Nanollose has entered a collaboration with an innovative vegan leather and materials company as interest continues to gain momentum in its eco-friendly microbial cellulose-based technology.

Australian-based biomaterial technology company Nanollose (ASX: NC6) has entered into a collaboration agreement with US vegan leather and materials company von Holzhausen.

With a mission to make leather extinct through the development of next generation materials made from plants and recycled materials, von Holzhausen’s products replicate the essence of leather but offer superior performance and a dramatically lower carbon impact.

Based in California, the company has factories in the US and Italy which use their alternative materials including Banbu Leather and Technik Leather created from plants and recycled fibres, and designed to be biodegradable in a landfill.

The company has earned a strong reputation for sustainability and luxuriousness of their products, featuring in publications such as Forbes[1], FastCompany and Vogue[2].

 

Nanollose microbial cellulose-based materials for testing

Nanollose will provide samples of treated and processed microbial cellulose in various forms for testing as potential alternatives to leather or other materials either in their initial state or after further processing by von Holzhausen.

As part of the collaboration agreement, both companies will work closely together. If successful in developing commercially viable project materials, the two companies will work jointly on commercialisation.

 

Projected US$89.6 billion market

The vegan leather market has seen exponential growth in recent years. Increasing awareness on the ethical and environmental concerns over the impact of traditional leather production among consumers is considered a key driver for individuals adopting a vegan culture and products.

The vegan leather market is expected to continue its strong growth trajectory and be valued at US$89.6 billion by 2025.

A successful collaboration with von Holzhausen will provide Nanollose with a footprint in the market with a proven and trusted partner. The project also does not require the production of fibre, which provides Nanollose with valuable technology and business diversity.

The agreement adds to Nanollose’s strong network of collaborators, which has rapidly advanced since its first pilot spin of its Nullarbor-20 Tree-Free fibre in February 2022. The spin produced 250kg of Nullarbor-20 fibre and was completed in partnership with Birla Cellulose, a global leader in man-made cellulosic fibre manufacturing, and part of the Aditya Birla Group.

The company recently signed a deal with global leading sustainable denim producer, Orta, for the development of denim materials incorporating Nanollose’s Tree-Free and Forest Friendly Nullarbor fibres. Nanollose is continuing to work alongside fashion consultant Carla Woidt to progress a large number of inbound inquiries and is advancing discussion with additional potential partners, including leading global fashion and textile brands.

 

Two companies, one giant mission

Nanollose Executive Chairman Dr Wayne Best said von Holzhausen was an ideal company with which to collaborate.

“Microbial cellulose is not only vegan but also natural and biodegradable making it an ideal component for sustainable vegan materials,” Best said.

“Nanollose’s expertise in microbial cellulose combined with von Holzhausen’s expertise and track record in developing and commercialising next-generation vegan leathers makes this an exciting opportunity.”

von Holzhausen CEO Vicki von Holzhausen said they believe that partnering with Nanollose’s bacterial cellulose technology will accelerate their goal of making leather extinct.

“Our exciting partnership with Nanollose furthers our commitment to solving the urgent issue of climate change by transforming waste materials into premium ones that can be used across multiple industries,” she said.

This article was developed in collaboration with Nanollose, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.