Alpaca Industry Makes Headlines in North America

Since its introduction to the United States over twenty years ago, the alpaca industry has grown in popularity with farmers and retailers all over North America. Consumer demand is growing stronger each year, and this will leave an open door for new breeders and retailers nationwide.

(PRWEB) October 5, 2005 -- Since its introduction to the United States over twenty years ago, the alpaca industry has grown in popularity with farmers and retailers all over North America. Although alpacas originated in South America and are still found predominantly in that region, more and more alpaca farms are being developed around the world for two major reasons.

1. Alpacas are great animals with amiable personalities.
2. Alpaca fleece is used to produce natural, comfortable apparel.

In the year 2000, the United States was labeled the major market for alpaca clothing, textiles and accessories, with alpaca imports from Peru alone at an estimated USD $6.7 million. Today, another trend appears on the horizon. More and more breeding farms are developing in both the United States and Canada, and it is believed that new alpaca textile manufacturers are not far behind. Even the number of hand knitters who may have an interest in alpaca fabrics has increased to an estimated 28 million.

A multi-million dollar alpaca industry is projected in the United States as the public becomes aware of the benefits of alpaca fabrics. Nationwide marketing campaigns such as "I Love Alpacas" are revealing alpaca facts and benefits to consumers on a continual basis and providing easy access to learn more about alpaca farms.

A notable thirty percent increase was reported in the United States alpaca industry during 2004. PurelyAlpaca.com, a Washington retailer, attests to a 100 percent growth rate during the company's first three years, and its sales are expected to double again this year. Alpaca breeding is also on the rise in the United States, with an estimated 61,000 registered alpacas as of 2004.

The gentle nature of alpacas and the untold number of benefits from its fleece appeal to alpaca farmers like Frieda and Brian Schieber, founders of PurelyAlpaca.com.

"We feel alpaca fiber is a magical thing. Soft, warm, strong, naturally colorful and all so very healthy and natural", says Frieda.

Alpacas are tender animals akin to the llama family but with thick, soft fleece. Their fleece produces a smooth fiber that's hypo allergenic, washable and durable. Alpaca fleece is used to create luxurious sweaters, scarves, winter caps, and hundreds of other clothing products and accessories. Consumers love the comfort and natural of dyed colors of alpaca clothing.

Although alpaca breeding and retail imports currently dominate the United States market, the manufacturing aspect of the industry is expected to turn gradually more domestic as new breeding farms and alpaca fiber processing mills develop. Consumer demand is growing stronger each year, and this will leave an open door for new breeders and retailers nationwide.

PurelyAlpaca offers unique, incredibly beautiful alpaca clothing, accessories and gifts. From alpaca socks and yarn to alpaca sweaters and coats, PurelyAlpaca.com carries a wide and interesting selection of items. Contact PurelyAlpaca at e-mail protected from spam bots, 877-PurelyA or visit the company’s Web site at: www.purelyalpaca.com

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