The Lenzing Group is setting a further milestone in intensifying its cooperation with the partners along the value chain by its opening of a new Application Innovation Center (AIC) in Hong Kong. New applications for Lenzing fibres will be developed and tested at the new facility, among them applications for recent innovations like the Refibra branded lyocell fibre and the EcoVero branded viscose fibre.

“With this new centre Lenzing is further implementing its corporate strategy sCore TEN. One of the cornerstones of this strategy is enhancing the level of customer intimacy. The proximity to important Asian customers and partners along the value chain creates a new dimension in our service offering,” said Robert van de Kerkhof, Chief Commercial Officer of the Lenzing Group.

“We can react more quickly to current trends and handle a broad spectrum of aspects on location relating to the application with our full range of fibres as well as unique fibre blends in collaboration with our supply chain partners. Herewith we can develop highly aesthetic, emotional and functional products around the world.”

Global technology network

“This new Application Innovation Center is an integral part of our global technology network, from our R&D department and fibre processing laboratory in Lenzing to our fibre testing facility in Indonesia,” explained Heiko Arnold, Chief Technology Officer of the Lenzing Group.

Accordingly, Lenzing is underlining its global innovation leadership. “Lenzing’s research and development expenditures amounting to EUR 46.4 million in the last financial year are among the highest within the peer-group internationally. The bottom line is that these investments benefit our customers, because they can optimally differentiate themselves from the competition by using innovative Lenzing products,” added Arnold.

Testing new applications

“In this cross-learning centre for Lenzing and our partners new applications will be tested for commercialising fibre innovations. This will contribute to Lenzing’s ability to even more quickly and effectively transfer its innovative strength to our customers,” said Eric Chan, General Manager of Lenzing Fibers Hongkong.

“Moreover, the new AIC also enables prototype production of textile fabrics made of Lenzing fibres, from the concept, dyeing and finishing to the precise measurement of all product data.”

The Lenzing Application Innovation Center starts its operation as of now and is open for visitors from the whole industry.

www.lenzing.com