To offer the newest trend in leisure shoes for European trekkers and hikers, Calzados FAL has teamed up with The Dow Chemical Company (DOW). Dow’s VORALAST Soling Systems will be utilized in Calzados’ new Chiruca outdoor shoes.
The VORALAST Soling System features soft-touch technology. Its light-weight polyurethane blend will enhance the soles of the Chiruca boots, providing comfort to wearers even when they carry extra weight. These lighter soles are also designed to lend support to their feet and back.
Trekking has always been a popular activity among Europeans. Europe has several long cross-country paths and many short-distant mountain trails, pastures and city roads. Dow's new soles will duly cater to the needs of these diverse European terrains.
This new technology is designed to tackle the most dangerous terrains and give climbers firm grip on mossy rocks or snow covered trails. Moreover, the new soles will offer slip and water resistance.
As per the European Outdoor Group, the outdoor market has seen substantial growth in Europe for several years. The annual industry retail turnover exceeded €10 billion (roughly $13.6 billion) in 2011, contributing heavily to the European economy.
Dow posted its third-quarter 2013 results on Oct 24. The company’s profit increased 20% year over year to $594 million or 49 cents a share in the quarter. This was driven by improved performances across agriculture, coatings and plastics businesses, and healthy gains from emerging markets.
Dow remains focused on attractive end-user markets and cutting exposure in non-strategic markets amid a challenging business environment. The company will persist with its cost reduction and efficiency programs while reducing debt, improving cash flows and maximizing shareholder returns.
However, Dow continues to face challenges in Western Europe due to soft economic conditions in the region. Moreover, while electronics and construction end-markets have stabilized of late, they are still not out of the woods.
Dow currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
However, better-ranked stocks in the chemical industry include Asahi Kasei Corporation (AHKSY), Johnson Matthey plc (JMPLY) and Methanex Corporation (MEOH). All these stocks carry a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
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