Archives: Press Releases

Backpacker’s Pantry, a family-owned maker of gourmet adventure meals, announces its annual donations for the 2022 calendar year. Over the course of the past year, Backpacker’s Pantry donated a combined total of approximately $178,000 to 12 organizations including: 1% for the Planet, American Hiking Society, Cal-Wood Education Center, Community Food Share, Community Foundation Boulder County, The Conservation Alliance, Conscious Alliance, Continental Divide Trail Coalition, Outdoor Afro, SLOW Money Initiative and Thorne Nature Experience.

“Backpacker’s Pantry is our seventh longest-standing member, with a partnership that dates back to 1990, the year after we were founded. Throughout the years, Backpacker’s Pantry has exemplified what it means to be an engaged member by providing additional financial support, supporting cause marketing campaigns, sharing content, and participating in our advocacy efforts through sign-on letters, op-eds, and trips to DC to further our priority campaigns,” said Conor McElyea, Director of Membership and Partnerships at The Conservation Alliance.  “We feel extremely fortunate to have the team at Backpacker’s Pantry by our side as we work to create a world where people, places, and wildlife thrive together.”

“We are honored to have Backpacker’s Pantry as part of our ever-growing ALLIANCE,” said Justin Levy, Executive Director at the Conscious Alliance. “From product donations to healthy and innovative product creation for the communities we serve, we know that the Backpacker’s Pantry team always has our back in our efforts to end hunger.”

For 2023, Backpacker’s Pantry will expand its nonprofit recipients, adding The Freshwater Trust, Camping to Connect, and Partnership for the National Trail System to its list of partners. The partners that will carry over from last year include: 1% for the Planet, American Hiking Society, Cal-Wood Education Center, Conscious Alliance, The Conservation Alliance, Continental Divide Trail Coalition, SLOW Money Institute, Thorne Nature Experience, and University of Colorado Foundation.

“We have the privilege of running this business in a way that considers environmental stewardship of equal consequence to financial outcomes,” said Duane Primozich, CEO at Backpacker’s Pantry. “We select our philanthropic partners with the same rigor used for making strategic business decisions and we are thrilled to be continuing support for long-term partners like The Conservation Alliance and initiating three new partnerships. In 2023, we’ll be supporting ecosystem resilience and fresh water conservation through The Freshwater Trust, access, inclusion, and connection through Camping to Connect and land conservation and protection through the Partnership for the National Trail System. Each of these new and legacy groups does incredible work and it is our privilege to support that work.”

For more information on Backpacker’s Pantry, please visit: https://backpackerspantry.com 

About Backpacker’s Pantry

Backpacker’s Pantry is a Boulder-based, family-owned producer of gourmet adventure meals made with healthy and sustainable ingredients. Since 1951, the company has been delivering high-quality freeze-dried meals with an emphasis on taste. To give back to the community we love, the places we adventure and the planet we must protect, Backpacker’s Pantry donates 1% of every sale, every day to nonprofits around the world through 1% For the Planet and is 100% solar powered. Today, Backpacker’s Pantry is sold in over 2,000 stores in North America. For more information and a complete list of products, visit https://backpackerspantry.com.

About American Outdoor Products

American Outdoor Products (AOP) is a food manufacturer located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Boulder, CO.  Established in 1951, American Outdoor Products remains an independent, privately held, family-owned and operated company distributing products throughout the world. Inspired by a passion for unique cuisine and exciting adventures, the company produces Backpacker’s Pantry, adventure food for the outdoors; Astronaut Foods, out-of-this-world novelty treats; Chef Soraya grab-and-go plant-based meals; and Colorado Spice, all-natural and organic artisan spice blends. To learn more, visit: https://backpackerspantry.com

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Outdoor industry guides, instructors, employees, and other professionals team up with Outdoor Prolink to give back.

Outdoor Prolink, the pro purchase program created for outdoor professionals at the heart of the industry, asks that their members give a micro-donation at checkout when making purchases on the outdoorprolink.com store. At the end of 2022, Outdoor Prolink and its members finished off the year by raising $82,970, which went to five organizations; American Whitewater, Boulder County Wildfire Fund, The Conservation Alliance, PridePads Africa, and Protect Our Winters.

Each year, Outdoor Prolink selects nonprofits focused on their core values, including climate change, conservation, and sustainability. On Giving Tuesday alone, Outdoor Prolink members donated $1,104, and Outdoor Prolink matched those donations with $1,000.

“Giving back to the community is a foundational value at Outdoor Prolink, and one we take to heart. We are so excited to continue to support the outdoor industry and double down on our commitment to our nonprofit partners,” said Gareth Richards, founder of Outdoor Prolink.

“We are so grateful to the Outdoor Prolink Community for standing with PridePads Africa in support of menstrual health and hygiene, education, and women’s economic empowerment,” said Marisa Kellogg, Executive Director. “Thanks to your generosity, PridePads will be able to continue the important work of teaching menstrual health education and providing biodegradable pads so that girls can stay in school during their periods. Investing in girls is investing in our collective future, and we thank you for helping to Break the Taboo in 2022!”

“Strategic partnerships are foundational for our ability to build the Outdoor State into the most influential and impactful climate group in the United States,” said Justin Van Saghi, Strategic Partnerships Manager, Protect Our Winters. “Partnering with Outdoor Prolink allows us to get in front of a large, dedicated community of outdoor enthusiasts, people who are the core of The Outdoor State and bring them into our advocacy efforts as we work to change the trajectory of climate change.”

“2022 marked another wildly successful year for The Conservation Alliance and its partners. Through the collective efforts of more than 270 member companies, the Alliance awarded a record $2.2m in grants to 56 organizations,” said Conor McElyea, Senior Director of Membership and Partnership at The Conservation Alliance. “In addition, we saw 14 projects cross the finish line, permanently protecting 178,815 acres of wildlands. Outdoor Prolink’s support has played a pivotal role in enhancing the efforts of our coalition to further protections of the places we all love to explore, and we look forward to furthering our partnership in 2023.”

New for 2023, Outdoor Prolink will choose a different non-profit partner each month throughout the calendar year that Outdoor Prolink professionals will be asked to give a micro-donation to at checkout. Similar to previous years, Outdoor Prolink will also match donations on Giving Tuesday, with money raised going towards the same non-profit partners they’ve historically supported.

To learn more about Outdoor Prolink, please visit: outdoorprolink.com.

About Outdoor Prolink

Founded in 2004, Outdoor Prolink acts as the facilitator of trust to connect qualified outdoor professionals with the best outdoor brands. Utilizing a strict vetting process, Outdoor Prolink strives to be the most authentic and responsible pro purchase program in the industry. Through the platform, brands engage trusted outdoor professionals and utilize their influence to drive retail sales growth. Qualified outdoor professionals earn privileged discounts on the outdoor gear they rely on for their work, in order to further the pursuit of outdoor recreation for everyone.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NC-based agency to spearhead PR for Shimano’s deep lineup of premium fishing products

 

January 18, 2023 – Charleston, SC – Shimano North America Fishing, manufacturers of industry-leading fishing tackle systems, proudly announces its partnership with Darby Communications, an Asheville, NC-based PR and marketing agency specializing in the outdoors, active lifestyle, and fishing markets. Effective immediately, Darby Communications will serve as Shimano North America Fishing’s agency of record, working with its portfolio of brands to proactively amplify product and brand awareness in the broader fishing industry through PR and media relations services.

“Darby Communications exhibits all the qualities we were looking for in a PR partner–a record of success in the immediate fishing space, a high level of experience within the greater outdoor industry, and an unwavering commitment to client success,” says Sarah Harper Burke, Senior Marketing Manager at Shimano North America Fishing. “We’re very excited for what’s to come.”

Forged on a foundation of craftsmanship and innovation, Shimano continues to leverage global technologies and vertical manufacturing practices to develop premium regionally-specific fishing tackle systems for anglers compelled by on-water experiences. Composed of Shimano, Jackall, PowerPro, and G.Loomis, Shimano North America Fishing delivers cutting-edge fishing rods, reels, lures, and lines that perform better than anything else on the market for the full spectrum of anglers.

Darby Communications will support new product launches and work to promote Shimano North America Fishing’s deep lineup of products through consistent media outreach, media event management, and trade show support. With vast experience in the outdoor and fishing industry, the Darby team is eager to capitalize on connections that will introduce the brand to new audiences and deepen relationships within endemic fishing media.

“It is a true pleasure to work with a collection of brands focused on promoting health and happiness through the enjoyment of nature and the world around us,” states agency Vice President of Operations Cory Van Auken. “With our passionate team of outdoor and on-water enthusiasts, we’re thrilled to represent the most respected names in the fishing arena.”

For more information on Shimano North America Fishing and the latest product releases, please contact Kade Gewanter at Kade@darbycommunications.com.

 

About Shimano North America Fishing

Since 1970, Shimano has been a global manufacturer of industry-leading fishing tackle systems built for anglers compelled by experiences on the water. Shimano designs, manufactures, and markets a deep lineup of angling-specific products focused on promoting health and happiness through the enjoyment of nature and the world around us. The company proudly maintains a portfolio of four consumer-preferred brands: Shimano, G.Loomis, Jackall, and PowerPro. You can learn more at https://fish.shimano.com/en-US or follow on social @fish_shimano_north_america/, @fishgloomis, @jackall_usa, and @fishpowerpro.

 

About Darby Communications

Darby Communications is a boutique PR & digital marketing agency serving the outdoor, active lifestyle, fishing, and craft food and beverage industries through impactful media placement, digital advertising, email marketing, social media management, and content writing. Headquartered in Asheville, NC with a coast-to-coast portfolio, Darby Communications takes a team approach to everything it does for clients and has worked with many respected companies. Learn more at www.darbycommunications.com or follow on social @darbycomm.

Velocity Global CEO Ben Wright to also raise funds through the World Marathon Challenge

 

Denver, Colorado, January 18, 2023 – Velocity Global and FT Partners announce a transformational gift to First Descents to further impact their work and provide life-changing outdoor adventures to adults impacted by serious disease. The two companies committed to allocate $1 million from the recently closed series B transaction.

“When Steve approached me with the idea of making a sizable donation to a charity, I knew we had chosen the right partner in FT Partners. Not only did their team quarterback this astounding capital raise, their interest in using our respective platforms for good in the world speaks to their integrity. I am incredibly grateful to Steve McLaughlin and the entire FT Partners organization and honored to be running the World Marathon Challenge on behalf of this incredible organization,” said Ben Wright, Founder & CEO at Velocity Global.

“While advising Ben and the Velocity Global Team, I learned about Ben’s passion for First Descents’ mission, and the decision to partner on this donation became a no-brainer. Thoughtful philanthropy is a key part of who we are at FT Partners, and I feel fortunate that Ben introduced us to First Descents given the tremendous compassion they have for those less fortunate,” said Steve McLaughlin, Founder & CEO of FT Partners.

The $1M unrestricted contribution is meant to pave the way for future programming, activation, and outreach for First Descents, and the communities they serve. In 2023, First Descents will administer more than 50 weeklong programs nationwide including whitewater kayaking, rock climbing, and surfing. The organization partners with over 500 hospitals, clinics, and patient advocacy groups to reach young adults (ages 18-39) coping with cancer and multiple sclerosis.

To further amplify funds and awareness for First Descents, Velocity Global Founder Ben Wright is running the World Marathon Challenge, a physical and logistical challenge that consists of running 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days. The event commences in Antarctica on January 31st and proceeds to Cape Town, South Africa, Perth, Australia, Dubai, UAE, Madrid, Spain, and Fortaleza, Brasil, before concluding in Miami on February 6th. Ben seeks to raise $183,000 to advance First Descents’ programming, representing $1,000 for every mile run.

“This leadership gift and Ben’s running of the World Marathon Challenge combine to greatly elevate our capacity to serve,” said Ryan O’Donoghue, CEO at First Descents. “With more than 100,000 young adults diagnosed with cancer and MS annually, the need to extend free psychosocial supportive care is great. This support will enable First Descents to address constraints in reaching more patients, enabling thousands more to experience the healing power of adventure.”

 

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ABOUT VELOCITY GLOBAL

Velocity Global helps you compliantly hire, pay, and manage anyone, anywhere. We simplify the employer and talent experience—combining cloud-based technology and unmatched human support in 185+ countries. Start hiring across borders at VelocityGlobal.com.

 

ABOUT FT Partners

Financial Technology Partners (“FT Partners”) is the only investment banking firm focused exclusively on providing top-tier strategic and financial advisory services to FinTech CEOs, founders and investors. The Firm offers CEOs and investors a wide array of strategic advisory services in mission-critical transactions including Private Capital, M&A, IPO Advisory, Debt Advisory, LBOs and Recapitalizations. With offices in San Francisco, New York and London, FT Partners is comprised of a team of experienced investment bankers formerly with the financial technology, M&A and investment banking groups of Goldman Sachs, Citi, JP Morgan and Morgan Stanley. FT Partners regularly publishes detailed research reports, transaction profiles, and CEO interviews highlighting key trends driving market activity across the FinTech landscape. Follow us on Twitter, connect on LinkedIn, and visit our Research page for more real time updates. Visit www.ftpartners.com for more information.

 

ABOUT FIRST DESCENTS

First Descents (FD) is a leader in adventure-based healing. Through outdoor adventure, community building, and lifestyle development, FD improves long-term survivorship and quality of life for young adults impacted by cancer and other serious health conditions. Headquartered in Denver, First Descents has served more than 10,000 participants over the last 20 years. Beginning in 2020, First Descents launched programs for healthcare workers on the frontlines of COVID-19. All services are fully-adaptive and free of charge. A Guidestar Platinum-ranked nonprofit, First Descents has been recognized on CNN Heroes and Outside Magazine’s Best Places to Work.

 

ABOUT WORLD MARATHON CHALLENGE

The World Marathon Challenge is a logistical and physical challenge to run seven marathons on seven continents in seven days. Competitors must run the standard 42.2km marathon distance in Antarctica, Africa, Australia, Asia, Europe, South America and North America within 168 hours, or 7 days. The clock starts when the first marathon begins in Antarctica. Visit www.worldmarathonchallenge.com to learn more.

 

RESOURCES:    Ben Wright World Marathon Challenge Page (link)

The Woolmark Company and Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli have unveiled the ground-breaking technical team kit to be worn as it vies for victory during the 37^th America’s Cup.

Returning as the official technical partner for the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli sailing team, The Woolmark Company has worked closely with the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli product development team to expand the current kit to include performance-first apparel for cycling, running and gym-based training activities.

WATCH THE NEW CAMPAIGN VIDEO HERE

With a focus on technical performance, and the added benefit of protecting the ocean, Merino wool proves to be the added element for Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli.

The new custom-made kit includes Merino wool-rich T-shirts, hoodies, shorts, leggings, a cycling suit, a waterproof jacket and a revolutionary ultralight windbreaker. At just 60gsm, the 55% Merino wool windbreaker is wind-proof thanks to the density of the weave, and the presence of Merino wool ensures superior breathability.

The cycling suit has also been specially designed to meet the demanding conditions the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team will face. Using an innovative Merino wool-rich fabric, the interlock suit delivers enhanced temperature regulation and moisture management benefits, excelling in different weather conditions and intensity levels.

“Product innovation has once again been a crucial factor when designing the technical kit for the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team,” explains The Woolmark Company Managing Director John Roberts. “With a focus on lightness, elasticity, strength and moisture wicking properties, our internal experts met with the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli product development team armed with a selection of the best commercially available Merino wool fabrics. Where further development was needed, the teams worked together to create unique fabrics destined to deliver the added element.”

The original performance fibre, Merino wool has the versatility to enhance performance across key on-shore and offshore activities. The partnership once again celebrates Merino wool as the added element that unlocks greater sporting performance, but also as a key material created in – and defined by – the forces of nature, put to the ultimate test by this elite sailing team.

Passionate about improving ocean health and reducing its impact, the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team once again turns to wool – a fibre praised for its biodegradable nature, backed by science which shows the fibre does not contribute to microplastic pollution.

“I am pleased about the renewal of the technical partnership with The Woolmark Company, on the road to the 37th America’s Cup,” says Max Sirena Team Director and Skipper of the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team. “Wearing good quality sportswear for a team like Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli means enhancing our performance. After testing the garments in a wide range of conditions during the previous America’s Cup, we discovered the unique properties of Merino wool in terms of elasticity, breathability, comfort, insulation, and water resistance. Having had an excellent experience with these uniforms, we took the opportunity to develop a training kit together, exploiting the features of this natural fibre that, moreover, is perfectly in line with our lifestyle and the sustainability policy pursued by Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli.

“Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli and The Woolmark Company consolidate their joined commitment in terms of innovation, technology and social responsibility by renewing their technical partnership,” said Prada Group Marketing Director & Head of Corporate Social Responsibility Lorenzo Bertelli. “The last edition proved how Merino wool is the perfect partner to ensure high-quality performances thanks to its natural qualities. We are pleased to extend the presence of this 100% natural fibre also in the training uniforms, underlining once again the team’s commitment to safeguarding the oceans.”

Catch the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team in action during the 37^th America’s Cup.

 

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About The Woolmark Company:

The Woolmark Company is the global authority on wool. Through our extensive network of relationships spanning the international textile and fashion industries, we highlight Australian wool’s position as the world’s premium, sustainable fibre that is optimal for circular, traceable products.

The Woolmark logo is one of the world’s most recognised and respected brands, providing assurance of the highest quality, and representing pioneering excellence and innovation from farm through to finished product.

The Woolmark Company is a subsidiary of Australian Wool Innovation, a not-for-profit enterprise that conducts research, development and marketing along the worldwide supply chain for Australian wool on behalf of about 60,000 woolgrowers that help fund the company.