Wool in Arab demand

Press, 9 April 1981, Page 12

Wool in Arab demand

PA ■ Wellington New Zealand wool is turning out to be a hot seller in one of the world’s hottest countries. Saudi Arabians are buying ■increasing numbers of dress robes made exclusively from good length New Zealand Corriedale or Halfbred wools. The yarn for the garments is supplied by Joseph Horsfall and Son, worsted spinners, of Halifax, England. Horsfall’s manager, Mr Brian Butler, was in New Zealand recently to ensure that he could obtain a continuing supply of the speciality wool types. About 90 per cent of the wool used by Horsfalls was imported from' New Zealand, according to Mr Butler. His firm has been in business for 100 years, and he believes that it has survived because it has been flexible. Horsfalls do not limit themselves to Arab robes. They make a variety of products, including paint roller covers and slipper linings. The saddle blankets used by Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips and the British equestrian team are also produced by Horsfalls, from New Zealand wool.;