Alpacas and the alpaca lifestyle represent a tremendous opportunity for the small business owner to make a profit and earn a very good living while enjoying the journey.  Today’s market in the alpaca business is primarily focused on breeding stock. There is a tremendous amount of interest in these animals and only a limited number available for purchase.  The growth of the US herd is slow and steady providing long term opportunity for the breeder. Additionally, growing attention toward alpaca fiber products has significant potential for the small business owner.  There is also a very large opportunity to serve others in the industry with your personal set of skills.  Anyone with a little immagination can find a niche in the alpaca industry.

Selling Animals
The alpaca breeder can make a nice income from the sale of the offspring from his or her breeding females, or from the resale of animals bought inexpensively and sold for a profit. Here are typical alpaca prices we’ve found in the midwestern states:

• Unproven male (no offspring, pet, possibly gelded)  $1000-$3000
• Unproven maiden female                 $10,000-$15,000
• Proven female (pregnant)                 $20,000 and up
• Jr. Herdsire                               $10,000-$12,000
• Proven Herdsire                          $15,000 and up

It should be noted that quality animals from superior bloodlines always command higher prices as do show quality animals who have won ribbons in halter classes or fleece competitions

Fiber and Product Sales
Many alpaca owners also sell alpaca products on and off the farm.  Yarns, rovings, scarves, sweaters, hats and gloves are items that sell well at farm stores or in displays at shows and events. There are many providers of wholesale alpaca products where these items can be purchased for resale. Local fiber artists and specialty fiber mills can process the fiber harvested from your animals into lovely “home grown” products for resale.

What is your niche?
You may have accounting skills, artistic talent, building and design experience or some other offering that others in this business need.  Take a minute to think about what you might be able to contribute to the industry and to your success as an alpaca owner.

We’d be pleased to help you discover how alpacas can fit with your future plans. Call us (816-619-3515) or email us (alpacas@clemwood.com) to arrange a time to chat and see the farm

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