PUMA said it has scaled its textile-to-textile recycling initiative RE:FIBRE to create millions of replica football jerseys using a minimum of 75% recycled textile waste and other waste material.
For the first time, the global sports company said from the start of the 24/25 season, PUMA football replica jerseys, featuring 35 Clubs, including those for the Euro and Copa América tournaments, will be made from RE:FIBRE.
PUMA said it produced 46,000 RE:FIBRE jerseys in 2023 and the plan to scale the initiative aims to reduce textile waste and reliance on plastic bottles to produce recycled polyester products.
To upscale RE:FIBRE, PUMA said it explored how to diversify ways to recycle polyester, such as thermo-mechanical and chemical recycling techniques. The sportswear company said this allowed it to significantly increase its capacity to recycle textile waste.
PUMA said it will hold a weekend of activities in the New York flagship store, timed to coincide with the launch of the AC Milan and Manchester City home replica kits and ahead of the two PUMA football teams playing in New York City.
On Saturday 20 July 2024, one hundred limited edition badges upcycled from match-worn shirts by Jack Grealish and Christian Pulisic will be available in-store.
PUMA said the badges were designed by US upcycler and PUMA Voice of a RE:Generation Andrew Burgess, to commemorate the expansion of PUMA RE:FIBRE.
On Sunday 21 July, Andrew Burgess will host three upcycling workshops to educate fashion-curious consumers on the techniques for customising and upcycling clothing to extend their lifespan.
Leaning into the crossover between sport and fashion, PUMA said consumers will have the chance to take a RE:FIBRE t-shirt and turn it into a “sportstyle” inspired garment.
