Greensboro, N.C.-based Cone Denim has launched the Cone? 3D initiative for bringing denim innovations to the marketplace.
Cone 3D — which refers to denim, design and development — will focus on technologies offering innovations in performance, comfort, uniqueness and sustainability. Through the initiative, Cone Denim will identify new fibers and raw materials, integrate unique fiber blends and fabric constructions, and engineer particular process technologies using cradle-to-cradle sustainable practices.
"Cone 3D combines a century of denim heritage with scientific principles, global market intuition, and an innate sense of curiosity to question the status quo, explore the future and redefine product development," said Kara Nicholas, vice president, product development and marketing, Cone Denim.
The company recently signed an agreement with Vancouver, Canada-based Crailar Technologies Inc. under which Cone Denim will develop and market the use of CRAiLAR? Flax Fiber in denim fabric for fashion, workwear and casual lifestyle applications.
"We are honored to name Cone Denim our preferred and exclusive partner for the development, marketing and manufacture of denim fabrics," said Ken Barker, CEO, Crailar Technologies. "Given Cone's expertise and history in this sector, we believe it represents the perfect partnership to create, innovate and execute new and vintage looks in denim which will move markets and further promote sustainable practices and developments in the apparel industry. Cone's global manufacturing presence additionally enhances our ability to service customers around the world."
