The LYCRA Company Opens a New R&D Lab in China

16 May 2019

The fiber and fabric technology producer has announced that May 16th, 2019, is the official opening day of ATIC – Advanced Textile Innovation Center. The new hub for research, development, and textile innovation was inaugurated in Nanhai, China.

With a surface area of 4,500 square meters (nearly 48,500 square feet), this new lab – the company’s fourth – represents a notable increase in their international R&D capabilities for fibers and technologies created for clothing, hygiene, and personal care.

The scientists at ATIC will help manufacturers, brands, and retailers in all of Asia, as well as Western companies that source materials from the area, to create fabrics and other items using The LYCRA Company’s innovations. These fibers include Lycra, Lycra HyFit, Thermolite, and Coolmax. The research team will also support clients in identifying market opportunities, as well as developing and commercializing new technologies for polymers, fibers, and textiles.

“Developing groundbreaking innovations and creating new garment categories are part of our company’s heritage and critical to our success going forward,” said Bob Kirkwood, chief technology officer. “Our investment in ATIC not only enhances our global R&D capabilities, but also demonstrates our commitment to providing exceptional service to our customers based in Asia.”

The lab is complete with equipment to simulate the real manufacturing process, including knitting, weaving, dyeing, and finishing, so the company will be able to provide optimal technical support and guarantee consistent product quality while reducing risk. The lab also has analytical testing, fabric certification, and apparel design tools to help customers obtain the desired performance for their fabrics and products. As part of the company’s Virtual Lab network, the researchers can easily collaborate with their colleagues all over the world to develop textile innovations.

“By integrating science with apparel market research, ATIC staff will help guide the development and commercialization of innovative garment solutions designed to meet global apparel market needs,” said Julien Born, president of apparel. “Co-locating ATIC and our South China sales office will enable tighter integration between R&D and our commercial team and help our customers accelerate speed-to-market.”

The company operates in 14 countries, with four R&D labs, eight production sites, and 17 offices to serve its global client base. It holds over 1,000 patents and applications, more than 2,300 registered trademarks, and nearly 250 unique logos and brands.