RymaSoft aims to provide comfort for the entirety of the shoe’s life
Rymbal, a brand under Horizon Performance Polyurethane (HPP), is a pioneering name in the footwear industry, committed to pushing the boundaries of innovations in Polyurethane Systems, elevating the footwear experience for consumers. With a strong focus on research and development, Rymbal continually strives to provide cutting-edge solutions to footwear manufacturers with sustainable solutions, enabling them to create exceptional products that cater to evolving market demands and being eco-friendly in nature. Speaking to Fibre2Fashion, CEO Shersingh Kumar talks about the company’s latest product RymaSoft.
In what ways is technology influencing the manufacturing processes within the footwear industry, and what new advancements are on the horizon?
Technological advancements in the footwear industry are primarily aimed at enhancing sustainability and reducing environmental impact. Two noteworthy areas are the recycling of polyurethanes and the development of bio-based products, particularly as a replacement for polyethylene. The goal is to introduce more sustainable systems that allow for reduced waste and a lower carbon footprint. These advancements are critical in shaping the future of the industry.
How have global trade policies and regulations affected the footwear industry, and what challenges or opportunities have arisen as a result?
In India, the footwear industry is subject to substantial import duties, which has led the government to promote domestic manufacturing through new BIS standards. These standards aim to improve the quality and competitiveness of Indian-made footwear. On the export front, complying with international standards such as REACH is a significant challenge due to its stringent requirements. However, the adoption of BIS standards is expected to elevate the quality of Indian footwear, providing an opportunity for manufacturers to tap into global markets. This is especially promising, provided they can meet and comply with high international standards like REACH.
Can you explain the inspiration behind developing RymaSoft, and how it aligns with Rymbal’s mission in the footwear industry?
Rymbal was founded with a vision to address the environmental impact of the footwear industry. Given the legacy of family business in this sector, the founders are intimately familiar with the challenges, particularly the waste that ends up in landfills. In India alone, around 2.6 billion pairs of shoes are produced, many of which are not biodegradable and therefore have long-lasting environmental effects. Rymbal aims to mitigate this impact, focusing on more sustainable and innovative solutions. Although RymaSoft is not directly linked to sustainability, it aligns with the mission by offering a new category of softer footwear, catering to the growing consumer demand for comfort in sports and fashion segments. It was first launched at the recently concluded international footwear festival.
How does RymaSoft’s polyether-based polyurethane system differentiate itself from other materials in the market, specifically in terms of comfort and performance?
RymaSoft is engineered to provide enhanced comfort without compromising on the typical performance standards like hardness and flexibility that footwear must meet. While the lifespan of a shoe varies based on gender and design criteria, RymaSoft aims to provide comfort for the entirety of the shoe’s life. This is a significant differentiator in the market, as achieving this balance of comfort and durability was a challenging endeavour.
Can you elaborate on the research and development process that led to RymaSoft’s creation? How long was the product in development, and what were the main challenges faced?
The product was conceptualised approximately two years ago and has been part of a broader R&D effort involving multiple projects. Our team, composed of doctors and scientists, faced the complex challenge of achieving optimal performance through various iterations and combinations of polyurethane systems. Striking a balance between softness and durability, particularly at low densities, was the primary obstacle. Extensive analysis was conducted to arrive at the perfect solution that met the industry’s need for softer, more comfortable footwear without compromising on performance standards.
RymaSoft has been highlighted for its antimicrobial properties. How does this feature contribute to the overall user experience, and how was it integrated into the product?
The antimicrobial properties serve as an additional feature designed to extend the product’s lifespan. By inhibiting microbial growth, the material stays fresher for longer, thereby contributing to a more durable and hygienic user experience.
How does RymaSoft comply with environmental and industry standards like SATRA? Could you discuss Rymbal’s commitment to sustainability?
RymaSoft is developed in alignment with SATRA standards, and we ensure the absence of toxic chemicals such as phthalates in our products. Our commitment to sustainability is underlined by this stringent approach to non-toxic materials, which is a critical part of our R&D efforts.
What are the targeted markets for RymaSoft? How do you plan to position it among footwear and sole manufacturers, both in India and potentially abroad?
In India, our primary target market includes established brands like Relaxo, Liberty, and Vakuru VKC, among others. These industry pioneers are always in search of new innovations, and RymaSoft offers them a new category to introduce to their consumers. Additionally, there is potential for expanding into the export market, particularly in the area of footwear soles, which are often manufactured in India and shipped abroad. Therefore, we see opportunities in both domestic and international markets.
How does RymaSoft respond to the growing trend for extra cushioning in slippers and sandals? How do you see this trend evolving in the future?
In the polyurethane segment, RymaSoft stands out as a unique solution offering enhanced comfort. While EVA and other materials are already known for their lightness and softness, RymaSoft fills a gap in the polyurethane market. In India, where the focus has largely been on functionality and cost, we see a rising aspiration for comfort and style. New-age companies like Plato and Gumps are emerging alongside legacy brands and seeking differentiated products, making RymaSoft well-positioned to serve this demand.
With RymaSoft setting a new benchmark in the industry, how is Rymbal preparing for potential competition? What makes RymaSoft a game-changing solution?
We view competition more as an opportunity. Rymbal engages with startups and established brands alike during the early design phases, providing rapid and effective solutions. Our prompt response and focus on customer-specific needs set us apart from larger, slower competitors, making RymaSoft a game-changing solution in the industry.
Could you share some insights into Rymbal’s future plans, both in terms of product development and overall growth strategy in the footwear industry?
Our overarching focus is on sustainability. We are working on a range of projects aimed at addressing environmental issues, from recycling landfill footwear to developing bio-based products that reduce carbon footprints. While adoption of these innovations may take time in India, we see substantial opportunities in European markets, aligning with our long-term growth strategy.
Finally, how does RymaSoft represent Rymbal’s core values, and what message do you want to convey to footwear manufacturers and consumers with this launch?
RymaSoft embodies Rymbal’s core values of innovation and customer-centricity. It is not just a product; it is a promise to continually develop solutions that meet market demands. We want to assure both manufacturers and consumers that Rymbal will keep innovating to provide new and valuable options for the footwear market.
Interviewer: Shilpi Panjabi
Published on: 29/08/2023
DISCLAIMER: All views and opinions expressed in this column are solely of the interviewee, and they do not reflect in any way the opinion of Fibre2Fashion.com.
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