Thomas Burberry’s invention of gabardine, a lightweight and weather-resistant fabric, transformed outerwear and set a precedent for innovation in textiles. Today, Burberry continues this legacy with the introduction of a scarf that combines tradition and cutting-edge technology. “Our pioneering spirit is an inherent part of our identity,” the brand stated. “We continue to harness our legacy of creativity and exploration to create innovative products that inspire and protect our customers.”
The scarf is woven in Italy and features a blend of 62% wool, 8% cashmere, and 30% Brewed Protein™. This lab-grown fibre is produced through the fermentation of renewable, plant-based ingredients, ensuring the scarf retains the high-quality attributes Burberry is known for—luxury, warmth, protection, and durability.
Kazuhide Sekiyama, Director and Representative Executive Officer of Spiber Inc., the biotech start-up behind Brewed Protein™, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “The result of over 20 years of tireless research and development, Brewed Protein™ fibre is a revolutionary protein material built for the century ahead,” he noted. “Working with Burberry represents a great expansion in the use of protein, which stands to serve as a key ingredient in helping us realise a circular society.”
Burberry’s commitment to innovation extends beyond fabrics. The brand is also exploring alternative manufacturing processes and sustainable agricultural techniques. Collaborating with Mediterranean Agro Technologies (Magtech), Burberry is developing a fabric made from hydroponic and organic cotton. This approach allows cotton to be grown in greenhouses using only water and nutrients, significantly conserving resources and minimising land use.
“We are constantly evolving our fabrics and solutions, from creating a blended scarf to exploring alternative manufacturing processes and groundbreaking agricultural techniques,” stated Caroline Laurie, VP of Corporate Responsibility. “By working at the intersection of creativity and innovation, we are continually challenging ourselves to test and learn.”
Burberry’s pursuit of sustainability includes collaborating with textile dyehouse Circotex to implement unique waterless dyeing and finishing technologies. Using renewable energy and CO₂ technology, the dyeing process eliminates water waste, underscoring Burberry's commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
The B shield scarf, available in stores and online now, is a testament to Burberry's dedication to blending luxury with sustainability. It reflects a commitment to not only meet the needs of today’s consumers but also to consider the impact of production on future generations. As Burberry continues to innovate, the brand invites customers to join in this journey towards a more sustainable future, one stylish accessory at a time.
