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Colgate is combating Smile Shame to address concerns of 94 per cent of people in Asia-Pacific who wish they could smile freely

On World Smile Day®, Colgate launches its #FreeYourSmile campaign by adapting its logo to celebrate all smiles

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 6 October 2023 – This World Smile Day®, global personal and home care brand Colgate-Palmolive (“Colgate”) is taking a stand against Smile Shaming, underscoring the beauty and importance of all smiles through its #FreeYourSmile campaign. This is especially significant given the proven benefits smiles bring to society’s health, mental wellbeing and social bonding. The region-wide campaign kickstarts Colgate’s efforts to tackle this complex topic for society and drive real positive change.

Caption

Colgate first commissioned an independent study across Asia-Pacific to gain insights and inform initiatives to propel this movement to eradicate Smile Shame for society to fully gain the benefits of smiling.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 found that a resounding 94 per cent of respondents across Asia-Pacific would like the ability to smile more freely. Jointly topping the list are Philippines, Taiwan and Thailand where an overwhelming 98 per cent indicated their desire to smile without reservations. The inaugural study, conducted by research company Pureprofile in August – September 2023, surveyed more than 4,000 individuals aged 16 to 55 years old across eight Asia-Pacific markets namely Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Philippines, Australia, Thailand and India.

colgate REGINAL.jpg

This World Smile Day®, Colgate is celebrating all smiles by adapting its iconic logo to represent the many different and beautiful smiles that surround us daily. Colgate is also collaborating with influencers across the region to further champion this cause. This includes Ethan Kuan (關韶文) from Taiwan and Xixi Lim from Singapore who have personally experienced Smile Shame but are now embracing their own unique smiles.

Additionally, as part of #FreeYourSmile, Colgate is introducing a Smile Generator AI tool at colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile, encouraging everyone to create their personalised Colgate smile on TikTok and Instagram, and spread the message to celebrate all smiles. Digital Out of Home content will further encourage others to join the movement with activities being organised in local markets to further promote this important message.

Yves Briantais, Executive Vice President, Marketing Asia-Pacific, Colgate-Palmolive said, “Smile Shame is especially prevalent in Asia-Pacific and this must change. At Colgate, we are on a mission to free people from the constraints of Smile Shame to truly embrace their own unique smiles. We believe brands have the power to challenge unrealistic beauty standards and promote authenticity. This World Smile Day, Colgate is leading the charge by celebrating all smiles.”

Approximately one in two people across the region believe that brands should have a role to play in tackling the issue of Smile Shame, according to the Colgate Smile Study 2023.

Advocating for the Benefits of Smiling

While people across Asia-Pacific indicate that they feel relaxed when they smile freely, the majority of respondents in the Philippines express that smiling freely bolsters their sense of confidence.

Scientific research supports the idea that smiling positively impacts mental health, acting as natural anti-depressants and pain relievers[1]. Smiling is also good for the heart, aiding in lowering blood pressure and expediting recovery after stressful events[2].

A key health benefit of smiling includes strengthening the immune system by increasing white blood cell counts, providing protection against infections[3]. Socially, smiling is a powerful tool to foster bonds and building trust by making a lasting positive impression on others[4].

Standing against Smile Shame

Smile Shame may not be a familiar term to many. It encapsulates the feelings of embarrassment, self-consciousness, or insecurity regarding one’s smile.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 revealed that three in five individuals across Asia-Pacific can relate to the concept of Smile Shame, with two in five having personally experienced it. Smile Shame has been experienced most in Thailand, with 59 per cent indicating that they have had such encounters. Key reasons cited across Asia-Pacific for worrying about their smiles include concerns about comments from others, whether it be from family, friends, or strangers, as well as personal feelings of self-doubt.

Australia (85 per cent) and Hong Kong (88 per cent) stand out for scoring the lowest when asked about whether they feel like they have the freedom to smile whenever they like. The other markets averaged 94.5 per cent in comparison.

Celebrating the Diversity of Smiles

Smile Shame is associated with different attributes across markets, reflecting diverse perceptions of what makes a beautiful smile. Attributes such as the colour of teeth, the structure of teeth, and the impact of smiles on facial appearance vary in importance.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 also revealed that concerns about external perceptions of their smiles and fear of judgment are significant factors inhibiting individuals from freely expressing their genuine and spontaneous smiles.

#FreeYourSmile is the first step in Colgate’s mission to celebrate all smiles and combat Smile Shame, with more initiatives planned. This movement represents Colgate’s goal to inspire individuals to express themselves freely and proudly, regardless of perceived imperfections.

For more information, please visit colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile


1 ‘Good reasons to Smile’ (2023) John Hopkins Medicine. John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. Available at: https://www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/Patients-Families/Health-Library/HealthDocNew/Good-Reasons-to-Smile

2 Smile! It’s Good for Your Heart’ (Sep 2012) Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley. Available at: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/smile_its_good_for_your_heart

3 ’11 Benefits of Smlling’ (Oct 2021) Delaware Psychological Services. Available at: https://www.delawarepsychologicalservices.com/post/11-benefits-of-smiling ’11 Benefits of Smlling’ (Oct 2021) Delaware Psychological Services. Available at: https://www.delawarepsychologicalservices.com/post/11-benefits-of-smiling

Hashtag: #Colgate

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Colgate-Palmolive Company

About Colgate-Palmolive Company Colgate-Palmolive Company is a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for all people, their pets and our planet. Focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Nutrition, they sell their products in more than 200 countries and territories under brands such as Colgate, Palmolive, elmex, hello, meridol, Sorriso, Tom’s of Maine, EltaMD, Filorga, Irish Spring, PCA SKIN, Protex, Sanex, Softsoap, Speed Stick, Ajax, Axion, Fabuloso, Soupline and Suavitel, as well as Hill’s Science Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet. We are recognized for our leadership and innovation in promoting sustainability and community well-being, including our achievements in decreasing plastic waste and promoting recyclability, saving water, conserving natural resources and improving children’s oral health through the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program, which has reached more than 1.4 billion children since 1991. Our range of products are for everyone to find a way to get the smile they want.

For more information about Colgate’s global business and how we are building a future to smile about, visit .

Colgate is combating Smile Shame to address concerns of 97 percent of Taiwanese who wish they could smile freely

On World Smile Day®, Colgate launches its #FreeYourSmile campaign by adapting its logo to celebrate all smiles

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach – 6 October 2023 – This World Smile Day®, global personal and home care brand Colgate-Palmolive (“Colgate”) is taking a stand against Smile Shaming, underscoring the beauty and importance of all smiles through its #FreeYourSmile campaign. This is especially significant given the proven benefits smiles bring to society’s health, mental wellbeing and social bonding. The region-wide campaign kickstarts Colgate’s efforts to tackle this complex topic for society and drive real positive change.

Caption

Colgate first commissioned an independent study across Asia Pacific to gain insights and inform initiatives to propel this movement to eradicate Smile Shame for society to fully gain the benefits of smiling.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 found that a resounding 94 per cent of respondents across Asia Pacific would like the ability to smile more freely. Taiwan tops the list alongside Philippines and Thailand where an overwhelming 98 per cent indicated their desire to smile without reservations.

colgate TW EN.jpg

The study also revealed that 93 per cent of Taiwanese feel like they have the freedom to smile whenever they like – just under the Asian Pacific average of 95 per cent – with nearly one in two (47 per cent) having experienced instances where they were made to feel bad about their smile.

The inaugural study, conducted by research company Pureprofile in August – September 2023, surveyed more than 4,000 individuals aged 16 to 55 years old across eight Asia-Pacific markets namely Taiwan, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Philippines, Thailand and India. More than 500 individuals were surveyed in Taiwan.

This World Smile Day®, Colgate is celebrating all smiles by adapting its iconic logo to represent the many different and beautiful smiles that surround us daily. Colgate is also collaborating with influencers across the region to further champion this cause including Taiwan’s content creator Ethan Kuan (關韶文) and weightlifting athlete Hsing-Chun Kuo (郭婞淳), both of whom have experienced Smile Shame but are now embracing the smiles that perfectly reflect each of their unique selves.

Additionally, as part of #FreeYourSmile, Colgate is introducing a Smile Generator AI tool at colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile, encouraging everyone to create their personalised Colgate smile on TikTok and Instagram, and spread the message to celebrate all smiles.

Yves Briantais, Executive Vice President, Marketing Asia-Pacific, Colgate-Palmolive said, “Smile Shame is especially prevalent in Asia Pacific and this must change. At Colgate, we are on a mission to free people from the constraints of Smile Shame to truly embrace their own unique smiles. We believe brands have the power to challenge unrealistic beauty standards and promote authenticity. This World Smile Day®, Colgate is leading the charge by celebrating all smiles.”

80 per cent of Taiwanese believe that brands should have a role to play in tackling the issue of Smile Shame, according to the Colgate Smile Study 2023.

Advocating for the Benefits of Smiling

When able to smile freely, Taiwanese report chiefly feeling more relaxed with themselves, with others saying that they feel more confident. In fact, scientific research supports the idea that smiling positively impacts mental health. Socially, smiling is a powerful tool to foster bonds and building trust by making a lasting positive impression on others[1].

Standing against Smile Shame

Smile Shame may not be a familiar term to many. It encapsulates the feelings of embarrassment, self-consciousness, or insecurity regarding one’s smile. The Colgate Smile Study 2023 revealed that a significant 62 percent of Taiwanese relate to the concept of Smile Shame

Four in five Taiwanese feel that it is safe to talk about Smile Shame, with the understanding that society is becoming more accepting of open and honest conversations around such topics, and how it can negatively affect a person.

Shauna Lee, Senior Brand Manager, Taiwan, Colgate-Palmolive, “It is wonderful for us to note that whether they have personally experienced Smile Shame or not, Taiwan’s citizens are mostly able to relate to the concept. As social media continues to play an undeniable role in how we judge beauty, we hope that today’s initiative will ignite greater conversation to combat Smile Shame, and help all of Taiwan free their individually beautiful smiles.”

Celebrating the Diversity of Smiles

Smile Shame is associated with different attributes across markets, reflecting diverse perceptions of what makes a beautiful smile. In Taiwan, the main factor that Smile Shame is typically associated with is colour of one’s teeth.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 also revealed that in Taiwan, social norms hold the biggest sway over those who worry about their smile. Aside from being concerned about comments from others about one’s smile, 37 per cent point to social media influences pressuring them with the idea that one needs perfect teeth to smile confidently.

#FreeYourSmile is the first step in Colgate’s mission to celebrate all smiles and combat Smile Shame, with more initiatives planned. This movement represents Colgate’s goal to inspire individuals to express themselves freely and proudly, regardless of perceived imperfections.

For more information, please visit colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile

Hashtag: #Colgate

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Colgate-Palmolive Company

Colgate-Palmolive Company is a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for all people, their pets and our planet. Focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Nutrition, they sell their products in more than 200 countries and territories under brands such as Colgate, Palmolive, Hill’s Science Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet. We are recognized for our leadership and innovation in promoting sustainability and community well-being, including our achievements in decreasing plastic waste and promoting recyclability, saving water, conserving natural resources and improving children’s oral health through the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program, which has reached more than 1.4 billion children since 1991. Our range of products are for everyone to find a way to get the smile they want.

Colgate is combating Smile Shame in Australia where only 85 per cent of Australians feel like they have the freedom to smile whenever they like – the lowest proportion in Asia-Pacific

On World Smile Day®, Colgate launches its #FreeYourSmile campaign by adapting its logo to celebrate all smiles

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Media OutReach – 6 October 2023 – This World Smile Day®, global personal and home care brand Colgate-Palmolive (“Colgate”) is taking a stand against Smile Shaming, underscoring the beauty and importance of all smiles through its #FreeYourSmile campaign. This is especially significant given the proven benefits smiles bring to society’s health, mental wellbeing and social bonding. The region-wide campaign kickstarts Colgate’s efforts to tackle this complex topic for society and drive real positive change.

Caption

Colgate first commissioned an independent study across Asia-Pacific to gain insights and inform initiatives to propel this movement to eradicate Smile Shame for society to fully gain the benefits of smiling.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 found that only 85 per cent of Australians feel like they have the freedom to smile whenever they like – the lowest proportion across the entire region which is at an average of 95 per cent. Top reasons why Australians feel they don’t have the freedom to smile whenever they like is that they worry about what others think about their smile, and that they are afraid of being judged.

colgate AU.jpg

The inaugural study, conducted by research company Pureprofile in August – September 2023, surveyed more than 4,000 individuals aged 16 to 55 years old across eight Asia-Pacific markets namely Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Philippines, Thailand and India. More than 500 individuals were surveyed in Australia.

This World Smile Day®, Colgate is celebrating all smiles by adapting its iconic logo to represent the many different and beautiful smiles that surround us daily. Colgate is also collaborating with influencers across the region to further champion this cause including Australia’s fashionista Sam Todd and chef Genio Ng, who have both experienced Smile Shame but are now embracing the smiles that perfectly reflect their unique self.

Additionally, as part of #FreeYourSmile, Colgate is introducing a Smile Generator AI tool at colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile, encouraging everyone to create their personalised Colgate smile on TikTok and Instagram, and spread the message to celebrate all smiles.

Yves Briantais, Executive Vice President, Marketing Asia-Pacific, Colgate-Palmolive said, “Smile Shame is especially prevalent in Asia-Pacific and this must change. At Colgate, we are on a mission to free people from the constraints of Smile Shame to truly embrace their own unique smiles. We believe brands have the power to challenge unrealistic beauty standards and promote authenticity. This World Smile Day®, Colgate is leading the charge by celebrating all smiles.”

Approximately three in four Australians (74 per cent) believe that brands should have a role to play in tackling the issue of Smile Shame, according to the Colgate Smile Study 2023.

Advocating for the Benefits of Smiling

When able to smile freely, Australians chiefly indicate that they feel more relaxed. In fact, scientific research supports the idea that smiling positively impacts mental health, acting as natural anti-depressants and pain relievers[1]. Smiling is also good for the heart, aiding in lowering blood pressure and expediting recovery after stressful events[2].

A key health benefit of smiling includes strengthening the immune system by increasing white blood cell counts, providing protection against infections[3]. Socially, smiling is a powerful tool to foster bonds and building trust by making a lasting positive impression on others[4].

Standing against Smile Shame

Smile Shame may not be a familiar term to many. It encapsulates the feelings of embarrassment, self-consciousness, or insecurity regarding one’s smile. The Colgate Smile Study 2023 revealed that approximately one in two Australians (46 per cent) can relate to the concept of Smile Shame.

79 per cent of Australians feel that it is safe to talk about Smile Shame, a sentiment primarily driven by the belief that society is becoming more open and accepting of transparent dialogue discussing personal insecurities.

Celebrating the Diversity of Smiles

Smile Shame is associated with different attributes across markets, reflecting diverse perceptions of what makes a beautiful smile. In Australia, Smile Shame is typically associated with the colour of teeth, teeth structure, and whether their smile looks fake.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 also revealed that the key factor that makes Australians worry about their smile is their own feeling of self-doubt, followed by concerns about comments from others including family, friends, and even strangers.

#FreeYourSmile is the first step in Colgate’s mission to celebrate all smiles and combat Smile Shame, with more initiatives planned. This movement represents Colgate’s goal to inspire individuals to express themselves freely and proudly, regardless of perceived imperfections.

For more information, please visit colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile


1 ‘Good reasons to Smile’ (2023) John Hopkins Medicine. John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. Available at: https://www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/Patients-Families/Health-Library/HealthDocNew/Good-Reasons-to-Smile

2 Smile! It’s Good for Your Heart’ (Sep 2012) Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley. Available at: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/smile_its_good_for_your_heart

3 ’11 Benefits of Smlling’ (Oct 2021) Delaware Psychological Services. Available at: https://www.delawarepsychologicalservices.com/post/11-benefits-of-smiling ’11 Benefits of Smlling’ (Oct 2021) Delaware Psychological Services. Available at: https://www.delawarepsychologicalservices.com/post/11-benefits-of-smiling

Hashtag: #Colgate

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Colgate-Palmolive Company

Colgate-Palmolive Company is a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for all people, their pets and our planet. Focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Nutrition, they sell their products in more than 200 countries and territories under brands such as Colgate, Palmolive, elmex, hello, meridol, Sorriso, Tom’s of Maine, EltaMD, Filorga, Irish Spring, PCA SKIN, Protex, Sanex, Softsoap, Speed Stick, Ajax, Axion, Fabuloso, Soupline and Suavitel, as well as Hill’s Science Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet. We are recognized for our leadership and innovation in promoting sustainability and community well-being, including our achievements in decreasing plastic waste and promoting recyclability, saving water, conserving natural resources and improving children’s oral health through the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program, which has reached more than 1.4 billion children since 1991. Our range of products are for everyone to find a way to get the smile they want.

For more information about Colgate’s global business and how we are building a future to smile about, visit .

Laos, Cambodia Further Enhance Collaboration at 3rd Border Peace and Friendship Conference

Laos, Cambodia Further Enhance Collaboration at 3rd Border Peace and Friendship Conference
Khamlay Sipaseuth, Member of The Central Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (right) and Nhem Valy, Permanent Vice Chairman and Secretary General of the National Council of the Solidarity for the Development of Cambodian Motherland (left).

Laos and Cambodia jointly held the 3rd Border Peace and Friendship Conference to discuss cooperation agreements and emphasize unity, trade, and cultural exchange along the border in Champasack Province, Laos on 3 October.

Lao-China Railway Surpasses Expectations, Transporting Over 26 Million Tons of Cargo

Representational image of cargo (Photo: CRI)

The Lao-China Railway has surpassed expectations, transporting a total of 26.8 million tons of cargo as of 3 October, and carrying more than 2,700 types of goods since it began operating in December 2021.

Octa: U.S. unemployment is likely to decline in September

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach – 5 October 2023 – U.S. new hires are expected to rise by 150,000 jobs in September, and unemployment is likely to fall to 3.7.%, which could help the Fed continue to keep interest rates on pause.

The U.S. is expected to add 150,000 jobs and bring unemployment down to 3.7.% in September.

The better labour market situation will give a reason for the U.S. Fed to be hawkish. In that case, the main upside target for USDJPY is 150.00–152.00.

The U.S. Labour Department is expected to report on Friday that the U.S. added 150,000 jobs in September, according to economists polled by Reuters, down from 187,000 added in August. They also expect the unemployment rate to fall from 3.8 per cent in August to 3.7 per cent in September.

This data will be an essential part of the Fed’s settlement as it assesses the current state of the U.S. economy and the appropriate course of monetary policy. An improving labour market will give the U.S. Fed a reason to be hawkish, while a decline in new jobs will suggest that the U.S. labour market is not strong enough, prompting the central bank to be more dovish in its decisions and statements.

‘According to the August data, the labour market is returning to normal with a gain of 187,000 jobs, and this trend is likely to continue in September,’ said Kar Yong Ang, the Octa financial market analyst. ‘Such an improvement in the U.S. labour market will support the U.S. dollar,’ he added.

The Fed’s recent announcement that interest rates will remain ‘high for longer’ has rattled global markets, adding strength to the U.S. dollar. It may strengthen even more if the U.S. labour market forecast is confirmed. For the currency market players, this may mean that USDJPY is likely to continue rising, breaking through the critical resistance level of 150.00. The main target is 150.00–152.00.

Hashtag: #Octa

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Octa

is an international broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services already utilised by clients from 180 countries with more than 42 million trading accounts. Free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools they provide help clients reach their investment goals.

The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities.

Octa has also won more than 60 awards since its foundation, including the ‘Best Educational Broker 2023’ award from Global Forex Awards and the ‘Best Global Broker Asia 2022’ award from International Business Magazine.

Lao Athletes Showcase Performance at Hangzhou Asian Games

Lao Athletes Showcase Performance at Hangzhou Asian Games
Delegation of the Lao parade into the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center Stadium during the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang province, 23 September. (Photo: Xinhua)

A total of 94 athletes from Laos competed in 17 different disciplines in the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, from 23 September to 8 October.

The Mills Fabrica Portfolio Companies Circ and Colorifix Shortlisted for Prince William’s 2023 Earthshot Prize

Championing innovations in the textiles, apparel, and agrifood industries as official nominator of The Earthshot Prize

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 5 October 2023 – The Mills Fabrica‘s portfolio companies Circ and Colorifix have been selected as Finalists – out of 1,100 nominees globally – for The 2023 Earthshot Prize, one of the most prestigious global environmental prizes in history.

The Mills Fabrica's portfolio companies shortlisted for Prince William's 2023 Earthshot Prize – Peter Majeranowski, CEO and Co-Founder of Circ (left) and Orr Yarkoni, CEO of Colorifix (right).
The Mills Fabrica’s portfolio companies shortlisted for Prince William’s 2023 Earthshot Prize – Peter Majeranowski, CEO and Co-Founder of Circ (left) and Orr Yarkoni, CEO of Colorifix (right).

Founded by Prince William in 2020, The Earthshot Prize leads a global search for extraordinary solutions to the world’s greatest environmental challenges. It considers solutions that make tangible progress towards one of the five Earthshots, including “Protect & Restore Nature”, “Clean Our Air”, “Revive Our Oceans”, “Build A Waste-Free World”, and “Fix Our Climate”.

Among the 15 Finalists announced by Prince William during New York Climate Week, Circ and Colorifix are two of the Finalists in the “Build a Waste-Free World” Earthshot. Under this category, Earthshot recognizes innovative solutions that eliminate food waste and single-use packaging, and inspire a new generation of people, companies, and industries to reuse, repurpose, and recycle.

Championing innovators with a unique solutions platform that goes beyond capital support

The Mills Fabrica, the go-to solutions platform accelerating techstyle (the intersection between technology and lifestyle) and agrifood tech innovations for sustainability, has been an Official Nominator of The Earthshot Prize since 2022. Each year, The Mills Fabrica is invited to nominate individuals, communities, businesses, and organizations whose solutions make the most progress towards achieving the five Earthshots.

In 2022, The Mills Fabrica nominated Hong Kong startup Ampd Energy, which became the first Hong Kong finalist of The Earthshot Prize. The company had invented an electric energy storage system using lithium-ion batteries that could power construction sites.

“As an Official Nominator of The Earthshot Prize, we are thrilled that Circ and Colorifix can further showcase how their ground-breaking solutions are transforming the techstyle industry. The Mills Fabrica is also pleased to be the official nominator for our capability and expertise in identifying and supporting solutions to the world’s greatest environmental challenges,” said Cintia Nunes, General Manager and Head of Asia, The Mills Fabrica.

“We will continue to be laser-focused on providing investments and tailored support to ambitious innovators and businesses within the textiles, apparel, and agrifood industries. As with our partnership with the Earthshot Prize, we are excited to continue our work with our network of NGOs, businesses, governments, funders and expert mentors to create a planet-positive impact,” she adds.

Circ and Colorifix are part of The Mills Fabrica’s continuous effort in supporting innovative and disruptive technologies in the techstyle and agrifood industries. The Mills Fabrica provided support to both companies through its venture capital fund, its startup incubator, Fabrica X, an innovation gallery and retail impact store, various labs, and co-working spaces across Hong Kong and London. In addition to leveraging its capital, it also deployed a team of global industry experts and connections to manufacturers, retailers, and other like-minded investors to bring their vision to the masses.

Circ – on a mission to save the planet from the cost of clothing

Circ pioneered a hydrothermal processing technology that utilizes water, pressure, and responsible chemistry to turn polycotton – what the majority of clothes are made of – back into its respective raw material. Preserving and separating the polyester without damaging the cotton Circ’s patented process allows both materials to be reused in the production of new textiles, while also reducing carbon emissions substantially.

This represents a breakthrough in chemical recycling technology, fundamentally changing the way textile waste is viewed, moving away from a source of pollution to a source of valuable raw material. As of June 2023, Circ has diverted 103 tonnes of textile waste from landfills back into circulation, preventing 130,000 kg of carbon dioxide emissions. In April 2023, it also launched a collection made from polycotton textile waste with Zara to bring sustainable fashion.

“The Mills Fabrica team has been a strong supporter of Circ since their initial investment. They have provided a robust network and helped us to spread the message of what we are doing far beyond our existing geographic reach. They embody a collaborative approach – regularly bringing us new opportunities to help further our mission of protecting the planet from the cost of clothing. The sustainable fashion startup community that The Mills Fabrica has fostered and built allows us, Circ, to extend our reach,” said Luke Henning, the Chief Business Officer of Circ.

Colorifix – the world’s first biological colorant that’s radically less polluting at every stage

Colorifix has developed the first-ever biological process to produce, deposit and fix pigments onto textiles. Using DNA sequencing, it identifies where the colour is coded in the genetics of an organism in nature, and then they translate the DNA code into Colorifix’s own engineered microorganisms, enabling them to produce the pigment and transfer it to the fabric. Their process offers a radically different solution to existing dyeing technologies that entirely cut out harsh chemicals and lead to huge reductions in water consumption, saving up to 79% water. Colorifix has brought their bio-based dyes to the mainstream with brands like Pangaia, H&M, and Vollebak.

“Ever since Colorifix was founded, we have been on a journey to harness the power of nature and create better solutions for the planet. Being named a Finalist for The Earthshot Prize 2023 is an incredible honour and milestone for us. Changing an industry requires a lot of collaboration and great partnerships, which is why we are so grateful for the continuous support from The Mills Fabrica. We look forward to continuing the journey of changing the fashion industry together,” said Orr Yarkoni, the CEO of Colorifix.

The five Winners will be announced on November 7, 2023 in Singapore and will receive £1 million in prize money to scale their impact.

Scouting for Innovative Startups with Planet-Positive Solutions for 2024’s Earthshot Prize

The Mills Fabrica is now calling for individuals, communities, businesses, and organizations with solutions that can help achieve the five Earthshots to join next year’s Earthshot Prize. Starting today, innovators can submit their applications through https://bit.ly/MillsFabrica_TEP2024.

Hashtag: #TheMillsFabrica

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About The Mills Fabrica

The Mills Fabrica is a go-to solutions platform accelerating techstyle and agrifood tech innovations for sustainability. Officially launched in Hong Kong in December 2018, The Mills is a landmark revitalization project by the Nan Fung Group, transforming their old textile factories into a new heritage, experiential retail, and innovation centre. With its business incubator, investment fund, spaces in Hong Kong and London, and community-building initiatives, The Mills Fabrica aims to create success stories of collaborations between innovators, entrepreneurs, and corporates, that together, will drive positive change for future generations.