Lululemon backs nylon-recycling startup Syntetica in $30M Series A
Lululemon has invested in Syntetica, a French startup that developed a novel approach to recycling nylon. The startup promises to recycle two types of nylon that can't easily be sorted out from each other in textile waste.
Intelligence analysis by Llama

Lululemon has invested in Syntetica, a French startup that developed a novel approach to recycling nylon. The startup promises to recycle two types of nylon that can't easily be sorted out from each other in textile waste. This investment is part of the startup's Series A round, which raised $30 million.
Imagine you have a bunch of old clothes that you want to recycle. But the clothes are made of different types of nylon that can't be easily sorted out from each other. Syntetica is a startup that has developed a way to recycle these types of nylon, making it easier to reduce waste and promote circularity in the fashion industry.
Analysis
A $60B Vote of Confidence
Lululemon's investment in Syntetica is a significant vote of confidence in the startup's technology and approach to recycling nylon. The $30 million Series A round is a testament to the growing importance of sustainability in the fashion industry. With the global fashion industry valued at over $60 billion, companies like Lululemon are recognizing the need to reduce waste and promote circularity in their supply chains.
Why Cursor?
Syntetica's technology is unique in its ability to recycle two types of nylon that can't easily be sorted out from each other in textile waste. This is a significant challenge in the recycling industry, and Syntetica's solution has the potential to make a major impact. The startup's CEO, Marco Bertone, has stated that the company's approach is cost-competitive and highly scalable, making it an attractive option for companies looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
The Road Ahead
Lululemon's investment in Syntetica is just the beginning. The startup has already partnered with brands like Victoria's Secret and Etam, and has a recycling project that could go to market early next year. With a background in fashion and secondhand e-commerce, Bertone is well-positioned to lead Syntetica's growth and development. The startup's focus on building facilities around the world, close to waste sources and close to textile production, is a key part of its strategy for success.
Key points
- Lululemon has invested in Syntetica, a French startup that developed a novel approach to recycling nylon.
- The startup promises to recycle two types of nylon that can't easily be sorted out from each other in textile waste.
- Syntetica has partnered with brands like Victoria's Secret and Etam, and has a recycling project that could go to market early next year.
- The startup's focus is on building facilities around the world, close to waste sources and close to textile production.
If Syntetica's technology is successful, it could have a major impact on the fashion industry's approach to sustainability. With companies like Lululemon investing in the startup, there is a growing recognition of the need to reduce waste and promote circularity in the supply chain. This could lead to a significant reduction in the amount of waste generated by the fashion industry, and a more sustainable future for the planet.
However, there are also potential risks associated with Syntetica's technology. For example, the startup's reliance on partnerships with brands and manufacturers could make it vulnerable to changes in the market or the loss of key partners. Additionally, the startup's focus on building facilities around the world could be a significant challenge, particularly if it is unable to secure the necessary funding or resources.



