Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) has announced collaborations with leading manufacturers in India and China, furthering the exposure of quality Australian Merino wool in Asia.
Jaya Shree Textiles Ltd (which is part of Aditya Birla Nuvo Limited – one of the largest diversified conglomerates in India) has worked with AWI to create the Merino Linen collection, a line of wool and linen blends for warmer climates.
The unique finishing on the collection is a focal point. The fabric is softened by the use of an air-flow machine, breaking up the fibre and making it lightweight.
Where standard Merino/linen blends are approximately 300 grams per square metre (gsm), the Merino Linen range weighs in at a feather light 160 gsm.
“The trans-seasonality of the fabric collection, along with the natural benefits of linen and Australian Merino wool, make it very promising,” said AWI's global product development manager, Jimmy Jackson.
Meanwhile, AWI's work with Shandong Ruyi Group (Ruyi) in China has produced the Merino Fresco collection, specially created for the warmer spring and summer seasons.
One range features pure Australian Merino wool and wool/silk blend woven suit fabrics, while the other combines Australian Merino wool with silk, linen or cotton to create the perfect blends for smart casual jackets, trousers and shirts.
Merino Fresco items feature elegant colours and a range of patterns, including pinstripe, traditional herringbone and refined check.
Mr Qiu Dong, managing director of the Shandong Ruyi Group, is confident in the success of the clothing.
“Australian Merino wool is recognised in China as a high-quality and luxurious fibre, and it is important we continue to develop new innovative Australian Merino wool fabrics to fit the needs and requirements of this strong segment within the apparel market.”
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