Sheridan is an Australian textile brand known for its premium homewares, particularly bed linen and towels. Established in 1967 by entrepreneur Claudio Alcorso, the brand has become synonymous with high-quality fabrics and Australian design.[1] Sheridan is currently owned by Hanes Australasia, a subsidiary of Hanesbrands.
Sheridan traces its origins to the establishment of Silk & Textile Printers Pty Ltd in 1939. Founded in Sydney by Orlando and Claudio Alcorso, along with Paul Sonnino, the company initially operated from a factory in Rushcutters Bay. By June 1940, the first printed materials were delivered to customers.[2]
Factory at Derwent Park, c.1954
Following World War II, the company sought expansion opportunities and relocated its manufacturing operations to Tasmania in 1947. The Tasmanian Government, under Robert Cosgrove, offered incentives such as affordable electricity to attract industries. The company established its new production facility in a repurposed munitions factory at Derwent Park, while maintaining its registered office in Sydney.[3] Initially focused on screen-printing raw silk, the factory gradually incorporated other textiles such as cotton. By the mid-1950s, the company had expanded its operations to include spinning and weaving, allowing it to complete the textile manufacturing cycle.[4] A 1954 photograph of the factory by Wolfgang Sievers further suggests that these activities were already part of the production process at that time.[5]
The birth of Sheridan
In 1967, Claudio Alcorso established the Sheridan brand, leveraging his expertise in textiles to develop a premium homewares company centred on high-quality fabrics and innovative designs.[6] The existing Derwent Park factory remained central to Sheridan's manufacturing, employing approximately 1,400 workers at its peak. The facility was notable for its progressive workplace policies, including worker representation in the boardroom, a 40-hour workweek, and a profit-sharing system.[7]
Expansion and dominance
Sheridan established itself as a prominent player in the home textiles industry, with a significant presence both domestically and internationally. As of 1994, the brand's products were sold in 43 countries, making it the only global brand in the bed-linen industry.[1]
As part of its marketing strategy in the 1990s and 2000s, Sheridan introduced the "Come Home to Sheridan" magazine. This publication was designed to engage consumers by showcasing the brand's products in seductive and lavish lifestyle settings,[1][8] attracting brand ambassadors, including Elle Macpherson.[9][10] Sheridan ceased operations in Tasmania in 2002, resulting in the loss of 48 jobs[11] and marking the end of its 55-year manufacturing presence in the state.[12]
In 2018, Sheridan marked its 50th anniversary by partnering with designer Ken Done, who reimagined his 1980s collaboration with the brand through a contemporary design.[13]
Mergers
Over the years, Sheridan underwent various mergers, eventually becoming part of Universal Textiles, which was later acquired by Dunlop.[14] In 2005, Sheridan was acquired by Pacific Brands, a major Australian consumer products company.[15] This acquisition allowed Sheridan to expand its market presence and product offerings. In 2016, Hanesbrands, an American clothing company, acquired Pacific Brands, bringing Sheridan under its global portfolio.[16]
Legacy
Sheridan's legacy is built on a foundation of quality craftsmanship and innovative design. From its origins in silk and textile printing to its evolution into a leading home lifestyle brand, Sheridan has played a significant role in shaping Australia's textile industry.[1]
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