Piñatex , a brand making vegan leather from pineapples has been nominated for a prestigious award. Created by Spanish entrepreneur Carmen Hijosa, is a finalist for the European Investor Award 2021 – organized by the European Patent Office (EPO).
The company, approved by Vogue Magazine was commercialized from a start-up called Ananas Anam.
Since 2013, it has been used by 3,000 brands in 80 different countries, including H&M and car brand Skoda. Piñatex was also featured in the world’s first all-vegan hotel suite.
Hijosa launched the brand while working as a textile design consultant in the Phillippines. She was inspired by the pineapple leaf fibers that have been used in the Philippines for 300 years in traditional hand-woven textiles by mixing them into a mesh replicating the knot of collagen fibres found in leather.
“Hijosa has shown how innovation can deliver sustainable alternatives. The past year has highlighted more than ever the importance of scientists, researchers, inventors, and entrepreneurs in advancing technology and improving our lives.”
António Campinos, President of EPO
The winner of the European Investor Award 2021 will be announced on June 17th.
