The German sporting goods provider Puma SE announced on Tuesday a long-term partnership with the Finnish textile producer Spinnova Plc.
As part of the agreement, Puma will work with the Spinnova joint venture Woodspin Oy, it said in a statement. The aim of the collaboration is to “develop proof-of-concept products made from the wood-based Spinnova fiber for future collections, especially in the sport style sector”.
The partnership, which is designed to last several years, also serves to “secure material quantities,” explained Puma. With the “non-binding agreement” the company “reserved Woodspin’s production capacity.”
Collaboration with Puma is an “important step” for Spinnova
Howard Williams, Director of Global Innovation Apparel & Accessories at Puma, highlighted the technological importance of the collaboration. “Spinnova’s innovative fiber technology represents a new entry into the world of cellulosic fibers (MMCF) by using water instead of chemicals to produce these fibers,” he said in a statement.
Shahriare Mahmood, Spinnova’s Chief Product and Sustainability Officer, emphasized the significance of the agreement for the Finnish company, which already collaborates with some well-known international clothing suppliers. “We are very pleased to announce this Spinnova fiber collaboration with a major global brand like Puma. It is an important step in building the market and industrial use of the Spinnova fiber needed to scale up,” he explained. “It is just the beginning and we will continue to work with Woodspin to sign similar agreements with other partners.”