Article on L’Eco di Bergamo – Renewable Sources and Circular Economy. Daema Celebrates Merino Wool.

(Read below or go to the original article on L’Eco di Bergamo http://daema.it/20230706bergamo_11ABSTRACT.pdf)

Circularity in design for real sustainability. That’s the philosophy of Daema, a Bergamo-based company specializing in sportswear made from merino wool, a natural fiber with untapped potential in the industry. “I founded Daema with a friend in 2020, in the midst of the pandemic,” says Daniela Manzoni, a Law graduate who grew up in a family of high-end women’s and children’s clothing entrepreneurs, where she gained her first work experience before moving on to two multinational companies, one as a purchasing manager and the other as a corporate lawyer, profession that she continues to practice as a consultant.

“After twenty years of being an employee, I was searching for a business idea,” she continues. “As a passionate tennis player, I felt the need for technical garments that were not synthetic or standardized. So, I started researching fabrics and discovered the extraordinary properties of merino wool: Saharan peoples, accustomed to extreme temperature fluctuations, have always known that it is a breathable fiber, capable of wicking moisture away from the body. It is also antibacterial, preventing the formation of unpleasant odors and therefore requiring fewer washes.”

Building on these considerations, Daema has developed a 100% Made in Italy line for tennis, paddle tennis, and golf (“but not only, because they are sporty-chic models that can be worn off the court,” emphasizes Daniela Manzoni), designed to have a minimal environmental impact.

“Our entire collection embraces circularity, as every product is made from renewable fibers and designed to have a second life,” explains the entrepreneur. “We offer a responsible model not only in production but also in consumption. To avoid waste, our garments can be pre-ordered on our website. And at the end of their first life cycle, they can be returned to Daema to be transformed into bags, pouches, backpacks, or shoe carriers, all equipped with a digital authenticity certificate using blockchain technology, just like all our products.”

In its first two years, Daema has made significant investments in research and development, thanks in part to winning various entrepreneurship grants. In 2021, it launched its first collection, and in January 2022, after the exit of its minority partner, it became a sole proprietorship.

“Our supply chain is entirely sustainable and fully Italian,” highlights Daniela Manzoni. “For all the manufacturing processes, we rely on local workshops in Bergamo, particularly in Caravaggio, Biella, and Varese. Since our products are high-end, made with exquisite fabrics, we focus on direct-to-consumer sales through our e-commerce website to keep prices accessible.” However, Daema aims to grow, and within three years, it plans to partially internalize production and diversify its sales channels.