Selasti: Sustainable innovation in E.V.A. rubber for footwear and furniture.
Montebonello, a few kilometres from Pontassieve, a picturesque Tuscan town, is home to a company that is revolutionising the footwear and furniture industry with its innovation and commitment to sustainability. We are talking about Selasti, a leader in the production of shoe soles, which has developed new compounds with advanced technical characteristics, enabling the production of resistant, elastic and comfortable E.V.A. sheets in an infinite range of colours, hardnesses, patterns and thicknesses. Selasti has a long and successful history in E.V.A. rubber production. Founded more than 55 years ago, the company has been able to adapt to changing market needs and maintain a prominent position in the market. Over the years, the Florentine company has gained a reputation for excellence in the production of E.V.A. sheets and soles for a wide range of applications, from footwear to furniture. Its constant focus on innovation, quality and respect for the environment has enabled it to become a benchmark for many sectors. One of its greatest achievements has been its collaboration with the University of Pisa to develop a revolutionary material called G SIDE® (GREENSIDE). This material is the first of its kind to be certified for the highest re-use of recycled E.V.A. ever, reaching over 60%. It is the result of a long journey undertaken years ago to reuse processing waste, including off-cuts and surplus raw materials. G SIDE® makes it possible to produce articles of different densities, hardness and abrasion resistance, paving the way for a wide range of applications in the footwear industry.
Stefano Tanini Alessandri, CEO of Selasti, said: “G SIDE® represents a huge achievement for us. The collaboration with the University of Pisa has allowed us to develop a unique material that offers new creative possibilities in footwear and furniture. We are proud to be pioneers in this field and to provide our customers with innovative and sustainable solutions.”
G SIDE is available in sheet and by injection, offering customisation options in colour and shape. This material allows for the creation of soles, treads, midsoles and insoles with specific characteristics for each application. Its versatility and eco-friendliness make it an attractive option for customers seeking sustainable solutions in the footwear industry. Selasti has always placed innovation at the heart of its activities. The company is constantly developing new materials and integrating them with state-of-the-art machinery. Footwear is one of the sectors in which the company is devoting most effort to research and development. Stefano Tanini Alessandri explains: ‘Footwear constantly demands novelty and innovative solutions. Our research focuses on developing materials that meet the specific needs of the sector, pushing the limits of creativity and functionality.” Selasti places special emphasis on eco-consciousness and considers sustainability a fundamental responsibility. The company is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its production and promotes the responsible use of resources. Stefano Tanini Alessandri says: “Being eco- conscious is a commitment we have taken seriously from the beginning. As producers and processors, we recognise the importance of adopting sustainable practices and doing our part for a better future. However, we recognise that the commitment to eco-consciousness is a team effort and requires the participation of all parties in the industry.”
Alongside a commitment to a greener world, there is a commitment to providing high quality service. Alessandri emphasises: ‘We are recognised fundamentally for our service. Despite the technical challenges that can arise in the production of E.V.A. materials, we strive to always offer a better product. However, we recognise that imperfections and defects can occur, which we are continually facing. To compensate for these challenges, we offer attentive service and a wide availability of colours and materials. This allows us to meet the diverse needs of our customers.”
As the company continues to grow and innovate, the CEO reflects on the past and looks to the future with optimism: ‘My generation lived through a time when the business world was thriving. It seems that we were more global in those years than we are today. However, I am convinced that the future still holds great opportunities. We are ready to face the challenges ahead and continue to innovate in the E.V.A. rubber production sector.”
Selasti is an example of how a company can combine innovation, eco-consciousness and high quality service to achieve success in the E.V.A. rubber manufacturing industry. With their G SIDE® material, the company offers sustainable and creative solutions for both footwear and furniture, continuing to push the limits of material production and seek new opportunities for growth. As the world moves ever closer to sustainability, this company positions itself as an industry leader, ready to drive change towards a greener, more responsible future.
Stefano Tanini Alessandri, CEO Selasti Spa
