Meriwether Group, a brand consulting firm and trusted advisor, will provide strategic counsel to iconic Oregon brand Pendleton Woolen Mills. Guided by the experience and strategic approach of Meriwether's seasoned professionals, Pendleton will consider new paths for growth within the U.S. and beyond, while preserving its celebrated American spirit and commitment to Oregon heritage.
"As a family-owned business operating in Oregon for 150 years, we have decades of history and brand equity from which to build," said Pendleton president C. M. (Mort) Bishop III. "Meriwether brings a deep respect for the Pendleton legacy and a keen sense of our potential. We're looking forward to growing the brand at home and abroad in new and interesting ways."
In 2013, Pendleton celebrates 150 years of weaving fine woolen textiles in Oregon. It started producing its famed Trade blankets in 1909 and expanded to clothing with the men's shirt in 1924 and women's wear in 1949.
Today, the company offers full lines of men's and women's apparel, blankets, home décor and gifts. Pendleton products are available at 70 retail stores in the U.S. as well as through seasonal catalogs and online at pendleton-usa.com.
Pendleton apparel and blankets have walked the runways in Tokyo and Paris through relationships with upscale fashion brands, such as Opening Ceremony, Comme des Garçons and YSL. Their iconic patterns have also been featured on athletic apparel and footwear brands including Nike, Adidas, Vans, Hurley and Dr. Martens.
"The Pendleton wool label is synonymous with high quality apparel, blankets, home décor and gifts. Today, the Pendleton brand is relevant to a broad range of consumers, from surfers and skaters to cowboys and fashionistas," said David Howitt, founder and CEO of Meriwether Group. "It's an honor to work with an authentic company with so much history, and help them look for new ways to create touch points for the brand."
About Pendleton
Setting the standard for classic American style, Pendleton is recognized worldwide as a symbol of American heritage, authenticity and craftsmanship. With six generations of family ownership since 1863, the company celebrates 150 years of weaving fabric in the Pacific Northwest in 2013. Pendleton owns and operates two of America's remaining woolen mills, constantly updating them with state-of-the-art looms and eco-friendly technology. Inspired by its heritage, the company designs and produces apparel for men and women, blankets, home décor and gifts.
