SustainU, a leading producer of clothing using fabrics made from 100 percent recycled materials that are manufactured in the USA, today announced a co-branding program with Eastern Mountain Sports, which will carry men’s and women’s graphic tees in 49 of its 69 stores beginning Sept. 17. The co-branded collection will be distinguished by an “EMS, Powered by SustainU” hangtag.
“We are very excited to be working with EMS. They are a ground-breaking company, looking to offer their customers both environmentally and socially sustainable clothing options,” said Chris Yura, CEO and founder of SustainU. “Less than 2 percent of the clothing sold in the US is actually made here. It is vital that we begin to bring this part of our economy back and the jobs that go with it.”
Since 1994, the American textile and apparel-manufacturing sector has lost more than 1 million jobs, 65 percent of the entire industry. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that an additional 25 percent of the jobs (53,700) will be gone before 2020.
“As an outdoor retailer, Eastern Mountain Sports is committed to doing everything we can to preserve and protect our planet,” said Eastern Mountain Sports CEO Will Manzer. “That's why we're proud to partner with SustainU to reduce the environmental impact of our graphic t-shirts while supporting a small, American business.”
Eastern Mountain Sports will offer the co-branded collection in two men’s and two women’s graphic tees in retail locations, including its online web store (EMS.com). “We look forward to growing our 100 percent recycled, made in the USA programs in the near future as consumers get more and more on board with these products,” said Jen Edes, EMS senior director sourcing and product development.
