In February 2003 Novosibirsk company "Vestfalika" (one of the biggest Russian producers of footwear, also produces fur shoe lining and double-face) opened in Australia a shop which collects raw sheepskins and is supposed to become the main source (supplier) of Australian sheepskins for Vestfalika. The enterprise is a big importer of Australian raw sheepskins, which are used mainly for fur shoe lining production. Before taking such a decision a marketing research on the Australian sheepskin market had been made. The experience of the first months of shop work showed that the idea was worthwhile - now the raw materials cost 30-40% less which makes it possible to reduce the cost of the manufactured footwear. And now, on the eve of the coming season, when both fur and footwear over the whole world become more and more expensive, the company may afford to differ favorably from its competitors, offering the buyers autumn and winter collection at the last year's prices.

Source: www.westfalika.ru
10.07.2003