Unspun Hires Former North Face CEO

Climate-conscious apparel startup Unspun has recruited Arne Arens, the former CEO of The North Face. The high-profile hire signals the startup's ambition to disrupt traditional fashion supply chains with its tech-driven, sustainable manufacturing model.

Unspun’s core innovation is its Vega™ 3D weaving technology, which creates garments directly from yarn in minutes. This process eliminates the traditional cut-and-sew method, drastically reducing fabric waste from the industry average of 15% to less than 3%. The technology also enables on-demand, localized production, a significant shift from the fashion industry's typical 18-month lead time between orders and in-store availability. The company's mission is to reduce global carbon emissions by 1% by tackling overproduction and textile waste. By creating clothing only when a customer orders it, Unspun aims to eliminate the excess inventory that often ends up in landfills or incinerated. This on-demand model significantly cuts down on emissions, energy consumption, and water usage compared to traditional manufacturing. Investors have taken note of Unspun's potential to disrupt the apparel market. The company has raised approximately $50 million in total funding, including a $32 million Series B round led by DCVC with participation from Lowercarbon Capital. This capital is fueling the scaling of its Vega™ machines and the expansion of its manufacturing operations in North America and Europe. Unspun has already secured significant partnerships, including a pilot program with Walmart to explore using its 3D weaving technology for men's chinos. The startup has also collaborated with H&M's Weekday brand and Pangaia, demonstrating the industry's interest in its sustainable, tech-driven approach to apparel manufacturing. Arne Arens brings a wealth of experience from his time at VF Corporation, where he was the Global Brand President of The North Face. His background also includes eight years at Nike in various marketing and commercial roles. Arens's expertise in leading major global brands is expected to guide Unspun's next phase of growth and commercialization.

Get your own daily briefing

Scout delivers personalized news, insights, and conversations tailored to your role and industry.

Download on the App Store

Shared from Scout - Be the smartest in the room.