The transition to a circular future requires innovative solutions and the will to take action. No-rest, founded by Mark Botter and Allard Lith of Sign and More BV, transforms event waste into valuable fan merchandise. The Startup Hero Journey 2024 provided valuable insights from a broader perspective, which helped No-rest sharpen their business model and convince event organisers of the impact and power of their circular concept.
Building a circular event industry
Events often generate a large amount of waste, including banners and canvases that are discarded after the event. No-rest offers a creative and sustainable solution by transforming these materials into high-quality products such as bags and accessories. "We believe that waste is not an end point, but the beginning of something new," says Mark Botter. "Our products not only contribute to sustainability, but also tell a story that fans love to carry with them."
With this vision, No-rest has developed a platform that converts waste streams into circular merchandise. For example, used banners are given a second life as unique and functional items. This offers event organisers an opportunity not only to reduce their waste streams, but also to offer a tangible symbol of sustainability to their visitors.
Working together for impact
No-rest's challenge lies in their business model: the buyers are event organisers, while the end users are the fans.The insights from the Startup Hero Journey allowed Mark and Allard to refine their approach. "The journey helped us to clarify our message and better respond to our customers' needs," Mark explains.
Case studies show the power of No-rest. During conversations with event organisers, they often become aware of the impact of their waste. One client remarked: "I felt shame when I realised how many banners we throw away after every event." By transforming these materials into valuable products, No-rest offers a solution with both environmental and social impact.
The promise of sustainable merchandise
With their concept, No-rest offers more than a solution to waste; they create value that event visitors are proud to wear. Mark Botter: "We want to show that circular economy is not only necessary, but can also be attractive and inspiring."
With future plans to roll out their concept on a larger scale, No-rest continues to invest in innovation and awareness. Thanks to their participation in the Startup Hero Journey, they are better equipped to make a lasting positive impact in the event industry.
Growth accelerator: Startup Hero Journey
Participating in the Startup Hero Journey 2024 gave No-rest valuable insights and tools to realise their circular vision. This journey helped them not only improve their business model, but also build strong networks. As with other promising startups, such as Stone Box, No-rest's success shows the power of collaboration and innovation within a circular economy.
Startup Hero Journey 2025
Are you an ambitious (early-stage) startup and want to become the new Hero of 2025? In 2025, the Municipality of Almere (UPALMERE!) is organising the program for the third time, specially designed to take innovative enterprises to the next level. Interested?
