The Woolmark Company and Adidas have joined forces to launch a design competition focusing on the development of innovative, forward-thinking products for the performance industry.
The Woolmark Performance Challenge is a new annual competition for tertiary students in Europe and North America, and is set to kick-start the career of the eventual winner.
The competition provides an unrivalled opportunity for tertiary students to develop innovative new product applications within the sports and performance market, by applying the science and performance benefits of Australian Merino wool.
Performance apparel is one of the fastest growing sectors in the global textile industry. This growth can be attributed to an emergence of new technologies, new sporting trends and a shift in peoples’ attitude towards health and fitness. In addition, consumers are becoming more aware of the impact their purchasing decisions have on the planet, and are demanding natural alternatives for their product and apparel needs.
“At Adidas we are driven by a constant desire for innovation and its belief that anybody can and should be a creator,” explains Adidas Senior Design Director Tillmann Studrucker. “This unique collaboration with The Woolmark Company gives young creative students the chance to help shape the future of sport, and sports culture.”
The Woolmark Performance Challenge winner will be awarded a cash prize of 10,000 euro, as well as being presented with career development and commercial opportunities including a three-month internship with the Woolmark Performance Challenge’s 2017-18 global sports brand partner Adidas.
“This new competition is unique in that it offers the winner hands-on experience with a leading performance brand,” said The Woolmark Company Managing Director Stuart McCullough. “New talent is the future of our business and the industry. The Woolmark Company actively believes in education and fostering the development of the next generation of designers and change-makers.