Disruptive system innovation of Swedish wool processing.

Important results from the project

The aim of the project has been to investigate the possibility of developing the value chain for the Swedish wool that is currently being wasted. The result from the prototypes shows great promise for using Swedish wool, though more thorough analysis for different wool combinations and different types of products are needed. In summary, the results from the business lab have strengthened the project´s initial hypothesis that Swedish wool can, and should be processed to a greater extent than is currently done. This is both from a commercial but also an environmental perspective.

Expected long term effects

Four prototype yarns have been produced, yarn type and mix of wool varieties have been compared. Prototypes were produced in Wholegarment machines using the prototype yarn. The results show that Swedish wool has good potential for large-scale production. However, further tests and development are needed on a larger scale, especially when it comes to wool combinations and worsted yarn. Calculations and market analysis show clear demand for Swedish-made yarn. Continued work on developing the yarn and it’s processing is needed, in combination with innovation and product development.

Approach and implementation

The project was divided into two parts, a prototype production part and a business part. In prototype production, the focus was on defining practical and technical conditions for automated production of woolen garments. The business part aimed to support the prototype production with business-related issues. This was done in close collaboration with other national wool development projects, including one at the University of Borås. Dividing the project has provided a comprehensive and complementary picture of the conditions for complementing the domestic value chain.