The USA market for non-industrial textile products (apparel, home furn
ishings, floor coverings) is based on man-made, cotton and wool fibres
. In the decade to 1990, cotton has increased its market share; wool's
use has been static. The US textile industry is generally a cost-driv
en volume production industry adopting information technology to maint
ain a competitive position against imports. Information technology is
also applied at retail for quick response to consumer trends. Consumer
s require products with quality style, service and value which meet fu
rther lifestyle needs of casual use, environmental and ethical issues,
and combine both aesthetics and functional performance. R & D develop
ments in wool products targeted at market-led needs identified by IWS
market evaluation are discussed.