UMAGE newspaper 2024

THE NEWSPAPER

LET YOUR MIND WANDER

In the sanctuary of the desk, amidst the clutter of papers, let your mind wander and your creativity find its wing.

Page 6

MEET CHRISTIAN POULSEN

Navigating the sourcing landscape, traditions, innovation and sustainability, and prioritizing sustainability.

Page 16

A CSR CATCH-UP

Reconnecting with UMAGE's CSR Coordinator, Mikkel Boe Petersen, to review the progress of their sustainability journey.

Page 27

MEET SØREN

RAVN CHRISTENSEN

Søren Ravn Christensen is not the typical designer. Get to know him and his approach to design.

LET YOUR MIND WANDER

In the sanctuary of the desk, amidst the clutter of papers, let your mind wander and your creativity find its wing.

AT HOME WITH CAROLINE

Step into the apartment of PR- and Communications Coordinator at UMAGE and discover old architectural details mixed with modern metal.

In a world where daily life demands adaptability and flexibility, versatile and multifunctional furniture is key.

MEET CHRISTIAN POULSEN

Navigating the sourcing landscape, balancing traditions, innovation and sustainability.

NIGHTTIME RADIANCE

We spend most hours in the bedroom, so make sure you choose the right lamp for a calm and pleasant atmosphere.

HOPE LEATHER

The Hope collection stands as a reminder that beauty and sustainability can go hand in hand.

OFFICE ELEGANCE ELEVATED

Visit Office Club where every room is decorated with vibrant coloured walls and the finest Danish design.

CSR CATCH-UP

A year later, we reconnect with Mikkel Boe Petersen to revisit UMAGE's sustainability journey and uncover the progress.

Let’s be social @umagedesign

At UMAGE we make an effort for the environment, so this newspaper is printed on FSC®-certified paper to make sure the paper originates from responsibly managed forests that have been audited by an independent third party to confirm they are managed according to FSC’s rigorous social and environmental standards.

Welcome to the second issue of the UMAGE newspaper. In Danish, “UMAGE”, means 'making an effort', and this sentiment is at the heart of everything we do. As we navigate 2024 with new projects and goals, we are excited to take you behind the scenes and share with you our accomplishments and the journey that led us here.

Sustainability remains our top priority, and this issue highlights our ongoing efforts towards a more responsible future. We invite you to join us on the next steps of our sustainability journey and peek behind the scenes of our production process as we strive to minimise our impact on the environment – one step at a time.

Meet Head of Sourcing, Christian Poulsen on page 16 to explore the complexity in balancing tradition, innovation and sustainability or catch up on our sustainability journey with CSR Coordinator, Mikkel Boe Petersen on page 27. This issue also stands as a celebration of creativity and design, as we dive into the mind of Søren Ravn Christensen, the co-founder of UMAGE and recent Red Dot Award winner on page 4 or guide you to a creative and productive workspace on page 6. Transparency is essential to us, and we hope that by reading this issue you find inspiration not just in our designs, but also in the journey that led us to them – with everything that entails. Enjoy!

WARM REGARDS,

JACOB NANNESTAD CEO AT UMAGE

JACOB NANNESTAD, CEO AND SØREN RAVN CHRISTENSEN, CHIEF CREATIVE DEVELOPER

UMAGE combine aesthetics, simplicity and functionality and infuse it with thoughtful craftsmanship and environmental care. The result is exquisite furniture and lighting designs with a sustainable edge. The designs are flat-packed to optimise global logistics and make the designs more accessible and affordable. In the process, UMAGE is minimising the carbon footprint on the planet and maximising the ethical commitment to environmental responsibility.

Having begun their journey in 2008, CEO Jacob Nannestad and Chief Creative Developer Søren Ravn Christensen established UMAGE, which has constantly been growing and expanding ever since. Today, UMAGE is present in over 1500 stores in more than 50 countries around the world.

MEET SØREN RAVN CHRISTENSEN

THE VISIONARY MIND BEHIND THE AWARD-WINNING HEART’N’SOUL DINING TABLE

SØREN RAVN CHRISTENSEN CO-FOUNDER OF UMAGE

Søren Ravn Christensen is not the typical designer – and he does not believe in educational recognition or awards. So when he was told he had won a Red Dot Award, he simply said, “Well, I guess that’s good news for the sales and marketing team.”

Søren is an autodidact designer who has lived many lives. He started his career in the Bank Sector at Merril Lynch in London, where he envisioned a future as a financial advisor. However, his restless creativity soon led him to new ventures, including event planning and running a restaurant in central Copenhagen. Alongside these roles, he worked in an art gallery, constantly on the lookout for the next big art piece. His pivot to design was serendipitous; a chance encounter with his father’s old lighting design in an antique shop window rekindled his passion for creation.

Inspired by the idea of versatile, multi-functional design, Søren cofounded UMAGE together with the UMAGE CEO, Jacob Nannestad. His initial focus was on lighting, creating lampshades that could adapt to various uses – from table- to floor- to pendant lamps. This concept of adaptable design remains central to UMAGE, which now encompasses both furniture and lighting, emphasizing versatile, multi-purpose creations that reduce the need for excess products in the home.

The Heart’n’Soul dining table exemplifies Søren’s design ethos. Recently honoured with the internationally recognized Red Dot Award, this table features two fabric-lined drawers at each end, perfect for quickly storing the mess that everyday life sometimes leaves behind. The two drawers also work as holders for the two extension plates underneath the table, making the table stable even when extended. By integrating storage functionality into an existing space, Søren demonstrates how innovative design can enhance efficiency and practicality in the home.

Søren’s approach is a testament to his belief in functional, sustainable design. The Heart’n’Soul dining table not only showcases his commitment to multi-functionality but also highlights his ability to turn everyday storage challenges into elegant solutions. This visionary mindset continues to drive Søren Ravn Christensen and UMAGE, ensuring their designs are not just beautiful but purposefully crafted for modern living.

The table's two drawers also work as a support for the extension plates, ensuring a steady table when extended.

The dining table is available in two sizes with and without Fenix laminate.

LET YOUR MIND WANDER

In the sanctuary of the desk, amidst the clutter of papers – let your mind wander and your creativity find its wing. Here, where the mundane meets magic, desks serve as more than mere furniture that facilitates productivity; they become canvases for creativity, inviting us to transform workspaces into realms of inspiration.

Light Your Creativity

Every home office needs the right lighting. Choosing the perfect table lamp can transform your workspace into a productive and creative environment. Good lighting not only illuminates your workspace but also enhances focus and concentration. The Audrey lamp diffuses light evenly throughout the room, which is ideal if you need bright, ambient lighting while working on a computer. A focused light like the light of the Omni table lamp is perfect for tasks that require concentration, such as reading or sewing. Most UMAGE table lamps come with a hidden USB outlet, allowing you to charge your phone or tablet while working, ensuring a flexible and efficient workspace.

Find Your Flow

While some thrive in a clean and tidy workspace, finding it boosts productivity and unleashes their creativity, others require a bit of creative chaos to truly unfold. The Audacious desk caters to those who prefer an organized environment with a dedicated hook for your headphones, a back panel that elegantly conceals all those unsightly cords and built-in desk organisers. On the other hand, the spacious Duende desk is ideal for those who need room to spread out, whether tackling spreadsheets or diving into their next creative endeavor. With a convenient drawer that smoothly slides out from beneath the tabletop, it keeps essentials like notes, crayons, or stationary within easy reach.

The Duende desk goes beyond aesthetics to create a workspace that connects with the essence of true creativity. Duende represents not only a desk but a feeling – a quality that encompasses the ever-expanding spirit of an artist at work. With graceful curves, the organic shape adds an airy touch to the design, making Duende a design piece that seamlessly fits into all rooms and settings. The soft triangular shape of the table top gives the table a refined aesthetic and will ensure that the table takes up minimal space while still being spacious.

Refine Your Focus

Whether adorning your desk or enhancing your next creative project, every desk needs the right tools. Made from brass, the Stationery Set complements all desks, infusing the workspace with a touch of sophistication.

THE CRAFT OF UPHOLSTERING | DENMARK

On the East Coast of Jutland, Denmark, selected UMAGE lounge chairs are upholstered. Established in 1968, this upholstery company stands as a beacon of timeless craftsmanship and unwavering dedication.

Enriched by decades of hands-on experience, its people have cultivated a profound understanding of the nuances of furniture and textiles. This wealth of knowledge serves as a cornerstone in the meticulous process of conceptualizing and upholstering new furniture pieces, ensuring that each creation withstands the test of time.

With their high expertise in upholstery, the skilled craftsmen upholster selected UMAGE lounge chairs, including the A Conversation Piece and The Reader collections, in Hope leather, Sørensen Leather, and various Kvadrat textiles.

Steeped in tradition, they embrace excellence, infusing each creation with pride and integrity. Their commitment to craftsmanship is not merely a profession but a timeless legacy, ensuring that every piece that leaves their production embodies the essence of enduring quality and timeless elegance.

AT HOME WITH CAROLINE

Stepping into Caroline Nordholt's apartment by the castle island of Copenhagen is like entering a beautifully preserved moment from the past. This charming half-timbered building, dating back to 1689, exudes historical significance. The characteristic leaded windows and sturdy wooden beams immediately transport you to another era, evoking the ambiance of an old Parisian film set.

Caroline has a deep appreciation for these historical details. “Every little detail tells a great story,” she reflects. Her home is a sanctuary where the past and present seamlessly intertwine.

The dark oak dining table is enclosed by a blend of chairs in black and natural oak. The Curious chair in black oak, is an early UMAGE prototype, not yet in production.

Historical Details Meets Modern Minimalism

Caroline's interior style is a refined blend of minimalistic design and cosy, casual elements. The apartment’s white walls provide a serene backdrop, allowing her eclectic mix of wooden surfaces and metal accents to excel. “I love the contrast of clean lines and rustic elements,” she explains. “It brings a sense of balance and tranquility to the space.”

Her most memorable moments at home are centered around the characteristic dark oak dining table. “I love bringing family and friends together around my dining table with plenty of wine and a great homecooked meal,” Caroline shares with a smile. Her background in the restaurant industry has brought a deep love for food and fine dining. “I would choose a great restaurant visit over a new vase any day,” she admits. This practical yet stylish approach is evident in her choice to use a large jar for flowers – a very practical yet beautiful alternative to a traditional vase.

A Home Defined by Function

Caroline's apartment is not cluttered with knick-knacks. Instead, it is defined by functional items that also serve as decor. Books, candleholders, and beautiful serving platters take center stage, complemented by a few meaningful memorabilia. One such piece is an Akuaba Doll, a gift from her brother's travels in Ghana. This thoughtful curation of items ensures that each piece in her home has a purpose and a story.

The serene view from the dining room reveals the bedroom, which is beautifully lit up at night by the white Eos lampshade.

TOP The small tray in the shelf stores all Caroline's loose change beautifully.

BOTTOM The dark oak Stories shelving system serves as a calm base to the wealth of inspirational books, fashion magazines and curated serving platters.

WHO Caroline Nordholt, 28, PR & Communications Coordinator at UMAGE. Born and raised in Copenhagen, with a passion for design, fashion and the vibrant food scene of the city.

WHERE An 84-square-meter apartment from 1689, located by the Castle Island of Copenhagen.

CAROLINE NORDHOLT PR & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR AT UMAGE

“Magazines and books are definitely one of my soft spots, and they take up so much space in my home. It is where i find inspiration - and I feel like they add personality to my interior.”

CAROLINE NORDHOLT PR & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR AT UMAGE

Simple Aesthetics and Thoughtful Design

Caroline's love for simple aesthetics extends to her choice of furniture. “I try to give room for my furniture to make a statement,” she notes. Her latest addition is the distinctive desk in her bedroom. “I’m completely in love with the beautiful shape of the legs and the creatively shaped tabletop that reminds me of a painter’s palette,” she states.

This careful attention to detail and commitment to simplicity creates a harmonious living space that feels both timeless and contemporary. Caroline's home is a testament to the idea that great design can be both functional and beautiful, a place where history and innovation coexist in perfect harmony.

In Caroline Nordholt's apartment, every corner tells a story, every item has a purpose, and every gathering is a cherished memory. Her home is not just a place to live but a space that reflects her passion for history, fashion, design, and the simple pleasures of life.

The beautiful details of the leaded windows create a dreamy vibe in the bedroom.

The polished steel of the Asteria Move makes a crisp statement in the soft atmosphere enhanced by the white walls and green marble of the Paff night stand.

The Duende desk fits perfectly into the corner of the bedroom. Without taking up much space, it has cleverly been placed so Caroline looks out into the room instead of looking straight into a white wall, flourishing her creativity.

AN ODE TO FLEXIBILITY

In a world where every corner of everyday life demands adaptability and flexibility, UMAGE is committed to crafting versatile yet aesthetic designs that cater to the ever-evolving trends and needs. This design philosophy is centered around versatile, multifunctional products that minimize the need for numerous items to achieve a complete and stylish home. It not only fosters more efficient use of space but also promotes sustainability by reducing waste and encouraging mindful consumption. UMAGE's commitment to flexible living ensures that each piece is thoughtfully crafted to enhance everyday living, blending form and function seamlessly. By focusing on adaptability and elegance, UMAGE designs empower users to create dynamic, personalized environments that support their everyday lives.

Born from the enchantment of unexpected moments, Paff is not just a piece of furniture—it serves as a testament to precisely this. Designed by in-house designer at UMAGE, Søren Ravn Christensen, the Paff collection includes a stool, a table, and a bench, of two different heights - each customizable to meet the dynamic needs of modern living.

The Paff collection is designed to adapt seamlessly to any space, adding a calming presence and functional versatility. Whether it's

the children's room, the living room, the hallway, or the kitchen, Paff transforms effortlessly to enhance every corner of your home.

The flexibility of the designs allows the design to evolve with you and your home: Imagine using the bench or the stool in the hallway when putting on your shoes, or the versatile table as a side table for your favourite book and a cup of tea, a creative drawing table for the little ones, or a tray table to accompany your morning coffee on its journey from the kitchen to your bed. Think of Paff as more than just a piece of furniture. It's a symbol of versatility, showing that adaptability can be both practical and beautiful.

Paff is just one chapter in UMAGE's story of innovation and versatility. From table lamps with built-in USB outlets to dining tables with hidden drawers, UMAGE's designs are a celebration of multifunctionality. With each piece, UMAGE invites you to reimagine your space and embrace the beauty of flexibility.

The tall Paff bench - a great addition to any hallway.

The Paff table and stool provide the perfect canvas for little ones to unleash their creativity.

The Paff table with tray top serves your refreshments in a practical yet elegant way.

MEET CHRISTIAN POULSEN

NAVIGATING THE SOURCING LANDSCAPE

In the dynamic world of furniture and lighting design, the role of sourcing stands as a cornerstone to success, balancing innovation with practicality and sustainability. How does something go from being just a thought or an idea to being an actual product? Tag along as we sit down for a conversation with UMAGE’s Head of Sourcing, Christian Poulsen, and uncover the complexity of navigating the sourcing landscape all while keeping sustainability as paramount.

Redefining the Norms and Building Bridges

Christian Poulsen’s work at UMAGE reflects his commitment to challenging traditions. As he says, “Everything doesn't have to be exactly as it has always been.” This mindset is crucial in his role as Head of Sourcing, where innovation is essential. At the age of 29, Christian has spent more than seven years at UMAGE, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the organisation. He explains, “Understanding how our designers think, how our suppliers work, and all processes of the organisation is crucial in my job.” His role involves bridging the design department and suppliers, ensuring that designers' visions are realized without compromising aesthetics, quality, or UMAGE’s sustainability goals, he explains.

The Many Faces of Sourcing

The sourcing field is multifaceted, encompassing everything from finding the right material to ensuring ethical labour practices and reducing environmental impact. In order to meet the sustainability goals of UMAGE, you constantly need to rethink, adapt and be open to new or better ways of doing things, Christian tells, highlighting his innovative mindset. This continuous reevaluation ensures that UMAGE stays ahead of industry trends and aligns with its commitment to sustainability. Whether it’s exploring new materials, optimizing supply chains, or improving production methods, sourcing is about being agile and responsive to change, Christian shares.

“In the world of sourcing, you’ll often meet closed doors or doors that are a bit tricky to open,” Christian continues. “Many suppliers in the design industry are bound by tradition, and changing or questioning these traditions is often challenging. But it is also a practice that is necessary to ensure a better and more sustainable production,” he states. “I’m, however, positively surprised of our own suppliers’ openness to change and implementing more sustainable practices”

CHRISTIAN POULSEN HEAD OF SOURCING AT UMAGE

ABOUT

WHO Christian Poulsen, 29

EDUCATION BSc in Business, Language and Culture, MSc in Economics and Business Administration - concentration of Supply Chain Management.

Started his journey at UMAGE in September 2016 as a Supply Chain Assistant. Throughout the years, Christian has worked as PA to the CEO, a Purchase Assistant, and a Purchaser. After finishing his Masters Degree in November 2021, Christian started a permanent position as Sourcing Specialist, and was later promoted to Head of Sourcing.

Collaboration Over Perfection

Christian’s philosophy towards supplier collaboration is progressive. He believes in working with suppliers who are willing to improve their practices. “I would rather collaborate with a supplier who may only be 50% of the way on their road to sustainability but is willing to improve than collaborate with a supplier who is 65% of the way there but unwilling to move,” he explains. This approach fosters continuous improvement and builds long-term partnerships grounded in mutual growth and sustainability.

Moving The Production to Europe

Emphasizing UMAGE’s commitment to constantly improve and take steps towards a more sustainable future, Christian let us in on how a big goal for UMAGE is to move some of the production from Asia to Europe. Christian states “It is important to take a strategic and holistic approach, considering every aspect from raw material sourcing to the final product’s journey to the customer.” He continues: “Being the most sustainable version of ourselves isn’t necessarily about moving the entire production out of Asia, as many might think”.

Christian tells how many aspects of the production need to be taken into account: Who buys the products? Where are they located? What materials are used and where do they come from? “A big part of sustainability in production is about transportation. That’s why it has been very important to us to ask ourself which products that are the most important ones to produce in Europe, from an environmental perspective,” Christian emphasizes. The answer lies in minimizing the carbon footprint associated with transportation, he explains. This is why, having a local production is the ultimate goal for UMAGE. “Having a local production removes all the unnecessary transportation and will minimize each product’s CO2 outlet.” Christian continues “However, this doesn’t happen overnight. It is important to know where to start”.

“We’ve recently started collaborating with a new supplier in Europe, and are very happy to share, that a big part of our lounge chair collections is now produced in Europe,” Christian tells. Lounge chairs are a great part of UMAGE’s sales: The wood is often sourced in North America or Europe, the chairs are mostly sold within Europe and lastly, they are one of the products that take up most space in transportation. For Christian, this means, that UMAGE’s production of lounge chairs is a good place to start.

Christian Poulsen exemplifies the perfect blend of innovation and tradition in his role as Head of Sourcing at UMAGE. His dedication to sustainability, commitment to collaboration, and strategic vision is shaping a new era for the company. As UMAGE continues to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing demands of the industry, Christian remains at the helm, navigating the sourcing landscape with a steady hand and an unyielding commitment to shaping a brighter, more sustainable future.

NIGHTTIME RADIANCE

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BEDSIDE LIGHTING

Over a lifetime, you'll likely spend more hours in your bedroom than in any other room, so it's crucial to create the perfect sanctuary. Choosing the right bedside lamps is essential for creating a calm and pleasant atmosphere, helping your eyes adjust as you prepare to sleep or wake up:

01 Decide on the style: Create a classic expression with a table lamp on the bedside table or keep the bedside table uncluttered and clean with a wall mounted lamp.

02 For evening readers, opt for dimmable and directional lighting that allows you to adjust the light intensity and angle for direct illumination on the text.

03 A lamp that diffuses light more widely in the room can be a better option if you watch tv at night to secure that your pupils don’t get strained.

04 Light temperature between 2200 and 2700 kelvin should be the aim for the bedroom to achieve a soft and warm atmosphere. With lampshades you are allowed to choose the bulb yourself, offering flexibility.

05 In small bedrooms, consider mounting a lamp directly above the bed to maximize the space.

TOP Available in two lengths and various colours, the Asteria Wall lamp is highly flexible with adjustable brightness.

BOTTOM The Omni Wall lamp provides focused yet wide-spread light, is dimmable, and can be directed to both sides.

CRAFTING THE FORGET ME NOT | SWEDEN

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of southeastern Sweden, just five hours from the UMAGE headquarters in Copenhagen, the story of the Forget Me Not lampshades unfolds.

For over two decades, this region has been home to a family-owned company deeply rooted in the craftsmanship of wood. Established in 1998, this company has become synonymous with an unwavering dedication to the artistry of woodworking, specializing in the intricate nuances of different wood varieties.

With an eye for detail, they delve into the essence of the wood, exploring its unique attributes such as structure, strength, and fibre direction. With this profound understanding, the artisans meticulously select the perfect wood for each of the Forget Me Not lampshades and craft timeless pieces of unparalleled quality and durability.

Featuring a tranquil wooden design, the Komorebi lamp is perfect for the bedroom, directing light both upwards and downwards to illuminate the room effectively.

A small, cordless lamp with four light settings, the Asteria Move emits downward light, creating a calm atmosphere without spreading light throughout the room.

HOPE LEATHER

“The Hope collection stands as a reminder that beauty and sustainability can go hand in hand.”

SØREN RAVN CHRISTENSEN CO-FOUNDER OF UMAGE

As a testament to elegance and a commitment to environmental consciousness, UMAGE welcomes the Hope leather collection. Born from a vision of harmony between nature and craftsmanship, the highquality, semi-aniline leather tells a story of meticulous care and respect for the environment.

The Hope collection goes beyond aesthetics with its promise of durability and resilience. Whether it's a quiet evening reading a book or a bustling gathering in a hotel bar, the Hope leather gracefully adapts, embodying the spirit of endurance and strength – a companion for all life's moments. Its lightly buffed finish preserves the leather's natural grain, revealing an elegant matte surface. Available in black, brown, and cognac, each shade of the Hope collection is inspired by nature. The combination of earthy hues and the oak of the lounge chair, which the leather adorns, the pieces will seamlessly blend into any interior space.

The tannage of Hope leather is chrome-free, ensuring a process that benefits both you and the planet. Crafted without chromium, the Hope leather is a cleaner, greener alternative to traditional chrome leather, underlining its commitment to sustainability. Certified with OEKO-TEX® LEATHER STANDARD and Global Recycled Standard, every aspect of the Hope leather is held to the highest standards, ensuring no compromise on quality or integrity.

Available for all pieces of the A Conversation Piece and The Reader collections, the Hope leather combines craftsmanship and sustainability, resulting in timeless design pieces that stand as a testament to meticulous care and respect for both quality and the planet.

OFFICE ELEGANCE ELEVATED

UMAGE DESIGNS AT OFFICE CLUB

On some of Copenhagen's finest addresses lies Office Club – an office solution for everyone who values an exclusive interior, a welcoming atmosphere, close personal contact and for those who define their own 9-5. Nestled in historical buildings like Brønnums Hus and Zieglers Gaard, each house tells a unique story of remarkable architectural achievement. The interiors seamlessly blend original details with modern design, featuring UMAGE's Heart’n’Soul meeting tables, Treasures cabinet, and Flow shelf.

One of the standout features of the Heart'n'Soul meeting tables adorning the meeting rooms at Office Club is its innovative storage solution. Equipped with two fabric-inlaid drawers at each end, this table allows users to quickly and discreetly store pens, remotes and notebooks, maintaining a clutter-free meeting room environment. Additionally, the drawers double as support for the two extension plates, ensuring stability even when the table is fully extended to seat up to 12 people. With the extension plates conveniently tucked away beneath the table, expanding the seating capacity is effortless and hassle-free.

Brønnums Hus, dating back to 1866, and Zieglers Gaard, a rococo gem from 1732, have been meticulously restored. Large windows and high ceilings add grandeur, while custom-made furniture and contemporary artworks enhance the elegance.

With unique meeting rooms across these historical houses, Office Club ensures productive and comfortable gatherings. Each room is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and exceptional service. Discover a workspace where history meets innovation, and every detail is designed to inspire and elevate your professional experience.

The multifunctional Heart'n'Soul table from UMAGE in one of Office Club's smaller meeting rooms can accommodate six people. Its flexible design allows you to add extension plates to accommodate even more attendees.

In the Aurora Lounge, two UMAGE Flow shelves, painted to match the colour of the wall, beautifully display books and liquor. Below them, the UMAGE Treasures cabinet provides stylish hidden storage for items you want to keep close but out of sight.

The drawers of the Heart'n'Soul table let you store office supplies like pens, notepads, and other items you might need in a meeting while also providing steady support for the extension plates when in use.

A CSR CATCH-UP

MIKKEL BOE PETERSEN CSR COORDINATOR, UMAGE

A year ago, in the first issue of the UMAGE paper, we delved into UMAGE's sustainability journey and the various steps to become a more responsible and environmentally friendly company. A year later, we reconnect with UMAGE's CSR Coordinator, Mikkel Boe Petersen and revisit UMAGE's sustainability journey to uncover the progress they've made, the challenges they've faced, and the new milestones on their path to becoming a leader in sustainable design. What new strategies have they employed, and how close are they to achieving their ambitious goals? Join us for a quick catch-up as we dive deeper into UMAGE's inspiring commitment to a sustainable future.

The Progress

Last year, Mikkel Boe Petersen emphasised that due to the complexity of sustainability, UMAGE decided to hire an external consultant to help outline and analyse the next steps for UMAGE towards a green transition. “The project with the external consultant concluded in March 2023, and its findings have truly set the stage for our current sustainability work,” Mikkel begins. “We've shifted our focus towards a detailed mapping of our sustainability efforts and exploring various options for a green transition. At this time last year, we decided to take a step back regarding the calculation of CO2e emissions for our products. However, during the last year, the wish to map this has persisted, and we now feel like we're ready to dive into this, which is why we've started a collaboration with a company called Målbar, helping us to identify the Life Cycle Assessment of our products.”

Mikkel explains that partnering with Målbar will help UMAGE achieve a comprehensive understanding of their CO2e emissions. “The Life Cycle Assessment calculations will provide insights into our Scope 3 emissions - these are indirect emissions from our supply chain and product lifecycle. This data is crucial for making informed decisions going forward.”

Reflecting on last year's progress in mapping UMAGE's activities of Scope 1 and 2, Mikkel notes, “I'm happy to report that we're making significant strides in this area. It's a complex task, but we're steadily moving forward.” Scope 1 and 2 covers emissions from sources that UMAGE owns or control directly as well as emission that they cause indirectly. Mikkel also shares an update on UMAGE's goal of achieving B Corp certification: “We are still fully committed to becoming B Corp certified. Although we haven't started the application process yet, we are preparing thoroughly for the rigorous approval process and aim to submit our application by the end of this year.”

The Path Forward

Looking ahead, Mikkel is optimistic but acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. He mentions how a critical aspect of UMAGE's sustainability journey is ensuring the engagement of all employees and stakeholders. However, transparency and communication are the best way forward; Mikkel states: “We strive to keep everyone involved through transparent communication and by highlighting the importance of sustainability in our everyday work.”

As UMAGE continues to navigate the complexities of sustainability, their commitment to transparency, honesty, and continuous improvement remains at the forefront of their mission. “Our next steps include further integrating sustainability into our business model, overcoming the challenges of accurate CO2e reporting, and continuing our journey towards B Corp certification. It's an ongoing effort, but one that we are fully dedicated to,” Mikkel Boe Petersen concludes.