M&W Design Acquires Travel Posters, Expanding Commitment to Sustainable Keepsakes

M&W Design, a leader in sustainable souvenirs and custom keepsakes, is proud to announce the acquisition of Travel Posters, a Colorado-based business renowned for its artistic designs capturing the beauty of American landscapes, seascapes, and mountains.  This new collection further enriches our portfolio with new artistic styles and creative inspiration. Travel Posters will continue to operate under its current name with its existing website, TravelPosters.com, maintaining uninterrupted service for its customers.

Mike Whalen, founder of M&W Design, shares the excitement about this new chapter: “We acquired Travel Posters because of the exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and strong relationships Blair and Lauri established. Our goal is to carry forward the legacy they’ve built, as Travel Posters naturally aligns with M&W’s values. We’re committed to maintaining and exceeding the high standards of quality that have set Travel Posters apart in the marketplace. Integrating Travel Posters into our family of brands strengthens our mission to make a lasting impact in the industry, providing sustainable solutions that help people create lasting memories.”

“Our goal has always been to create designs that tell stories and resonate with people’s personal experiences,” added Mike Whalen. “With the addition of Travel Posters, we’re now able to offer more ways for customers to celebrate their adventures, and passions through beautiful, high-quality products.”

M&W Design, known as “the only stubbornly sustainable souvenir company,” operates with a core mission to create keepsakes that inspire a love for life, travel, and the natural world. Through strict adherence to sustainable practices and ethical material sourcing, M&W Design ensures that every product not only stands out for its originality but is responsibly sourced and manufactured in alignment with their B-corp ethos.

“Blair and Lauri have cultivated an extraordinary following through their distinctive artistic style, impeccable design sense, and diverse collection of captivating locations,” said Whalen. “We are truly honored that they’ve entrusted us to carry forward their artistic legacy, bringing their exceptional work to our wholesale and retail customers while expanding both audiences.”

The integration of Travel Posters will not only maintain the company’s beloved collection of prints but also inspire new product lines across M&W Designs’ existing categories, including souvenir, home décor and gift. Customers can expect exciting collaborations and fresh designs that reflect the spirit of both companies.This acquisition enhances M&W’s commitment to fostering a deeper passion for the outdoors and environmental stewardship. As a certified B-Corp, M&W Design places sustainability at the heart of its operations, with all products crafted at its Pennsylvania facility using eco-friendly practices. Through the addition of Travel Posters, M&W strengthens its position in offering American-made, sustainably produced goods that celebrate the outdoors and inspire lasting memories.

“Travel Posters fits perfectly into our brand that celebrates life, travel, and design,” added Whalen. “Our mission has always been to create exceptional, high-quality souvenirs that capture the spirit of your home, celebrate your unforgettable vacations, and commemorate your greatest adventures. Every design is crafted with care, bringing cherished memories to life, wherever you go.”

About M&W Design
M&W Design specializes in stubbornly sustainable custom keepsakes and apparel, producing American-made goods that reflect a deep commitment to sustainability and quality. As a certified B-Corp, M&W is driven by a mission to create products that align with the rhythms of life, all while minimizing and offsetting environmental impact.

Press Contact:

Jen Heamer

Director of Sales and Marketing, M&W Design

jheamer@mandwdesign.com

La Sportiva Partners With the Cirque Series To Push Peaks Across the Country

BOULDER, Colo. (Oct. 31, 2024) – La Sportiva, a global leader in mountain running, climbing, skiing, and outdoor gear, today announced a new partnership with the Cirque Series, the premier mountain running series in the United States. Through this partnership, La Sportiva and the Cirque Series will deliver an enhanced experience for runners and outdoor enthusiasts through exclusive on-site activations, athlete appearances, gear demos, and product giveaways at each event.

“These races capture what makes mountain running so special,” said Jonathan Lantz, President of La Sportiva North America. “Each event offers a welcoming and fun atmosphere that allows runners of all abilities to push beyond their limits while celebrating community and grit. The series features some of the best courses in the country, and the party at the finish line really brings all of the participants together. We’re looking forward to joining this amazing community that’s built around a shared passion for the outdoors.”

Founded by professional skier Julian Carr, the Cirque Series has quickly grown into one of the most revered mountain running series in the U.S. Each race starts from the base of a world-famous ski resort, where runners ascend to windswept ridges and glacial cirques, summiting at least one peak, before tackling a quad-burning descent that finishes at a festival with live music, food, and drink. The courses have a significant amount of elevation gain but take place over a distance that is approachable for the average runner. The series offers large cash prizes for the pros and fun giveaways for all participants.

“La Sportiva is the gold standard in mountain running,” said Julian Carr, Founder of the Cirque Series. “Their dedication to innovation, quality, and understanding the demands of challenging terrain is unmatched. Having them as a partner amplifies our mission to deliver the best mountain running experiences possible. La Sportiva doesn’t just make gear—they provide tools that help athletes push their limits in wild places. We’re excited to partner with a brand that mirrors our dedication to alpine adventure and shares our commitment to supporting athletes at every level.”

As part of the partnership, La Sportiva will highlight its cutting-edge mountain running shoes and gear at each Cirque Series event, offering demos and giveaways for attendees. In addition, members of La Sportiva’s mountain running team will be on-site to share their expertise, providing tips on navigating technical terrain and selecting the right gear to achieve peak performance.

For more information on the Cirque Series and to register for upcoming races, visit cirqueseries.com.

About The Cirque Series
The Cirque Series, launched by Julian Carr, features short, high-vertical races across major mountain resorts, blending rigorous trail courses with a festival-like atmosphere complete with food, drink, music, and community engagement. Suitable for all skill levels, Cirque Series events challenge athletes to embrace the mountain, experience the joy of the run, and, for some, compete alongside elite runners​. Races are sure to sell out, let’s push some peaks! Register at cirqueseries.com

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 as well as ski mountaineering hardware and apparel. For more information on La Sportiva visit www.lasportivausa.com or visit their Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/LaSportiva.

 

Lift Foils Teams Up with Ocean CO to Combat Ocean Plastic Pollution

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico (October 31, 2024)Lift Foils shows their commitment to ocean conservation in a new partnership with Ocean CO, an environmental and social impact company that funds plastic collection. Ocean CO targets ocean-bound plastic pollution at the source in vulnerable coastal communities worldwide, which stops plastic before it reaches the ocean and provides economic opportunities to the community. Through this partnership, Lift Foils is expanding its mission beyond surfing innovation to make a real impact in water conservation.

Lift Foils has always felt a deep connection to water—not only as the foundation of surfing, but as an essential resource for all life on Earth. Recognizing the grave threat ocean plastic pollution poses to marine ecosystems and the planet’s health, Lift Foils is taking bold steps to safeguard the waters they cherish. This partnership underscores their responsibility to protect the environment and aligns with their belief that innovation should also drive meaningful change in the world.

“At Lift Foils, we believe that innovation goes hand in hand with responsibility,” said Nick Leason, CEO & Co-Founder of Lift Foils. “Our passion for the ocean runs deep, and we’re committed to preserving it for future generations. By partnering with Ocean CO, we’re not just shaping the future of surfing—we’re helping to shape a healthier planet.”

48.5 million lbs of plastic threatens to enter the oceans everyday. Since 2019, Ocean CO has collected 2,677,613,670 lbs of plastic. To achieve this, Ocean CO focuses on interception, community empowerment, and global impact. With economic incentives, coastal communities across the globe take action to stop plastic before it enters the ocean. To help with the mission, Lift Foils will donate a portion of profits for each product sold and has already supported the removal of 3,000 kgs of ocean-bound plastic through this budding partnership.

To learn more about how Lift Foils and Ocean CO are making an impact, visit https://weareocean.co/dashboard/oceanco.

About Lift Foils

Lift Foils is the creator of the original electric hydrofoil (eFoil), owner of many of the patents used in today’s eFoil components, and the preeminent leader in the eFoiling space. Founded in

2010 in Puerto Rico by engineer and avid surfer Nick Leason, the Lift eFoil allows riders of all levels to experience flight over almost any body of water at speeds over 30mph, with no waves or towing required. Lift Foils’ eFoils and surf foils can be found at more than 350 affiliates and retail partners in 80 countries across the globe. For more information or to find a retailer near you, go to www.liftfoils.com.

 

 

Award-winning documentary “Columbia River Canoe Project” announces November showings across North America

Butte, Montana (Oct. 30, 2024) – The award-winning documentary Columbia River Canoe Project is hitting the road with an exciting lineup of showings throughout November 2024. Audiences across the United States and Canada will have the opportunity to experience this inspiring adventure film, which recently took home the “Best Documentary” and “Festival Favorite” awards at the Twin Falls SANDWICHES Film Festival.

Columbia River Canoe Project follows Robert Lester and his 18-year-old cousin Braxton Mitchell as they embark on an ambitious 1,300-mile canoe journey from the Continental Divide near Butte, Montana, to the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, they navigate both the river’s challenges and their own personal growth. The film delivers an adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes and unexpected obstacles. The film explores their trials and triumphs while raising awareness of the ecological challenges affecting the Columbia River Watershed.

“I thought we had created a quality film, but I have been blown away by the reactions of people at the showings we’ve had so far,” said Lester. “People are enjoying the Columbia River Canoe Project more than I ever could have hoped, and I’m just so honored to be able to share the inspirational characters and environmental lessons from my expedition with viewers.”

Scheduled Showings:

  • November 3, 2024 Santa Ana, Calif.
    • Location: Old Towne Film Festival (tickets available here)
    • Film Showing: 4 p.m.
    • Event Details: Co-director Neil Larson will attend this event.
  • November 7, 2024Boulder, Colo.
    • Location: Zeal Optics Flagship Store
    • Film Showing: 6 p.m.
    • Event Details: Robert Lester will be in attendance for a keynote and Q&A. Prizes and giveaways will be available at the event.
  • November 8-10, 2024Seattle, Wash.
    • Location: Historic Admiral Theater
    • Film Showing: 7 p.m.
    • Event Details: Robert Lester will attend the Nov. 8 event for a keynote and Q&A. Prizes and giveaways will be available at the event.
  • November 8-10, 2024Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
    • Location: SOAR Sudbury Outdoor Adventure Reels Film Festival, Sudbury Indie Cinema (tickets available here)
    • Film Showing: 4 p.m.
  • November 16, 2024Billings, Mont.
    • Location: Babcock Theater (tickets available here)
    • Film Showings: 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.
    • Event Details: Robert Lester will be present at both showings for a keynote and Q&A. Prizes and giveaways will be available at the event.
  • November 24, 2024Bainbridge Island, Wash.
    • Location: Historic Lynwood Theater (tickets available here)
    • Film Showing: 4 p.m.
    • Event Details: Robert Lester will be in attendance for a keynote and Q&A. Prizes and giveaways will be available at the event.

More showings are pending and will be announced soon. If you’re interested in bringing the show to your hometown, please reach out to Robert.

Columbia River Canoe Project is proudly sponsored by Bending Branches, Beyond Clothing Company, Crazy Creek, Navarro Canoe Co., and Zeal Optics.

To learn more please visit: https://mountain-king-industries.com

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Media Contact:
Mountain King Industries

Robert Lester

birdot1@gmail.com

406-565-6526

Downloadable Media Assets HERE (photo credit: Columbia River Canoe Project)

About the Film:
Columbia River Canoe Project is an award-winning documentary that inspires adventure and environmental stewardship while showcasing the importance of protecting the Columbia River Watershed. Follow along as two cousins test their limits and learn about the power of perseverance and nature’s beauty.

 

RECCO and H&M Move partner to launch new ski collection that makes wearers searchable

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (Oct. 30, 2024) — RECCO, maker of advanced rescue technology, is proud to announce its partnership with H&M Move, which focuses on creating stylish, functional and accessible activewear. H&M Move’s new ski collection will come equipped with RECCO reflectors that make wearers searchable by rescue teams in case of an avalanche or if you get lost in the outdoors.

“We are proud to partner with RECCO for our new ski collection. By integrating RECCO Technology into our skiwear, we aim to empower more skiers to explore the mountains more safely,” says Mfon Boman, H&M Move’s Outdoor Product Manager.

H&M Move’s new ski range blends modern style and mountain tech, with functional design, Scandinavian aesthetics and performance-oriented materials. The integration of RECCO reflectors into select garments ups the collection’s technical ante and highlights H&M Move’s commitment to safety. The new line of skiwear and accessories all come at an accessible price, helping to keep more winter sports enthusiasts safe.

“Our mission is to make more people searchable, and our brand partners are what make this possible,” says Fredrik Steinwall, CEO at RECCO. “H&M is one of the largest fashion brands in the world, and we know we’ll reach both existing and new consumers alike with the new H&M Move ski collection. We’re incredibly happy to see more and more brands, like H&M, integrating RECCO technology into their products, especially as our global network continues to grow.”

RECCO rescue reflectors are found across a range of outdoor products, across all seasons. The RECCO system is used in 900+ ski resorts and mountain rescue organizations in 32 countries. Search and Rescue professionals are able to utilize RECCO technology to search for people year-round, with both the RECCO Handheld Detector and the RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector.  The handheld detector can search efficiently in snowy conditions, while the helicopter carried detector can quickly search large areas, covering a square kilometer in six minutes. The helicopter detector speeds up search times and reduces risk for rescue workers.

For more information on the new collection, please visit hm.com.  For more information on RECCO and the global RECCO rescue network, please visit recco.com.

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.

H&M Move offers functional, fashionable activewear, accessible for the many. We celebrate movement and invite the world to move. However you move.