Toray Launches Ultrasuede Showroom and Sewing Facility in Sintra

Toray Industries is gearing up to shake up the European textile scene. They’re opening a dedicated Ultrasuede showroom and stock sales point right at Alva Confecções’ factory in Sintra, Portugal.

This move, set for January 2026, marks the first time Ultrasuede sewing will happen in Europe. The plan aims to bolster local supply chains and reach into interiors, furniture, fashion, and even automotive sectors.

The showroom, designed by Rui Pereira and Ryosuke Fukusada, should be a lively hub for innovation. It’ll spotlight just how versatile and high-quality Ultrasuede materials can be.

Expanding Ultrasuede’s Reach in Europe

Toray Industries has always pushed boundaries in textiles. Now, by setting up shop in Portugal, they’re making a clear play to get closer to European customers.

Alva Confecções brings years of specialized sewing know-how to the table, making it a smart partner for this project.

Why Sintra, Portugal?

Sintra isn’t just easy on the eyes—it’s a strategic pick for Toray. Alva Confecções, founded in 1965, has long been a key airbag sewing base for the Toray Group.

Now, the factory’s facilities will host Ultrasuede sewing operations. This should really tighten up the supply chain in Europe and allow for faster stock handling.

It also means everything from cutting to sewing can happen under one roof. That’s a big deal for efficiency.

Targeting Diverse Sectors

The new showroom and sewing spot will mainly serve the local interior and furniture industry. But Toray clearly has bigger plans.

They’re looking to branch out into:

• Fashion
• Accessories
• Consumer Electronics
• Automotive

This broader approach should help Toray stand out in multiple markets. It also opens the door to more creative uses for Ultrasuede.

A Showcase of Innovation

The showroom’s design, courtesy of Rui Pereira and Ryosuke Fukusada, transforms part of the factory into a calm, inspiring space. Here, you’ll find the brand’s material library and some fresh designs on display.

One highlight is the new pouf and benches called “ANZA,” created with Danish furniture brand PLEASE WAIT to be SEATED. With Ultrasuede as the upholstery, ANZA really shows off what the material can do.

Strengthening Local Supply Chains

This new facility has some real perks for the supply chain. By bringing Ultrasuede sewing to Europe, Toray will be able to:

• Cut lead times
• Boost product availability
• Make the whole supply chain work smoother

European customers will get their hands on top-notch Ultrasuede products faster. That’s a big win for everyone involved.

Empowering Creativity and Innovation

Toray’s vision—enriching society through creativity and evolving materials—really comes to life in the Sintra facility. It’s a place where new ideas and innovation can take root and grow.

Looking Ahead

Toray Industries is getting ready to open its dedicated Ultrasuede showroom and sewing facility in Sintra. The company seems set to shake up the European textile market in a real way.

With Alva Confecções bringing their expertise, and designers Rui Pereira and Ryosuke Fukusada adding fresh ideas, Toray will offer something pretty unique—a mix of quality, creativity, and efficiency. It’s not just about making a splash; it feels like they’re aiming to set a new standard.

For more details on this development, check out the Fibre2Fashion website.