ABSTRACT

Naturally colored and organic cottons have emerged in the natural fibers market as small, consumer-driven niches whose permanence seems assured by the major shift in values represented by environmentalism. More farmers are beginning to devote some acreage to niche cottons, attracted by the premium price they pay, the potential to lower input costs, and the opportunity to avoid environmental and health hazards through the reduction or elimination of agrichemicals. Textile manufacturers can use their experience with processing niche cottons according to their customers' specifications as an opportunity to conduct research and to develop processes and products that are less costly and more environmentally benign, allowing them to avoid increasingly stringent regulations. Wholesale and retail companies have found that consumers of niche cotton products are willing to pay a certain premium and that they hold companies responsible for the environmental integrity as well as the quality of the products. Sales continue to increase as domestic and overseas demand grows.