Asahi Kasei invests in US start-up NFW to provide 100% bio-based leather for automotive interior applications

Asahi Kasei has decided to invest in US start-up NFW, which produces non-petroleum-based leather alternatives for automotive interiors. As part of Asahi Kasei’s mid-term growth strategy, NFW will cooperate with Sage, a subsidiary of Asahi Kasei
Automotive Interiors, Inc. (Sage)
Working closely together, the company is a leading global supplier of innovative and functional materials for automotive interiors. This strategic partnership achieves an important milestone in taking steps to support global automotive OEMs in reducing the environmental burden of their vehicles.

Headquartered in Peoria, Illinois, USA, and founded in 2015, NFW has developed the only platform capable of producing precision-engineered natural (non-petroleum-based) leathers, foams and textiles to replace animal and petrochemical materials. The company’s patented leather alternative, MIRUM®, is certified by the USDA as 100% biobased and is made from natural rubber, natural fibers, vegetable oils, natural colors and minerals. The material’s exceptional durability and quality can replace traditional animal leather or synthetic leather products without the need for any polyurethane or other coatings.

Sage develops, manufactures and sells innovative functional materials for automotive interiors worldwide. Since being acquired by Asahi Kasei in 2018, Sage has been strengthening its business activities in Europe and China through mergers and acquisitions, while expanding its lineup of materials with growth potential, such as suede microfiber leather and synthetic leather. As one of the world’s leading suppliers to the automotive seat fabric market, Sage has a strong presence among car manufacturers and suppliers.

Dirk, Chairman of the Board of Sage and CEO of Asahi Kasei Complete Vehicle Product Development and Growth
Pieper said, “The collaboration with NFW will enable Asahi Kasei and Sage to help global automakers reduce the environmental burden of their vehicles. By jointly developing and manufacturing non-petroleum-based full-cycle leather alternatives, Asahi Kasei Group is revolutionizing the automotive interior materials market. Be at the forefront of change.”

The collaboration with NFW is part of Asahi Kasei’s “Care for
The first project within the investment framework of “Earth”. The company allocates up to $100 million globally to invest in early-stage startups over 5 years to fiscal 2027 through hydrogen, energy storage, carbon management and bio-based chemicals. Address environmental aspects. As stated in its mid-term management plan in April 2022, the automotive interior materials business is one of Asahi Kasei’s “Ten Growth Gears” (GG10) designed to drive future growth, targeting 2030 About 70% of operating income is achieved.