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The automobile industry is in a very crucial and unprecedented transition period, reflecting changes caused by trends with CASE and MaaS, and the growing popularity of BEV’s and NEV’s. Along with the changes in people’s lifestyles from the coronavirus pandemic, and the rapid rise of environmental awareness such as taking actions for SDGs and especially, achieving carbon neutrality, our company’s main focus, fabrics for transportation vehicles, is in a rapidly changing environment. Since the start of operation in 2010, we have been able to provide many attractive fabrics to our customers all over the world through our rich history standing 180 years strong, from our founding parent organizations, Toyota Boshoku Corporation, Kawashima Selkon Textiles Co., Ltd., and Tatsumura Textile Co., Ltd. In addition, the power of teamwork among the design, technology, sales and marketing members as one team in accurately grasping and meeting customer needs has contributed to the success. In recent years, we have diversified the lines of products with examples such as the BRIN・NAUB®, the finest nubuck-type covering material, and SILCREVE®, a material for the expanding synthetic leather market. Both are highly evaluated by customers. In terms of global response and future growth potential, we are strengthening the operations in our new factory established in Jiangsu Province, China, equipped with an integrated production system which spans the processes from fabric production to cutting and seat-cover sewing. In addition, we have restructured our local manufacturing plant in India, and formed a joint venture with AUNDE Achter & Ebels GmbH, a leading German fabric manufacturer in 2020 to effectively adapt to the Indian market expansion. We have further agreed to develop our business alliance with AUNDE based on the global agreement in 2021. Being alert and ahead of future trends, we are also working on the development of functional chemicals featuring anti-stain, antibacterial, antivirus, and antistatic discharge effects as well as fabrics that display information by transmitting light for future mobile spaces in shared mobility services and autonomous vehicles. In terms of reducing carbon emission, we will continue to contribute to the safety and comfort of everyone’s life in various ways, not only through the use of materials which reduce environmental impact, but also through innovative manufacturing which supports the recycling of materials. All members of TB Kawashima will continue to make strenuous efforts as one team through thorough communication to provide products that bring our customers delight and pleasure. Your continued kind support would be sincerely appreciated. Hirokazu Kameno |
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