Gold Long John Adopts Empel PFA-free, Waterless Tech in Vietnam Mills
In a significant move towards sustainability in the footwear industry, Gold Long John has adopted the innovative Empel Nø-Wick technology in its Vietnam mills. This groundbreaking technology, developed by Green Theme Technology (GTT), is designed to enhance the performance of footwear while eliminating the use of water and harmful PFAS chemicals.
A Game-Changer in Footwear Production
The Empel Nø-Wick product stands out in the market for its ability to prevent wicking more effectively than any competing chemistry. This advancement is crucial for creating high-performing footwear that meets the demands of leading brands worldwide. Martin Flora, president of global business development at GTT, emphasized the importance of this technology, stating, “Our Oeko Tex-certified Empel platform is a solution for the future. It creates the highest performing finishes available, all without the use of water or PFAS chemicals.”
Gold Long John has played a pivotal role in the commercialization of Empel technology in Asia. As the first major footwear mill to adopt this innovative approach, the company has provided the necessary commercial readiness for major brands to integrate Empel Nø-Wick into their production processes. Flora noted, “Because of their contribution and input, we’re now able to scale our clean chemistry throughout SE Asia and make a real difference in the fight against water, carbon, and chemical pollution, all while providing the world’s best performance.”
Installation of Proprietary Machinery
In 2023, Gold Long John took a significant step by installing the proprietary Empel production machinery in its Vietnam factory. This machinery revolutionizes the way anti-wicking chemistries are molecularly bonded to footwear, ensuring enhanced protection against inclement weather. The company is also planning to install similar machinery in its Taiwan facility, further expanding its commitment to sustainable practices.
Kevin Wen, president of Gold Long John, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with GTT, stating, “Green Theme and their Empel products will help us stay at the forefront of global sustainability solutions, allowing us to supply our footwear brands with highly innovative, cleaner, better-performing materials for their products. We see this as a win for us, for our partner brands, and for global environmental sustainability efforts.”
Conclusion
The adoption of Empel PFA-free, waterless technology by Gold Long John marks a significant milestone in the footwear industry’s journey towards sustainability. By prioritizing innovative solutions that reduce environmental impact, Gold Long John is not only enhancing the performance of its products but also contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future for the industry as a whole. As more brands recognize the importance of such technologies, the potential for widespread change in manufacturing practices becomes increasingly promising.