a background rooted in engineering and sustainable development, Chima plays a key role in bridging traditional textile manufacturing with modern, nature-conscious practices. His work focuses on improving supply chain transparency, driving circular innovation, and exploring high-value opportunities for Scottish fibres.

Susan Anderson

Susan is the publishing editor and founder of The Journal of Scottish Yarns, a publication launched to champion Scotland’s rich textile heritage, contemporary makers, and regional wool production. Bringing 30 years of commercial background together with a deep passion for natural fibres, Susan uses storytelling, design, and events to advocate for domestic wool and connect small-scale producers with the wider craft and textile industry.

Lorna Slater MSP

Member of the Scottish Parliament and former Minister for Green Skills, Circular Economy, and Biodiversity. A strong advocate for cross-sector collaboration, Lorna has spearheaded calls for a dedicated National Wool Strategy to unite policy across agriculture, manufacturing, skills, and culture. Bringing a background in engineering and renewable energy alongside her work in parliament, she focuses on building circular economies, protecting local skills, and restoring systemic value to domestic production.

Robbie McGowan

Robbie farms at Balchrystie, at Collinsburgh in Fife. Where he is cattle and sheep farmer. he'll be offering his experiences and perspectives on the value of wool, insights into shearing, and the farm gate wool prices. Plus, the logistics of handling and selling his wool.

The panel will be chaired by David McKay of Soil Association Scotland

If this event is sold out or the ticket type that you require is not available then please contact Ellie Strohm at ellie.strohm@nffn.org.uk to be added to the waiting list

Description supplied by the event organiser.