Posted in Chunichi Shimbun on December 16, 2020.

Natural fiber maker “Hasegawa corporation” is focusing on developing products using its own silk. They sell high-end materials that are also sold to famous overseas brands as everyday clothing and masks at reasonable prices. A direct sales store will also open on the premises of the head office to appeal to consumers.

The company was founded in 1965 by Masaru Hasegawa as a developer and seller of yarn for silk fabrics. They have dealt with overseas brands and expanded their sales channels, but in recent years, the clothing industry has become mainstream by major companies that handle everything from manufacturing to sales. Due to the sense of crisis, they purchased the latest 10 automatic knitting machines in 2015 and started full-scale product development using their own silk.

Taking advantage of all 240 colors of silk yarn, they developed clothing such as sweatshirts and socks, as well as masks after the epidemic of the new coronavirus infection. The popular product “ZEN 3D Silk Mask” (2,200 yen including tax) is available in 41 colors. In addition to moisturizing and softness, the design is also enhanced. Mr. Hasegawa said, “Although it is the same silk as a luxury brand, the price is quite cheap because it does not go through a trading company. I want various people to know the charm of silk that is kind to the skin.”

Since the opening of the direct sales store in March, it has been doing well, with sales of up to about 600,000 yen a day. The sales space will be expanded and renewed from January to February next month. The company’s products can also be purchased at official online stores.