OMsignal Inc, a leader in biometric technology and smart apparel, launched a research and development group that will help fashion and performance sports brands integrate its technology.
The company said its OMlabs will focus on enabling integrations of OMsignal's full stack solution, which includes smart apparel, hardware and software.
OMsignal sees applications for its technology across a broad array of activities, including skiing, yoga, professional football, running and cycling.
The announcement follows a successful partnership with Ralph Lauren to power the PoloTech Shirt and is fueled by an investment from and partnership with MAS Holdings, one of the leading, innovative, design to delivery apparel companies in wearable, performance sports and intimate apparel.
“We have been working closely with MAS for more than a year in developing the next generation of smart apparel products for consumers, and have been wildly impressed with their innovation capabilities,” said Stephane Marceau, OMsignal's co-founder and CEO. “Our strategic partnership will power innovation in apparel for decades to come.”
“Major brands are looking for deep innovation and for complete solutions, including smart textile, bio-data science, software and hardware — and highly advanced manufacturing capabilities is a core part of that expectation,” said Nathan Sivagananathan, chief growth officer of MAS Holdings. “We believe textile is the ultimate medium for wearable technology and we are excited to partner with OMsignal to help global brands re-invent the experience they offer their customers.”
In conjunction with this announcement, Shaz Kahng will increase her role from her current seat on OMsignal's Board of Directors and take on the role of chief marketing officer. Shaz will run brand development inside the OMlabs program and work closely with OMsignal's partners to shape smart apparel strategy and product introduction approaches. Shaz brings more than 20 years of retail experience to her position, including a previous role as president of lucy Activewear and senior executive roles with Nike. She joins a team of multinational interdisciplinary professionals from the fields of smart textile, software, hardware and bio-data science, who work together to bring life-enhancing smart clothes to consumers worldwide.
The OMlabs smart clothing platform provides a seamless connection between body, textile and technology, empowering the world's leading fashion and sport brands to incorporate the very latest biometric technology into their clothing and stay one step ahead of the game. Based in Montreal, Canada, and backed by Canadian and US-based venture capital funds, the OMsignal team is comprised of a cross-section of scientists, engineers, fashion designers, intelligent textile fiber specialists, medical practitioners, as well as mobile UX and mobile product experts.
MAS Holdings provides full package services to intimate apparel and sportswear brands through 42 world class manufacturing facilities that employ more than 75,000 personnel, in 15 countries. Building on their impressive heritage in manufacturing, MAS has diversified its portfolio into IT and its own brands with an elevated focus in wearable technology and health & wellness through smart garments.
