Eastman launches recycled Avra to debut in spring 2020 performance apparel

June 11, 2019

Activewear powered by Avra contributes to the circular economy with 100 percent recycled performance fibers

KINGSPORT, Tenn., June 11, 2019 — Eastman Chemical Company announces Avra™ recycled performance fibers, transforming its existing performance fibers technology by producing with 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET material across the portfolio. This move underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability and moving towards a circular economy.

The new recycled Avra^™ will offer the same quick drying times, wicking speeds and comfort as the brand’s previous virgin polyester product while helping reduce waste by upcycling post-consumer recycled PET bottles as feedstock for the fiber. This latest innovation from Avra^™ will debut at the 2019 Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in Denver on June 18.

“The vision for the Eastman Textiles platform is that all innovation will be sustainable,” said Ruth Farrell, director of marketing for textiles at Eastman. “We are excited to be one of the first to offer high performance fibers made with 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET at a time when the activewear and outdoor industries are under pressure to move to a more circular way of operating. With Avra^™ recycled performance fibers, we are giving a second life to plastic bottles and making sure they don’t end up littering our oceans or trails. Our customers can show their commitment to caring for the outdoors and contribute to a circular economy without sacrificing performance or comfort.”

Avra^™ from Eastman is a family of performance fibers enabled by a proprietary spinning technology. The exceptional moisture and thermal management imparted by Avra^™ fibers means fabrics dry quickly — up to 50 percent faster than conventional polyester fabrics — helping wearers stay more comfortable during demanding physical activities. The highly flexible Avra^™ fibers create superior drape and remarkable softness, further enhancing comfort.

Summer Outdoor Retailer attendees and media can learn more about Avra^™ recycled performance fibers at booth 5019-LL. To learn more about Eastman’s innovative fiber technology, visit www.eastmanavra.com.

About Eastman

Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company’s innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive and diverse company, Eastman employs approximately 14,500 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2018 revenues of approximately $10 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.

Media Contacts:
Elana Todt, Eastman Chemical Company
elanabtodt@eastman.com

Tyler Berg, Backbone Media
Tyler.berg@backbonemedia.net