Not all wool is created equal. Animal welfare, labour rights, and environmental impact vary widely across wool-producing regions. That’s why Devold sources exclusively thick and medium-thick wool from Norway and the Falkland Islands and merino wool from New Zealand and Uruguay – four countries with strong regulations and responsible farming practices.
But laws alone aren’t enough. Just like Devold carefully select countries that legislate the right protections, we also choose wool growers who meet those standards in practice. Devold works directly with wool growers where possible to ensure transparency, traceability, and accountability.
Here’s why these four countries made the cut – and how Devold ensures its wool is sourced the right.
Norway’s wool industry may be small, but it operates under some of the world’s strictest animal welfare and labour laws. Norwegian sheep farming is highly regulated, requiring proper shelter, veterinary care, and humane treatment. Labour protections require fair wages and safe conditions, and as part of the EEA, Norway follows EU sustainability laws.
Norwegian wool is renowned for its durability and warmth, perfect for harsh Nordic winters.
Government subsidies require wool to be sold through central cutting stations, making direct sourcing from wool growers not an option. Instead, Devold sources through Norilia, a subsidiary of Nortura, Norway’s farmer-owned agricultural cooperative, and Fatland, a family-owned company.
This remote South Atlantic archipelago produces some of the purest, most sustainable wool in the world. Sheep roam freely across vast, untouched landscapes, and wool growing here is low-impact, with minimal chemical use and a strong focus on animal welfare. The result? Exceptionally soft, contamination-free wool, thanks to the islands’ clean, remote environment.
While Devold’s General Manager at our textile mill personally selects wool from specific Falkland farms, sourcing remains structured through agents rather than direct wool grower partnerships.
New Zealand is one of the most tightly regulated wool producers in the world. The Animal Welfare Act 1999 ensures humane treatment of sheep, and mulesing is banned. Strict labour laws require fair wages and safe conditions. Environmental regulations mandate sustainability plans, monitoring water use, and fencing off streams to protect local ecosystems.
Climate plays a big role in wool quality, and New Zealand’s mild, stable weather provides consistent growing conditions. Sheep graze year-round on natural pastures. Winter diets are supplemented only by barley hay and lucerne There is no soy feed or industrial additives. As one wool grower put it, ‘What goes into the sheep’s mouth dictates how the wool comes out.’
The result is high-quality, consistent fibre, with none of the inconsistencies seen in harsher climates. The wool growers know exactly what to produce, and it is ideal for what Devold creates.
Through our direct souring model ‘Sheep to Shop’, Devold handpicks wool growers based on long-standing relationships and a shared commitment to quality in every aspect.
Uruguay has emerged as a leading producer of fine merino wool, thanks to vast natural grasslands and a commitment to responsible farming. Sheep graze on open pastures, producing soft, durable wool. The country also has strong animal welfare laws and some of the best worker protections in South America, ensuring fair wages and safe conditions.
Uruguay’s wool industry is also at the forefront of regenerative farming, using rotational grazing to improve soil health and reduce environmental impact. To ensure full traceability, Devold partners directly with Engraw and the farm La Anita. The organic wool (GOTS certified) for Devold’s workwear range comes straight from our trusted Uruguayan partner.