The Washington, D.C.-based Organic Trade Association has recognized Barry Cik, founder and technical director of mattress maker Naturepedic, as one of three “organic visionaries” of 2014. He is to receive the Rising Star award Sept. 17 in Baltimore, at the OTA annual organic-leadership celebration.
Cik, an environmental engineer, established Chagrin Falls, Ohio-based Naturepedic in 2003, as a manufacturer of organic crib mattresses. The family-owned business now offers a full line of third-party-certified bedding that meets the Global Organic Textile Standard. In 2014, the company’s entire product line received the Specialty Sleep Association’s Level IV certification.
Also honored by the OTA were Marty Mesh of Florida Certified-Organic Growers and Consumers, and Doug Crabtree of Vilicus Farms.
“These outstanding visionaries have made invaluable contributions to demonstrating how organic practices can change our world for the better,” said Laura Batcha, OTA executive director and chief executive officer. “We are excited to honor these three individuals who were nominated by their peers and chosen unanimously by OTA’s board of directors.”
