Crypton, a leading provider of performance fabric technologies in the contract design and residential home furnishings markets, is entering the European market. Crypton Europe will launch at the Heimtextil trade show in Frankfurt, from 8-14 January.

“We see expansion into Europe as a natural fit. One with tremendous potential as we embark on bringing Crypton to important emerging global markets,” said Lance Keziah, CEO of Crypton. “We have long been evaluating Europe as a growth platform and have spent considerable R&D efforts to provide best in class performance that meets the stringent European test requirements. We’re excited to enter the market and look forward to Heimtextil-Frankfurt.”

Crypton fabrics, for both the residential and contract markets, will be made in Europe and warehoused in Belgium. They will be affiliating with carefully selected fabric production facilities and brands for distribution of Crypton performance textiles throughout Europe.

“Crypton introduces the European design community to an entirely new category that offers broad new possibilities. One of beautifully designed performance fabrics that resist spills, stains, and odours permanently while being people- and planet-friendly. And unlike anything else in Europe, Crypton fabrics are engineered with an integrated barrier that prevents liquid stains from penetrating to the cushion, resists flame spread, and maintains fabric flexibility.”

The expansion into Europe is spearheaded by Hardy Sullivan, Executive Vice President, who is overseeing this initiative and all of Crypton’s international operations. Sullivan is supported by Guy Parmentier, Vice President of International Sales for Crypton. “There is great opportunity for our performance fabrics in Europe,” said Sullivan. “There’s nothing quite like Crypton, and it satisfies the growing demand in certain sectors; specifically, hospitality and healthcare, for a high performing textile that meets key Fire Rating (FR) standards for European upholstery.”

“We look forward to connecting with prospective European distributors, mills, and jobbers, as well as dialoguing with designers and specifiers,” commented Guy Parmentier, VP of International Sales for Crypton. “To introducing them to freedom to use warm, inviting fabrics in areas where formerly their only options were to use a vinyl or very stiff fabric. Given how soft, textural and on-trend our textiles are, designers are astonished when they see Crypton’s amazing performance demonstrations and discover its strength and durability.”

Crypton will be distributed primarily through contract and residential distributors serving the healthcare, hospitality, commercial and residential marketplaces.

www.crypton.com