Erode-based Five P Venture India, and the Central Silk Board, based in Bangalore, entered a collaboration. Five P has introduced fibers such as linen, recycled cotton, Tencel and modal, and developed a variety of fabrics. With the board’s technical support, Five P will be able to develop new, niche products such as silk.

This collaboration could also help revive the heritage skills of handloom weavers in the Chennimalai belt. The Chennimalai handloom cluster in Tamil Nadu has so far not worked with any fiber other than cotton.

Making such value added products will not only take the company to the next level but also enhance the income of the handloom weaving community and improve their living standard. The company’s in-house brand ‘Nool By Hand’ was showcased at the Lakme Fashion Show, held during the Textiles India Fair. The apparel worn by men and women were made of handwoven organic cotton.

Chennimalai is noted for power looms and handlooms. But production has come down by 50 per cent due to frequent power cuts and load shedding. The increase in the prices of yarn has also affected production. The prices of 10-count yarn have increased considerably. Because of this, production cost has gone up.