Finkhof The European alternative to Lands' End

Finkhof is a sheep-farming cooperative (Schäfereigenossenschaft Finkhof) in the Allgäu region of southern Germany, founded in 1979. It produces organic wool, virgin wool and natural textiles: wool pullovers (Troyer), natural fashion for women, men and children, wool yarns for knitting and weaving, sheepskins, sheepskin products as well as bedding and home textiles. The wool products are made almost exclusively from organic virgin wool. Cosmetics and household products are also available, supplemented by goods bought in from other manufacturers such as underwear.

Most Finkhof products are made in Germany, but not all. As its own flock is too small, Finkhof sources around 20 to 30 tonnes of organic raw wool per year from partner sheep farms in central and southern Germany and coordinates the processing (washing, carding, spinning, dyeing) from Arnach. Only a small share of the products is made in its three own workshops in Arnach; others are made by partner businesses, many of them in the region, but also in Switzerland and the Czech Republic. In addition, goods such as underwear are bought in from other manufacturers. Most products are certified to IVN BEST (described by the provider as the strictest seal for natural fibers) or GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standards); further seals are Bioland (since 1992) and Fair Rubber. Fairtrade applies only to a few food products.

Troyer pullovers made of organic virgin wool at Finkhof are priced in the range of approximately 89.50 EUR to 139.50 EUR, depending on model, size and knit. Yarns, sheepskins and bedding are available separately. The prices mainly reflect the organic virgin wool from Germany as well as the regional production, strict certifications and short supply chain.