Crailar in fibre supply deal with Japan's Kowa

JAPAN: Crailar in fibre supply deal with Kowa

By Katie Smith | 14 January 2013

Crailar Technologies is to supply its Crailar flax-based fibres to Japan-based Kowa Company

Crailar Technologies (formerly Naturally Advanced Technologies) is to supply its Crailar flax-based fibres to Japan-based Kowa Company for use in sustainable apparel.

Kowa's main area of focus is its lifestyle business, which includes fashion, active apparel and domestic goods. Crailar will start fulfilling orders from Kowa this quarter.

"We are pleased to be working with Kowa Company as it gives Crailar a strategic opportunity to demonstrate what 118 years of experience can bring to the advancement of sustainably in textiles, fabric and apparel in one of the world's most discerning apparel and consumer product markets," said Crailar Technologies CEO Ken Barker.

"Further, it provides Crailar another direct entry point into Asia that complements our current global partners, expands our footprint, and points toward our long-term goal of a global supply chain."

Kowa Company, which was founded in 1894 as a cotton wholesaler, has expanded into a multi-national corporation under the Kowa Group, which operates in textiles, consumer products, pharmaceuticals and machinery.

Sectors: Apparel, Fibres & fabrics, Manufacturing