Media Release 01/09/09
Primary Wool Cooperative calls for more focus on producing quality wool
The Primary Wool Cooperative (PWC) is asking farmers to "keep the faith" in response to yesterday’s announcement of the'
no' vote for the wool levy.
"Growers need to continue to produce quality wool as the world is increasingly demanding that the products that are in
their homes are made of natural and sustainable products. We are on the cusp of the revival of wool and to walk away now
would be foolhardy,” says Cooperative Director Bay de Lautour.
PWC claims that the research undertaken in the United States as a part of the Elders Primary Wool Just Shorn TM strategy
(which is half owned by PWC) clearly shows that people are willing to pay more to know that their product is safe and
where it came from.
"Wool is a wonderful product which makes the best carpet - one that is sustainable, natural and beautiful but is also
flame retardant and has a range of other health benefits. The Just Shorn programme, that we are part of, is designed to
educate consumers' of these traits so that they won't even consider putting synthetic in their homes."
"This vote clearly indicates that farmers do not support past programmes including the concept of their marketing money
going to one commercial entity," said de Lautour, "We agree with them. We urged farmers to vote against the proposal to
ensure that levy money is spent in a targeted and fair way to ensure that all that contribute to it receive the
benefits."
PWC is concerned that their campaign against the levy may see the end of other non-marketing related programmes, and
looks forward to working with Meat & Wool to see whether Elders or PWC can continue to offer any of those programmes.
"We are pleased that this difficult time is now behind us and are looking firmly to the future," said de Lautour.
"Clearly wool growers believe that it is time for a change in how things are done, to do this we need to clear the air,
take stock and then undertake a well researched and market driven strategy if New Zealand is to continue being renowned
for its quality strong wool."
ENDS