Working with neoprene material is far from easy and requires a lot of specialized equipment, trained professionals and accumulated knowhow. The manufacturing process is long and complex, especially for products that require larger thickness. As in most industry sectors, there are a few good and bad practices which distinguish between producers trying to make quick money at the expense of their reputation and those that were born to stay based on high quality and trust.

A key factor for sustainable manufacturing is sourcing of the material. Purchasing neoprene from different suppliers using ambiguous raw materials and quality control policies undermines the whole process and may compromise even the best ideas and products.  Failing to respect this may result in unstable and varying quality between production batches and sometimes even health issues for the users of the final products.

Another important point to consider is the machinery and equipment used for the manufacturing. Old or badly maintained sewing machines can do the job at first sight but only to a certain extent. Often the problems manifest at a later stage after the products are used for some time and lead to high level of complaints and brand degradation. Making sure to have a well-qualified and experienced technician on board is also contributing to the overall product performance and appraisal.

Building a qualified team of professionals who are committed to delivering high quality products and exhibit strong attention to detail is of paramount importance. As a European manufacturer we have faced the pressure from manufacturers from Far East Asia which rely on lower labour costs and more loose employment and state regulations. Nevertheless by organizing teams, specialized in certain products and the innovative structuring of our manufacturing processes, we have obtained better productivity and higher quality which are key to a sustainable manufacturing.