History
Since its establishment in 1926, Kuraray has been a pioneer in the luxury microfibre industry. Clarino stands for Japanese quality, European creativity and respect for sustainability.
The world’s first producer of manmade microfibres on an industrial scale.
In 1926, Kuraray was established for the purpose of commercialising rayon. During the Post World War II period Kuraray became Japan’s first domestic producer of synthetic fibre based on the commercialisation of PVA (Poval) fibre under the Kuralon™ brand.
By the mid 1960’s Kuraray had diversified its expertise in developing synthetic fibres with the launch of microfibres for a range of man-made leathers under the umbrella brand name Clarino™. Decades later, Clarino™ continues to set new standards in innovation and technology, while always remaining true to its Japanese roots and offering a consistently high-quality product.
Chronology
1964
Pilot plant in Kurashiki: Production capacity 50 km2/month
1966
Mass production plant in Okayama: Production capacity 150 km2/month; Brand name “Clarino™” launched
1973
Increase of production equipment and capacity increase up to 600 km2/month
1978
Launch of “amara” suede type material
1980
Initial promotion in Europe; Sales of “amaretta™” by Haru, then Haru-Kuraray up to 500 km2 to garment.
1990
Production capacity at Okayama plant is increased to 10 million m2/year.
1997
Production capacity increased to ca. 13 million m2/year.
1999
Production capacity increased to ca. 16 million m2/year.
2016
Launch of Clarino Crust™: water-borne microfibre ideal for tannery finishing.
2018
Launch of the waterborne microfibre Clarino™ Suede and certification of Tirrenina™ Nubuck by OEKO-TEX Standard 100.
2019
Certification of Clarino™ Suede by OEKO-TEX Standard 100.
2020
Launch of the first recycled nylon microfibre Eco RX8060.
Are you interested in Clarino™?
We’re here for you. Fill out the contact form and a Clarino team member will be in touch with you shortly.