Like some other industry suppliers, Koozie Group (PPAI 114187, S13) is working to reduce its reliance on products made in China. In a recent article in PPAI Magazine, Pierre Montaubin, senior vice president of product management and sourcing said of the company’s spend in Asia, 90% of it is still coming from China. In comparison, in 2016-2017, it was 97%. Over the past few years, some production has been moved from China to Vietnam, Bangladesh and India, and the company has considered Mexico as an alternative source.

In environmental matters, since late 2020, the supplier has been working with a third-party to conduct impartial end-user surveys to identify what it calls KG Factor items, products designed to lessen environmental impact through longevity. The initiative is part of Koozie Group’s product strategy around its sustainability commitment called Keep It. Give It. Today, 77% of its product assortment – a total of 1,944 items – has earned the KG Factor designation. The company’s goal was originally to reach the 50% mark by 2024.