SECURING OUR ENVIRONMENT

It is increasingly important for us to continuously review the activities we undertake, against a criteria focused on protection of the environment.

Demand from consumers worldwide for quality knitted accessories fits neatly with the need to utilize renewable natural resources (such as cotton, wool and cashmere yarn), rather than deplete finite ones. It also provides essential employment and capital for both third world and developed economies.

Almost all the yarns we use are natural fibres such as cotton, wool and cashmere. We always purchase these from high quality manufacturers based in either the UK or Italy. Where we use nylon in some processes, this is sourced from within the UK.

All yarn waste is stored and collected weekly by a local charity for distribution to clubs, schools and charities for use in art projects etc. All plastic, cardboard and paper waste is collected by a local recycling company, with the result we send zero waste to landfill.

We have had the factory completely re-wired in recent years, and have also had new lighting installed to cut power usage. We have installed an efficient new boiler and heating system, again to reduce our energy consumption. As we are dealing with natural fibres we do not use any harmful chemicals on the site.

We have tried to reduce our paper usage to a minimum, no longer sending correspondence by paper, but whenever possible sending it electronically. We no longer send out paper invoices and statements but instead use e-mail. We keep the printing of catalogues and promotional materials to an absolute minimum, and use electronic media to circulate our new designs to our sales agents and customers.

Sustainability and environmental issues are handled directly by the joint Managing Directors, Chris Jones and Lisa Wood, and are integral in every process and decision within the business.