VF Corp investing in new product category: face masks
VF Corp brands JanSport and Eagle Creek have developed a range of new consumer mask choices expected to launch in early 2021. Masks from sister brands Dickies, Icebreaker and Smartwool will follow.
Referring to face masks as ‘a new product category’ in an online statement, VF Corp said consumer need is only growing. Face mask sales are expected to surpass $4 billion globally this year, the group said, and hit $21.2 billion by 2026.
According to Jamie Marchbank, product creation vice president for JanSport and Eagle Creek, masks for Eagle creek will address travel-specific needs and JanSport’s will centre on day-to-day comfort and returning to school.
“A ’key unlock’ during the research process was the realisation that it’s essential for consumers to wear their mask in different configurations,” said Mr Marchbank. “For instance, being able to migrate between behind the ears and behind the head eliminates hot spots that develop during long-term use – a problem identified by first responders.”
The masks will be reusable for at least 10 wash cycles, with the possibility of going up to 30 wash cycles.
“Our objective is to keep people safe and protected,” said Anna Gross, manager, product stewardship, Americas. “Our goal is not to capitalise on a pandemic. Our goal is to help keep people protected – and to make some cool, fashionable masks.”
