By Mike Sunnucks | Rose Law Group Reporter
Gilbert-based sustainable technology company Footprint is opening a new European R&D center in the Netherlands and has named new European executives.
Footprint is focused on intersections of science and technology such as alternatives to plastics. It was founded in 2014 by former Intel engineers, Troy Swope and Yoke Chung. The East Valley company employs more than 1,500 employees worldwide and inked a deal for the naming rights of the Phoenix Suns arena (the Footprint Center).
The new research and development center will be in Eindhoven, the Netherlands and the Brainport Industries Campus (BIC).
“Today marks an important step in creating a European center for Footprint’s sustainable materials innovation,” Footprint CEO Troy Swope said. “EU legislation eliminating many single-use plastics and European consumers’ progressive focus on sustainability has accelerated demand for plant-based fiber solutions. We’re very encouraged about the advanced conversations we’re having with European customers and look forward to providing new and timely solutions, led by this talented, Europe-based team.”
Footprint enters the market as EU regulations ban the use of single-use plastics impacting quick-service restaurants, food manufacturers and retailers. Those regulations in Europe and the U.S. accelerate the move to plastic-free alternatives.
Footprint provides packaged food producers with “plant-based fiber alternatives to plastic.” It also develops other “biogredable, compostable and recyclable products,” according to a company announcement.
The Arizona-based company also announced some additions to its European executive team. Those include:
• Cary Newton, SVP Business Development
• Joost Bakx, VP Sales, Footprint EMEA
•Marian van Wijck, VP Human Resources, EMEA
• Ken Van de Velde, SVP Manufacturing EMEA.
