NZ Merino signs $8m supply deal with US-based SmartWool

15 Apr '15

1 min read

The New Zealand Merino Company has signed an $8 million one-year deal to supply 600 tonnes of fine and medium micron wool to US sock and apparel manufacturer SmartWool, say media reports in New Zealand.

NZ Merino Company markets the nation’s wool to customers on behalf of suppliers. It aims to boost revenue from wool through supply agreements with companies such as New Zealand outdoor clothing brand Icebreaker and Danish slipper manufacturer Glerups. The SmartWool supply contract continues an 18-year partnership which has been worth $150 million to NZ Merino growers.

“The SmartWool contract is testament that a new way of doing business can work in our commodity-based primary sector,” NZ Merino chief executive John Brakenridge said in a statement. “There certainly seems to be heightened awareness of this model now in the primary sector. It brings producers closer to end-users and that’s important in making sure we supply a premium offering. It means NZM growers get the best possible return.”

Colorado-based SmartWool’s parent company, VF Corp, counts The North Face, Timberland and Vans among its global brands. SmartWool started as a ski sock brand in 1994 and has since diversified into performance and lifestyle apparel, selling products in 40 countries. (SH)

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India