Hi, I work for the UK distributor of Fjallraven. I've been a member for a while but haven't posted anything before. When I came across this thread recently I took the issues raised to my colleagues in Sweden for their comments, since it's these guys who are in charge of the design and production. The product manager, Donna, and marketing manager, Jerry, were most concerned that some of you had some experiences and opinions of our brand that weren't too good. Below is their reply which I am posting on their behalf. They had tried to respond direct to the thread but couldn't access it for reasons we don't understand. I hope you all are ok with us, the manufacturer, responding directly. It seemed the right thing for us to do. (By the way, I tried to log on with my real name rather than the forum nickname I've got, but the site wouldn't allow me. I don't want you all to think I wish to remain anonymous! My name is Ralph White)
" Dear loyal Fjällrävs,
We have noted you concerns on the Bush craft UK blog and are happy that you took this to our attention.
As most of you know Fjällräven has been committed to classic outdoor gear with a focus on function and the highest quality for 50 years.. This is something we take with the utmost seriousness. I am sorry to hear that you have had some less than exceptional experiences with some Fjällräven garments lately. This is something we take action on daily to assure quality..
Here are some of the choices Fjällräven makes to insure the best quality products:
We use: Coats thread ( Epic and Astra ) which is the highest quality thread for our garments.. This is the same thread that is used for the toughest work wear.
We use: only YKK and Finnish quality Salmi zippers. 5 years ago we had some issues that the waist button was being placed a few millimeters off that caused extra stress on the zipper. This problem was correct within the same year.
Our Own: G1000 has been made by the same trusted supplier for over 15years. The quality is often and routinely tested to assure the original standard is being kept.
Our garments and hardware are made in a few different places. Vietnam, China, Hungary , Portugal, Estonia , Lithuania, Denmark , Sweden and Sri Lanka. Our trousers partner factories have been making many of the same trousers styles for over 18years. We only have long-term partners in manufacturing.
We inspect 100% of all productions with a team of 6 Quality assurance professionals.
Our Greenland Wax is now and has always been made in Sweden.. Is it made from simply Paraffin and Beeswax with no chemical additives. It is the best way the lengthen the life of your G1000 garments and hardware as well as increase wind and water resistance .
We have for a long time back avoided the use of chemical additives or treatments in our garments..These treatments are often used for anti smell, anti wrinkle , anti tick and mosquito etc. These chemicals are often dangerous for those applying the chemical and even to the end consumer..many of them only last 5 to 10 washes.. We have made an active choice to avoid this..
We use only Flor Free WR treatments on our waterproofs. DWR treatments are known to be harmful to waterborne organism in water shelters.
I hope that this information gives you peace of mind and understanding of the unwavering commitment to quality by Fjällräven. We appreciate your loyalty and hope you have many great adventures in the outdoors with our gear for years to come.
Kind regards,