Macpac bans mohair after investigation by PETA

Angora goats are shorn to produce mohair. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand outdoor retailer Macpac has banned mohair in its products, after concerns were raised by PETA.

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) Asia investigated the mohair industry in South Africa, which is the source of more than 50 per cent of the world's supply.

Video showed shearers - who were paid by volume, not hour - working quickly, leaving angora goats with gaping wounds, while others died in agonising ways.

"No animal deserves to be treated so poorly. We are very happy to commit to never using mohair at Macpac now or in the future," said Macpac CEO Alex Brandon after viewing the footage.

The retailer has two e-commerce channels and over 60 bricks-and-mortar stores in New Zealand in Australia, specialising in outdoor equipment and apparel.

"PETA's exposé pulled back the curtain on abuse in the mohair industry, revealing that gentle baby goats cried out in fear and pain as they were shorn for mohair jumpers and scarves," says PETA spokesperson Emily Rice. "Macpac has joined the growing list of fashion brands that recognise that today's shoppers don't support cruelty to animals."

PETA noted that in August, South Africa's National Council of SPCAs filed cruelty-to-animals charges against four angora goat farmers based on PETA Asia's evidence. The national police force is investigating the farmers – as well as shearers and other farmworkers.

Macpac's new policy against mohair is effective immediately.