Photo: Allied Media filesThe New Zealand Merino Company (NZM) is sourcing fine wool from a pool of 200 South African suppliers to keep up with strong demand from big brands. To meet customer needs, NZM has reached agreements with two South African brokers to top up its mainly New Zealand and Australian supply base. NZM now has access to merino wool from about 200 South African farmers certified with its ZQ programme to meet high animal welfare, environmental and social standards. The South Africa micron range sits within the broader end of the active-wear market as well as the sock market. Mr Hand said NZM competed with the wider market for the non-contracted South African merino, but paid a premium for it being ZQ-certified.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 24, 2026 15:52 UTC