Chemicals and materials conglomerate Asahi Kasei is to expand production of its Lamous artificial suede product, used in various functions including apparel, at its site in Miyazaki, Japan.

Lamous features a three-layered microstructure made partly of recycled polyester from PET bottles and textiles, and processed with water-based polyurethane. As well as in automotive interiors and furniture upholstery, Lamous is also used in apparel with end-uses including jackets and coats, skirts and dresses, trousers and shirts, as well as piping tape, elbow patches and badges.

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Asahi Kasei says the material is lighter than real suede, which gives it good drape, while its three-layered construction maintains breathability and comfort. 

Production will be extended by 4m square metres per year, increasing total production capacity to 14m m2/year upon completion, and is expected to come on-stream by the second half of 2021.

A spokesperson for the company declined to confirm how much of its production is used in apparel but said the increase in production is a result of higher demand in all sectors, including clothing. “As such demand growth is forecasted to continue, the decision was made to expand capacity. Moving forward, Asahi Kasei will continue to strengthen the Lamous supply configuration in line [with demand].”

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