Omni United and Timberland team up to produce “Timberland Tires”, tyres that are made of be recycled into shoes at the end of their careers.
The two companies realized that making tyres and making shoes are the two most demanding industries for natural rubber. They then collaborated to make Timberland tyres. Onmi United makes the tyres and keeps track of who they belong to, when the tyre is worn out and ready to be recycled, it will be shipped to Timberland to make outsoles for their boots and shoes.
The first batch of tyres was launched in April with 21 sizes for crossovers and small SUVs. This fall, the line will expand to 35 with sizes for large SUVs and trucks. Twenty five more sizes for cars will be released next year. Recycling should begin by late 2017.
“Our intent is to capture every worn Timberland Tire and recycle it for a second life, so none is used as fuel or ends up in a landfill.” says G.S. Sareen, President and CEO of Omni United.
While recycling may not have started yet, Timberland is expressing excitement by launching a new line of boots inspired by tyre treads. The collection is set to launch by fall of 2016.