VIEWPOINT
WHY WOOL TRACEABILITY IS IMPORTANT? by Jo Dawson, CEO H. Dawson Wool
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he beauty of wool is that we know where it comes from. We can see wool growing, witness it being sheared and collected, graded and treated. Wool suppliers across the world have the ability to trace every fibre which passes through the supply chain, from the very sheep which grew the wool, right the way through to the final product. It’s this ability to track and trace fibres which ensures the quality, reliability and integrity of wool. Why do we think traceability is important? We know that our customers are becoming increasingly aware of how important it is to know the origins of the wool they buy and that they are sourced responsibly using ethical farming methods. At H. Dawson Wool, we work closely with our growers and suppliers to ensure we’re aware of every link in the chain to ensure openness. We find that the major brands who we work with, particularly in the fashion and outdoor clothing industries, are keen to invest in processes which ensure that they are acting as responsibly as possible in terms of raw materials production and supply. Many wool producers are finding new ways to monitor their supply chain from beginning to end, and to be able to respond to any enquiries about the origins of specific wools, throughout the entire process. Just as a consumer buying meat, dairy and fresh produce has a desire to know where their food comes from, increasingly so do people
who buy wool garments to wear or furnish their homes. The wool industry has access to the right technology, and a responsibility to offer reassurance and peace of mind through robust traceability programmes. As a leading worldwide supplier of raw and semi-processed wool products to all levels of the demand chain, we supply high-quality wool to makers of carpets, bedding, apparel, blankets, home furnishings and industrial products. Operating on a genuine worldwide basis, our global network offers us access to the highest quality fibres, processing, and technologies. At H. Dawson Wool, not only do we feel it’s important for customers to know where their wool comes from, but that they can trust us when we tell them about its origins. We know our farmers and regularly visit their premises; we invite customers to see the work they do. And we work closely with farmers to help them realise their growing and supply potential. By appreciating how hard they work and maintaining a strong, mutually beneficial relationship, we can ensure the chain remains strong, effective and transparent. However, the wool industry itself is a long way off offering complete traceability, and we as a company are working hard in this area. Traceability is unique to natural fibre suppliers, as our industry can genuinely demonstrate the story behind our wool, the face of the producer, and even the animal where it came from. One thing of which we are absolutely certain, is the same cannot be said for man-made fibres. We can all make the most of this position for the long term benefit of the entire wool producing industry. wool2yarnglobal 2015 | 29