• level of innovation,
• technical feasibility at industrial scale,
• economic viability and
• environmental impact.

Particular attention will be given to added value creation, scalability and compliance with EU regulatory requirements. Solutions that move beyond low-value downcycling and demonstrate clear potential to create new value chains will be prioritized. Wendre is open to piloting selected solutions, forming strategic partnerships and integrating promising technologies or product concepts into its production system and portfolio.

Wendre Hackathon aims to identify solutions with genuine industrial pilot potential within the next 12–18 months. The evaluation jury will be led by Wendre and composed of representatives of Wendre Group, the organiser and external experts.

Wendre is open to innovations that enable the introduction of new circular products into its portfolio or the integration of new processing technologies into its production system. Solutions may explore advanced material applications, textile-to-textile recycling, composite or technical materials, fiber processing technologies, color neutralization or encapsulation approaches, or new circular product concepts.

Selected teams will receive additional technical information about the materials and production context to support the development of feasible solutions. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore pilot projects, joint development activities or strategic cooperation with Wendre, depending on the maturity and potential of their proposed solutions.

Wendre Group is one of Europe’s largest bedding producers with its own manufacturing units in Estonia and Poland, producing yearly 20 million duvets & pillows and 600 000 beds & mattresses. 

The company views circularity not merely as compliance or cost reduction, but as a strategic pathway to competitiveness and resilience. By addressing industrial textile and foam residues through open innovation, Wendre aims to strengthen its role as a forward-looking and sustainability-driven manufacturer.

Piesta Kuusikaru is a family-owned farm located in Estonia’s scenic Soomaa region, combining rich cultural heritage with modern apple product innovation. Established in 1868 and lovingly restored by the current owners, the farm produces a variety of artisanal apple-based products, including pure apple juice, spiced apple drink, shrub syrup, slowly fermented apple cider vinegar, and award-winning apple stroop. Every product reflects their commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Dedicated to sustainable practices

Beyond production, Piesta Kuusikaru Farm is dedicated to sustainable practices and the principles of the circular bioeconomy. Recognizing the potential of apple residues like pomace, seeds, and peels, the farm actively seeks innovative ways to valorize these by-products into high-value applications. This aligns with their vision of minimizing waste and unlocking new opportunities for environmental and economic sustainability.

Piesta Kuusikaru Farm is eager to collaborate with other similar producers in the region to address shared challenges and explore innovative solutions. By pooling resources, knowledge, and ideas, they aim to foster a stronger network of sustainable producers that collectively advance the circular bioeconomy and create meaningful impacts within the industry.