SupplyCompass, a fashion production software company, has partnered with The Woolmark Company to “set up trusted wool supply chains” and launch a wool guide to help brands launch new categories of wool products.
Through the partnership with The Woolmark Company, SupplyCompass will offer its SME network of fashion apparel and homeware brands the ability to produce sustainable wool collections – the first fibre offering on the production platform.
“Brands using SupplyCompass will have immediate access to new manufacturers trusted by the leading wool association in the world, as well as total traceability, with access to the full journey from farm to product. By establishing long-lasting supply chains and offering flexible minimums, SupplyCompass is aiming to empower more brands to produce sustainable wool collections with this versatile natural fibre,” the company says.
The partnership will initially see a select number of manufacturer partners available for SupplyCompass users who will be put through a ‘rigorous onboarding process’ SupplyCompass explains. This process involves a qualifying digital assessment – comprising the factory's operational set-up, labour policies, code of conduct, sustainable practices and environmental initiatives – and a visit to the factory by a member of a specialist team. SupplyCompass plans to have a global selection of manufacturers by the end of 2021, including weavers and knitters from India, China and Europe.
On the partnership, Flora Davidson, co-founder of SupplyCompass, says: “We’re over the moon to be entering the wool market with the absolute experts, The Woolmark Company. We’ve been wanting to add wool to our supply chain for a while, but knew it had to be done in the right way.
“This meant working with the right partner as well as getting our platform ready to ensure circularity and sustainable design could be integrated with transparency from the beginning – with the end goal of ensuring all wool garments have a positive impact throughout their entire lifecycle.”
In addition to this project, SupplyCompass and The Woolmark Company have also joined forces to develop a comprehensive guide to “cover everything brands need to know about wool”.
“We’re thrilled with our Wool Guide, which explains the fibre in detail,” adds Davidson.
The SupplyCompass Wool Guide is said to cover the extensive properties of the fibre, different types of wool, the wool production process and the social, animal and environmental impacts of wool.
Additionally, the guide highlights the considerations for designing a collection with wool, The Woolmark Company's certification and the latest innovations in wool that will “change the way brands work with the fibre”. For example, this may include wind and water-resistant wool, wool faux fur and digital printing.
Managing director of The Woolmark Company, Stuart McCullough, concludes: “We’re excited to be partnering with SupplyCompass and continue to build our global network of trusted supply chain partners. The current climate is also an opportune time for designers, brands and innovators to expand their knowledge and we are confident the new Wool Guide will be a beneficial educational resource.”
