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Change is a word t hat is everywhere and used in association with everything and anything. It is no surprise therefore that ‘change’ has come to be some-what of an icon for the age!
From a business point of view, being able to ride this constant flux is an integral part of surviving. Much of the day to day running is a matter of adjusting to the changes at hand so as to remain competitive in the fiercely competitive global market!
Every so often however we find ourselves, as a business, as a creative force, in a position to not just ride the change, but to shape the direction in which it is headed. These opportunities are never the easy route and require foresight, passion, understanding and faith in order to be successful. It was exactly these four qualities that have stood the test of time as Finisterre go to market with their Bowmont Project.
It started with research assessing the suitability of UK industry and market to process and sustain a British fine fibre supply chain. This was followed by the quest for the Golden Fleece i.e. to locate a sheep breed capable of producing fibre of a quality able to compete with the best of Australia and New Zealand merino and with the natural qualities to thrive in a UK environment. There was such a sheep, but after 25 years of development it had been disbanded, slaughtered and sold on to those who were willing. Finisterre found the breed in the safe guardianship of Devon Fine Fibres who, it transpired, were in possession of the last 28 pure bread Bowmont in the world. An agreement was struck for the future of the sheep and the last four years have seen great investment and patience as the flock has been grown and the fibre collected.
At the beginning of 2011 Finisterre knew that they had enough fibre to process and 8 months later the first ever Bowmont product to reach the market is now available! It might only be a hat and a scarf, but these simple items represent the start of something here in the UK. Something that Finisterre hopes will go on to represent fundamental change in the value and landscape of British fine fibre farming, processing, marketing and retail.
A legacy in the making?
A genuine chance for change!
Click on the appropriate link to see the Finisterre Bowmont Ribbed Scarf and Bowmont Ribbed Beanie.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
These are beautiful items, all the more so for their origin…. I wonder if, one day, Bowmont knitting yarn will be available? I’d like to knit my own Bowmont beanie….
Hi there,
Yes it is. I have a small amount of DK yarn from the flock. If you are interested contact me at lesley@devonfinefibres.co.uk . Very tiny amount left so first come first served.