Spiber, a leading Japanese company in the field of protein-based polymers, which established a production facility in Thailand in 2022, is now setting its sights on the United States for further growth and production.
The forthcoming production venture in the USA will be on a much grander scale, with a facility being set up in Iowa. This development is in collaboration with the ADM agricultural group and aims to tap into the abundant by-products of the local maize industry. This new source will provide vastly superior quantities of raw material compared to what is currently accessible in Thailand. Although the exact inauguration date for this facility in Iowa remains uncertain, its potential to bolster Spiber’s production capacity is undeniable.
This state-of-the-art Thai factory has the capacity to churn out five million tonnes of protein-based polymers, all crafted through the process of biomass fermentation. Looking at these numbers, Goldwin, an esteemed outdoor apparel brand, has taken a keen interest in Spiber’s innovative protein-based fibre. To demonstrate the industrial-scale potential of their fibre production, Spiber and Goldwin recently partnered to present their Fall/Winter 2024 collection at a pop-up store in London. The collection showcased various items, including an overcoat, anorak, performance trousers, and a denim jacket, each incorporating the innovative protein-based fabric.
Spiber’s current Thai factory relies on biomass derived from sugar cane, a prevalent crop in the region. This establishment serves as a vital stepping stone in their journey towards widespread production and fruitful collaborations with renowned brands. Their earlier collaborations with Pangaia, Yuima Nakazato, and The North Face have already showcased the innovative potential of Spiber’s approach to sustainable fashion.
