Rob's Been At Docfest

I still feel a bit battered and dazed after my big weekend away. Where was I? Ibiza, raving it up at the super clubs? At the Euros, perhaps, lobbing chairs and chasing Russians?

Try Sheffield. I've been at Dofest, the biggest documentary film festival on the planet, along with over three thousand delegates, film-makers and producers. It's six days of sheer bliss for the movie fan who likes a dose of reality.

I wear many hats creatively speaking (that doesn't mean I wear them at a jaunty angle or on my shoulder... Oh, you get the idea). You know me as a writer, but I also cartoon, podcast and indulge in short film-making. With my partner-in-crime Dominic Wade I have put my name to a heaping handful of documentaries over the last ten years or so.

Our latest magnum opus, Steel Is Real... But Carbon Is Quicker is a film about the grass-roots of British cycling. Team GB has a raft of stars and famous names heading to Rio this summer to grab gold on the track and road–legends like Mark Cavendish, Lizzy Armistead and of course Bradley Wiggins. But there's a culture of cycling that got them to the big time, of people out in all weathers, slogging up hills or in velodromes for the sheer love of the sport.

Steel Is Real aims to celebrate these people, and the pioneers that gave Great Britain a place on the list of strong cycling nations. It might seem as if we came from nowhere. We want to show that simply isn't true, and how it takes a community to make a champion.

So we've been running around, catching some movies and chatting to anyone that would talk to us about Steel Is Real - a highly appropriate title for the Steel City. It's been a fun but hectic time. Highlights? Watching Michael Moore's latest in a premiere with the man himself, after a downpour nearly killed the projection equipment (it was a great weekend for staying indoors). An audience with National Treasure Joanna Lumley. An evening vogueing with a New York crew at The Academy. We packed a lot in. Which means it's early nights, lots of water and salads for me for a while now...

What has all of this to do with ethical fashion or charities? Well, nothing. But as part of the promotional push to raise awareness of our film, we reached out to our sponsors, Pier32, for a little help. They provided us with some rather nifty t-shirts using Gildan stock in a lovely soft organic cotton:

http://www.pier32.co.uk/product/gd001-softstyle-tee/.

We couldn't be happier. Look good, don't they?

Not pictured: hangover.

 

Would you like to know more about Steel Is Real But Carbon Is Quicker? Then pop over to our Facebook Page where there's pics and updates of our time in Sheffield. It'll be the first place for news about the film as we move into the post-production stage. Do please Like the page as well: it makes a big difference and gives us the ability to shout about the film to more people.

Yes, this has been an unapologetic plug of a post. Back to normal business tomorrow.

 

The Long Walk To Delete Blood Cancer

We're happy to support our friends in the charity sector, and Delete Blood Cancer are a cause that is always worth bigging up. Their mission: to get people involved in blood stem cell donations with a simple five minute cheek swab, and help rub out one of the most pernicious forms of cancer.

A couple who are relatively local to the Pier32 compound are taking on a big challenge to raise funds and awareness for the charity. Tom and Mandy Giannandrea, who are from Caterham in Surrey, hope to raise hundreds of pounds for Delete Blood Cancer UK by walking from London to Brighton on the 28th and 29th of May.

A blood stem cell donation is the only chance of survival for many blood cancer patients who will die if a matching donor isn’t found for them. The problem is in finding that donor. If you're not registered, you could potentially be holding the key to saving a life, and yet no-one will know. A matching donor not being found doesn’t mean that there is nobody with a tissue type compatible with the patient. That's why Delete Blood Cancer UK works so hard to increase the numbers of people registered as potential blood stem cell donors.

Mandy tells us the story of why she and Tom decided to burn shoe leather for Delete Blood Cancer:

“We have been inspired to do this after watching a little girl I used to care for called Evie fight blood cancer. Evie has been fighting leukaemia and myelodysplasia since 2014, and last year she was told that in order to survive she would need a blood stem cell donation. Against all of the odds, a match was found in America and she received her donation. Evie has been through so much at such a young age, but amazingly, through it all she has always had the biggest smile on her face. This image will help us to complete this challenge!”

Jenny Clegg, Head of Communications at Delete Blood Cancer UK, is full of praise for the plucky couple, saying:

“It is fantastic that Tom and Mandy are walking from London to Brighton to help those in need of a blood stem cell donation. We are so grateful to them for fundraising for us. Not only will it raise valuable funds for the charity, it will raise awareness of the importance of registering as a potential blood stem cell donor.”

You can support Tom and Mandy by donating at:

http://www.justgiving.com/owner-email/pleasesponsor/Amanda-giannandrea

Just as importantly, why not consider registering as a potential blood stem cell donor? You can register in five minutes online and request a cheek swab kit. It will enable you to do your own tissue test and get on the database to maybe one day become a blood stem cell donor. Your first stop is the Delete Blood Cancer UK website:

http://www.deletebloodcancer.org.uk

 

Here at The Pier we wish Tom and Mandy all the best and good luck for the long walk ahead. May the road rise up to meet you.

 

Pier32 supply Starworld t-shirts and sports vests to Delete Blood Cancer in two different styles:

http://www.pier32.co.uk/product/sw350-cool-tee/


http://www.pier32.co.uk/product/jc007-cool-vest/


 

Mitzvah Day

Mitzvah Day is almost here! This Sunday, 22nd November, sees one of the biggest inter-faith community events in the country reach out to make a real difference to those in need. Founded in 2005 by Laura Marks, Mitzvah Day is a chance for people to to donate their time and energy to a diverse range of causes that make a tangible difference to those in need around the world.

 

Acts of kindness are engraved in the Jewish way of life, as individuals give selflessly of their time and of themselves. Every year on Mitzvah Day, over 37,000 participants do just that, through a multitude of projects based on the principle of doing acts of kindness. Although it's now a major part of the UK Jewish calender, the main focus of Mitzvah Day is inclusiveness–everyone is welcome. In fact, the interfaith appeal of the project is part of what has made it so successful.

Mitzvah is the Hebrew biblical term for 'deed' or 'commandment' and has become synonymous with doing good. You could argue, then, that every day is mitzvah day–the desire to do good cannot be confined to one day. They're right of course, so Mitzvah Day's doors are never closed, ensuring many of the projects and partnerships under the umbrella have year-round reach.

 

The range of these projects is dizzying. From shopping for foodbanks to collections of craft materials, from ground clearance and maintenance to day-care for seniors and children, there's something for everyone. This year, Mitzvah Day is putting a special focus on help for refugees, with donation drives, bakeathons and help with the make-up of care packages all on the menu. And the reach is spreading, with Mitzvah Days also being held this year across Europe and even in Australia!

The point of the event is to give freely and cheerfully of your time, to make a difference through an unselfish contribution. You don't need to be a member of a synagouge or church. All you need is the will to help.

There's still time to get involved! Check out the Mitzvah Day site for available projects, or to see how the organisation can help with your idea.



Pier32 have been involved with Mitzvah Day since 2008. This year, we supplied the organisation with t-shirts, bags, beanies and baby bibs. Maybe we can help with your event. Give us a ring, or get in touch through our QuickQuote service.

 

 

Pier32 and Swansea University

A couple of weeks ago, Swansea University held its Undergraduate Open Day: a chance for dewy-eyed newbies to start to get to grips with college life at one of the prettiest campuses in the UK. It was a rambunctious affair, with plenty of opportunities for selfies with the University's seagull (or maybe a swan?!) mascot.

pic.twitter.com/U0JCiAJNXL #SwanseaUni

— Will McLaren (@WillMclaren93) October 10, 2015

Student ambassdors were on hand to help out with questions and guidance. They were easily spotted, as they were wearing bright green polos and hoodies you could see from a mile away. You can see where I'm going with this now, can't you? Those tops were provided by Pier32–as they have been since 2006.

Gerry, the Voice of Pier32, tells me that our relationship with Swansea University started thanks to our strong stance on ethical and environmental issues. Since then it's gone from strength to strength. We supply tees, hoodies, hi-vis and jackets for the Fresher's Fair, and the full gamut of clothing for Residential Services, from Workwear Trousers to tabards. The College of Sciences and English Language Training schools order t-shirts from us as well.

If you're a college or university with a need for customised apparel, and understand how important it is to find promotional clothing that's ethically produced, then why not get in touch and see what Pier32 can do for you? If nothing else, it gives you a chance to pick up the phone and hear Gerry's dulcet tones slip like dark velvet into your ears...


There are some more good pictures from the day on Swansea University's Storify account. Check it out...
https://storify.com/SwanseaUni/swansea-university-open-day-october-10th-2015

Helping Hippotherapy Northumberland

We work with a lot of lovely community clubs and charities here at The Pier, but none have given me a glow recently quite like Hippotherapy Northumberland.

Let's dispel a few misunderstandings right off the bat. Hippos are not involved in any way, means or form. This is not some weird mis-spelling of the word "hypnotherapy". No, hippotherapy uses the characteristic movements of a horse to provide carefully-graded motor and sensory input to kids with disabilities. Simply being on or engaging with horses has remarkable therapeutic results. However, the 3 dimensional 4 point movement of the horse stimulates normal reflex and posture. In conjunction with a therapist alongside who knows how to optimise the experience and therapeutic effect, hippotherapy helps to normalise and bring down spastic and high tone episodes.

Hippotherapy Northumberland is founded and run by Angela Torsch, a recently-retired NHS local community paediatric physiotherapist from the area. She says of her area of specialty:

“The intention is to present this as an activity the child with disabilities can engage in and gain from, physically, emotionally, cognitively and relationally, and helps to encourage posture, strength and balance.

“For many, it is the first time they can engage in a leisure/recreational pursuit and it is a very special opportunity that raises the quality of life for children with even severe disabilities.

“It differs from, but can lead to Riding for Disabled, helping many who are not yet able to access this fantastic service.”

Founded in 2013, the club is going from strength to strength, and we're really happy to be supplying Hippotherapy Northumberland with hoodies. Angela sent us a shot of them in action.

 

In further good news, Angela tells me that Hippotherapy Northumberland has recently attained charitable status. They're now looking for sponsors to partner families, which will help to make access to hippotherapy an affordable option for kids who could really benefit from it. Their registered charity number is 1163434, if you want to help in any way.

If you want to know more about Hippotherapy Northumberland, your best bit is their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hippotherapy-Northumberland/376814322445071

 

 

Angela was supplied with Varsity Contrast Hoodies from the Just Hoods range by All We Do Is.

http://www.pier32.co.uk/product/jh003-varsity-hoodie/

http://www.hoodieprinter.co.uk/product/jh003j-kids-varsity-hoodie/

 

Keeping circuses cruelty-free with Animal Defenders

The circus. A happy place, full of fun, thrills and good clean family entertainment. Unless you're an animal that's part of the show. Then you're more likely to be spending your life in cages that are too small for your needs, subject to cruelty and mistreatment by your owners and handlers.
There's a wide consensus that circuses featuring wild animals are un-necessarily cruel. But it may surprise you to know that they haven't actually been made illegal in the UK. A ban was promised by the government in 2012. In 2013 it published draft legislation to that effect, but it has still to be passed. This is a shame, as across the globe bans are taking shape and being enforced. In Peru and Columbia, lions, tigers and bears are being rescued from their cages and rehabilitated. Although it would be great to release them back into the wild, most circus animals have been declawed and suffer from broken teeth. So they're given a forever home in a sanctuary preferably in their native habitat, or as close as rescue workers can get to that.

A lot of that essential work is being done by groups like Animal Defenders International. Founded in 1990, the charity uses video surveillance and powerful campaigns to get the message across about animal cruelty in all its forms: in entertainment, the illegal harvesting of ivory and the fur trade. It was thanks to ADI that the news first broke on Anne the Elephant and her cruel treatment at the hands of her "owners", Bobby and Moira Roberts. ADI were directly responsible for the ban on wild animals in Bolivian circuses, and continues to work on their rescue and rehabilitation.

In fact, ADI are on hand at most protests, demos and rallies where animal welfare is the primary concern. Which is where Pier32 comes in. If you've seen an Animal Defenders tee or scrub on the news, it's come from us.

Junior, getting help from a dentist after being rescued from a circus in Peru.

We're proud to be associated with a world-wide charity that's doing so much to help animals in need across the globe. Their ongoing project working with rescue circus animals in Peru is fascinating, and shows a real sea-change in the way we view the use of wild creatures in entertainment.

To find out more, visit the website: http://www.ad-international.org

Animal Defenders use our SW350 Cool Tee: http://www.pier32.co.uk/product/sw350-cool-tee/

Tencel: The Wonder Fabric!

A lot of people in the ethical fashion game bang on about organic cotton as if it's the only game in town. While cotton grown without pesticides is a boon to sustainability, the crop is still thirsty and hard to grow. We're better off lessening our reliance on the fluffy stuff altogether.
Of course, there are alternatives. One that's proving to be a game-changer in the ethical fashion game is Tencel. A trademark of Lenzing AG, the science-name for the material is lyocell. It's a product of wood cellulose–the stuff paper is made from. With a couple of tweaks to the treatment process, you end up with one of the most sustainable fabrics around.
Lyocell is sourced mainly from eucalyptus trees, which are fast-growing and quick to regenerate. I should know: I had one in my back garden, and the damn thing shot up like a rocket. The woodpulp gathered from eucalyptus is washed in a solution of amine oxide, which breaks it down to a slurry which can then be air-dried and stretched until it becomes a fibre. That fibre can then be spun and woven and hey bingo, lyocell.
It's what's called a regenerated fibre, needing a few more processes than cotton or silk, without being entirely manmade, like nylon. Lyocell's natural origins give it a number of additional benefits. It's wrinkle-resistant, has moisture-wicking capabilities, and takes on dyes so readily that you need far less to get a strong, vibrant take of colour. It's strong, and naturally snow white in colour, which means it doesn't even need bleaching. And by treating the short surface fibres in different ways, it can mimic other fabrics–not just cotton but linen, silk and even suede!
Best of all, lyocell boasts a closed-loop production technique, where the non-toxic chemicals used to produce it can be fed back into the system. There's very little waste, and no nasties make it out into the wider ecosystem. In short, if you're after a natural, sustainable fabric with which to make clothing, you need to look no further than lyocell.
Tencel has been making its way into the marketplace for a little while now, and can be found in a wide range of clothing. It's especially good in sports-wear and basics. Keep an eye out for the Tencel logo the next time you're out shopping. You'll know you're buying clothes made with a supremely sustanable fabric. And that's good for everyone.
Of course, we have a range of basics made using Tencel here at The Pier.

Is It Time For American Apparel To Drop The Sexy Ads?

An absolutely fascinating article in the Journal Of Global Fashion Marketing (yes, such a thing exists) gets to the heart of the fundamental disconnect that can happen between a brand, its advertising and its customers. Particularly when your advertising can be a bit on the controversial side.
American Apparel are well known for their well-priced, good quality clothing, but more specifically for the direction which their advertising has taken over the past few years. An increasingly sexualised approach has featured barely-disguised innuendo and barely clothed models, some of which are better known for their careers in adult film. It's a daring approach, which seemed to be working for a while. But as the JoGFM points out, no longer.
They compared reactions to AAs edgy advertising on ther Facebook page to those of a competitor who is also known for controversial campaigns: Dolce & Gabbana. D&G have been featuring a "sexy housewives" branding for the past three years. Surely a little behind the times, and ripe for a social media skewering. Right?
The results were eye-opening. AA's ads were described by visitors to the page as "sleazy," "tasteless", "trashy" and, more uncomfortably, as promoting "sex slavery/sex-trafficking." D&Gs ads, on the other side, featured female characters that the audience saw as "strong", "confident" and "empowered". Ouch.
The strange thing is, of course, that AA have a great history of featuring their strong ethical background in ads. As one of the few multinationals to produce their clothes in the US using local workers who are well-paid and treated, AA don't really need to go down the controversial route. The JoGFM are equally bewildered, saying:

...it would seem to be wise for AA to cease its inappropriate marketing campaigns and focus on ethical marketing claims. It is perhaps time for the company to consider its social responsibility role from both an ideological (e.g. AA’s sweatshop-free claims) and a utilitarian ethical viewpoint (e.g. financial productivity through ethical claims and brand reputation) in order to balance corporate social responsibility and profitability.”

With the departure of AA founder Dov Charney (under something of a cloud, it has to be said–he's under indictment for multiple claims of sexual harassment) maybe it's time for AA to really push their solid ethical credentials. Those are, after all, the reason why we stock them here at The Pier (although the range we carry is slightly different to retail and we can't sell them uncustomised). AA do the best basics out there in a way that many other fashion retailers would do well to copy. Push that, and pay attention when your customers tell you that your ad campaigns are a turn-off.

Welcome To Our House!

You might know Pier32 as the go-to place for charities to get their customised t-shirts, hoodies, hats and bags. We're proud that our ethical credentials have made us the first choice for organisations that need to know they're buying from a transparent and reputable source.
But that doesn't just apply to charities. We work with universities up and down the country who know Pier32 are responsible, reliable and eco-friendly.
Take the guys at Roehampton University Players Society, who have a solid rep for rep... repertory theatre, that is! They've just ordered a box of hoodies from us to help advertise their upcoming show. Our House: The Madness Musical is, as you'd expect, a riotous assembly of tunes from Britain's favourite Nutty Boys. You can expect to hear all your favourite ska-pop hits, tied into a story of family, community and the essential elegance of the pork pie hat. Here are the guys from Roehampton in their Pier32-supplied hoodies. Looking good, guys!

Our House is showing from the 1st-4th of March at the Jubilee Theatre, University Of Roehampton. If you fancy a night in the House Of Fun, contact Anna Howard for more details and to snag tickets: mailto:howarda@roehampton.ac.uk
That's Pier32 for you. Always going One Step Beyond to help our clients.


The Roehampton University Players are wearing Varsity Hoodies from All We Do Is, which are available in five sizes and 32 colour combinations. Could your society use some hoodies? Give Gerry or Ian a call, or check out the Pier32 website for more details and to order your own.
http://www.pier32.co.uk/product/jh003-varsity-hoodie/

East African Playgrounds

Charities working in the developing world are doing vital work, bringing essential services to the people who need them most. We've talked in the past about how our friends in the charity sector have brought irrigation techniques, help with farming and the chance for native artisans to become independent businesses and move away from charity handouts.

But there's another, equally important benefit that one charity, with whom Pier32 have been proud to work, is bringing to the kids of East Africa.

The ability to play.

East African Playgrounds (EAP) are a UK-based charity that understand that play is an essential part of the healthy upbringing of any child. It stimulates learning, and unstructured play enables kids to develop problem-solving and socialisation skills that will serve them well as they grow up. And, after all, the UN Convention On The Rights Of The Child puts it clearly in Article 31:

Children have the right to relax and play, and to join in a wide range of cultural, artistic and other recreational activities.

The volunteers of Team Buwenda, 2014. Nice t-shirts, guys!

EAP work principally in Uganda, investing in the development of a dedicated team of local playground builders. They're supported each summer by 150 student volunteers from places like York (where the charity was founded in 2009). The local touch is vital: it's essential that the communities that will receive playgrounds are involved in its construction from breaking the ground to the first scamper across fresh monkey bars. EAP understand that a playground isn't just for the kids: it's a clear sign of community cohesion, a meeting place and focus for the parents of the kids that use it.

EAP build playgrounds to exacting international standards, designed to be durable and long-lasting, so that they don't become unsafe over time. The construction teams spend time talking to the community and, most importantly, the kids, to ensure that the playground meets their needs and gives them everything they're hoping for. It's essential that the final build includes facilities for the four elements of play that children use to understand the world around them and develop life skills: Active, Game, Free and Imaginative play.

The colourful playground at Mustard Hill Academy, one of EAP's recent builds.

The playgrounds use recycled materials like tyres whenever they can, while ensuring a sturdy and above all safe construction ethic. They work closely with the communities and schools that will use the playground, making sure that ongoing care of the project is considered once the build is complete. The onus is on building a community resource that will help generations of kids to play, have fun and grow.

Here at the Pier, we couldn't be happier to help a charity who are doing such important work, and focussing on an essential element of a child's life that often gets sidelined in charity work.

To find out more about East African Playgrounds, and perhaps to get involved yourself, check out their website, that will also tell you more about the importance of play.

http://www.eastafricanplaygrounds.org/

The Year At The Pier: 2014

It's been an odd year for ethical fashion. An optimistic year, that showed a real advance in mainstream attention for the sector, yet one that was also dominated by the continuing repercussions of our Year Zero event: The Rana Plaza Disaster.

The deaths of thousands of garment workers and destruction of so many families in Dhaka's overcrowded fashion quarter has had profound effects in the CSR of many big brands, in labour relations and in the way we view and shop for our clothes. Change that seemed so slow in coming, has ramped up significantly in the past twelve months. There's still so much to do, but 2014 showed the first real signs of a profound shift towards a more sustainable, ethical model of fashion manufacture.

It's been a busy year for the blog too. Here are a few of the high (and lowlights) of a year at the Pier.

January had me musing on the link between money and denim, and how skinny jeans are more harmful for the environment than you might think: Money In My Jeans Pocket (warning: contains Anton Du Beck in a veeery tight pair of strides).

In February I celebrated the launch of our Salvage Collection, made entirely from recycled fibres, and boggled over the work of scientist Anka Domaske, who created a new eco fabric made from milk proteins: Milking It.

March was our Client Month, with profiles for our pals at Sea Shepherd, Children Of The Andes and Marine Conservation Research: worthy causes all. We also noted how fast fashion leaders Zara were suffering big losses as their model was adopted by smaller, leaner competitors: Peak Fast Fashion.

In April we celebrated as our friends at childcare charity Kid's City had a visit from The Amazing Spiderman, and considered a radical solution to the environmental impact of washing our clothes: Take Two Garments Into The Shower?

As May rolled around, I put my money where my mouth was and invested in a pair of ethically-produced Vans sneakers (I was lucky to find them, and they're a great buy). We're big on the intersection of fashion and tech around here, and documentary film The New Black had some really interesting notions on the way forward.

June showed how striking garment workers in China were getting support from a surprising source: the multinationals who had the most to lose from the walkout. In a year of paradigm shifts and redefinition of the often fraught relations between workers, management and the big brands, this was perhaps the most... striking. Sorry.

In July we explored the surprising link between prawn fishing and garment production, and how the UK government's stance on slave labour could significantly improve the lives of people caught in the net of slavery. We also noted how the chorus of big fashion names calling for the end of fast fashion was growing, as Michael Kors added his disapproval.

As the weather warmed up in August, we explored the phenomenon of the Ice Bucket Challenge, and what it meant for charity fund-raising: Water Way To Donate To Charity. We also celebrated the work of students at Nottingham Trent University, who saw the increase in waste at festivals (including discarded tents) as a resource to be converted into clothing: Loitering Within Tent (August was also the month where I couldn't resist terrible puns, apparently). 

September saw an amusing spat between Patagonia and The North Face, as both companies vied to show they were the most ethical over goose down. We also wondered whether it was time to forget the whole notion of the fashion season, and concentrate instead on clothes that were designed to last more than half a year.

The weather began to cool again as October came around, so naturally we cheered the arrival of Wool Week. When Halloween darkened our doors, we were there with our list of best-dressed horror icons. Who couldn't bow down and worship Morticia Addams?

November's big ethical fashion story was The Fawcett Society's mis-step over their 'This Is What A Feminist Looks Like' t-shirt. This was a tale that brought all sorts of surprises, including the first (and probably only) time that The Mail On Sunday would put an ethical fashion story square on the front page: The Right Story For The Wrong Reason.

And finally, here we are in December. We were amongst the first this month to feature Nervous System's 3D-printed dress, and highlighted boardshort company Riz's attempts to make clothing out of the vast floating islands of waste ocean plastics.

So, another busy year for the Pier32 blog. We hope you find us informative and entertaining. Thanks to everyone that's commented, retweeted or mentioned us over the past twelve-month. If you have any ideas, tips or suggestions, my door's always open.

Here's to a happy, ethical 2015.

Christmas With Pier32

One trend that has bemused me over the last few years is the re-emergence, however ironic, of the Christmas jumper as a fashion item. Do we blame Darcy from Bridget Jones for pulling off the pullover look? Whatever the reason, the colourful Xmas jumper is a look that's made the leap out of the home. Last year, the pubs of London were full of party-goers resplendent in chunky, snuggly knitwear. Can you afford to miss out?

As ever, Pier32 has you covered. In association with the Christmas Store from Premier, we're offering a range of top designs, from reindeer to pud. If you're a fan of nordic noir, we can even help you to rock the Sarah Lund look. And of course, they're ethically produced to Wrap-certified standards. What could be better?

Well, since you ask, we've gone all-out for the festive season this year. You can get the turkey in while wearing one of our Xmas aprons, rock the house with our musical tie or make out like the merriest rapper in town with our snowflake and tree-bedecked flexfit cap. We're even doing socks, so that's the presents sorted as well!

Camp as Christmas

But the star on the top of our tree this year has to be the Xmas Onesie. No need to worry about what to wear while you're unwrapping your pressies and taking that first sip of egg nog. In Santa and Nordic designs, you can be snug and comfy in the knowledge that while you might look a bit silly, you're embracing the holiday season in all it's gleeful absurdity.

The dictionary definition of gleeful absurdity.

So what are you waiting for? Grab that phone, and chat to Santa Gerry or Ian the Ethical Elf, and let's make Xmas 2014 one to remember.

The Pier32 Christmas Store

Ten Years Of Bite-Back

I was lucky enough to be freed from my writing cage at the bottom of Pier32 this week, accompanying Guru Ian and Super Sandi to an very cool event - a party to celebrate ten years of marine conservation charity Bite-Back. And where else would they choose to host it than at the Sea-life London Aquarium?

Bite-back focuses largely on the conservation of sharks, who are rapidly becoming an endangered species. As you read this, over 59 million sharks will have been killed this year alone, and the numbers are rising. 

Let's get a few prejudices out of the way. It's unfortunate that when we think of sharks, John William's theme to Jaws rises unbidden into our heads. But they are simply not predatory to humans. Let's put this into perspective: the fact that shark attacks make the news is because they are such rare events. For every person killed or injured by a shark, 25 million sharks are killed. In 2013 (a peak year for shark attacks) 12 people died. Humanity, meanwhile, was killing a shark every four seconds. Whether through 'sport' fishing, or for culinary and medicinal use, we have the upper hand over those beautiful, graceful creatures. Writer Joe Chernoff and Ripetungi Studios collaborated on an infographic that makes the situation clear, which you can see in its full, scrolly goodness here.

Graham Buckingham, man of the sea

Bite-Back is largely the work of one man: Graham Buckingham, whose tireless energy and tenacity have helped to knock shark and other endangered fish like marlin and swordfish off the menu at big supermarkets like Asda. His latest campaign, to stop UK restaurants from selling shark-fin soup (shark's fin is tasteless, and the method of harvesting it is almost unbearably cruel) has already won a ban on the dish from high-profile restaurants like Hakkasan. The party at Sea-Life (with whom Bite-Back have recently begun a three-year partnership) was a celebration of everything he's done in the past decade to protect vulnerable marine life from the most dangerous predator of all... man. It was a chance, too, to get an up-close look at what he and Team Bite-Back are fighting for. I have to tell you that there are worse ways to spend a damp Wednesday evening than wandering around an aquarium with a glass of fizz getting a bit of quality time with a hammerhead. 

Pier32 are long-time collaborators with Bite-Back (you can buy the t-shirts and hoodies that we supply at the Bite-Back shop) and it was an honour to be invited to this week's shindig. We consider ourselves proud members of Team Bite-Back. Here's to another ten years of keeping the oceans safe for shark-kind.

Run Through The (Urban) Jungle with The Great Gorilla Run!

I was talking yesterday about how events at this time of year have a tendency to catch up on me unawares. I only realised that this is Wool Week after a timely and unrelated reminder from one of my Twitter followers. But how on Earth did I let this year's Great Gorilla Run pass me by?

For those of you who don't know about this extraordinary event: The Great Gorilla Run is a charity fun-run, which tracks a course through Central London and takes place in late September. Why Gorilla? Well, it's a way of raising funds and awareness for organisations helping to protect the dwindling gorilla population in Africa and beyond--it's estimated that there are only 800 of the hairy beasties left in the wild. But what makes the Great Gorilla Run most noteworthy is the dress code. If you want to take part, you have to be prepared to make the effort and go ape.

This year's run took place on the 20th September, and has to date raised over £70,000 for its chosen charities. The runners took on an 8km course that took in sights like Tower Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral and The Shard... not that I'd imagine they could see that much through the gorilla masks. They were greeted at the finish line by celebrity spoon-bender Uri Geller and all-round Goodie Bill Oddie, a long-time supporter of the event. Uri told the crowd:

“There are only 800 gorillas left on this planet so it is great to see so many of you supporting them in this way. Your mind power is giving the gorillas the energy to survive and my mind power gave you the energy to get through 8km.”

Uri Geller-powered gorillas in running shoes. The mind boggles.

The Pier32 connection to all this? Well, we've been supplying t-shirts for The Great Gorilla Run for years, at the event itself and for their online store. We're happy to be a part of the madness. Who knows, maybe next year we'll embed a reporter on the Run itself. Strictly undercover, of course...

The Gorilla Run Crew wearing their P32 tees. Looking good!

Pier32 supplied the Great Gorilla Run with Gildan Ultra Cotton Tees: just the thing to wear over that gorilla suit.

http://www.pier32.co.uk/product/gd002-ultra-cotton-tee/

Gildan at Pier32

Here at The Pier, we're very proud of our association with Gildan. A top Canadian apparel brand, they provide some of the best-selling promotional wear items on the planet.

But, more importantly, they have an ethical profile that's second to none. They regularly win awards for their efforts and solid performance on sustainability, waste management and social responsibility. WRAP and Sedex certified, Gildan show the rest of the sector how to do it right.

After the honour of being included in the RobecoSAM Sustainability Index earlier this year, Gildan have managed to top that. Their Activewear has been included in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index for the second year running. This is a major achievement, as the DJSI takes a best-in-class approach to inclusion. If you're not at the top of your game when it comes to your sustainability strategies, you're not getting in.

Companies are selected after a comprehensive assessment of long-term economic, environmental and social criteria that account for general as well as industry-specific sustainability trends. Gildan are the only North American company to make it onto the DJSI this year, as part of the Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods industry group. This year's index launches on Monday.

All of which tells you something about Pier32. The brands we supply are chosen very carefully to be high quality clothing, of course. But the ethos behind the brand is just as important, and Gildan are one of our best selling labels. We believe that's because their ethics are as good for the planet as their clothes are.

Why not check out our wide range of Gildan clothing at the Pier32 site? And while you're in a browsy mood, take a look at the Gildan site and see just how socially responsible they are.

Gildan at Pier32

Gildan 

West Sussex WPAs: reduce, reuse, recycle!

Although David Cameron's notion of The Big Society appears to have disappeared down a big fat rabbit hole, there are those of us who still believe that its central concept--volunteers selflessly working together to make life better for everyone--is still a worthy enterprise. If you want an example of how that might work, look no further than the Games Makers at the London 2012 Olympics. An incredible bunch of people from every walk of life, united under a common cause, who managed to turn a brilliant event into an unforgettable one.
That example still inspires many today, although the group in today's piece are actually old hands at the volunteering game. West Sussex have been using squads of volunteers to get the word out about recycling in the local area since 2008.
The WPAs (Waste Prevention Advisors) can be found out and about at local fairs, fetes and festivals, and chatting to community groups. Their specialist education package Wastebusters sees the WPAs spread the good word in schools throughout West Sussex. Their message is simple: reduce, reuse, recycle.
The volunteers have been trained in presentation skills and health and safety through resources provided by Sussex University, giving them the confidence to share the important message about how we can all do our bit to save money and keep their part of the country that little bit greener and more pleasant.
Pier32 are in the mix too, providing the WPAs with polos, fleeces and rain jackets. The fleeces in particular fit the brief, as they're made from PET: recycled plastic water bottles. Looking good while spreading the word about recycling? It's something we do every day here at The Pier.
Check out the dedicated website at www.westsussexwpa.org.uk, where you can find out more about the programme, and read their dedicated blog Ask Annie. If you need to know about composting, Annie's your girl.

Pier32 supplied the WPAs with premium polo shirts from Fruit Of The Loom and Sirocco Windbreakers by B&C Collection.
http://www.pier32.co.uk/product/ss255-premium-polo/
http://www.pier32.co.uk/product/ss505-premium-polo/
http://www.pier32.co.uk/product/ba601-sirocco-windbreaker

Our recycled fleeces, (pictured) made by Okarma, are made entirely from PET, a material created by shredding and reweaving the plastic from used drinks bottles. 44 bottles go into one jacket. If you want one example of recycling done right, this is it.

http://www.pier32.co.uk/product/ok040-recycled-fleece/

Testimonial Time!

I know you all come to The View From The Pier for the incisive, in-depth commentary on ethical fashion and charities. But the fact is, we're here first and foremost to support the flourishing ethical promotinal wear business that funds us: Pier32. We have a vocal and enthusiastic client base who are happy to share.
So, I thought it would be nice to join the dots, and show my readership some of the real people wearing our clothing that have kindly shared their pics with us on our Facebook page recently.
The foxy ladies from Body Boost in Brighton are clearly pleased with the fitness apparel we supplied for them. Stretch pants, tops and hoodies in a real jewel box of different colours mean that they're getting in shape and looking good in the process!

Meanwhile, the team from Latin American Women's Aid, (LAWA) recently pitched up to run the Hackney Half Marathon in East London. Pier32 sorted them out with t-shirts and sports shirts to make sure they got the message across about the important work they do with disadvantaged women in South America.

While we're best known for apparel, we can put our skills to other uses. You know already about the work we do with marine conservation charity Sea Shepherd. Our latest collaboration: a beach towel, big enough to be comfortable on the sand, emblazoned with the piratical chic of the Sea Shepherd logo. Unlike the other items I've mentioned, this one's available to buy right now, through their eBay store.

The point I want to make here is that Pier32 work with a lot of different charities, groups, schools and businesses, and our focus is on making sure they go away happy... and then come back for more. We provide ethically produced and cruelty-free clothing that's good for the environment. We believe in working closely with everyone that gets in touch to make sure their order is trouble-free and high quality from initial contact to final delivery. I've shown just a tiny fraction of the happy customers that have bought ethical promotional wear from Pier32. You could be one of them. Why not give us a call?

Wildlife Watch

I'm taking a back seat today, and letting Emma Websdale of the Royal Society Of Wildlife Trusts tell us about Wildlife Watch--a great club to get the kids involved in nature and the environment this summer!

Wildlife Watch, the junior branch of The Wildlife Trusts, is the UK’s leading environmental action club for kids. With fun and educational groups and activities, Wildlife Watch encourages children to explore and connect with their local nature.

There are more than 150,000 Wildlife Watch members around the UK (and the Isle of Man and Alderney too), many of whom take part in local Watch groups and events. Organised by volunteer leaders who are passionate about their local places and wildlife, our Watch groups and events calendars full of family events motivate children to take part in various practical and environmental activities. 

So how are Wildlife Watch and Pier 32 connected?
Whether it’s splashing about in muddy puddles, going on wildlife safaris, pond dipping, bat detecting, tree climbing or camping, our Wildlife Watchers need clothing that can withstand grass and mud stains.

Brightly coloured and comfy to wear, Pier 32 have produced garments for Wildlife Watch since 2010, providing fun and suitable clothing for every Watch group’s activities and adventures: T-shirts and caps for those sunny days spent gardening and campfire cooking and sweatshirts and hoodies for nights spent surveying and star gazing. 

Interested in joining Wildlife Watch?
By joining Wildlife Watch you can truly become a nature detective! Not only can you take part in lots of fun and exciting activities, you can also make new friends and really get stuck into local wildlife conservation.

As a member you’ll receive a welcome pack full of goodies plus four brilliant Wildlife Watch magazines containing free posters. There’s also a Wildlife Watch website bursting with games and activity ideas where you can set up your own profile, write in your own nature diary and tick off your wildlife sightings. Visit www.wildlifewatch.org.uk

Young people can subscribe to Wildlife Watch as junior members of their local Wildlife Trust. There are 47 Wildlife Trusts covering the whole of the UK.

To join the Trust that matters most to you visit www.wildlifetrusts.org/your-local-trust.

Thanks, Emma. Wildlife Watch use Pier32's range of kidswear by Gildan--sturdy enough to deal with anything your little animals throw at them!
http://www.pier32.co.uk/range/gildan-kids/

Pier32 and Spider-man: a swinging combination!

Kid's City is a charity that supports and supplies safe after-school play spaces for kids in the inner city. But even they couldn't have foreseen that their site in Brixton would get a little extra protection this week... from The Amazing Spider-man!

Actor Andrew Garfield, in town for last night's premiere of the superhero sequel, dropped in on South London to say hi to the kids and volunteers of Kid's City. His visit included a fast-paced game of basketball in full web-slinging get-up, and a slap-up pizza lunch.

The Pier32 connection to all this excitement? Well, we've been working with Kid's City since 2007, and when they found out with only a few days notice that Spidey would be swinging by, it was our turn to make a superhuman effort getting a fresh batch of their signature yellow t-shirts out to the charity on the tightest of turnarounds. The work paid off, and it was great to see the guys from Kid's City rocking their shirts on the red carpet!

Keep an eye on the Graham Norton show tonight, as there's a chance that the Kid's City Kids could make it onto the telly box. Now, if Andrew or Emma Stone need ethically-produced custom t-shirts in a rush, here's hoping they know who to call...

The Amazing Spider-man 2 is released in the UK on April 16th. 

Our Top Three For Spring And Summer

Finally, finally, spring is on the way. There are blue skies and the chill in the air is finally warming up. Here at the Pier, that means we're starting to see the start of our busy season, as our top three activities start coming into their own. One of those three activities will almost certainly be appropriate for you as the sun begins to shine.




The Event T-shirt is the starting point for many activities, whether corporate, charity, or educational. This could be a product launch, a fundraiser, or a big school event.

Multiple identical t-shirts are a great way of repeating your message and are an excellent product for raising awareness. Of course, that awareness could be anything from a company to a cause, or a promotion to a product.

Our t-shirts are independently certified to be sweatshop-free. They're ethically produced in safe working conditions without the use of child labour.


Next up, The Leaver Hoodie, which has become increasingly popular over the last few years. We're seeing orders spreading from universities and colleges to junior and infant schools.

Leaver hoodies are a great souvenir of happy school days. The younger children really love them, especially the sense of togetherness that they provide. They look great in group photos too! We're usually asked to supply these garments in time for the traditional end-of-school week away.

Of course, like our t-shirts, we use ethically produced and independently certified hoodies.


Finally, there's Staff Uniform. This is remarkably flexible. Depending on the workplace, staff uniform could be a printed t-shirt, an embroidered polo shirt, aprons, overalls, or even a tailored suit with waistcoat and corporate tie.

We offer all of these and more and we can Pantone match your corporate colours if required.


As we finally leave the cold months behind, now's the time to start thinking about the events coming up, and how Pier32 can help you make them go off without a hitch. Why not give Ian or Gerry a ring on 020 8398 2847, drop us an email or use our ever-popular Quick Quote page?