speciality fibre
Natural Fibres - where we are today
N
o one could have predicted the events that would turn the world upside down in 2020. But the underling position of speciality fibres remains relatively intact according to Luca Alvigini of Alpha Tops in Biella. ‘Generally Luca Alvigini
the outlook for speciality fibres remains positive,’ he says. Natural fibres represent only 2% of total textile fibre consumption so demand will be sustained. ‘All textile fibres have experienced price reductions in 2020 and on the basis of these current price levels we feel there should be a market for speciality fibres. Of course, niche products are always subject to cyclical fluctuations’, he comments. ‘After the recent lockdown with subsequent 3 months of total consumer absence, there should surely be a basis for sound demand, maybe not in the short term, but probably in 2021/2022’. Luca Alvigini believes ecologic and traceable issues will play a major role in decision making at retail beyond COVID-19.
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Effective marketing strategies and good information can make a difference. A return to natural and environmentally sustainable products, and with a “story”, will provide a leading edge, when customers make their purchasing choices. An estimate of current production figures for speciality fibres worldwide is Cashmere (basis dehaired) China 4 mil kgs; Mongolia 4 mil kgs; Alpaca (basis tops) 5 mil kgs; Mohair (basis tops) 3 mil kgs; Vicuna (basis dehaired) 10 tonnes. ‘Alpaca prices have reached a competitive level after peaking in 2018/2019 and compared to other fibers the clip quantity has been very consistent. ‘Mohair is very stable’, he says. ‘In drought conditions in South Africa
