what ’ s working
The company established an endowed scholarship and has raised more than $ 1.6 million for the nonprofit organization through the sales of designated blankets and other contributions . Pendleton also donates a portion of sales of special blankets to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation , the Native American Rehabilitation Association , the Fisher House Foundation and the Center of Southwest Studies at Fort Lewis College in Durango , Colorado .
Other partnerships offer the opportunity for Pendleton to collaborate with well-known clothing designers to create limited-edition products . The first of these collaborations was with Vans in the 1970s when Pendleton sold Vans sneakers made with Pendleton plaids in its store at Disneyland . More recent collaborations include Doc Martens boots made with Pendleton ’ s Pagosa Springs wool , heritage-inspired woven Fitbit bands , and a new line of denim classics with Lee .
built to last
Pendleton ’ s business is inherently tied to sustainability considering wool is nature ’ s most sustainable fiber . Wool is completely biodegradable , naturally decomposing and releasing nutrients back into the soil . It doesn ’ t have to be washed as often as other fabrics because it naturally resists odors and stains , and because it is flexible and durable , it is long-lasting . A special collection of products made with Pendleton Eco-Wise Wool are certified for sustainability , and the company has an internal sustainability committee that reviews current practices and identifies environmentally friendly options throughout all stages of the manufacturing process .
The company ’ s relationships with wool ranchers across the United States are long-lasting as well . Some families have been providing wool to Pendleton for more than 100 years .
Like its products , Pendleton was built to
Pendleton is now known just as much for its high-quality clothing as for its coveted blankets . last . The company has been family-owned and -operated for six generations ; its current president , John Bishop , is the great-greatgrandson of Thomas Kay . The promise printed on the label of the famous shirts — “ Warranted to Be a Pendleton ”— signifies the company ’ s commitment to quality and durability .
In 1900 , there were about 1,000 woolen mills in the United States ; today , the number remaining can be counted on one hand . Pendleton ’ s survival and success can be directly attributed to its focus on quality , value , experience and trust — and to the company ’ s loyal and passionate customers .
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