Company is establishing a robust supply structure in response to growing global demand for down alternatives

Tokyo, May 18, 2026 --- Teijin Frontier Co., Ltd., part of the Teijin Group, today announced plans to install new equipment for manufacturing OCTAIR™ polyester insulation fiber at its Matsuyama Plant in Ehime Prefecture. This new equipment represents an investment of several hundred million yen. It will enable the company to expand capacity for OCTAIR™ products to meet increasing demand for high-performance alternatives to down insulation in apparel and bedding. Production using this equipment is scheduled to begin in March 2027.

OCTAIR™ insulation fiber features a unique, hollow, eight-fin cross-section with radiating protrusions. Its thermal insulation performance is equivalent to that of down of the same weight. It delivers desirable loft and light weight, thanks to the voids created by its unique structure. Furthermore, OCTAIR™ offers a supple, soft texture with dimensional stability, and it permits a smoother blowing-in process compared to conventional polyester fiberfill.

Worldwide demand for down alternatives has grown in recent years due to factors such as insufficient supplies of down and rising production costs. To address this situation, Teijin Frontier developed OCTAIR™ in 2024 and commenced test marketing. In response to further expected growth in demand, the company will implement mass production capabilities for several different OCTAIR™ materials, including products that incorporate polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT) fibers or recycled polyester fibers. The new pre-processing, spinning and drawing equipment will augment existing production capabilities to ensure stable and scalable supplies of OCTAIR™ insulation fiber. Production volume will start at several hundred tons per year and is planned to reach approximately 1,000 tons annually by 2030. 

          Cross section of OCTAIR™

About the Teijin Group 
Teijin (TSE: 3401) is a global group that co-creates value with Customer-Driven businesses across the Apparel & Industries, Healthcare & Life Solutions, Electronics & Energy, and Specialty Materials domains. Established in 1918 as Japan’s first rayon manufacturer, Teijin today comprises some 125 companies employing approximately 15,700 people. Teijin is committed to its Purpose: Pioneering solutions together for a healthy planet. Teijin works together with employees and external partners to achieve its Long-Term Vision: To be a company that supports the society of the future. Teijin posted consolidated revenue of JPY 873.2 billion and total assets of JPY 920.1 billion in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026.
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Teijin Limited 
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