Asahi Kasei invests in US startup NFW

Based in Peoria, Illinois, NFW was founded in 2015 and has developed the only platform capable of producing precision-engineered, natural (non-petroleum-based) leather, foam, and textiles to replace animal and petrochemical-based materials. Certified by the United States department of agriculture as having 100 per cent bio-based content, Mirum, the company's patented leather alternative, is made from natural rubber, natural fibres, plant oils, natural pigments, and minerals. The material offers superior durability and quality that can replace traditional animal-based or synthetic leather products without the use of any polyurethane or other coatings.

Sage is engaged in developing, manufacturing, and selling innovative functional materials used in automobile interiors globally. Since its acquisition by Asahi Kasei in 2018, Sage has strengthened its business activities in Europe and China through mergers and acquisitions in parallel to expanding its lineup of growth-potential materials such as suede and synthetic leather. As one of the leading global suppliers in the car seat fabric market, Sage has a strong presence among automakers and suppliers.

“The cooperation with NFW will enable Asahi Kasei and Sage to assist global automakers in reducing the environmental burden of their cars. By jointly developing and manufacturing a non-petroleum-based and fully circular leather alternative, the Asahi Kasei Group takes a leading position in revolutionising the market for car interior materials,” Dirk Pieper, chairman of the Sage board of directors and lead executive for the development and growth of Asahi Kasei’s overall automotive product offering, said.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RR)