Elders is proud to announce its recognition as a finalist in the 2025 Financial Review BOSS Most Innovative Companies list for its pioneering work in automated wool handling.
Elders staff receiving their finalist nomination. L to R: Dave McKeon, Head of TESA, Dave Adamson, GM Operations- Network, Anna Bennett, Chief Strategy Officer and Naomi Dallenogare, GM Corporate Affairs
This accolade celebrates Elders Wool, the world’s first fully automated wool handling business which was launched nationally in August 2024 at our Melbourne facility.
Elders Wool represents the largest single supply chain investment in Australian wool this century. The Melbourne hub is the only automated wool store in the world, featuring autonomous, self-guided vehicles (AGVs) and custom-built core lines.
AGVs are low-energy, high-reach, self-driving forklifts operating 24/7, controlled by smart optimisation software that maximises productivity and safety.
The hub is powered entirely by renewable energy, including a 350-kilowatt solar system, and underscore Elders’ commitment to environmental sustainability.
One of the AGVs moving wool bales within the Elders Wool Melbourne facility.
Since its launch, Elders Wool has transformed the operating environment, significantly improving efficiency and speed to market for growers. Our proprietary software streamlines processes, saving time and reducing costs, while our auto countermarking system ensures 100 per cent accuracy.
The rehandle system processes up to 200 bales daily, and our quarantine system optimises wool clip processing, removing reliance on conventional forklifts. These advancements improve safety outcomes for floor staff and speed up delivery to market with minimal handling time.
“Being named a finalist is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of our people, who continually strive to deliver for our clients and communities,”
- Anna Bennett, Chief Strategy Officer at Elders.
“Innovation is at the heart of everything we do, and Elders Wool sets a new benchmark for the industry.”