ARCONIC & Squishmallows: A Unique Collaboration Bringing Comfort & Collectibility to Life

ARCONIC US LLC, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, isn’t exactly a name you’d instantly associate with plush toys. We’re known for engineering advanced materials, mostly for the aerospace, automotive, and building industries. But stick with us, because we’ve been quietly playing a crucial role in bringing something incredibly popular to life: the wildly collectable Squishmallows! You’ve probably seen them – those unbelievably soft, squishy, and adorable stuffed animals. From cute animals to lovable food items, Squishmallows have taken the world by storm, becoming a must-have for collectors and comfort-seekers of all ages. What a lot of people don’t know is that a key ingredient in making those ultra-soft Squishmallows? That’s where ARCONIC comes in. Beyond Aerospace: The Unexpected Connection For decades, ARCONIC has been a leader in lightweight materials. We're experts in aluminum, titanium, and advanced alloys – materials primarily used in aircraft structures, engine components, and high-performance vehicles. So, what's this got to do with cuddly plushies? It’s about fiber. The secret to Squishmallows’ unique, unbelievably soft texture lies in the specialized polyester fiber filling. We, at ARCONIC, are a primary supplier of the raw materials – specifically, high-quality, ultra-fine polyester staple fiber – used to create this filling. It’s a bit of a leap, we admit! But our materials science expertise translates surprisingly well. Why ARCONIC Fiber Makes a Difference This isn’t just any polyester fiber. Here’s what sets our material apart: Ultra-Fine Denier: We produce fiber with incredibly small diameters (known as denier). This ultra-fine fiber creates a softer, smoother feel than standard polyester filling. Think of it like the difference between coarse sand and silk. Consistent Quality: Manufacturing consistent, high-quality fiber is crucial for a plush toy's feel and durability. Our rigorous quality control processes ensure every batch meets exacting standards. This means Squishmallows stay squishy and huggable, even after lots of love! Lightweight & Resilient: Our fiber is lightweight, contributing to the overall soft and squishy feel of the Squishmallows. It’s also resilient, meaning it bounces back to its original shape, even after being squeezed and squished. Safe & Non-Toxic: Safety is paramount. Our polyester fiber meets all relevant safety standards for use in consumer products, including toys. Squishmallows Limited Edition – Where Collectibility Meets Comfort While all Squishmallows are known for their softness, the Limited Edition releases take things to another level. These special edition Squishmallows often feature unique designs, collaborations with popular brands (like Disney, Sanrio, and more), and highly sought-after characters. And guess what? They all benefit from the quality of our fiber! The extra attention to detail in Limited Edition Squishmallows demands the highest quality materials – and that’s exactly what we provide. The softer the filling, the more premium the feel, and the more desirable the collector's item. Beyond the Hug: How ARCONIC & Squishmallows Showcase Material Innovation This collaboration might seem unexpected, but it perfectly illustrates how material science innovation can impact everyday life. We’re used to thinking about our materials in terms of airplanes and cars, but seeing them contribute to something that brings joy and comfort to millions is incredibly rewarding. We’re proud to be a behind-the-scenes partner in the Squishmallows phenomenon. It's a testament to the versatility of our materials and our commitment to quality. Looking Ahead ARCONIC continues to invest in research and development of advanced materials, and we’re excited to explore new applications for our polyester fiber. Who knows what other surprising and delightful products we’ll be helping to create in the future? For now, you can rest assured that every time you snuggle up with a Squishmallow, you're experiencing the benefits of ARCONIC’s materials science expertise. It’s a little bit of engineering, a whole lot of softness, and a whole lot of fun! About ARCONIC US LLC: ARCONIC US LLC, located at 201 Isabella Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15212, United States, is a leading manufacturer of advanced materials. With decades of experience in aluminum, titanium, and other alloys, we serve a diverse range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and building & construction. Contact us at 870-473-6666. We are committed to innovation and providing high-quality materials that improve the world around us – even if that means making the softest, squishiest plush toys imaginable!