G. Modiano and G. Schneider Unite to Strengthen Wool Legacy

A strategic alliance that strengthens sustainability, quality, and innovation in the wool industry

In a landmark move for Europe’s textile sector, G. Modiano Ltd. and G. Schneider SpA have entered into a major agreement to consolidate their expertise and ensure the continued excellence of wool processing across Europe. Under this partnership, all of Schneider’s wool operations—excluding those in Mongolia and South America—will now operate under Modiano, creating a stronger, more resilient player in the global wool market.

A Milestone in European Wool Collaboration
G. Modiano, known for its extensive industrial expertise and reliable stock service across diverse wool microns—including shrink-resistant varieties—will now integrate Schneider’s deep specialization in fine and ultrafine wools, open-tops, and carbonized wool. Schneider’s well-established Authentico® program, centered on sustainability and traceability, will complement Modiano’s robust operational network.

Together, the new alliance forms a powerhouse dedicated to delivering diversity, reliability, and stability to the EMEA region’s wool trading and processing sector.

The combined group will benefit from an extensive product portfolio, a global sourcing network, and three premier mills located in Italy, Egypt, and the Czech Republic. With a long-serving, skilled team, a shared dedication to quality, and an unwavering focus on sustainability, this partnership reinforces their collective ability to serve the most demanding global clients.

Legacy of Excellence and Sustainability
Founded in 1957 and based in London, G. Modiano traces its roots back to 1875, evolving into one of the industry’s leading wool top producers. Its Czech Republic facility in Nejdek is among the world’s most advanced scouring and combing plants, featuring an in-house zero-discharge effluent treatment system that purifies and recycles all scouring water, reflecting Modiano’s deep commitment to environmental stewardship.

Similarly, The Schneider Group, established in 1922 by Giovanni Schneider in Sydney, has spent over a century perfecting the craft of animal fibre processing. Starting with the export of Australia’s finest wools to Europe, the company expanded through the 1980s under the second generation, integrating industrial processing for greater quality assurance.

Under the leadership of Giovanni and Elena Schneider, the third generation, the company launched Authentico®, ensuring a fully transparent, traceable, and ethical supply chain from farm to garment. Schneider’s Italian mill—renowned as the only combing plant in Italy capable of processing fine wool, cashmere, and even vicuña, the world’s rarest fibre—stands as a symbol of innovation and craftsmanship. Its Egyptian mill specializes in medium wool combing and operates a carbonizing line for greasy wool and by-products.

Both Modiano and Schneider maintain sourcing operations in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, ensuring access to the world’s finest raw materials.

A Shared Vision for the Future
“In an era where the textile and fashion industries have shifted focus away from raw material excellence, we’ve continued to invest in traceability, sustainability, and quality,” said Elena and Giovanni Schneider. “Like our grandfather and father, we believe in representing true luxury from the very start of the textile chain—connecting agriculture and industry. We’re proud to see the Schneider legacy continue under G. Modiano Ltd., a company that shares our values and vision.”

Laurence and Michael Modiano, sons of founder Giuseppe Modiano, added, “This investment reinforces our joint commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the preservation of traditional textile craftsmanship. As family-owned businesses, we value our legacy deeply and are dedicated to building upon it for future generations.”