NATIONAL: Merino label Red Island has been taken over by fabric wholesale group Charles Parsons.
The label, which was launched in June 2006 by wool marketing group Australian Wool Innovation (AWI), will display its first range by the Melbourne-based textile and garment manufacturer when it launches its winter 2008 range in March.
In all 14 Red Island styles make up the collection, stocked exclusively by Purely Merino stores in both domestic and international airports around the country.
Key pieces include separate men's and women's ranges featuring tank tops, long-sleeved tees, a hooded zip front jacket, zip front vest , travel pants, a jersey scarf and beanie.
Key colours in the range - made exclusively from 100 per cent Australian merino wool blended with elastane - include charcoal, magenta, sage, azure blue, indigo, red, black and dove grey.
The acquisition comes just months after Charles Parsons announced a radical restructure during which time it anointed new staff and realigned its strategic direction as a result of a company-wide strategic review.
As part of the restructure, the brand also stated its intention to boost its existing brand portfolio, acquiring S & R Fashions shortly after.
AWI product marketing manager Jennifer Lau said the company was thrilled to have Charles Parsons developing the brand.
"Through its involvement the range is now better than ever in a number of strong seasonal fashion colours," she said.