Austrian fiber producer Lenzing to launch blockchain-based traceability platform

Austrian fiber producer Lenzing has announced its plans to use blockchain technology for end-to-end traceability of its fibers.

In a press release dated May 17, Lenzing said that it has entered into a partnership with TextileGenesis, a Hong Kong-based technology company, to implement blockchain technology. It added that it examined a number of initiatives before deciding to join the platform develop by TextileGenesis.

Lenzing will implement the technology in its TENCEL branded fiber business to ensure full transparency and traceability for brands and consumers of its fibers in the finished garment. The objective is to provide all customers and partners complete supply chain transparency from wood to garment and home textiles, enabling them to identify TENCEL fibers and the respective wood source in each production and distribution step.

Consumers just need to scan a QR code on the final garment to detect the origin of the clothes they intend to buy.

“Together with TextileGenesis, we aim to create an unmatched level of transparency for brands and consumers. With this step Lenzing will further help to green up the textile industry,” Stefan Doboczky, Chief Executive Officer of the Lenzing Group, said.

Over the forthcoming months, Lenzing plans to carry out multiple pilot tests involving partners along the entire value chain. It expects the platform to be fully operational by next year.

Recently, materials science company Avery Dennison and supply chain firm EVRYTHNG launched a blockchain solution for the fashion industry in collaboration with designer Matthew Williams’ fashion label Alyx.