BC SoftWear tackles sustainability, one bathrobe at a time

The hospitality industry remains focused on seeking new ways to meet sustainability targets and become ever more environmentally friendly, according to BC SoftWear.

 

New figures released by the leading towelling supplier reveal that almost half (45%) the bathrobes selected by hotels in 2023 were from its eco-friendly SupremeSoft range, compared to just 17% in 2019. BC SoftWear’s energy saving ranges – SupremeSoft and SmartKnit – now equate to 20% of turnover; this figure was just 8% in 2019.

 

A string of high-end Irish hotels have selected BC SoftWear’s eco-friendly SupremeSoft range this year, in a clear demonstration of this increased commitment to sustainability, including carbon neutral hotel and SEAI Energy Awards winner, The Falls in County Clare.

 

Ballygarry Hotel and Spa in County Kerry, Ashford Castle and Westport Plaza, both in County Mayo and Killarney Park Hotel in Killarney have also opted for BC SoftWear’s SupremeSoft bathrobes, towels or spa linens, which offer up to 70% less energy use and 10% less water consumption during laundering, as well as a 31% quicker drying time.

 

 

Teresa Dalton, Ireland Country Manager at BC SoftWear, says: “The hospitality industry is laser focused on seeking out new ways to meet sustainability targets, without compromising on luxury. Increasingly, BC SoftWear is becoming the go-to for high-end hotels that want to be environmentally conscious, drive down carbon emissions and focus on sustainability as a core business objective.

 

“Take The Falls in County Clare, which is in the Cliffs of Moher & Burren UNESCO Geopark. It reduced its carbon emission from over 700 tonnes in 2016 to 56 tonnes in 2021 and, as a certified carbon neutral hotel, has opted for biodegradable slippers, flip flops and our SupremeSoft robes to contribute towards reducing this even further.”

 

The standout sustainable advantage of BC SoftWear’s SupremeSoft range comes from the reduced cotton content. While cotton offers ultimate luxury it absorbs a significant amount of water during laundering, which extends drying times. By minimising its use, BC SoftWear’s robes and towels not only dry more quickly but also enhance a hotel’s energy efficiency, supporting a more environmentally friendly approach to luxury.

 

The uniqueness of SupremeSoft is it uses knitted technology rather than traditional weaving. This means robes are soft cotton on the inside and a luxury polyester velour finish on the outside, allowing for maximum comfort while reducing water absorption and drying times.