Over the last week or so, we have surveyed 416 people, most of whom had expressed an early interest in alpacas in 2005, along with a few who are established alpaca farmers.

We hoped you might like to share with us the highlights to date?

15.6 % of the interested group have now gone on to buy alpacas.

Their average spend on alpacas was $61,015.

A further 46% of those originally interested are still seriously interested in buying.

81 of the 416 are currently planning to buy more alpacas.

When asked what factors played the most important part in selecting which alpacas to buy (and from where), the leading factor (almost 60% agreed) was the conformation and looks of the animal.

Friendly and knowledgeable farmers from whom to buy came a close second.

The following quote seems to sum up most people's thoughts so beautifully :
"I find it impossible to say no to the perfect alpaca if there are amazing financing terms. Show ribbons aren't important since I feel I'm better at evaluating animals than when I first started. Friendly owners are a definite plus, but I'll even overlook that as long as they have a good reputation for not taking people for a ride with "hidden" fees."

The show circuit fared less well than we expected. 38.6% of owners have no plans to ever take their animals into the show ring. Only 9.3% were influenced by show ribbons when buying an animal.

A staggering 75.3% of people who have received an alpaca-related email have "clicked" to follow a link through to a website and see what is on offer.


We thank everyone who has been so very honest and good-hearted while we conduct this survey. Responses are still coming in, and we will keep you updated as this develops.
If you haven't already taken the survey please click on the link below.

Click here to take the Mulberry Alpacas survey.
Adrian Stewart - click here to go to Mulberry Alpacas.
Click here to register for the Mulberry Alpacas Newsletter.
Click here to find out about National Alpaca Farm Day 2007.