Using fiber from the Respin pilot line and Spinnova technology, Ecco has successfully constructed a prototype shoe. It is anticipated that a product made with this fiber will be available by the end of 2025’s first quarter.
“We are excited to advance with Respin, our joint venture. The CEO of Spinnova, Tuomas Oijala, expressed pride in the company’s advancements in Respin’s fiber quality, which now satisfies industry requirements and demonstrates the adaptability of Spinnova’s technology, which can use a variety of feedstocks, including leather waste. “With Ecco, we now have a clear plan for the next steps to scale the production of leather waste-based fiber.”
A letter of intent (LOI) detailing the future ambitions of the luxury shoe brand and Finnish fiber company Respin has been inked, given the substantial prospects to scale up manufacturing to a commercial level. Both sides are dedicated to growing their businesses and reaching a definitive conclusion regarding the scaling, marketing, and production of Respin.As per the terms of the Respin joint venture agreement and Spinnova’s plan, Spinnova will supply the technology for any manufacturing scale-up. Spinnova does not believe that raising manufacturing capacity will require further outside funding.
To produce circular textiles from leather waste, Spinnova formed a 50% joint venture in May 2021 with Ecco and KT Trading, a partner in the leather industry. The leather fiber, which uses Spinnova’s low-emission technology, has advantages for sustainability such as renewable raw resources, no hazardous chemicals, and minimal water use.
