History was made at the most recent mohair sale when a record quantity of kid mohair bales broke the magical price barrier of R300/kg. A 150kg bale of this kind of hair would sell for more than R30 000.
According to Pierre van der Vyver, general manager at Cape Mohair and Wool (CMW), this price increase was a direct result of a new Italian buyer entering the arena. Represented by Ken Reed of New England SA, the company Vitale Barberis Canonico is impressed with the quality of mohair available in “This client is very interested in being part of the mohair chain for the long run,” explained Reed. Vitale Barberis Canonico’s high quality men’s suiting is made from fine and ultra-fine wool from Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania and Africa.
Fine African mohair is also used to manufacture their much-sought-after material. Reed added that his client insists on top quality. “They only buy mohair of a good length, 120mm and longer and 27 micron and finer, and the hair must be free of medullated fibres and low in vegetable matter,” he explained. “That type of hair is only produced in South Africa. “Because contamination is also a factor this quality of mohair must be packed in nylon packs. Strict classing standards must be adhered to and the animals must be kept on well-managed properties, and be allowed to produce in an environmentally-friendly manner.” R eed is pleased with his first mohair buy in South Africa, which included a bale of kid hair produced by Martin and Hein Truter from Oudtshoorn, which sold for the top price of R336/kg. – Roelof Bezuidenhout
