Kingpins Transformers has gone through a transformation itself over the years.
What started in 2014 as a way for denim professionals to discuss ideas for change launched a spin-off event for students in 2019. And it’s changed once again—this time, into a nonprofit entity.
As of Jan. 1 2020, Kingpins Transformers is now the Transformers Foundation. As a foundation, Transformers will actively address and facilitate change in key areas of the denim supply chain, including: social responsibility, sustainable cotton, responsible chemical management and consumer education.
The first step for the foundation is to recruit leaders throughout each of these areas and create an action roadmap for 2020 and 2021.
“Our industry cannot agree on facts or what is right and what is wrong. There is confusion and green-washing, misinformation and dishonest marketing along the supply chain all the way through to the consumers,” Andrew Olah, Transformers Foundation founder, said. “Brands and retailers use resources when buying their products which are never replenished. [The] industry needs to understand and pay the true cost of a product, including environmental and social costs. And each day has new reminders that the clock is ticking and environmental change is needed immediately.”
In addition to continuing its events, the Transformers Foundation will begin to produce annual reports, white papers, consumer testing and industry honors for outstanding achievements in denim. Its first event as a nonprofit will take place April 24, 2020, in Amsterdam.
