An innovative new range of ready-to-wear wool products which are machine washable and dryable will hit the US markets next fall, as the Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) backed Total Easy Care project gains momentum. Two major retailers are already on board and it is hoped that another ten will enter into agreements by the end of 2006.
AWI consultant Jimmy Jackson, based in the United Kingdom, said changing lifestyles has created an opportunity for the wool industry to develop innovative fabrics which have the durability and performance of cotton with the high quality look and feel of traditional wool products.
“We have undertaken intense research and consultation with retailers to develop a wool product which performs like cotton in a washer and dryer,” he said.
AWI has taken a consultative approach to the project, working closely with retailers and others in the supply chain to create a quality product which meets the demands of the US consumer.
“After taking time to establish retailers' needs, we have worked closely with their preferred spinners and knitters to assist them in producing the Total Easy Care qualities in the garments the retailers want on their shelves.”
“Total Easy Care is almost a commodity in Europe, such has been its popularity. We think that in time it will prove just as successful in the US market,” said Jimmy Jackson.
“Our research has included agreements with manufacturers of washers and dryers suchas Whirlpool, GE and Maytag to see how our garments respond to washing in their machines. We've also worked closely with detergent manufacturers like Proctor & Gamble to fine-tune the concept.”
Australian Wool Innovation Ltd.
-Ltd..jpg?tr=w-120,h-60,c-at_max,cm-pad_resize,bg-ffffff "Thermore (Far East) Ltd.")
.jpg?tr=w-120,h-60,c-at_max,cm-pad_resize,bg-ffffff "Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation Limited (TSllC Ltd)")
.jpg?tr=w-120,h-60,c-at_max,cm-pad_resize,bg-ffffff "Taiwan Textile Federation (TTF)")
