The partnership which pioneered Heattech and Airism garments have forged a new expanded relationship they say will create “a new industry for the future”.

Fast Retailing’s flagship Uniqlo and Toray Industries first joined hands 10 years ago aimed at developing technological solutions to make clothing functional rather than just practical – and provide the Japanese fashion giant with a point of difference over fast fashion rivals.

Uniqlo’s signature Airism garments are meant to be worn beneath any ensemble to keep you cool and dry, making heat and humidity more bearable with properties such as absorbency, breathability and odour control. Heattech garments come with features designed to make it the most comfortable innerwear, including sweat-wicking, quick-drying, anti-odour and anti-static features.

The most recent seasonal Heattech lines contain camellia oil moisturiser to keep the wearer’s skin soft and supple in dry weather.

In the new five year third stage of their working partnership, Uniqlo and Toray will work together to:

Accelerate globalisation and digitalisation to create a new industry by:

• Realising an end-to-end business model by utilising the Internet of Things (IoT).

• Further reducing production lead time.
• Further increasing globalisation of production sites and locations.
• Optimising production in each location.
• Expanding production sites to support business growth in Greater China (China, Hong Kong and Taiwan).

Maximise LifeWear that is made for all by:

• Improving comfort and functionality of all current products.
• Adding value to products by conducting research and development.
• Developing new sportswear to enhance daily lives.