Ecological & Sustainable Products

Trend Is Committed To Reducing The Environmental Impact Of Its Products

Trend, the well renowned brand in carpentry trade tools and power tool accessories, is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its products through improved design and processes. The re-use of recycled materials reduces the demand for raw materials and helps prevent environmental pollution. In recent years, Trend has carried out a comprehensive review of the packaging used across its product ranges as part of a broader sustainability initiative.

The company’s sustainable packaging strategy focuses on removing plastic from packaging which goes to waste and using materials that are easily recyclable. The first stage of the project involved analysing all fourteen of Trend’s product categories. These include power tools, power tool jigs and accessories, router cutters, saw blades, drilling tools, and various hand tools such as sharpening and measuring equipment. With over 3,400 products, each with different packaging needs, the transition presented a significant challenge.

A major area of focus has been phasing out plastic packaging at both the product and operational levels. At product level, Trend has prioritised several groups for conversion from plastic clamshells to more sustainable cardboard packaging. The first items to transition were digital measuring tools, followed by the large saw blade range. Other categories that have now moved to cardboard include TCT and PCD circular saw blades, digital measuring tools, pocket hole screws, and diamond sharpening products. To date, more than 270 products have been successfully converted to recyclable carton packaging. Additionally, Trend has introduced recycled-content paper across its paper-based packaging.

At an operational level, Trend has made substantial changes to reduce plastic use in logistics. All pallet shrink wrap now contains a minimum of 30% recycled content and is fully recyclable. The company has reduced reliance on bubble wrap and replaced plastic air bags with paper cushioning. Plastic tape has largely been replaced with gummed paper tape, and pallet strap usage has been reviewed to minimise waste.

Further efficiencies include improved pallet consolidation, new packing workstations for faster and more accurate packing, and additional staff training. Employees have been trained to avoid overpacking, reduce waste, and better understand the environmental impact of packaging decisions.

For further information visit www.trend-ie.com

Restore: Refill, Reuse And Renew With Every Sip

Bluestone Sales & Distribution is excited to introduce Restore; a new collection of premium drinkware designed with sustainability and performance at its core. The Restore range is crafted to help your customer embrace a healthier lifestyle, offering durable bottles and cups that combine both style and functionality. This collection keeps your customer’s beverages at the perfect temperature and also aligns with their values, supporting a greener planet with every sip. With an emphasis on long-lasting materials and eco-friendly practices, Restore is the perfect companion for anyone looking to make a positive change in their daily routine.

The design team at Restore have poured their expertise into creating a versatile and visually appealing range that caters to various needs. Whether your customer is headed to work, the gym, or an outdoor adventure, the Restore collection offers a range of shapes, sizes and vibrant colours to match their journey. From sleek water bottles to handy travel mugs, each product is designed to make their hydration experience both efficient and enjoyable. The quality materials used ensure that it can withstand the rigours of their busy lifestyle, making it a reliable partner for years to come.

The Restore collection champions the idea of refilling, reusing, and renewing. With each product built to last, customers will be able to reduce waste while enjoying the superior performance of their drinkware. This collection is about convenience; it’s also about making conscious choices that positively impact the environment. Every time customers use a Restore bottle or cup, they’re contributing to a sustainable future and reducing they’re reliance on single-use plastics. Whether they’re sipping their morning coffee or hydrating after a workout, Restore empowers them to make a difference, one refill at a time.

At Bluestone Sales & Distribution, they are proud to offer Restore to their customers, as it reflects their commitment to both innovation and sustainability. This collection delivers on performance, durability, and style without compromise. Perfect for individuals who value both practicality and environmental responsibility, Restore is more than just drinkware, it’s a lifestyle choice. With the Restore range, your customer can feel good about their purchases while enjoying a product that works as hard as they do.

For further information contact Darren Shiggins, dshiggins@bluestone.ie, +353 (0)46 94 83100 or visit www.bluestone.ie

Sustainability In Action: Portwest Ireland & The Portwest Planet Initiative

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration for businesses across the hardware and workwear sectors. At Portwest Ireland, this commitment is reflected in the brands and products we supply to our customers every day. In fact, many may be surprised to learn that approximately 80% of the products we offer are Portwest own brand, a global leader in workwear and personal protective equipment.

Portwest’s long-term sustainability programme, Portwest Planet, underpins this partnership. The initiative defines the company’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while promoting a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace. Trading ethically and operating responsibly are fundamental principles of the Portwest business strategy, aligning closely with the values upheld by Portwest Ireland.

As a supplier, Portwest Ireland is proud to work with industry-leading brands that share a genuine dedication to sustainability. Our approach goes beyond simply supplying products; it extends to responsible sourcing and ethical supply chain practices. The partners we work with adhere to strict standards that ensure sustainable procurement, protect labour rights, and uphold human dignity throughout the production process.

Responsible packaging is another key focus area. By supporting packaging solutions designed to reduce waste and improve recyclability, Portwest Ireland and its partners are helping to minimise the environmental footprint of the products delivered to customers. These efforts form part of a broader commitment to continuous improvement in sustainability practices across the entire supply chain.

By collaborating with brands that prioritise sustainable materials, ethical labour practices, and environmentally conscious manufacturing, Portwest Ireland is contributing to a safer and more sustainable future, not only for workers who rely on high-quality protective clothing, but also for the communities and environments in which these products are made and used.

A strong example of this commitment can be seen in the Portwest WX2 Eco Range, which has been developed with sustainability at its core. The range combines modern workwear design with environmentally responsible materials and manufacturing processes.

Key products include the WX2 Eco Stretch, Trousers (CD881) and the WX2 Eco Stretch, Coverall (CD891), both designed to offer durability, comfort, and flexibility while incorporating recycled materials. Another standout product is the EC300 Organic Cotton Recyclable Sweatshirt, which uses organic cotton and has been designed with recyclability in mind.

Beyond these products, the WX2 Eco collection also includes a growing selection of workwear, leisurewear, and all-weather protection garments, providing practical solutions for workers across a variety of industries while supporting more sustainable production methods.

For Portwest Ireland, sustainability is not just a trend but an ongoing commitment. By working with trusted partners and supporting initiatives such as Portwest Planet, the company continues to play its part in driving positive change across the workwear and hardware sectors.

As customer awareness around environmental and ethical responsibility continues to grow, Portwest Ireland remains dedicated to providing products that combine performance, protection, and sustainability, as well as helping businesses and workers make more responsible choices without compromising on quality.

For further information visit www.charleshughes.biz