Nikwax Achieves Highest bluesign® Rating

Seattle, Wash. — [July 14, 2026] — Nikwax, the global leader in PFAS-free waterproofing and aftercare solutions, is proud to announce that it has achieved the highest possible rating; Level 4  “Aspirational” following its latest bluesign Company Assessment. Bluesign evaluates production sites and suppliers on a scoring system consisting of four specific levels, with tier 4, or “Aspirational” being the highest achievable tier.

This achievement recognises nearly five decades of environmental leadership from the UK-based, employee-owned company, whose products have always been free from intentionally added PFAS and are designed to extend the life of outdoor clothing, footwear and equipment.

Conducted by bluesign technologies in March 2026, the audit of Nikwax’s UK production facility recognised the company’s outstanding performance across environmental, management and operational criteria.

The independent assessment highlighted several key achievements and the attainment of an overall Aspirational rating with a score of 90%.

Perhaps most significantly for a company founded on environmental responsibility, the auditors concluded:

“The production site in Wadhurst generates almost no environmental impact.”

Nikwax achieved exceptional scores across multiple assessment categories, including:

  • Environment: 100% (Aspirational)
  • Management System: 96% (Aspirational)
  • Emergency Preparedness: 90% (Aspirational)

The audit found no environmental non-conformities or findings, awarding Nikwax a perfect score in this category.

The bluesign rating system is one of the textile and chemical industry’s most rigorous sustainability standards, assessing environmental performance, occupational health and safety, resource efficiency, product stewardship and responsible chemical management. The highest level, Aspirational, is reserved for companies that not only comply with mandatory requirements but also demonstrate best-practice performance and a commitment to continual improvement.

Commenting on the result, Tim Pickering, Director of Product at Nikwax, said:

“Achieving the highest bluesign Aspirational rating is a significant milestone and reflects the dedication of our entire team.

For nearly 50 years, Nikwax has challenged the idea that product performance has to come at an environmental cost. Our PFAS-free, water-based technologies were developed to provide effective waterproofing while reducing environmental impact, and becoming employee-owned has further strengthened our ability to make long-term decisions that support people, the planet and the outdoor industry. This assessment provides independent recognition of that commitment.”

The assessment also recognised the maturity of Nikwax’s management systems and the company’s proactive approach to sustainability. As an employee-owned business, Nikwax continues to invest in environmentally responsible innovation and manufacturing practices that support both consumers and the outdoor industry in reducing their environmental footprint.

Founded in 1977, Nikwax pioneered water-based, PFAS-free waterproofing products and remains committed to producing high-performance solutions that extend the life of outdoor clothing, footwear and equipment while minimising environmental impact.

About bluesign®

The bluesign SYSTEM is a globally recognised sustainability standard for the textile and chemical industries. It provides a comprehensive approach to reducing environmental impacts, ensuring consumer safety, responsible use of resources and improved occupational health and safety throughout the supply chain.

About Nikwax

Nikwax is the global leader in environmentally responsible aftercare and waterproofing solutions that extend the life and elevate the performance of outdoor footwear, clothing and equipment. Never using PFAS or aerosols and not testing on animals since its foundation in 1977.  Its product line is water-based and non-persistent, and all product bottles and lids are made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic that can also be recycled. Nikwax has carbon balanced all of its operations since foundation in 1977 and became an employee-owned trust in 2022.

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Nevada Sheriff’s Office Adds RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector, Becomes 11th U.S. Agency to Deploy the Technology

STOCKHOLM, Sweden – July 14, 2026 – RECCO, a global search and rescue technology, recently announced that the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office in Nevada has equipped its RAVEN (Regional Aviation Enforcement) helicopter program with a RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector, making it the 11th organization in the United States and the 54th worldwide to deploy the aerial system.

The RECCO system operates on a passive radar principle. The helicopter-carried detector emits a radar signal that bounces off a RECCO reflector which is a small, lightweight, battery-free device integrated into outdoor clothing, helmets, backpacks and boots, and echoes back to the detector, guiding the aircrew directly to the person’s location.

First developed in the 1980s for avalanche rescue, RECCO technology has grown from a localized winter tool into a year-round global standard for search and rescue. The helicopter-mounted detector allows aircrews to scan larger areas of forest, mountain, and snow-covered terrain, often reducing searches that would take hours or days on foot.

“The addition of the RECCO helicopter system is a significant step forward for search and rescue across our region,” said Sheriff Darin Balaam. “As just the 11th organization in the United States and the 54th worldwide to deploy this life-saving aerial technology, we’re investing in capabilities that significantly narrow the window of time it takes to find someone who is lost or injured, ultimately saving lives. This technology strengthens our commitment to providing the highest level of service to our community and regional partners.”

The RAVEN program will provide RECCO-enabled search-and-rescue coverage primarily across Northern Nevada and Northern California, including the rugged terrain of the Sierra Nevada. The aerial capability will supplement the region’s many search-and-rescue teams already trained on RECCO handheld detectors, adding a coordinated air-and-ground search capability throughout the area.

“Washoe County’s terrain, from dense forest to high alpine backcountry, is exactly the kind of environment where a helicopter detector can make the biggest difference in search time,” said Fredrik Steinwall, CEO of RECCO. “We’re proud to welcome the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office to our network and to keep expanding this technology to regional partners who are on the front lines of search and rescue.”

To get the most out of the new capability, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents and visitors, whether skiing, hiking, mountain biking, or backcountry camping, to carry or wear gear equipped with a RECCO reflector, ensuring they are searchable to both air and ground crews. Many outdoor brands integrate reflectors directly into their gear, and stand-alone reflectors can be attached to backpacks or helmets.

Photo Link: https://reccoab.sharepoint.com/:f:/s/RECCOExternalSharing/IgAfQY6TkPTuQar2MNcFpK60AYUMHubHQQAaL6xH0QxUpME?e=plhpQy

About RECCO

RECCO® advanced rescue technology makes outdoor enthusiasts searchable to rescuers in case of an avalanche accident or when lost in the outdoors. The technology builds on a two-part radar system. Rescuers carry RECCO® detectors that send out search signals which are echoed by RECCO® reflectors, carried by the user. RECCO® detectors are used worldwide at more than 900 ski resorts and mountain rescue organizations in 32 countries. RECCO® reflectors are integrated into select apparel, helmets, protection gear and boots manufactured by more than 150 leading outdoor brands. RECCO AB was founded in 1983 in Sweden and is owned by its founder Magnus Granhed and the publicly traded investment company Traction AB (listed on OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm).

More info at recco.com.

Media Contact

Verde Brand Communications

(970) 235-0268

recco@verdepr.com

Kästle USA Announces New Executive Leadership Team to Lead Next Phase of Growth

Portsmouth, N.H. — July 13, 2026 — Kästle USA today announced that Steven Poulin has resigned as Chief Executive Officer, effective August 27, 2026, concluding a successful period of organizational transformation that established a strong operational foundation for the company’s future.

Since joining Kästle USA in August 2024, Poulin led a comprehensive transformation of the company’s U.S. operations, strengthening organizational infrastructure, streamlining business processes, and positioning the company for long-term growth.

During his tenure, Kästle USA successfully relocated its corporate headquarters from Vail, Colorado, to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, transitioned warehouse operations from Houston, Texas, to Merrimack, New Hampshire, and implemented new organizational systems and processes that significantly improved operational efficiency, collaboration, and customer service. Together, these initiatives created a centralized operating platform that better supports the company’s growing network of specialty retailers throughout the United States.

Statement from Steven Poulin

“It has been an honor to lead Kästle USA during this important period of transformation. I am incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished together—from rebuilding our operational foundation to creating a stronger platform for future growth. I have every confidence that the company is well positioned for continued success, and I look forward to watching Kästle continue to thrive.”

Building on a Strong Foundation

To lead the company’s next phase of growth, Kästle USA announced that Jed Duke has been appointed Managing Director, effective July 1, 2026.

As Managing Director, Duke serves as the senior executive responsible for the overall leadership and strategic direction of Kästle USA. He oversees all aspects of the business, including corporate strategy, financial performance, brand leadership, product strategy, marketing, and organizational development. Duke also works closely with Kästle International to ensure alignment between the company’s global vision and the continued growth of the North American business.

Working alongside Managing Director Jed Duke, Justin Heanue has been appointed U.S. Sales and Operations Director, effective July 1, 2026. Heanue leads the company’s sales organization, dealer development, customer service, logistics, and operational execution, translating the company’s strategic vision into consistent execution throughout the U.S. business.

Together, Duke and Heanue will work collaboratively to strengthen specialty retail partnerships, deliver exceptional experiences for retailers and consumers, and execute a long-term strategy that reinforces Kästle’s position as North America’s premier premium ski brand.

Duke and Heanue bring decades of combined leadership experience within the ski and outdoor industries. Their complementary expertise in executive leadership, product strategy, sales, operations, and brand development positions Kästle USA to accelerate sustainable growth while remaining firmly committed to specialty retail, premium products, and exceptional customer service.

Statement from Jed Duke

“Steven and the entire team accomplished something incredibly important over the past two years by building the operational foundation that positions Kästle USA for long-term success. We sincerely appreciate Steven’s leadership and the many lasting contributions he made to the organization.”

“Kästle has entered an exciting new chapter in North America. Our focus is to build upon the strong operational foundation that has been established by accelerating sustainable growth, deepening our partnerships with specialty retailers, delivering exceptional products and service, and continuing to strengthen the Kästle brand for the long term.”

“We have an exceptional team, outstanding retail partners, and tremendous support from Kästle International. Together, we are committed to honoring the heritage of this iconic brand while positioning it for an even stronger future throughout North America.”

Kästle USA extends its sincere appreciation to Steven Poulin for his leadership and dedication during a pivotal period in the company’s development. His vision and commitment helped establish a strong operational and organizational platform that will support the company’s continued success for years to come.

As Kästle USA enters its next phase of growth under the leadership of Managing Director Jed Duke, the company remains committed to delivering premium products, strengthening partnerships with specialty retailers, investing in innovation, and providing an exceptional experience for skiers across North America.

About Kästle USA

Founded in 1924 in Austria, Kästle has earned a global reputation for precision engineering, exceptional craftsmanship, and uncompromising performance. For more than a century, the company has developed premium alpine, freeride, touring, and nordic equipment for skiers who demand the highest level of performance on snow. Today, Kästle USA partners with specialty retailers, athletes, and mountain professionals throughout North America to deliver world-class products backed by exceptional service and support.

La Sportiva Expands Mountain Apparel Collection for Spring 2027

BOULDER, Colo. (Jul 13, 2026) — La Sportiva, maker of the world’s finest mountain gear, today announced its apparel collection for Spring 2027 with new mountain running, climbing, and alpine pieces built for long runs, fast hikes, alpine approaches, and everyday life in the mountains.

“At La Sportiva, every product starts with the demands of the mountain athlete,” said Jonathan Lantz, President of La Sportiva North America. “Our Spring 2027 collection brings together technical performance, comfort, and versatility across running, climbing, and alpine pursuits, giving athletes pieces they can rely on from the trailhead to the summit and everywhere in between.”

The run collection is led by the Endure Short, which brings advanced Kinitech construction into a storage-focused piece for long efforts on the trail. The Kinitech inner tight uses four compression zones to support and stabilize key muscle groups, reducing fatigue, boosting power, and improving comfort. A lightweight stretch-woven outer short uses laser-cut perforations and bonded hems to improve breathability and reduce chafing, while an integrated waist belt, a secure rear zip pocket, and additional thigh storage keep gels, keys, phone, and small essentials close without adding extra layers or bulk. The $199 Endure Short comes in a 5-inch inseam for men and a 4-inch inseam for women.

The run collection also includes the new Ethereal Jacket, Ethereal Overpants, and Forge Seamless T-Shirt. The $179 Ethereal Jacket is a 2.5-layer laminated shell built for high-output movement in the mountains. Weighing in at just 7 oz, the new waterproof jacket comes equipped with fully taped seams, an adjustable hood with bonded visor, dual zippered hand pockets, and an integrated stow pocket. The 3.7 oz Ethereal Overpants use the same 2.5-layer construction with a 20k water column rating. A zippered bottom hem allows for fast transitions with shoes on, while a stretch fabric increases freedom of movement and comfort. The Ethereal Overpants retail for $179. Rounding out the run collection, the $69 Forge Seamless T-Shirt features a barely-there fit, body-mapped seamless construction, and Polygiene anti-odor, anti-bacterial treatment for daily training and longer runs.

Made for hiking, skiing, and alpine objectives, the Ascent Pant brings a fully featured design to bigger mountain days without the bulk of a heavy alpine pant. Built with durable Cordura fabric, side leg ventilation, an adjustable waist, and an integrated gaiter, the $219 Ascent Pant is perfect for challenging approaches, dynamic movement, and rapidly changing spring conditions. A three-button hem system makes the pants compatible with ski and hiking boots, while the harness-compatible construction enhances comfort when moving through demanding terrain. The Ascent Pant is available for men and women.

The $239 Havoc Primaloft Hoody for men and women features warmth and weather protection for cold starts, stop-and-go efforts, and days when a traditional insulation layer is too static. The new 11.9 oz hoody uses Primaloft Silver insulation with body-mapped VapoVent fabric for targeted ventilation, pairing warmth with breathability for active use. An adjustable helmet-compatible hood, internal chest pocket that doubles as a stow bag, articulated construction, and a PFAS-free DWR fabric finish make it a versatile layer for hiking, climbing, and alpine travel.

The Front Range Collection adds new activewear pieces for climbing, training, and the hours after the crag. Built with technical fabrics and a relaxed mountain aesthetic, the new styles are designed to fit the needs of climbers and runners while transitioning naturally to the bar, coffee shop, or around town. The $145 women’s Cryptic Hoody adds a versatile layering piece to the collection with a medium-weight grid fleece, a scuba-style hood with an integrated ponytail slot, and a front kangaroo pocket. Soft enough for everyday wear but technical enough for cool mornings at the crag, it reflects the collection’s blend of performance and casual mountain style.

The Surge Short, women’s Surge Tank, and men’s Surge Short Sleeve Shirt bring lightweight stretch and breathability to warmer days. Built from a lightweight perforated grid fabric, the new pieces provide breathability, mobility, and all-day comfort whether the plan involves climbing, hiking, or simply spending time outside. The $65 Surge Tank and $89 Surge Short Sleeve Shirt are designed to handle high-output efforts with a streamlined design that delivers the durability and performance that climbers need. The $75 Surge Short is available in men’s 5-inch and women’s 4-inch versions and features a relaxed pull-on design with a low-profile elastic waist, hand pockets, and Front Range-inspired prints.

The new collection will be available at select specialty retailers and at www.lasportivausa.com in the spring of 2027.

About La Sportiva
With over 90 years of heritage, La Sportiva has unrivaled experience in building the world’s finest performance mountain footwear. Creating innovation through passion, La Sportiva now offers the most versatile technical climbing, mountaineering, Mountain Running® and hiking shoes on the market, along with a full line of ski mountaineering hardware and apparel. For more information on La Sportiva, visit www.lasportivausa.com or follow @Lasportivana on Instagram.

UDisc Announces 50 Best Short Disc Golf Courses for 2026

MINNEAPOLIS — July 9, 2026 — UDisc, the leading disc golf course directory and smartphone app, has released its list of the 50 Best Short Disc Golf Courses for 2026. These locations put disc golf’s value as an accessible outdoor activity front and center, with data-driven rankings that showcase the top places for families and people of all ages to get outside and active in under an hour.

Short disc golf courses are built at twice the rate of their longer counterparts, but they aren’t usually recognized for their impact on community-level recreation. This list seeks to change that.

Celebrating short disc golf courses is also a key component of UDisc’s mission to empower the world to play more disc golf. Headlined by Maine’s Sabattus Disc Golf Center, the list includes venues in 10 countries and 19 U.S. states and comes amid a surge in the game’s global growth: Disc golf participation has jumped roughly 86% since 2020, with over 17,000 courses now spanning nearly 100 countries worldwide, according to UDisc’s 2026 Disc Golf Growth Report. Notably, beginner disc golfers who get their start on a short course are 10% more likely to come back for a second round.

“Short disc golf courses lower the barrier to entry for anyone wanting to experience one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities in the world,” said UDisc Co-Founder and CEO Josh Lichti. “We hope this list does more than just inspire people to go play disc golf – we also hope it shows municipalities everywhere that high-quality disc golf can fit anywhere.”

Download the UDisc app to record your rounds, discover more short courses, and experience disc golf near you.

About UDisc

UDisc is the world’s #1 disc golf app, trusted by millions of players to record rounds, discover courses, and measure their progress. UDisc’s mission is to empower the world to play more disc golf by supporting players and organizers worldwide. Now the industry standard for measuring disc golf participation, infrastructure, and reach, the company’s Disc Golf Health Index focuses on the places where new courses can be most impactful. Learn more at UDisc.com.

VALLON introduces Arlo: Classic geometric sunglasses with modern-day performance

Amsterdam, Netherlands (July 9, 2026) – Today, VALLON, the eyewear brand known for creating performance eyewear at its best-looking, introduces Arlo. These frames are a fresh take on one of eyewear’s most iconic hexagon silhouettes, reimagined for people who move seamlessly between city streets, weekend escapes, and the outdoors.

For decades, ‘panto’-style frames – a design featuring round lenses with a geometric frame – have been worn by artists, writers, musicians, and explorers alike, prized for their balanced proportions, understated character, and timeless appeal. With Arlo, VALLON brings that creative heritage into the modern outdoors, combining a classic silhouette with lightweight, technical performance for today’s adventures.

VALLON has refined the classic crown panto shape for Arlo, and the result is a versatile, lightweight frame with subtle structure, and a distinctive personality that feels equally at home in the city, on the coast, or high in the mountains.

“Arlo is a frame with creative roots and an adventurous spirit,” said VALLON co-founders, Richard and Marcus Franck. “We were inspired by the eyewear worn by the artists, musicians, and explorers of previous generations, but built it with the comfort, durability, and performance people expect today. They are the kind of sunglasses you reach for every morning, no matter where the day takes you.”

Arlo’s frames are handcrafted from premium cellulose acetate for exceptional comfort, durability, and enduring style. VALLON’s proprietary V52® polarized lenses deliver outstanding optical clarity with an ABBE value of 52, exceptional glare reduction, impact resistance, and natural color perception. A detachable sports headstrap transforms Arlo from an everyday lifestyle frame into performance eyewear built for movement, keeping the sunglasses secure whether hiking, cycling, paddling, or travelling.

In keeping with VALLON’s naming scheme, taking inspiration from rock, folk, soul and country musicians of decades past (Watchtowers, Howlin’, Waylons, the Revivals), this new frame is named after American folk singer-songwriter, Arlo Guthrie.

In addition, VALLON partners with CleanHub to clean up and recycle 1 kg of plastic waste for every pair sold, to offset material consumption during production. Beyond protecting coastal ecosystems, this partnership helps to create local jobs, promote gender equality, and empower communities to safeguard the environment.

Arlo is available in a unisex fit in Black, Horn, Green, and Brown colorways and is available now at vallon.com and select retailers worldwide.

MSRP: 145 EUR / 169 USD / 249 CAD / 130 GBP

Downloadable assets.

About VALLON | Classic Style, Maximum Performance

Original eyewear that combines classic style with maximum performance. We design highly technical and innovative eyewear infused with a whole lotta soul, offering great value gear that also cleans up plastic waste with every pair sold. Trusted by explorers, adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts around the world, VALLONs have crossed the oceans, traversed every continent, and reached the world’s highest peaks. Protect your eyes in style #theVALLONway. Visit www.vallon.com for more information.

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Media contacts

NAM

Verde Brand Communications

Becca Katz: vallon@verdepr.com

Verde PR Durango, Colorado, USA

EMEA & All other regions

VALLON Senior Marketing and Communications Manager

Victoria Bushnell: victoria@vallon.com

VALLON B.V. Amsterdam, Netherlands

RECCO and Alpine Club of Canada Expand Partnership to Promote Summer Hiking Safety and Searchability

STOCKHOLM, Sweden — July  8, 2026 — RECCO, a global search and rescue technology, today announced the continuation and expansion of its partnership with the Alpine Club of Canada (ACC) for 2026. As the summer hiking season begins, the collaboration underscores a shared commitment to improving backcountry safety and raising awareness about the importance of being searchable while exploring the outdoors.

With hiking continuing to grow in popularity across Canada, more people are venturing into remote and mountainous terrain each year. The ACC, headquartered in Canmore, Alberta, operates the largest network of backcountry huts in North America, supporting thousands of hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts annually.

Established in 1906, the ACC is a non-profit organization that has been promoting mountaineering, fostering a sense of adventure, and encouraging responsible recreation in alpine environments for over a century. Today, it brings together a community of 18,000 members across Canada through 26 local chapters, which organize more than 2,000 outings each year—60% of them during the summer months—engaging over 14,000 participants.

The ACC also manages 27 backcountry huts across the country, forming the largest hut network in North America and supporting approximately 65,000 overnight stays annually.

Through this partnership, RECCO and the ACC will equip and educate the hiking community with tools and knowledge that can support faster, more effective search-and-rescue operations.

ACC will host educational initiatives and community engagement opportunities throughout the hiking season, helping outdoor users better understand how RECCO technology works and why searchability is a critical component of backcountry safety.

“Education on safe travel in the mountains has been a pillar of The Alpine Club of Canada’s activities since the club’s founding 120 years ago. We are very excited to have RECCO as our mountain safety partner.” Keith Haberl, Strategic Impact Director

The RECCO rescue network continues to grow rapidly, supporting search-and-rescue operations at more than 900 mountain rescue organizations and ski resorts across 32 countries. In Canada, RECCO SAR Helicopter Detectors are deployed with multiple rescue organizations, enabling teams to quicker search large and remote areas, up to one square kilometer in just six minutes. These capabilities not only help reduce search times for missing persons but also minimize risk exposure for rescue professionals during missions.

“Expanding our partnership with the Alpine Club of Canada is an important step in making more hikers searchable during the summer season,” said Fredrik Steinwall, CEO at RECCO. “As more people head into the mountains each year, education around preparedness and searchability becomes increasingly critical. Together with the ACC, we are helping to ensure that outdoor enthusiasts are better equipped for safe adventures.”

This collaboration reflects a broader effort by RECCO to extend its technology beyond winter sports and into year-round outdoor activities such as hiking, trail running, and mountaineering. For more information on the global RECCO rescue network, please visit recco.com.

Photo link: https://reccoab.sharepoint.com/:f:/s/RECCOExternalSharing/IgCDmv0S-8HwRZGhTvh5ANqSAYDGYu35BtwqhZL_BsnGpcA?e=4PiU6x

About RECCO

RECCO® advanced rescue technology makes outdoor enthusiasts searchable to rescuers in case of an avalanche accident or when lost in the outdoors. The technology builds on a two-part radar system. Rescuers carry RECCO® detectors that send out search signals which are echoed by RECCO® reflectors, carried by the user. RECCO® detectors are used worldwide at more than 900 ski resorts and mountain rescue organizations in 32 countries. RECCO® reflectors are integrated into select apparel, helmets, protection gear and boots manufactured by more than 150 leading outdoor brands. RECCO AB was founded in 1983 in Sweden and is owned by its founder Magnus Granhed and the publicly traded investment company Traction AB (listed on OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm). More info at recco.com.

About the Alpine Club of Canada (ACC)

Founded in 1906, the Alpine Club of Canada is a national organization dedicated to promoting climbing, mountaineering, and backcountry travel in Canada. The ACC operates the largest network of backcountry huts in North America and is committed to advancing mountain culture, safety, and environmental stewardship through education, programs, and community engagement.

Media Contact

Verde Brand Communications

(970) 235-0268

recco@verdepr.com

MiiR and SanMar Announce Exclusive Wholesale Partnership for Apparel and Bags

SEATTLE, WA (July 7, 2026) — MiiR, the Seattle-based design-forward lifestyle brand known for its premium drinkware and commitment to responsible giving, today announced a new wholesale partnership with SanMar, the largest wholesale imprintable apparel supplier in the United States. This partnership brings MiiR’s newly launched apparel and bag collection to organizations seeking premium offerings for corporate gifts, employee recognition programs, hospitality offerings and event experiences beginning in July. MiiR’s iconic drinkware and coffee accessories will continue to be available through Gemline, MiiR’s longstanding exclusive wholesale partner for corporate gifting and promotional products, through the end of 2026. SanMar will assume responsibility for the full MiiR product portfolio, including drinkware, beginning January 2027.

“This partnership with SanMar represents a new chapter of growth for MiiR in how we think about access and reach,” says Bryan Papé, CEO and Founder of MiiR. “We’ve spent 15 years building products rooted in intentional design and generosity, from the drinkware people use every day to the apparel and bags launching this summer. Partnering with SanMar elevates what we’ve already been building in the corporate space, bringing our full ecosystem to more businesses through the most trusted name in the industry.”

The SanMar partnership marks a significant milestone in MiiR’s evolution from a premium drinkware brand into a full lifestyle ecosystem. With more than 50 years of expertise in the promotional product industry and nine distribution centers nationwide, SanMar will meaningfully scale both the reach and customization opportunities available to business partners, making it easier than ever for organizations to put a fully customized MiiR product in the hands of their teams, guests, and customers.

Launching with the supplier’s fall new arrivals, the MiiR apparel collection is designed for people who move through the world with purpose. Each piece is made to feel good and move with the wearer, with modern shapes and considered details throughout. The collection will include 31 men’s and women’s styles, built to layer. From premium tees and polos to mid-layers, technical bottoms, and an assortment of versatile bags, it’s a complete system designed for easy, everyday wear or for packing up to explore the world.

“MiiR is the kind of brand we love bringing to our customers,” shares Shel Renning, VP of Merchandising at SanMar. “The combination of elevated design and a diverse product line that spans drinkware, apparel, and carry gives businesses visually distinct products to work with. We’re proud to partner with a brand that leads with generosity, sustainability, and craftsmanship, and we’re excited to help more organizations experience what MiiR has been building for the past 15 years.”

As MiiR evolves into a full lifestyle brand, streamlining wholesale distribution under a single partner positions the company for long-term growth. Gemline will continue to serve as MiiR’s exclusive drinkware wholesale partner through the end of 2026, ensuring a seamless transition for customers and partners.

“Gemline has been an exceptional partner in helping grow the MiiR brand within the corporate gifting and promotional products industry,” says Bryan Papé. “Their support, expertise, and commitment to our brand have played an important role in expanding MiiR’s reach and connecting our products with new audiences. We are deeply grateful for the collaboration and shared success we’ve built together over the years, and we appreciate the strong foundation Gemline has helped create as MiiR continues to grow and evolve.”

MiiR’s apparel and bags collection will be available to decorators and promotional product distributors through SanMar beginning in July, with drinkware to follow in January 2027. The collection will include responsibly made water bottles, tumblers, and mugs, along with an expanded range of tote bags designed for comfort and easy carry. Together, these pieces build on the apparel and bag collection, offering more ways for customers to outfit their everyday.

For more information on MiiR, please contact Corinne Baud (corinne.baud@rygr.us) and Kaitlyn Harvie (kaitlyn.harvie@rygr.us).

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About MiiR

Seattle-based MiiR creates thoughtfully designed drinkware, bags, apparel, coffee accessories, and everyday essentials that blend function, style, and purpose. Since 2010, MiiR has contributed more than $5.5 million to nonprofits focused on social and environmental impact and is a Certified B Corporation, 1% for the Planet member, and Climate Neutral Certified brand. Each MiiR product features a unique Give Code™, empowering customers to connect directly with the company’s transparent giving initiatives. Celebrating 15 years of design, generosity, and collaboration, MiiR continues to create products that inspire people to get outside, connect, and make a positive impact.

About SanMar

SanMar Corporation is one of the nation’s premier wholesale suppliers of imprintable apparel, headwear, and accessories. Headquartered in Issaquah, Washington, SanMar has been a foundational partner to the decorated apparel and promotional products industry for decades, serving distributors and decorators through a national network of distribution centers. For more information, visit sanmar.com.

Media Contact:

Corinne Baud

rygr, MiiR

corinne.baud@rygr.us

Kaitlyn Harvie

rygr, MiiR

kaitlyn.harvie@rygr.us