As the effects of the pandemic spread, citizens do their part in staying home while companies across the globe step up to help flatten the curve. From medical gowns and face masks to hand sanitizers, outdoor brands shifted their production lines to sustain business and make generous donations.
We wanted to take a moment to recognize some our customers who are doing good by humanity in reprioritizing manufacturing lines.
North America
Damien Huang, President at Eddie Bauer, wasted no time in getting the company involved in fighting the virus. “Our neighbors here in Washington state and the greater Seattle area have been seriously impacted by COVID-19. We’ve been a part of this community for 100 years, and we take our responsibility to our community seriously. While as a retailer we have been hit hard by the circumstances, we will do what we can to support healthcare workers and facilities in our own backyard,” said Huang.
In collaboration with its supply chain and vendors, Eddie Bauer’s apparel production has been put on the backburner while face masks, including N95 respirators, take center stage. They will be distributed to local hospitals.
Vancouver-based Arc’teryx is another industry giant which quickly responded to the call for help. In collaboration with Canadian health authorities, within only 10 days of intense work, the company developed a prototype of a Level 3 certified medical gown. They pledged to produce up to 500 units a week and plan to ramp up the production as soon as additional materials arrive.
Europe
Founded in 2013 and operating out of Spain, As Tucas offers a line of minimal mountaineering gear. From down-filled socks to Climashield® APEX insulated quilts, all As Tucas products are light and durable, tested in the demanding environment of the Pyrenees.
“The spread of COVID-19 is affecting every one of us, so it’s time to stay together,” said company founder Marco Sánchez. “We […] must save our communities from collapse. It’s likely that many of our friends will lose their jobs, and many companies will go bankrupt. This is why we’re open for you. This is why we’re open for our community.”
In the midst of a challenging time, As Tucas answered the call to for help local medical facilities and frontline staff. Most of the As Tucas production workforce has been redirected to join the fight to address the dramatic shortage of surgical masks.
Following As Tucas’ example, it is safe to say that even in confinement there are ways to stay positive and creative for both businesses and individuals. “Plan a trip. Learn new skills. Fine tune your gear,” advises Marco Sánchez.
“We’ll enjoy the outdoors again. This dream encourages me to stand up to the virus every day.”
