Wolverine and Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery Unveil Batch IV Of Their Collaboration 1000 Mile Boot

Elevating the art of craftsmanship to new heights, Wolverine®, the 141-year-old boot and clothing company, has once again joined forces with Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery just in time for Bourbon Heritage Month. Through their mutual dedication to superior quality, these two brands proudly unveil Batch IV of their Wolverine 1000 Mile x Old Rip Van Winkle Boot.

Inspired by the caramel and wood notes of Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year bourbon, the Batch IV boot was built on the silhouette of Wolverine's iconic 1000 Mile. First introduced in 1914, the 1000 Mile provides the perfect canvas for the continued partnership of Wolverine and Old Rip as they pour their distinct blend of heritage, craftmanship and quality into each product iteration.

"Working with the team at Old Rip continues to be a highlight of our year," stated Lauren King, Senior Director of Marketing at Wolverine Boots. "We constantly inspire each other through our unique, yet shared, brand ethos and design. Each pair of boots we've launched together has created a new take on our heritage product, drummed up energizing ways to connect to our audiences, and ignited enduring consumer demand. Batch IV is no different."

Tailored for the ultimate bourbon enthusiast, the Wolverine 1000 Mile x Old Rip Van Winkle Batch IV Boot is designed to age gracefully, much like the fine bourbon at Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. Each pair of these limited-edition boots features all the timeless 1000 Mile qualities:

• Lux leather uppers in a rich hue inspired by the full-bodied flavor profile of Old Rip Van Winkle 10-year.
• Built from the iconic 1000 Mile silhouette and finished with the added comfort, support, and style of a wedge sole.
• Uniquely labeled with hand-numbered Old Rip Van Winkle woven label on the tongue.
• Designed in Michigan and handcrafted in Arkansas, supporting American workers and manufacturing.

Combining their shared passion for supporting the hard-working hands behind handcrafted, a portion of proceeds from each pair of Wolverine x Old Rip Van Winkle Batch IV boots sold will be donated to SkillsUSA, the number one workforce development organization for students.

"It's always a pleasure working with the Wolverine Team," stated Preston Van Winkle, member of the Van Winkle Bourbon Family. "Wolverine is a brand that truly embodies our shared passion of quality craftsmanship behind the creation of every boot, much like the dedication we pour into our bourbon. This collaboration not only celebrates our mutual dedication to quality, but also underscores our joint support for continuing to champion America's workforce."

ABOUT WOLVERINE
Wolverine, the 141-year-old boot and clothing company, is on a mission to honor the spirit and tenacity of the American worker and build the next generation of skilled trades people. Taking pride in crafting durable boots with unrivaled craftsmanship and the highest quality materials, Wolverine is dedicated to serving hardworking people all over the world. Through Project Bootstrap, Wolverine has contributed over $2 million to organizations in support of the skilled trades. For more information, visit www.wolverine.com. Wolverine is a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. (NYSE: WWW)

ABOUT OLD RIP VAN WINKLE
The Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery has a four-generation history, starting in the late 1800s with Julian P. "Pappy" Van Winkle Sr., and continuing today with Julian III and Preston Van Winkle. From its early roots as the Stitzel-Weller Distillery in South Louisville to the selling of the Distillery in 1972 while resurrecting the Old Rip Van Winkle label at the same time, and following with new, original expressions in the early 1980s, the Van Winkle story has been one of perseverance and survival. In 2002 the Van Winkles joined forces with Buffalo Trace Distillery in Franklin County, Frankfort, KY. All of the Van Winkle's whiskey production now takes place at Buffalo Trace Distillery under the same strict guidelines the family has always followed. For more information on the Van Winkle family of bourbon please visit oldripvanwinkle.com.

Source Wolverine

Orkin Unveils New Uniforms Through Partnership with Savannah College of Art and Design

Orkin and SCADpro today announced their recent partnership resulting in the rollout of new Orkin uniforms for more than 10,000 employees.

The Orkin Marketing team approached the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) to engage SCADpro, the university's collaborative innovation studio that generates business solutions for the world's most influential brands, with a design challenge to reimagine the company's uniforms. The SCADpro team consisted of 16 talented students and two faculty leads representing top-ranked SCAD degree programs, including fashion, fashion marketing and management, graphic design, art history, animation, illustration, film and television, luxury and brand management, and more. The students worked in two groups, a graphics team and fashion team, to effectively meet the needs of the design brief.

The updated uniforms are anchored in white, red, and black with classic khaki — a return to a classic color palette inspired by Orkin's brand identity and heritage. The uniforms have changed in fit, form, and functionality, but have maintained a professional look as part of Orkin's core values. The execution of these design efforts was informed by the team's in-depth understanding of the need to improve utility and fabric choices to make Orkin Pros, specifically women, more comfortable and productive on the job.

"The opportunity to work with Orkin allowed SCAD students to see their thoughtful work launch into the world and positively impact both the consumer and employee experience," said Paul Stonick, vice-president of SCADpro. "By implementing strategies in areas including textile sourcing, corporate social responsibility, and integrated marketing, students successfully delivered the Orkin uniform to look professional and represent Orkin's tradition and storied background."

"We are proud to have partnered with SCADpro to reimagine the iconic Orkin uniform that is professional, practical, and cost effective," said Pat Chrzanowski, President Orkin USA. "Our new Orkin Pro uniforms are just that — a modern take on the iconic Orkin residential and commercial uniforms, while retaining our brand's values and strong visual identity."

New Uniform Design

The new uniform design was focused on updating the traditional Orkin uniform by elevating and modernizing the design. This shirt design, although simple in concept, is an updated design to the current Orkin uniform. The shirt is more comfortable and functional while maintaining the traditional and recognizable elements of the current design.

 Uniform Shirt

• The new shirt features a poly spandex blend material that is breathable and stretches for comfort while working.
• The residential shirt's red epaulets have been updated to red shoulder stripes for a more modern look.
• The shirt design also includes one pocket with a pen holder, which offers more utility.
• The new design also features darting on the women's shirts to improve fit.

Uniform Pants

• Orkin's uniform pants were updated with performance fabric that offers wrinkle resistance and a four-way stretch for comfort and mobility. The new pants also provide breathability in summer months.
• The design features a device pocket on one side and cargo pocket on the other, on both men's and women's pants. The pants pockets were also moved to the front for a more modern look.
• On the women's pants, elastic has been added in the back waist to improve fit, while maintaining a flat front look.
• The new design also features a belt made of nylon woven with a locking slide for improved fit, a more modern look, and increased durability.

From the beginning, the goal for the new Orkin uniform was to stay true to the heritage of the Orkin brand, —– from top to bottom, while making it more comfortable and better meeting the needs of every Orkin Pro. The new uniform design has minor silhouette changes; but is elevated with more sophisticated and versatile textile choices and thoughtful utility details.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin aspires to be the world's best service company. As an industry leader in essential pest control services, Orkin offers protection against termite damage, rodents, and insects, providing a safe place for people to live, work, and play. Orkin has more than 360 owned-and-operated branch offices and more than 45 franchise locations in the U.S. and international franchises and subsidiaries in Canada, Europe, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Asia, the Mediterranean, Africa, and Mexico. Through its values of safety, integrity, innovation, professionalism, and empathy, Orkin is committed to protecting public health by helping prevent and control pests as well as educating consumers on the potential health risks posed by these pests. As such, since 2020, Orkin has partnered with the American Red Cross to inform the public about the health threats of mosquitoes while boosting our country's blood supply through monetary contributions and blood donations. Orkin is committed to hiring the world's best to deliver the peace of mind only a service-minded Orkin Pro can provide. Learn more about careers at Orkin.

About SCADpro

SCADpro is the Savannah College of Art and Design's collaborative innovation studio that generates business solutions for the world's most influential brands. SCADpro is recognized as the preeminent university partner in higher education and among design agencies worldwide. Unlike other agencies and university programs, SCADpro invites clients to engage in every step of the ideation and creative process and to work directly with student designers, professors, and alumni focused on clients' desired outcomes. For more information on SCADpro, visit scad•edu/scadpro.

SCAD: The University for Creative Careers

SCAD is a private, nonprofit, accredited university, offering 100 graduate and undergraduate degree programs across locations in Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia; Lacoste, France; and online via SCADnow. SCAD enrolls more than 17,500 undergraduate and graduate students from more than 120 countries. The future-minded SCAD curriculum engages professional-level technology and myriad advanced learning resources, affording students opportunities for internships, professional certifications, and real-world assignments with corporate partners through SCADpro, the university's renowned research lab and prototype generator. SCAD has earned top rankings for degree programs in interior design, architecture, film, fashion, digital media, and more. Career success is woven into every fiber of the university, resulting in a superior alumni employment rate. A 2023 study found that 99% of SCAD graduates were employed, pursuing further education, or both within 10 months of graduation. SCAD provides students and alumni with ongoing career support through personal coaching, alumni programs, a professional presentation studio, and more. Visit scad•edu.

Source Orkin, LLC

Lafc And Pacsun Announce Second Collaborative Collection

The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) and California-based youth lifestyle retailer Pacsun will drop their second collaborative apparel collection on Wednesday, July 3.

The new four-piece unisex collection features a hoodie and three new T-shirt designs combining L.A. Streetwear and soccer culture. The pieces each feature fresh designs interweaving LAFC's crest and iconic black & gold colors.

The complete collection will be available to purchase online at pacsun.com and select Pacsun retail locations nationwide on July 3. Pricing ranges from $25 – $60 and the collection offers a gender-neutral fit in small – X-large sizes.

LAFC fans will be able to purchase the new collection at the July 4 rivalry matchup vs. the Galaxy at the historic Rose Bowl Stadium, including a special edition tee designed exclusively for the game.

"LAFC and Pacsun are both known for delivering authentic styles that merge culture, lifestyle and sport," said LAFC Co-President & CBO Larry Freedman. "We are excited to continue inspiring our community and the next generation of youth together and I can't wait to see the new LAFC x Pacsun collaborative collection on fans and creators nationwide."

Fans will also be able to shop the collection at LAFC HQ at BMO Stadium starting July 13.

Pacsun also plans to host an LAFC player appearance on July 14 at the Glendale Pacsun store.

Building on the success of the partnership in 2023, LAFC and Pacsun officially announced the continuation of their community outreach partnership last month. Reinforcing the joint commitment to community engagement, the partners will continue their support of the Bresee Youth Center, providing Los Angeles students with necessary apparel and school supplies. Pacsun will also participate in LAFC's pre-game Fan Fest activations, starting at the game vs Columbus Crew on July 13.

"Our collaboration with LAFC perfectly mixes Los Angeles streetwear and soccer culture. This collection, especially the special edition tee featuring roses for the July 4th match at the Rose Bowl, highlights our dedication to providing unique and meaningful apparel fans want to wear. We're excited to give our communities new styles to represent their favorite team," said Richard Cox, VP of Men's and Global Partnerships at Pacsun.

LOS ANGELES FOOTBALL CLUB (LAFC)

The 2022 MLS Cup Champion Los Angeles Football Club has represented the greater Los Angeles area in Major League Soccer since 2018. The two-time Supporters' Shield Champions, LAFC is dedicated to building a world-class soccer Club that represents the diversity of Los Angeles and is committed to delivering an unrivaled experience for fans. LAFC's ownership group comprises local leaders and industry innovators with intellectual capital, financial prowess, operations expertise, and success in entertainment, sports, technology, and media. LAFC is invested in the world's game and Los Angeles, constructing, and developing the 22,000-seat BMO Stadium and a top-flight training center on the campus of Cal State Los Angeles.

ABOUT PACSUN

Pacsun is a purpose-driven, leading specialty retailer offering a cross section of emerging brands and trending fashion through the lens of youth culture. Delivering the latest contemporary, streetwear, and activewear, Pacsun partners with the best brands at the intersection of fashion, music, art, and sport to offer curated collections, rare and exclusive products, and creative collaborations on every level to inspire the next generation. Founded in 1980 in Newport, CA, Pacsun is now co-created in Los Angeles.

Source Pacsun

Nayrouz Olarte Launches Global Fashion Trade Organization

Nayrouz Olarte Announces the Formation of International Fashion Federation, a Global Trade Organization for all Stakeholders in Fashion, Tourism and Hospitality.

Multi-passionate entrepreneur and philanthropist Nayrouz Olarte, known for her transformative leadership as the former President of the Board of Orlando International Fashion Week and founder of the HER Foundation, is proud to announce the launch of the International Fashion Federation (IFF). This groundbreaking global trade organization is dedicated to uniting stakeholders in fashion, tourism and hospitality committed to a mission that enhances the cities of tomorrow through the synergistic power of fashion.

 

While other leading fashion organizations focus on global trade, designer recognition through awards, and education and resources for support with things like materials, supply chain and manufacturing, IFF will focus on the connection between the fashion industry and the business interests of a thriving city.

"By propelling fashion into a cultural conversation, we can form a collective interest and impact communities just as the performing arts have done for centuries. I believe that fashion can bring the world together because it's a universal language of self-expression; it's the art of our everyday lives. Infusing fashion into the fabric of a city has a profound impact on its culture, tourism, and luxury markets. Florida is the second most valuable real estate market in the country, and we envision matching that value from an art, fashion, and cultural perspective. I've seen firsthand how an emphasis on fashion can revitalize a city, and I'm passionate about expanding this work throughout Florida and then into other parts of the world," said Nayrouz Olarte.

Nayrouz's past experience in her culinary career, serving her community in a pivotal role at Orlando International Fashion Week, and as founder of HER Foundation set the stage for this vision to come to life. Olarte's focus for the past several years has been in the non-profit space. She launched HER Foundation and hosted an inaugural HER Gala where she partnered with Jackie Siegel and Victoria's Voice Foundation. That fashion show gala event caught the attention of the board of directors at Orlando International Fashion Week and she was later named CEO. She has shown the city of Orlando how powerful the intersection of fashion, luxury lifestyle, hospitality and tourism can be. Her first project upon launching the International Fashion Federation will be called Glamour for Good, a show to benefit NonPareil students with Autism. 

Business leaders, city planners, and innovators are invited to join the IFF as founding trustees or members, shaping a future where fashion plays a central role in urban development and cultural enrichment. This is an unparalleled opportunity to be at the forefront of a movement that leverages fashion as a catalyst for social transformation and economic growth.

Source: International Fashion Federation