FROM FARM TO CONSUMER- A TRULY INTERNATIONAL TRADE
The fur sector is complex and international with the fur pelt produced by the farmer normally passing through several countries and undergoing various processes before it reaches the final consumer. Though fur is largely produced in countries with cold climates, the end products are worn all over the world.
Denmark is the world’s largest producer and exporter of mink skins- the staple raw material of the fur industry worldwide while Finland is the world’s largest producer of fox pelts- another industry staple.
To produce a pelt, the farmer cannot work alone. The farmer’s network includes links with, for example, feed kitchens, transport companies specialised auction houses, veterinarians, seasonal workers, etc. This network becomes truly international when the pelts are sold as raw dried skins at the auction house.
The world’s largest fur auction houses are in Copenhagen, Helsinki, Oslo, New York, Saint Petersburg, Seattle and Toronto. The bulk of the pelts are purchased by buyers from all over the world. From the auction house, the pelt moves to be dressed and dyed. In the EU, the main centres for these processes are in Italy, France and Germany. Subsequent to being dressed and dyed the pelts are ready to be manufactured into a fur garment or incorporated into a textile garment or used to make accessories.
Manufacture of full fur garments, combination garments and garments with trim takes place worldwide. Today, fur garments and accessories reach the final consumer via a wide range of retail outlets: specialised fur shops, department stores and fashion boutiques.