The Lenzing Group, renowned for its regenerated cellulosic fibers, has partnered with Roica by Asahi Kasei, a leader in premium stretch fibers, and Kaihara Denim, a prestigious Japanese denim manufacturer, to launch the ‘Saisei Collection.’ This marks the first collaboration among these industry leaders, aimed at producing high-quality denim that incorporates a significant amount of recycled materials. The collection will debut at Kingpins Amsterdam on October 23-24, 2024.
Driving denim circularity
Dennis Hui, Global Business Development Manager, Denim at Lenzing, expressed excitement about the strategic alliance, highlighting the shared commitment to sustainability and innovation in denim production. He noted that this partnership represents a bold step toward driving denim circularity, leveraging the joint expertise and dedication of the collaborators. The initiative focuses on combining Lenzing’s LenzingEcoverofibers, enhanced with Refibra technology, with Roica EF recycled stretch yarn, which is recognized for its exceptional elasticity and comfort.
This partnership is positioned not just to produce excellent products but also to catalyze a transformation toward sustainable practices across the denim value chain.
Sustainable fabric composition
The Saisei Collection features a unique blend of materials that highlights both sustainability and functionality. Roica EF yarn is crafted from pre-consumer recycled content, offering outstanding stretchability, which contributes significantly to the fabric's comfort. On the other hand, LenzingEcoverofibers incorporate up to 20 per cent post-consumer textile waste, primarily from cellulose-rich sources or polyester-cotton blends. This combination not only enhances the denim's softness but also promotes environmental consciousness within the industry.
Hiroaki Shinohe, Chief Marketing Officer of Roica Europe at Asahi Kasei, articulated the company's commitment to sustainability, explaining that the innovative Roica EF yarns are designed to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 30 per cent compared to conventional yarns. He emphasized that this collaboration demonstrates how recycling can revitalize used materials, effectively meeting the increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly denim options.
Versatile denim applications
The Saisei Collection offers three distinctive denim fabrications: super stretch (Monster Stretch), comfort stretch, and low stretch (selvedge denim). Each fabrication is crafted using Kaihara Denim’s artisanal techniques, ensuring the highest quality. The fabrics possess a unique hand feel, characterized by a subtle bulkiness and reduced drape, which provides versatility for fashion designers and brands.
This innovative denim line empowers designers to create a range of stylish, resource-efficient garments, from casual everyday wear to more formal attire. The collaboration not only meets the demand for eco-conscious fashion but also encourages brands to explore new avenues in sustainable design.
Hirofumi Inagaki, Executive Officer and General Manager of Sales at Kaihara Denim, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the company’s rich history in premium denim manufacturing. He highlighted that the collaboration with Lenzing and Roica represents their joint efforts to drive positive change in the global denim landscape. This synergy aims to reshape sustainable denim applications while reinforcing a commitment to a more circular fashion value chain.
Showcasing innovation at Kingpins Amsterdam
The Saisei Collection will be featured at the Lenzing booth (no 12 in the blue zone) and the Roica booth (no 10 in the yellow zone) during Kingpins Amsterdam. This event represents a significant opportunity for the partners to showcase their commitment to sustainable fashion and inspire the industry towards eco-friendly innovations in denim. As consumer awareness grows regarding sustainable practices, the Saisei Collection stands as a testament to the future of responsible fashion.
