U.K. opossum sales increase

Press, 26 November 1981, Page 26

U.K. opossum sales increase

NZPA London London auctions of New Zealand opossum skins will be stepped up to six a year. The decision to increase the number of auctions comes just a year after separate auctions of New Zealand opossum skins were first held in London. In that time, the number of skins offered has risen from just over 5000 to 76,000 at the latest sale.

The average price for skins has increased from $8.19 in November last year, to $9.06 this November. The latest top price paid for extra-large pale skins was $16.34. Dark-brown skins were also popular. “After a year we consider the London auctions of New Zealand opossum skin are definitely established,” said Mr Geoffrey Goad, of East, Wood and Holt. “The week of London fur auctions attracts buyers

from top companies in Europe, North America, and South America. “Many who come to London to buy swakara, American racoon, Afghan lamb, Australian red fox, or any of the other furs offered during the week of auctions see the opossum skins and stay to buy them as well. “For' instance, recently many of the Italian buyers who bought opossum came to London to buy a special offering of American racoon. “Now that the London auctions are established we hope to offer about 60,000 skins at each auction. “Because the demand is for better-quality skins, and quality is lower in the summer months, this should mean there is no fear that opossums will be hunted out.” Many opossum skins are used to line one of this year’s biggest European fashion sfnrips fnr-linpd rainmate