In a deal set to transform alpaca breeding in the UK and the industry worldwide, Moonsbrook Alpacas has today announced the acquisition of the finest pedigree herd of Suri alpacas in Europe from leading alpaca stud, EP Cambridge UK. James Young, previously Deputy Chairman of Youngs Brewery and his partner Tim Hey, founders of Moonsbrook Alpacas, have purchased 250 head of livestock worth £1 million to supply prized alpaca fibre and pure-bred bloodstock for the growing domestic and European market.

The deal, which will be completed in October, is intended to bring a quantum leap to the fledgling alpaca industry in this country and will look to strengthen confidence and further investment in the industry, which is thought to be approximately ten years behind countries such as the US and Australia.

Although the UK market is still in its developing stages, it is, nevertheless, at least seven years ahead of Europe and subsequently offers producers real investment opportunity. Germany, Switzerland, Norway, Finland, France and Spain have been identified as having significant market potential.

Philip O’Conor of EP Cambridge UK says: “As the deal with Moonsbrook testifies, the interest in the UK alpaca industry is rapidly growing. With excellent financial return, EP Cambridge is seeing more people than ever, including farmers seeking to diversify and investors looking to develop the pedigree bloodlines which will ensure the industry’s long term success. In addition, there is the added bonus that breeding alpacas is also emotionally rewarding as well as profitable.”

EP Cambridge Alpaca Stud UK (formerly Atlantic Alpacas and Arunvale Alpacas) was established in 2005 when it merged with EP Cambridge Australia, to form the largest alpaca business anywhere in the world. The company aims to provide a comprehensive all-round service for alpaca owners from all backgrounds and degrees of experience.