Oritain Joins Verdantix Podcast to Discuss the Criticality of Proving Origin

Oritain has been highlighted in the latest episode of the Curiosity, Applied podcast by global research and advisory firm Verdantix.

The episode, titled Hidden in Plain Sight: Why Proving Origin is the New Business Mandate, featured Oritain’s Chief Commercial Officer, Rupert Hodges, alongside Wes Tucker, CEO of Tracr (De Beers Group). Together with host Ryan Skinner, the group dissects the shifting landscape of global trade and transparency for businesses today.

The podcast appearance follows Oritain CEO Alyn Franklin’s recent interview with Reuters and reflects how Oritain continues to lead the global conversation on supply chain integrity.

The central theme of the episode is clear: global supply chains are under immense, unprecedented stress. From the infiltration of fraudulent goods and illegal materials to the ethical minefield of forced labor, the potential for a regulatory crisis has never been higher.

Rupert Hodges discusses how the rising expectations of conscious consumers and emerging regulations such as Europe’s Digital Product Passports are increasing the importance of scientifically verified product origin data.

"Understanding the true origin of your product can be the difference between building an enduring and sustainable brand or being blindsided by a reputational and regulatory crisis.”

Hodges emphasized that for today’s business leaders, ‘plausible deniability’ is no longer a defensible strategy. At a time where forensic science can precisely verify the farm, forest, or field a product originated from, claiming ignorance about sourcing practices is becoming a liability rather than a shield.

However, the podcast was not just a warning about risk – it was a roadmap for growth. By leveraging supply chain transparency, businesses can protect integrity, build trust, and turn transparency into competitive advantage.

Oritain’s appearance in the episode comes after a year of significant laboratory expansion in Europe and strategic entries into the timber and leather sectors, together with recognition in multiple international awards.

Listen to the full episode now on the Verdantix podcast.