Biomaterial firm UNCAGED Innovations announces tie up with actor/producer Natalie Portman
UNCAGED Innovations, a biomaterial startup focused on creating a sustainable leather alternative from grains, has announced a partnership with actor and producer Natalie Portman.
Financial terms of the tie up were not disclosed.
Portman, an advocate for animal welfare and ethical consumerism, will work with the company to promote the adoption of sustainable, animal free materials within the luxury and fashion sectors.
She says: “UNCAGED is one of the most exciting businesses in the biomaterials space that I have seen. The significant market traction they have gained at such an early stage is proof of the demand for materials that are animal free, luxurious and sustainable.”
“Stephanie Downs (CEO and Co-founder) and the team at UNCAGED are redefining the leather industry for the better. As a vegan, I’ve spent years advocating for animals, and teaming up with UNCAGED allows me to amplify that mission. Together, we’re using what we each do best to inspire real change.”
Downs says: “We’re incredibly excited to have Natalie onboard as a strategic partner as her voice and credibility bring powerful momentum to our mission. Consumers and businesses alike are demanding sustainable alternatives and together, this collaboration aims to meet that challenge.”
“The biomaterials industry holds the key to a future where materials are regenerative and not destructive. But we are in a race against time to save our planet and evolve the leather industry. By combining biotechnology with design thinking, we’re accelerating sustainable change without compromising aesthetics or performance.”
2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS
Sustainable retail was a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.
We received a record number of entries and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.
For a full rundown of all of the shortlisted entries, click here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
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