Nationwide retailer Farmers Trading Co has become the first local Wool Integrity brand partner in its sector, and is selling a series of blankets made from New Zealand wool.

Farmers’ Kate Reed range of home textiles includes Pippa and Etta woollen blankets. In the past, woollen blankets were sourced using Australian Wool. However, when Farmers and PGG Wrightson’s export subsidiary Bloch & Behrens Wool discovered they were both dealing with the same manufacturer in China, it quickly became obvious that using New Zealand wool for these blankets would be a better solution for all, as Juliet Crane from the Farmers buying team explains.

“We were pleased to become a brand partner to certify these 100 per cent New Zealand lambswool blankets.

“Knowing we support the local New Zealand wool industry and local sheep farmers is fantastic given its rich history,” she says. 

PGG Wrightson Wool Product and Innovation Manager Jason Everson is delighted that Farmers has become a Wool Integrity partner. 

“Being Wool Integrity certified means this wool has been ethically grown to industry best farming practices and offers full traceability, following a path of genuine integrity. Certification educates consumers on where the product has come from and meets the needs of sustainability, traceability and welfare,” says Jason.

Developed in house at Farmers, the range features classic colours and designs. Etta is woven with a subtle twill design and finished with a satin trim. Pippa is woven with a contemporary check design and finished with a traditional blanket stitch edge. Juliet says both ranges are a perfect layering addition to the bedroom.  

“Our New Zealand wool blankets have been selling since early April. We have had positive feedback from stores, with customers commenting that they like the fact that the wool is from New Zealand growers,” says Juliet.