The leading polymer materials supplier Covestro is extending its INSQIN Partner Manufacturer Program with the newly signed partner, Kunshan Xiefu New Material, a China-based producer of PU coated fabric for global markets.

The two companies will collaborate to promote sustainable PU materials in sectors, such as fashion apparel and footwear. Xeifu is the second company to earn a place in the Program, after Korean PU synthetic materials manufacturer Duksung. It is also the first Chinese company joining the Program.

Supporting growth

Launched in July 2015, the INSQIN Partner Manufacturer Program connects manufacturers and brand owners across the polyurethane (PU)-coated fabric supply chain. Partners must demonstrate an ongoing commitment to sustainability and transparency, using Covestro’s waterborne, PU coating technology and industry-leading processes to meet the emerging sustainability needs of brand owners.

“A growing number of brands and retailers are becoming interested in sourcing sustainable materials, and further, they need more assurances about the origins and integrity of those materials. The Program was developed to link these brands with manufacturers capable of efficiently delivering innovative materials and sustainability best practice,” said Nick Smith, Global Head of Textile Coatings, Covestro.

“We are proud to welcome Xiefu to the Program and look forward to supporting the growth of sustainable PU-coated textiles for the fashion apparel and footwear market worldwide.”

Providing technical support

Under the Program, Covestro will provide world-class technical support to help Xiefu further develop its use of the INSQIN technology. Xiefu will also receive verification of its production processes and management systems via a globally recognized third-party audit.

“Xiefu is committed to customer-centric innovation and sustainability to serve the world’s most demanding brands. We are pleased to be recognized as a key partner of Covestro, with the technology, processes and skills to deliver exciting new PU products through sustainable manufacturing,” said Sun Guohao, Chairman of Kunshan Xiefu New Material.

“As a mark of our quality and professionalism, our validation as an INSQIN Partner Manufacturer will help bring new business opportunities by connecting us with brand owners and retailers that want to source sustainable PU-coated materials.”

www.covestro.com