Daily News
From Home Furnishing Business
Toray Industries Return to INTERWOVEN to Showcase Trends
October 3,
2023 by HFBusiness Staff in Business Strategy, Designer Weekly, Industry 
The biophilic-themed color story features 14 complementary shades ranging from the lightest, a cream-based Tapioca, to Coffee Bean, a rich, dark brown. Included in between those are Tea Rose, a subtle mauve; Sunflower, a soft gold; and a series of plant-inspired hues: Laurel, Basil and Lotus Green. Regal Blue punctuates the otherwise earthy tones to offer a visual point of contrast.
The new color theme aptly reflects the brand’s focus on sustainability.
Earlier this year, Toray announced an increase in plant-based components used in Ultrasuede® HP, to approximately 30 percent of its total composition with the subsequent addition of plant-based polyurethane. The polyurethane is composed of polyol made from the non-edible castor-oil plant (Ricinus communis).
In 2015, Toray began incorporating partially plant-based polyester in the production of its high-performance material, using polyester polymerized with ethylene glycol made from waste molasses in sugarcane processing — which then accounted for approximately 14 percent of the total material composition.
Ultrasuede is the world’s first non-woven suede material manufactured this way, a result of the company’s commitment to innovation. By continuing its investment in sustainability-driven R&D, Toray is committed to developing a 100-percent plant-based material for its next generation, eco-luxury material.
The non-woven construction of Ultrasuede® HP material makes it inherently stain-, moisture-, and fade-resistant, which sets it apart in the high-performance upholstery material category. Breathable, with a similar structure to animal hides, this leather-alternative material exceeds 200,000 double rubs in independent testing.
Toray’s Ultrasuede brand returns to INTERWOVEN after a break this spring. To make an appointment for the event, Nov. 14 - 16, or to learn more about plant-based Ultrasuede® HP for residential and commercial upholstered furniture applications, contact Helen Brier, Ultrasuede Sales and Marketing Manager, at helen.brier.b6@mail.toray.