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12/03/2008

Dow Fiber Solutions Receives a 2008 International Gold Davey Award for the DOW XLA™ Brand Fiber "Redesign the Rules" Campaign
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Dow Fiber Solutions Receives a 2008 International Gold Davey Award for the DOW XLA™ Brand Fiber "Redesign the Rules" Campaign

2008 Gold Davey Award   
The 2008 Gold
Davey Award Winner

New York, NY – Dow Fiber Solutions, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company, received international recognition for the evocative and engaging Redesign the Rules advertising and branding campaign website created for DOW XLA™ brand stretch fiber, garnering a 2008 Gold Davey.

The Davey Awards honors true creative work that features fresh ideas, intelligence, out-of-the box thinking and exceptional execution. The Davey is judged and overseen by the International Academy of the Visual Arts (IAVA) and underwritten by AdvertisingAge Small Business Network. The IAVA is an invitation-only membership consisting of top-tier professionals from acclaimed media, advertising, and marketing firms including: Sotheby’s Institute of Art, Yahoo!, Estee Lauder, Theory, Polo Ralph Lauren, ADWEEK, BRANDWEEK, Coach, MTV, Victoria’s Secret, HBO, and many others.

To create the groundbreaking multi-media DOW XLA™ “Redesign the Rules” campaign and website, Dow Fiber Solutions
partnered with Effie-award winning integrated advertising agency, Syrup, an LBi agency company, whose notable clients include: Issey Miyake, Hermes and GE. “The goal was to challenge conventions and connect consumers and the fashion industry on a universal human level, portraying an irresistible world where everything suddenly feels designed just for you,” says Robert Holzer, CEO of Syrup.

Syrup created a visually stimulating series of print ads and short films which debuted on the new campaign website www.redesigntherules.com, also created and produced by Syrup. The integrated campaign is designed to challenge conventions and invite the viewer to experience the benefits of DOW XLA™ fiber. The ads bring to life the design superiority, performance, fit and durability of XLA™ in core fashion categories including ready to wear, denim and swimwear. The executions feature looks from DOW XLA™ premium consumer brand partners such as: Brooks Brothers, Citizens of Humanity, GoldSign and Maryan Mehlhorn.

“As a business, we are dedicated to pioneering innovation for the fashion industry. A key ingredient in our marketing mix is changing how we speak to our customers and utilizing new media,” says Holiday Watson, Global Public Affairs and Brand Leader for Dow Fiber Solutions. “It is an honor for DOW XLA™ to be recognized for the ‘Redesign the Rules’ campaign and a strong endorsement of the effectiveness of an integrated, digital marketing strategy.”

The DOW XLA™ “Redesign the Rules” campaign debuted this fall in global trade publications including Women’s Wear Daily, DNR and Sportswear International as well as a number of industry and consumer outlets throughout North America, Europe, South America and Asia.

Dow Fiber Solutions, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company, is dedicated to pioneering innovations for the global textile industry by matching proactive research and development expertise with the creative vision of retailers, designers, and manufacturers – to meet consumer needs. The business has established a customer base in Europe, Asia/Pacific, the United States and South America to produce fabrics made with XLA™ elastic fiber. XLA™ is one of many innovative products that underscore Dow’s strategy to strengthen its performance business portfolio by prioritizing marketing and application development activities that support high-value, end-use applications. For more information, visit www.dowxla.com.

About Syrup

At the intersection of the digital world, advertising and brand entertainment, Syrup is an international communications agency headquartered in New York. We approach brand communications with a transmedia consciousness, creating and integrating online experiences that flow easily to the offline world and back again. Clients include GE, Hearst Media, L’Oréal, Issey Miyake, COTY Prestige Fragrances, Nike, Viacom, and AOL. Syrup is a part of the LBi group, the leading full-service digital marketing agency network.

About Dow

®™* Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company ("Dow") or an affiliated company of Dow

For Editorial Information:

Sarah Durante
The Dow Chemical Company
212-768-2394

 

08/15/2008

Dow Fiber Solutions Unveils Innovative Multi – Media Advertising Campaign for Fall / Winter 2008
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Dow Fiber Solutions Unveils Innovative Multi – Media Advertising Campaign for Fall / Winter 2008

DOW XLA™ : REDESIGN THE RULES

NEW YORK – At the forefront of cutting edge fashion and technology, Dow Fiber Solutions, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company, is dedicated to pioneering innovations for the textile industry; pushing boundaries in order to redesign the rules. With the breakthrough benefits of DOW XLA™, the world's first olefin-based stretch fiber, the way apparel looks, feels and fits is completely evolved.

To tell the story of this groundbreaking fiber, Dow Fiber Solutions partnered with Effie-award winning integrated advertising agency, Syrup; notable clients include: Issey Miyake, Hermes and GE. Launching a new comprehensive, multi-media advertising campaign for DOW XLA™ in an evocative and engaging format, Syrup created a visually stimulating series of seductive print ads and videos designed to challenge conventions and connect with the fashion industry on a universal human level – the desire for breakthroughs that evolve the way we interact with the world. The goal is to redesign the way the industry designs apparel and fabric and how the consumer wears clothing. The new campaign was inspired by a simple question; "What if one fiber could revolutionize the way designers create, how people feel in their clothes, how they look and how they take care of their apparel?"

DOW XLA™. Redesign the Rules

Holiday Watson, Global Brand Communications Manager for Dow Fiber Solutions, says, "We feel that the DOW XLA™ brand has reached a new level and gained rapid acceptance among powerful, industry leading brands, as the premium fiber of choice. This is the perfect time to showcase these partnerships and the breakthrough benefits of this innovative fiber that allows designers and mills to redesign the rules."

Shot by high-concept fashion photographer Henrik Halvarsson - whose clients have included Diesel, Nokia, Ikea, and Bjorn Borg - in an unconventional and provocative style, each execution challenges a fashion convention (for example, "A gentleman doesn't have to be gentle with his shirts.") and presents the solution...the DOW XLA™ solution. The print ads and online video are sophisticated and aspirational, meant to portray an irresistible world where everything suddenly feels designed just for you. Inviting the viewer to experience the benefits of DOW XLA™ fiber, the video takes us on a journey through each of the benefits – design superiority, performance, fit and durability – in core fashion categories – ready to wear, denim and swimwear. The executions feature looks from DOW XLA™ consumer brand partners including: Brooks Brothers, Citizens of Humanity, GoldSign and Maryan Mehlhorn.

The DOW XLA™ "Redesign the Rules" campaign will debut this fall in global trade publications including Women's Wear Daily, DNR and Sportswear International as well as a number of industry and consumer outlets throughout North America, Europe, South America and Asia. It will be complemented by a fully integrated web platform in key online and national media

Dow Fiber Solutions, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company, is dedicated to pioneering innovations for the global textile industry by matching proactive research and development expertise with the creative vision of retailers, designers, and manufacturers – to meet consumer needs. The business has established a customer base in Europe, Asia/Pacific, the United States and South America to produce fabrics made with XLA™ elastic fiber. XLA™ is one of many innovative products that underscore Dow’s strategy to strengthen its performance business portfolio by prioritizing marketing and application development activities that support high-value, end-use applications. For more information, visit www.dowxla.com.

About Dow Dow is a diversified chemical company that harnesses the power of innovation, science and technology to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company offers a broad range of products and services to customers in more than 175 countries, helping them to provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. Built on a commitment to its principles of sustainability, Dow has annual sales of $49 billion and employs 43,000 people worldwide. References to “Dow” or the “Company” mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com.

About Syrup At the intersection of the digital world, advertising and brand entertainment, Syrup (www.syrupnyc.com) is an international communications agency headquartered in New York. We approach brand communications with a transmedia consciousness, creating and integrating online experiences that flow easily to the offline world and back again. Clients include GE, Hearst Media, L'Oréal, Issey Miyake, COTY Prestige Fragrances, Nike, Viacom, and AOL. Syrup is a part of the LBi group (www.lbi.com), the leading full-service digital marketing agency network.

Dow Fiber Solutions
1411 Broadway, Suite 2920A
New York, NY 10018
www.dowxla.com

For Editorial Information US:
Dow Fiber Solutions
Holiday Watson
Phone: +1-212-768-2394
Mail: hwatson2@dow.com

For Editorial Information US:
Factory PR
Mark Silver
Phone: +1-212-941-7057
Mail: mark@factorypr.com

 

07/01/2008

Dow Fiber Solutions and Olah Inc. Premier Kurabo Industries New Denim Collection at Exclusive Kingpins Show
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Dow Fiber Solutions and Olah Inc. Premier Kurabo Industries New Denim Collection at Exclusive Kingpins Show

New York, NY (July 2008) – Dow Fiber Solutions, makers of DOW XLA™ brand fiber, together with Olah Inc. will introduce, the latest denim breakthroughs with XLA™ from Kurabo at the exclusive, invitation only Kingpins trade show on July 15th and 16th in New York, NY. By using innovative and proprietary spinning techniques perfected by Kurabo Industries in Japan, Kurabo Hong Kong has created a new premium denim collection at a value price. The collection, which ranges from 7.5 oz. to 11.5 oz., includes eight fabrics enhanced with DOW XLA™ premium stretch fiber for an irresistible combination of quality, fit and performanc

"We are excited to introduce this new collection," says Brad Mowry, Managing Director, Olah West Coast. "With Kurabo Japan's superior spinning techniques plus the advantages of XLA™ stretch fiber we are offering denim fabrics made in China that look premium for designers, brands, and consumers who want the feel of a luxury product but are more price conscious."

Kingpins, the ultimate jeans and textile show offering the latest in premium denim, has successfully carved out a niche in the denim tradeshow market offering insights and inspirations in a unique way that allows designers and brands to collaborate and create with premium supply partners. Exhibitors display product in a boutique-like setting with finished garments and cozy seating areas. Following the show on July 15th, guests are invited to party the night away with the hosts and fellow denim royalty at the after party.

DOW XLA™ is the world's first olefin-based stretch fiber. The elastic composition is the first of its kind to offer gentle, non-snap stretch and recovery, providing the ultimate in fit and comfort. The benefits of DOW XLA™ include resistance to wet processing, chemical treatments, high heat, and unparalleled shape retention, making it the perfect fit for the premium denim market. DOW XLA™ allows designers creative license, and also addresses discerning consumers demand for high-quality, easy-care garments that are both durable and fashionable.

Olah, Inc.is the exclusive agent in North America for Kurabo premium denim textiles. For more information about Olah, please visit www.olah.com.

Dow Fiber Solutions, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company, is dedicated to pioneering innovations for the global textile industry by matching proactive research and development expertise with the creative vision of retailers, designers, and manufacturers – to meet consumer needs. The business has established a customer base in Europe, Asia/Pacific, the United States and South America to produce fabrics made with XLA™ elastic fiber. XLA™ is one of many innovative products that underscore Dow’s strategy to strengthen its performance business portfolio by prioritizing marketing and application development activities that support high-value, end-use applications. For more information, visit www.dowxla.com.

About Dow

Dow is a diversified chemical company that harnesses the power of innovation, science and technology to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company offers a broad range of products and services to customers in more than 175 countries, helping them to provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. Built on a commitment to its principles of sustainability, Dow has annual sales of $49 billion and employs 43,000 people worldwide. References to "Dow” or the "Company” mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com

For Editorial Information US:
Dow Fiber Solutions
Holiday Watson
Phone: +1-212-768-2394
Mail: hwatson2@dow.com

For Editorial Information US:
Loving + Company
Brittany Frappier
Phone: +1-212-213-3504
Mail: bfrappier@lovingandcompany.com

 

06/28/2008

Red Engine Introduces Blue Velvet a Beautiful Blend of Luxury, Performance & Environmental Consciousness
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Red Engine Introduces Blue Velvet a Beautiful Blend of Luxury, Performance & Environmental Consciousness

LOS ANGELES – Premium denim manufacturer Red Engine introduces Blue Velvet – a jean where the ultimate in luxury and stretch performance meet environmental consciousness, melded in a perfect blend of fit, softness, and sustainable promise of minimal ecological impact.

Available immediately in Red Engine’s signature sexy low rise bootcut style "Scarlett,” this new denim/wash is called Blue Velvet "because it’s the softest, most lush denim we’ve ever found,” said James Boldes, company owner and Technical Designer. Offered by an exclusive Japanese denim mill that produces limited runs, Red Engine quickly secured all that it could for its high quality line.

Blue Velvet combines the superior performance of two premium fibers, Supima cotton and DOW XLA™ stretch fiber. Supima cotton is ultra soft, longer staple cotton that provides greater strength and drape. XLA™ fiber adds just the right amount of stretch and is proven to improve long-term durability and shape retention, even after the unique wash applied to Blue Velvet. This lightweight denim is wonderfully soft and infinitely more comfortable than typical denims. "Everyone who has felt this denim has to have a pair—or two! It is finding huge success with our discerning Red Engine customers. Blue Velvet is like butter!” added Boldes.

And, Blue Velvet is an environmentally friendlier choice for today’s discerning consumer. The raw materials that go in to producing DOW XLA™ fiber have one of the lowest gross energy requirements per pound than other elastic fibers. Plus, third-party testing organization Oeko-Tex has certified that DOW XLA™ does not contain harmful substances, such as heavy metals and pesticides, to the Standard 100 criteria.* Blue Velvet retails in better boutiques nationwide for approx $160.

For samples, contact:
Kim Harlan
Director of Marketing + P.R
Phone: 213 742 8858 x5
Mail: kim@redenginejeans.com

 

06/26/2008

Men's Leisure-Wear Gets Smart with Revolutionary Fiber
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Men's Leisure-Wear Gets Smart with Revolutionary Fiber

Leading German Shirt Maker Joins World's Top Brands in Introducing DOW XLA™ Fiber

Horgen - June 26, 2008

As daily life gets busier, men just can't get enough of easy-wear, easy-care textiles. Non-iron stretch shirts for men are featuring more prominently than ever before on fashion catwalks across Europe. Now, leading German shirt maker CasaModa has embraced science to introduce eight durable, non-iron smart-casual sports shirts to its Premium range. The shirts are made with revolutionary DOW XLA™ stretch fiber, the only stretch fiber that can support a true non-iron finish. Other fibers tend to break away as a result of the rigorous process and finishes applied.

The flexibility and easy-care properties of DOW XLA™ combined with CasaModa's patented process to prevent puckering at the seams, have resulted in shirts that always look crisp and smooth with a top-quality, non-iron finish. The collared shirts are available in black and white as well as various bold, fresh colours, with both long and short sleeves.

"DOW XLA™ is a case in point," Klaus Katt, CEO of CasaModa said. "As the only stretch fiber that can support a true non-iron finish it enhances the look, hand feel, freedom of movement and longevity of our shirts. It's also incredibly durable, and able to withstand machine washing and tumble drying at high temperatures, holding color and retaining its shape over time -- something we find very attractive for our high quality brand."

CasaModa's shirts are worn and modeled by German television personality Jörg Pilawa. "Many of today's professionals travel extensively and live out of suitcases, making CasaModa's shirts the perfect answer to their need for low maintenance clothing," Pilawa said. "As someone who not only travels extensively but who is also often in the public eye these shirts perfectly meet my need for easy-care smartness. When I take them out of the suitcase they look crisp and fresh and don't require ironing".

CasaModa uses DOW XLA™ fiber throughout its Premium range, which also comprises business shirts, in its CasaModa top line and its slim-fit Venti line. It plans to integrate the fiber into further shirt collections in 2009.

CasaModa's Premium sports shirts are now available at the CasaModa stores in Hamburg, Berlin and Cologne as well as at Käferlein in Nuremberg and Breiter in Munich. For more information on retailers please visit http://www.casamoda.com

"Through strengthening Dow's market-facing focus, our technology leadership and market understanding, we are finding innovative new ways to help our customers succeed so they can ultimately fulfill consumer needs. The partnerships with high-profile fashion brands such as CasaModa prove that Dow is a highly innovative company which constantly improves what's essential to human progress," said Mark Remmert, global business director, Dow Fiber Solutions.

The fashion industry is rapidly incorporating DOW XLA™ in designs and collections where sculpting, durability and ease of care are important. The fiber is being used by Brooks Brothers, Calvin Klein, Burberry Japan, and many more.

For more information on DOW XLA™ please visit www.dowxla.com.

About Dow Fiber Solutions

Dow Fiber Solutions, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company and its affiliates, is dedicated to pioneering innovations for the global textile industry by matching proactive research and development expertise with the creative vision of retailers, designers, and manufacturers - to meet consumer needs. DOW XLA™ fiber is one of many innovative products that underscore Dow's strategy to strengthen its performance business portfolio by prioritizing marketing and application development activities that support high-value, end-use applications.

About Dow

With annual sales of $54 billion and 46,000 employees worldwide, Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the " Human Element " to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in around 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted.

For Editorial Information:
Bettina Grabher
Dow Fiber Solutions
Phone: +41-44-728-2319

 

05/24/2008

Weber&Heusser is Dow Fiber Solutions' New Distribution Partner
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Weber&Heusser is Dow Fiber Solutions' New Distribution Partner

Horgen, Switzerland - (May 24 th , 2008)

Dow Fiber Solutions (DFS) and the long standing textile wholesale company Weber&Heusser GmbH & Co. KG are to become cooperation partners. As of immediately and acting from its headquarters in Albstadt (in the German province of Baden-Württemberg), Weber&Heusser will handle the distribution of the revolutionary DOW XLA™ fiber in the German speaking countries. DOW XLA™ is the world's first olefin-based stretch fiber which is inherently resistant to aggressive chemicals and high temperatures.

With over 85 years of experience, Weber&Heusser not only offers competence in matters of textiles and technology, but also optimal services in respect to delivery and customer care. For these reasons it makes the ideal partner for DFS. José Garcia-Alegre, Global Sales Director for DFS, explains: "Our substantiated knowledge of the textile market continues to allow us to find new and optimized process solutions. We are confident that the cooperation with such a strong partner will lead to offering excellent service to our customers."

The improvements to distribution won't only profit customers though. The company also expects positive effects on demand and the increased use of DOW XLA™ in the textile value chain. With a distribution partner in Germany, DFS optimizes its transport routes and increases efficiency of distribution of DOW XLA™

For more information on XLA™ please visit www.dowxla.com.

About Dow Fiber Solutions

Dow Fiber Solutions, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company, is dedicated to pioneering innovations for the global textile industry by matching proactive research and development expertise with the creative vision of retailers, designers, and manufacturers - to meet consumer needs. DOW XLA™ is one of many innovative products that underscore Dow's strategy to strengthen its performance business portfolio by prioritizing marketing and application development activities that support high-value, end-use applications.

About Dow

With annual sales of $54 billion and 46,000 employees worldwide, Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the " Human Element " to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in around 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. References to DOW XLA™ or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted.

Editorial Information:
Bettina Grabher
The Dow Chemical Company
+41-44-728-2319

 

04/01/2008

2(x)ist and Dow XLA™ Introduce 'Liquid Cotton Collection' for FW08
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2(x)ist and DOW XLA™ Introduce "Liquid Cotton Collection" for FW08

Leading Men's Body Wear Brand 2(x)ist and Innovative DOW XLA™ Fiber Partner up to Revolutionize the Underwear Category

Power brands 2(x)ist and DOW XLA™ have teamed up to introduce the "Liquid Cotton Collection." The new "Liquid Cotton Collection” embodies everything that makes the ultimate under garments. The newly developed super-fine stretch fiber DOW XLA™ provides unparalleled fit and function. DOW XLA™ and 2(x)ist are pleased to present the underwear market with product that offers freedom of movement and cutting-edge design.

Using ultra soft, fabric that is lightweight, form-fitting and durable, the "Liquid Cotton Collection” consists of innovative styles such as the new Square Cut Brief, Square Cut V-Neck, Trunk, Long John and Hoodie. Modern colorways such as white, black and burgundy are infused with neon-colored piping for an eye-pleasing combination.

As pioneers in the men’s body wear category, 2(x)ist is synonymous with cutting edge style and has become the iconic American brand for men’s designer underwear. Continuing their mission to take underwear to a new dimension it is only natural that 2(x)ist introduces their new "Liquid Cotton Collection” with DOW XLA™ fiber. The new collection debuted during New York Fashion Week at the Elle STYLE360 lounge in September 2007 and further solidified 2(x)ist’s reputation as an innovator in the marketplace.

The 2(x)ist brand has responded to the male consumer’s demands for material that offers both enhanced shape retention and stretch comfort with their bold, vibrant and comfortable "Liquid Cotton Collection” using DOW XLA™. Cut to accentuate a man’s body shape, the collection is made of luxuriously soft, lightweight stretch material that perfectly fits the body, with ideal shape retention and recovery without a synthetic feel.

DOW XLA™ fiber has been recognized by fashion insiders as the ideal alternative to other elastic fibers due to its unique ability to virtually disappear into the host fiber, so the fabric retains its luxurious feel and shape. The benefits of using DOW XLA™ include resistance to high heat and unparalleled shape retention. DOW XLA™ is the world’s first olefin-based stretch fiber and is the only elastic fiber that offers gentle, non-snap stretch and recovery to provide true freedom of movement.

Jason Scarlatti, Creative Director of 2(x)ist said, "Our cutting-edge "Liquid Cotton Collection” with DOW XLA™ is perfect for our loyal customers who expect the best from our products. It combines the best of both worlds, a rich cotton touch with the added benefit of comfort stretch."

Holly Watson, Global Brand Communications Manager for Dow Fiber Solutions elaborated on the collaboration: "This dynamic new partnership between DOW XLA™ and 2(x)ist is so exciting because it gives each side the opportunity to leverage the other brand’s capabilities and bring newness to the marketplace."

Dow Fiber Solutions, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company, is dedicated to pioneering innovations for the global textile industry as evidenced by the creation and subsequent marketing of the revolutionary fiber DOW XLA™. Since its inception, Dow Fiber Solutions has always approached the fashion marketplace in creative ways that focus on innovation to service the consumer and the designer. Dow Fiber Solutions strategically targets and teams up with relevant partners to educate the marketplace about DOW XLA™. DOW XLA™ enables superior fit, performance and ease of motion to the consumer while its ability to withstand harsh chemical/heat treatments that would compromise other stretch fibers appeals to designers from men’s wear, women’s wear and performance apparel.

2(x)ist is the latest addition to the portfolio of brands that are innovating with DOW XLA™ fiber technology. The 2(x)ist collection with DOW XLA™ will be available at retail in Fall 2008 and will be available on www.2xist.com.

About Dow

Dow is a diversified chemical company that harnesses the power of innovation, science and technology to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company offers a broad range of products and services to customers in more than 175 countries, helping them to provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. Built on a commitment to its principles of sustainability, Dow has annual sales of $49 billion and employs 43,000 people worldwide. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com

For more information:
Factory PR
Mark Silver
Phone: +1-212-941-7057
Mail: mark@factorypr.com

 

02/01/2008

Greg Norman Collection Brings Luxury Ultimate 80s to the Next Level with Revolutionary Stretch Fiber DOW XLA™
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Greg Norman Collection Brings Luxury Ultimate 80s to the Next Level with Revolutionary Stretch Fiber DOW XLA™

-- Give the Gift of Innovation this Father’s Day --

New York, NY (February 2008) – Greg Norman Collection, a leader in golf-inspired sportswear, advances Signature Series for Spring 2008 with the Luxury Ultimate 80s Polo. Luxury Ultimate 80s Polo incorporates the stretch technology of DOW XLA™ fiber for a new dimension of performance and wearability. The new line of polos, available in a variety of bright colors, makes the perfect gift for Father’s Day this June. Offered in six solid colors (Clover; Coastal; Calypso; Dandelion; Navy; White), with a suggested retail price of $87, Luxury Ultimate 80s Spring 2008 is available beginning June 1st.

"This season, one of my favorite items in the collection is the Luxury Ultimate 80s polo made with DOW XLA™," says Greg Norman. "These shirts bring together the three tenants that drive the Greg Norman Collection: performance, luxury, and style,” says Greg Norman. "The introduction of the revolutionary fiber XLA™ into the Greg Norman Collection reflects the brand's commitment to staying ahead of the innovation and design curve."

Designed with the performance standards of Ultimate Greg Norman fabric (fade, wrinkle, pill, and shrink-resistance plus an anti-curl collar), Luxury Ultimate 80s is made from extra-fine 80s two-ply double mercerized Egyptian cotton with added innovation from the revolutionary stretch DOW XLA™ fiber. The stretch dimension, which is a premier element to Greg Norman Collection in the golf market, preserves the shape of the garment while producing the ultimate in mobility.

"We are so excited to work with Greg Norman Collection on the launch of the new Luxury Ultimate 80s polo with DOW XLA™ fiber," says Holly Watson, Global Brand Communications Manager for Dow Fiber Solutions. "DOW XLA™ is an exciting design solution – the resulting fabric withstands mercerization treatments that would break down other fibers and still delivers the ultimate in movement, fit and wearability to the consumer. Furthermore, the value that XLA™ brings to the wearer such as easy movement, perfect shape retention and easy-care capabilities address the increasingly high demands of the consumer."

Dow Fiber Solutions, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company, is dedicated to pioneering innovations for the global textile industry by matching proactive research and development expertise with the creative vision of retailers, designers, and manufacturers – to meet consumer needs. The business has established a customer base in Europe, Asia/Pacific, the United States and South America to produce fabrics made with XLA™ elastic fiber. XLA™ is one of many innovative products that underscore Dow’s strategy to strengthen its performance business portfolio by prioritizing marketing and application development activities that support high-value, end-use applications. For more information, visit www.dowxla.com.

About Dow

Dow is a diversified chemical company that harnesses the power of innovation, science and technology to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company offers a broad range of products and services to customers in more than 175 countries, helping them to provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. Built on a commitment to its principles of sustainability, Dow has annual sales of $49 billion and employs 43,000 people worldwide. References to "Dow” or the "Company” mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com

About Greg Norman Collection

Built upon a unique combination of performance, luxury and style, Greg Norman Collection, a subsidiary of MacGregor Golf Company, is a leading worldwide marketer of golf-inspired sportswear for men and women, influenced by one of the world's leading golf professionals.

Signature Series, a complete collection that fuses a high-performance foundation with exceptional styling in luxurious fabrications, is available in over 400 retailers including specialty stores and premier resorts across the country.

For Editorial Information US:
Dow Fiber Solutions
Holiday Watson
Phone: +1-212-768-2394
Mail: hwatson2@dow.com

For Editorial Information US:
Loving + Company
Maura Duggan
Phone: +1-212-213-3504
Mail: mduggan@lovingandcompany.com

For Greg Norman Collection Editorial Information:
Greg Norman Collection
Nikki DiGennaro
Phone: +1-212-213-3504
Mail: nikki.digennaro@gncollection.com

Events

Intertextile Shanghai
10/20/08 — 10/23/08
Shanghai New International Expo Centre Booth: D22 - F38, Hall W2
Shanghai, China
http://www.messefrankfurt.com