NFW names ForEver as certified partner to expand production of all-natural PLIANT™ shoe soles
NFW, a US-based start-up focused on all natural circular materials has formed a partnership with ForEver, Portugal-based leader in footwear innovation to expand use of PLIANT™ all-natural outsoles.
Based in Peoria, Illinois, NFW was founded in 2015 and produces all-natural (zero plastic) textiles, leather, foam, and outsoles capable of meeting or exceeding industry standards. The company has named an exclusive European production partner based in Portugal, ForEver, as its newest certified production partner in the creation of PLIANT™ outsoles.
PLIANT™ outsoles by NFW, are the world’s first naturally cured performance rubber outsoles. The all-natural sole is derived from the milk of rubber trees in certified responsibly managed forests. The soles are cured with NFW’s revolutionary patented plant-based curative (as opposed to a sulfur-based vulcanization process) making them both naturally circular and mechanically recyclable by NFW.
Selecting ForEver was an easy choice for NFW. “They have five decades of experience and a strong commitment to sustainability,” said Alan Lugo, NFW’s Director of Footwear Strategy. “ForEver’s flexibility and capability to work with multiple compounds – especially newer and more innovative ones – is second to none,” he continued.
ForEver offers access to brands who want to further their use of sustainable materials through their extensive library of open toolings. This allows brands to easily incorporate PLIANT™ outsoles, which are USDA-certified 100% biobased and meet the ASTM D6866 standard, into their product lines without having to invest in molds.
“Sustainability is no longer a choice. It's a priority in our strategy. Without sustainability, there is no hope and no future for societies to come. That said, sustainability goals cannot be met if large companies do not make a real commitment to the concept and come together to create sustainable and innovative solutions. We want to be the international benchmark for the footwear industry!,” said José Azevedo Pinto, CEO. “Adding PLIANT™ to our catalog allows us to provide the most sustainable option in the market to the most discerning brands.”
Today ForEver works with more than 500 brands globally, providing a fully integrated production service of footwear components. For Ever is a partner willing to transform and invest in innovative, sustainable solutions tailored to the needs of its customers.
PLIANT™ will be part of ForEver’s presentation from September 19-21 at Lineappelle, the most important leather, accessories, and component fair that takes place biannually in Milan.
About NFW
NFW is a platform for plastic-free performance materials spanning sheet goods, textiles, molded composites, and foams. NFW follows three Ground Rules in everything they develop: start well, stay clean, end well. The multi-material platform serves a wide range of industries—from fashion and footwear to automotive and upholstery. NFW technology embeds into existing supply chains, enabling the world’s most iconic brands to design and scale products with high-performance, naturally circular materials. NFW makes global brands more sustainable, empowering them to create without plastics. Alongside the boldest brands and visionary designers, NFW is pioneering a post-linear, post-oil economy. Learn more at: NFW.Earth.
About ForEver
For Ever is one of the leading European companies in the footwear industry. Founded in 1973 and located in Porto, Portugal, For Ever employs around 400 people and has a turnover of approximately 27 million euros. The company produces and supplies rubber, thermoplastic, and EVA footwear components to brands and manufacturers on a global scale, with 95 percent of its production destined for export.
Throughout the past 50 years, the company has been synonymous with innovation, quality, and sustainability. Through continuous investment in innovative technologies and processes, For Ever has been able to meet customer needs and keep up and anticipate the industry trends.
Press Contacts:
Mariana Jones
mjoanes @forever.pt
+351 927307504