L.L.Bean with LOOMIA smart textiles to explore blockchain applications

Maine-based outdoor retailer L.L. Bean with LOOMIA, a technology company adding intelligence to everyday objects will be exploring the applications of blockchain technology. The companies will explore how data from LOOMIA-enabled L.L. Bean apparel can assess the extended use and performance of the outdoor retailer’s products, and provide insight on the use rate of products returned under L.L.Bean’s 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.

Chad Leeder, L.L.Bean’s innovation specialist said that working with LOOMIA will enable L.L.Bean to continue it’s 106 year-old mission of utilizing the latest advancements and technologies to design durable, functionally innovative products that help to further folks’ enjoyment of the outdoors.

This partnership will first be tested with L.L.Bean’s outerwear products by incorporating LOOMIA Electronic Layer (LEL) into merchandise such as jackets and boots. The LEL, which is composed of a flexible circuitry, can heat, light, and sense, all while remaining washable, dryable, and discreet.

L.L. Bean will research implementing LOOMIA’s circuitry to collect data from apparel including information around temperature, motion, and frequency of wear. Once this data is collected, consumers will be able to share it back with the brand for rewards via the LOOMIA TILE– a component that allows for the secure and anonymous transfer of data.

Other use cases include the incorporation of LOOMIA’s heating elements into L.L.Bean signature products, such as enabling them to warm hikers’ toes or provide an extra layer of warmth on cold days. These solutions will present some of the first tech-enabled products to conquer the rigid and bulky design typically seen with other heating and sensing applications that have restricted wearable tech from advancing.

LOOMIA’s technology centered on the human experience is building an economy where consumers and brands are aligned on making better products through analyzing consumer-generated data. These innovative data insights are secured through blockchain technology and are governed by the expressive consent of consumers to share their data in a mutually beneficial and seamless exchange.

LOOMIA also announced Carole Kerner, former president of Donna Karan Collection with more than 25 years experience in the fashion industry, will be joining the team as an advisor. Ms. Kerner has previously held the positions of president of DKNY, and a senior executive within the companies of Abercrombie and Fitch, and J Crew.