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The BioCircular Materials Alliance initiated by Spiber welcomes new partners including Stella McCartney and publishes its first Progress Report

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Stella McCartney, Marzotto Wool Manufacturing Srl, Fashion for Good, and 13 new companies and organizations have joined the BioCircular Materials Alliance (the “Alliance”), led by biomaterials pioneer Spiber.The Alliance published its first Progress Report, highlighting ongoing research and development efforts to build circular infrastructure utilizing nature-driven materials and agricultural waste.The Alliance published the first version of its Materials BioCircularity Database and has made significant progress toward developing its Product Design Guidelines for fashion industry players to integrate biocircularity principles into their design processes.The official BioCircular Materials Alliance website has been launched.

TSURUOKA, Japan, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The BioCircular Materials Alliance (the “Alliance”, previously known as the “Biosphere Circulation Project”), conceived by Spiber Inc. and powered by a growing coalition of industry leaders, is excited to welcome new members, including Stella McCartney, Marzotto Wool Manufacturing Srl, and Fashion for Good, while continuing its collaboration with founding members such as Kering and Goldwin (see Appendix for full list). 

The Alliance was founded to harness the transformative power of biology to accelerate the global transition toward a circular future. By bringing together leading brands, manufacturers, and innovators, the Alliance seeks to enable regeneration of bio-based waste—from textiles, agriculture, and forestry—into valuable products such as protein materials through Metabolic Recycling* and other advanced processes.

“Seeing such a diverse group of organizations align and collaborate toward a shared goal is truly inspiring. What began as a vision has grown into a dynamic, collaborative effort with strong momentum for real, societal-level change to create a circular future.” – Kenji Higashi, Spiber Inc. Executive Vice President of Sustainability and Director of the Alliance Steward Team

“Stella McCartney is proud to partner with the BioCircular Materials Alliance, driving the industry towards a circular future. The accomplishments highlighted in the Alliance’s first Progress Report demonstrate significant progress in creating a regenerative bioeconomy, showcasing the power of collaboration and innovation in achieving societal-level change. We look forward to working with this groundbreaking initiative.” – Stella McCartney brand

The Alliance is proud to announce the release of its first ever Progress Report, which highlights key milestones achieved in 2024. This includes the collaborative development of an Action Plan, which sets the stage to drive the industry toward a circular bioeconomy—where bio-based waste is transformed into new, regenerative materials—through shared knowledge, actionable data, and industry-wide collaboration.

The Progress Report also highlights the creation of the first version of the Materials BioCircularity Database and the progress made in developing the Alliance’s Product Design Guidelines. These tools will serve as comprehensive resources explaining how various combinations of materials and chemical treatments impact the compatibility of resulting products with the biocircular recycling systems. 

The Materials BioCircularity Database is an emerging tool designed to help industry players make informed choices about the selection of fibers, dyes, and chemicals used in their products to optimize them for biocircularity. While still in its early stages, initial datasets have been compiled and the Database is set to evolve into a critical resource for guiding more sustainable product design. The Product Design Guidelines will serve to help industry players understand how material and chemical combinations affect compatibility with biocircular recycling systems. Insights from the growing Database will inform these guidelines, and the Alliance is planning to have an initial draft completed in 2026. 

“Fashion for Good is pleased to be collaborating with Spiber and the other BioCircular Materials Alliance Members such as Kering; a founding Alliance Member and a Fashion for Good partner. Finding solutions for different waste feedstocks that currently have no pathways i.e: recycling is vital to help solve the textile waste crisis. We look forward to contributing our expertise on topics such as the Materials Circularity Database that could help steer the industry towards making better design choices to enable bio-circularity.” – Maria Arroyo I Bacete, Fashion for Good Innovation Manager

In tandem with the Progress Report, the Alliance is proud to launch its official website, https://biocircularmaterials.org. The website will serve as a central hub for updates on the Alliance’s activities, providing access to resources like the Progress Report, the Materials BioCircularity Database, and the Product Design Guidelines, as well as information on membership opportunities.

The BioCircular Materials Alliance continues to champion innovation, foster collaboration, and pave the way for a regenerative future in textiles. We urge brands, manufacturers, industry organizations, and policymakers to join us in building a biocircular future.

*Metabolic Recycling

Metabolic Recycling Is the Conversion of Biobased Waste into Nutrients, Such As Sugars and Amino Acids, Which Are Then Used in Microbial Fermentation to Create New Materials. This Process Unlocks the Potential of Biobased Waste, Offering a Scalable and Practical Solution for a Circular Bioeconomy. by Enabling the Use of Low-quality Waste Across Multiple Rounds of Recycling Without Compromising the Performance of the Resulting Materials, It Provides a Groundbreaking Approach to Fiber-to-fiber Recycling.

 

The BioCircular Materials Alliance

Formalized in 2024, the BioCircular Materials Alliance (the “Alliance”) was created to harness the power of biology to drive our society towards a more circular reality. Its vision is a future where biobased components of waste—from, for example, the textile, agriculture, and forestry industries—are transformed into biological nutrients and regenerated into new chemicals and materials through microbial fermentation.

For more information, visit https://biocircularmaterials.org

Spiber Inc.

Established in 2007, Spiber is a biotech venture company based in Yamagata, Japan. Dedicated to creating innovative solutions that contribute to sustainable wellbeing, Spiber has developed a new material solution inspired by nature’s diversity and circularity: the “Brewed Protein™” material platform. By harnessing the power of precision fermentation, Spiber engineers proteins at the molecular level, resulting in versatile materials that can be tailored to specific needs. This innovative solution opens up new possibilities for sustainable and high-performance materials in various industries, including apparel, food, automotives, and more. Alongside our partners, Spiber is constantly exploring diverse new applications for Brewed Protein™ materials in order to help pave the way for a brighter future. Our passion lies in fostering a circular economy, minimizing our environmental impact, and working together to build a world that is inclusive, fair, and regenerative.

For more information, visit https://spiber.inc/en/

Appendix: Alliance Members

22 Alliance Members as of January 21st, 2025.

This list does not include anonymous companies that are silent contributors to the Alliance.

1.    Albini Group

2.    Archroma

3.    Armedangels

4.    DyStar

5.    EILEEN FISHER

6.    Fashion for Good

7.    Goldwin Inc.

8.    Gruppo Florence

9.    Kering

10.  Marzotto Wool Manufacturing Srl

11.  Marimekko

12.  Pangaia

13.  RDD Textiles

14.  Stella McCartney

15.  Spiber Inc.

16.  UNITED ARROWS LTD.

17.  Vollebak

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SOURCE Spiber Inc.

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Delixi Electric at the 140th Canton Fair Expanding Solutions Strengthening Global Partnerships

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GUANGZHOU, China, Oct. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 140th China Import and Export Fair, widely known as the Canton Fair, opened in Guangzhou on October 15, 2026, marking the event’s 70th anniversary. Delixi Electric returned with an expanded portfolio spanning power distribution, industrial control, home electrical products and tools, while inviting distributors and business partners worldwide to explore new opportunities for cooperation.

Under the brand philosophy “Making it happen,” the company presented products for industrial, commercial and residential applications. The display was designed to give international customers more choice and help channel partners broaden their offerings.

A key highlight was the official Canton Fair debut of Delixi Electric’s tool portfolio. Presented under the theme “The right tool for every task,” the range covers hand tools, power tools and measuring tools. A dedicated trial area allowed visitors to experience the products firsthand.

Among Delixi Electric’s industrial offerings, the H500 Series high-performance vector drive and CDC8 Series AC contactor were key highlights. Winner of the 2025 iF Design Award and a CIIF industrial automation award, the H500 targets mid- to high-end drive applications, while the CDC8 supports reliable control in demanding equipment-manufacturing environments. The wider display also featured wall switches, multi-standard sockets and adapters, and power distribution products.

Qi Wenjie, General Manager of Delixi Electric’s Overseas Business Division, said:

“For many years, the Canton Fair has been an important platform for us to understand how market needs are evolving and to engage closely with customers and partners from around the world. As the Fair marks its 70th anniversary, we are pleased to meet global customers and partners here once again.”

“For Delixi Electric, participating in the Canton Fair is about more than presenting individual products. It is also an opportunity to better understand local needs, demonstrate our broader capabilities in power distribution, and explore long-term value together with our customers and partners.”

Since its Canton Fair debut in 2023, Delixi Electric has participated for four consecutive years. Its business network now covers more than 80 countries and regions.

Looking ahead, the company will continue investing in product development, quality management, international certification, supply chain capabilities and local service. By expanding its portfolio and working closely with local partners, Delixi Electric aims to support market development and create sustainable growth opportunities for distributors, customers and industry partners worldwide.

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SSI SCHAEFER’s Four-Way Pallet Roaming Shuttle Is Expanding Warehouse Design Possibilities

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SEOUL, South Korea, Oct. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — For warehouse operators in South Korea, warehouse design is increasingly shaped by competing demands: making better use of available space, managing labor constraints and maintaining reliable operations without committing to automation that exceeds business needs.

The challenge is not simply to store more pallets, but to determine how storage capacity can be configured around the inventory characteristics and the movement the operation actually requires.

Rethinking the use of warehouse space

Warehouse capacity is often assessed by the number of pallet positions available. However, the same building footprint can support different storage configurations, each with its own implications for accessibility, material flow and operating requirements.

Four-way pallet roaming shuttles, such as the SSI Pallet Roaming Shuttle, use onboard multi-sensor navigation to determine their position, monitor their surroundings in real time, and accurately detect obstacles. This enables flexible pallet handling across multiple storage levels, opening up greater possibilities for high-density, single- or multi-deep pallet storage configurations.

For facilities where building expansion is restricted, the ability to use available space more effectively can be an important design consideration. With system heights of 24 metres and options for 40 metres subject to configuration, solutions like the shuttle allow warehouse planners to evaluate storage designs that make greater use of the space.

Matching movement capability to operational needs

The significance of four-way movement lies in the flexibility it introduces into storage design. This can be particularly relevant to manufacturing operations storing raw materials or finished goods, food and beverage distribution, and temperature-controlled warehouses where storage conditions and space utilisation are crucial design considerations.

The shuttle supports payloads of up to 3000 kg and uses RFID and photoelectric positioning, with a specified positioning accuracy of ±5 mm. Operating at a maximum aislewise speed of 1.5 m/s when loaded and 1.6 m/s when unloaded, it provides a technical basis for evaluating its suitability against a warehouse’s storage and movement requirement.

Automation solving the right challenges, at the right time

For South Korean warehouse operators facing a rapidly aging population and labor constraints, the question is whether automating pallet storage and movement will address a meaningful operational need. Suited to medium-to-low SKU ranges and lower-throughput applications, the SSI Pallet Roaming Shuttle is worth considering where frequent retrievals and reduced reliance on repetitive manual handling are priorities, rather than high-volume pallet retrieval.

“The value of warehouse automation lies in how well a system fits the operation it is designed to serve. More automation does not automatically mean a better warehouse.

The real measure of an effective solution is how well its storage density, retrieval capability and throughput match the operation’s needs. Investing in capacity or performance that the business cannot fully utilise—or sacrificing retrieval flexibility for density—misses the point of warehouse automation,” said Jeon Jae Beom, Head of Sales, SSI Schaefer Korea.

For South Korean businesses balancing space, labor and investment pressures, the key is to select systems according to its intended role in the wider operation, not on the assumption that greater automation will resolve every capacity or productivity challenge.

For more information, visit www.ssi-schaefer.com/ko-kr.

About SSI SCHAEFER

The SSI SCHAEFER Group is a leading global solution provider for all areas of intralogistics. With innovative technologies and software, the company empowers small to medium-sized enterprises as well as large companies to increase the efficiency and sustainability of their storage, picking, and transport processes. SSI SCHAEFER offers complete solutions ranging from fully automated warehouses with tailored service and maintenance packages to robotics and automated guided vehicles, as well as manual and semi-automated systems such as workstations, racks and containers.

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SOURCE SSI Schaefer Korea

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Heybike Launches V1 Pro, a 72V Power Beast with 8,000W Peak Power and Bigger Attitude

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ONTARIO, Calif., Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Heybike today announced the launch of the V1 Pro, a 72V electric dirt bike designed for riders who want bigger tires, bigger attitude, and ultimate off-road performance. With 8,000W peak power, 17-inch front and 14-inch rear tires, and Wheelie Boost Assist, the V1 Pro delivers powerful off-road performance while featuring hydraulic disc brakes and a magnetic emergency kill switch. Available now on Heybike’s official website, the V1 Pro is offered at an Early Bird price of $1,999, compared with its $2,199 MSRP.

The 72V Power Beast, Ready for Every Trail

With its oversized Big Foot tires, bold styling, and powerful 72V drive system, the Heybike V1 Pro is built to stand out. Delivering 8,000W peak power and 250 N•m of wheel torque, it reaches speeds of up to 50 MPH and tackles inclines of up to 45°, bringing serious power to demanding off-road adventures.

Its staggered 17-inch front and 14-inch rear Big Foot tires provide a larger rear contact patch for traction, while 285 mm of ground clearance helps the bike clear rocks, roots, and ruts. A 150 mm-travel front fork and rear hydraulic shock help absorb bumps on uneven terrain.

Powered by a 72V 27Ah battery with 1,944 Wh of capacity, the Heybike V1 Pro offers a range of up to 60 miles on a single charge, with charging taking approximately 5.5–6 hours using the included 84V 5A charger.

Smart Control. Your Ride, Your Way.

The Heybike app lets riders adjust speed limits and throttle response, choose from ECO, LINEAR, and SPORT riding modes, and configure regenerative braking to suit their riding preferences and terrain.

For added personalization, an optional Bluetooth speaker and horn accessory supports music playback and multiple simulated motorcycle engine sounds.

Enhanced Protection for Every Adventure

The Heybike V1 Pro combines performance with multiple safety-focused features. Its 220 mm front and 190 mm rear hydraulic disc brakes provide stopping power, while regenerative braking adds another layer of deceleration control.

A magnetic emergency kill switch is designed to cut power if the rider falls or steps away from the bike. A throttle-reset safety mechanism prevents power delivery until the throttle has returned to its reset position.

The Heybike V1 Pro features a UL 2849-certified battery system and an IPX6 waterproof rating, offering added protection for outdoor riding in changing weather conditions.

Together, these features complement the V1 Pro’s performance-focused design with added control and protection for off-road riding.

Wheelie Boost Assist: Unleash Your Wild Side

Experience wheelies like never before. With just a single mode control, Wheelie Boost™ lifts the front wheel to a fixed angle, safely turning a complex trick into an exciting riding experience. Less effort, more wild — unleash your bigger attitude and take your V1 Pro ride to the next level.

Bring the Family Together. Conquer Every Terrain.

More than an off-road ride, the Heybike V1 Pro opens the door to shared outdoor adventures and memorable family moments. Designed to bring riders together, it makes weekend trail rides and outdoor exploration opportunities for parents and teens to connect, build confidence, and discover new terrain side by side.

From family outings to challenging off-road adventures, the V1 Pro brings power, excitement, and the freedom to explore together.

A Step Up From the Original Heybike V1

Launched in the first half of 2026, the Heybike V1 quickly gained popularity among teens across the United States. Building on that success, the V1 Pro takes off-road performance to the next level with nearly 100% more peak power, 43.8% greater battery capacity, 11% higher top speed, 20% more range, and a 50% higher maximum climbing angle.

Beyond raw power, the V1 Pro delivers 31.5% more wheel torque and 14.5% greater ground clearance, along with stronger front and rear suspension system for a smoother ride. Its larger 17-inch front and 14-inch rear Big Foot tires further enhance off-road control and rear traction, while the full-size frame is designed to accommodate a broader range of riders.

Make Their Next Ride Unforgettable

The Heybike V1 Pro is available now for $1,999 (MSRP $2,199). Customers can also receive a limited-quantity launch gift box with their purchase, while supplies last. 

More riding challenges, giveaways, and community activities are on the way. Stay tuned for more ways to ride, connect, and share the adventure.

Shop the Heybike V1 Pro on its official website.

About Heybike

Heybike is a leading global e-bike brand making joy easy to reach for every age and every terrain, from city commutes to off-road adventures, blending accessible innovation, safety-first engineering, and design that connects. Every ride connects you to a worldwide community — to your family, to your city, and to the simple joy of moving. Learn more on Heybike’s official website.

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SOURCE Heybike

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