How Nima Vakili Turned Recycled Materials Into a Circular Economy Movement
Discover how SupplySide Global helped Nima Vakili build a sustainable future with innovative materials and lasting partnerships.
Laying the Groundwork for Sustainable Change
A Mission to Build Circular Supply Chains
When Nima Vakili attended SupplySide Global in 2019, he had a clear mission: to establish a B2B customer base for his company’s sustainable materials and packaging solutions. At the time, his company, Chemplax (now Safa BioWorks), was focused on introducing post-consumer and post-industrial recycled supply chains to the food and nutraceutical industries.
“I came to SupplySide Global to connect with the right partners — and left with the foundation for our future.”
Where Vision Meets Opportunity
A Hub of Transformation
Walking into SupplySide Global, Vakili was struck by the energy and caliber of attendees. The show floor was filled with decision-makers and R&D leaders looking for real solutions. What started as a goal to make a handful of connections turned into an ecosystem of long-term partners. That first show didn’t just meet expectations — it gave Safa BioWorks its initial customer foothold.
“It felt less like a trade show and more like a hub of transformation.”
Building Value Through Shared Purpose
Authentic Relationships That Last
Rather than trying to meet everyone, Nima focused on authentic, quality conversations with companies that shared his values. His pitch was specific: reliable, traceable recycled materials with consistent quality. Several of the brands he met in 2019 are still Safa BioWorks customers today, providing both commercial revenue and strategic input that shaped the company’s evolution.
Innovation Fueled by Insight
From Recycling to Bio-Based Breakthroughs
Conversations at SupplySide Global revealed a massive gap in the market — brands wanted sustainability, but existing solutions compromised on safety or performance. That realization accelerated R&D at Safa BioWorks. This evolution eventually produced the Date Palm Circular Recycling Model, turning regional agricultural waste into high-value bioplastics and biomaterials.
“The connections I made at SupplySide Global became long-term partners who gave us both stability and growth.”
Turning Vision Into Industry Impact
Scaling Circular Economy Solutions
SupplySide Global was the spark that gave Nima the confidence to pursue circular economy solutions at scale. Safa BioWorks’ breakthroughs in converting date palm biomass into PLA and PHA bioplastics positioned it as a leader in agricultural waste valorization. These innovations have helped food and beverage brands meet recycled-content and sustainability goals without sacrificing quality or safety.
Your Next Breakthrough Starts Here
SupplySide Global isn’t just a trade show — it’s a launchpad for discovery, innovation and growth. For brands and innovators looking to build partnerships and scale transformative ideas, attending is essential.