Curtains, cushions, and other goods made from a new material that can absorb the odor of cigarettes smoke have become hit products in Japan. The success marks another breakthrough for the domestic textile industry, which has sought to rise above the intense competition from lower-priced imports through the development and marketing of high-tech fabrics.
Industry officials hope that the growing antismoking mood in Japan will serve as the springboard to a third line of new growth products, following wrinkle-free cotton shirts and non-see-through white bathing suits.
Initial Obstacles
Because cigarette smoke contains more than 2,000 pungent components, the prospects for developing a material that could eliminate the odor initially appeared bleak. However, a maker of synthetic fibers eventually succeeded in removing between 80% and 90% of the smell by using the chemical action of ions to absorb nicotine and other elements. In 1994 it developed and marketed an acrylic fiber with deodorizing properties.
Textile makers subsequently used the fabric to create a range of products, including cushions, curtains, and other household goods. The cushions have proved especially popular among smokers and their families; two cushions can reportedly absorb the odor from the smoke of 10 cigarettes a day for about 400 or 500 days. A variety of innovative items have also made their appearance. An ornamental plant made from the fabric was recently marketed, and the response was a flood of orders from department stores, supermarkets, hardware stores, flower shops, and other retailers.
A 100 Billion Yen Market
The success of tobacco-deodorizing goods has led nine other manufacturers to develop and market their own fabrics since the summer of 1995. The range of materials has expanded to include polyester and nylon, and the types of products available range from car seat cushions to filters for air purifiers.
The textile industry bullishly predicts that growing antismoking sentiment in Japan and will boost demand for the deodorizing fabrics and create a 100 billion yen market in just a couple of years.
Meanwhile, one manufacturer is now pushing forward with the development of fibers and clothing that can resist the smell of cigarettes. Hopes are being pinned on the success of this endeavor, which as companion products may further boost demand for the tobacco-deodorizing goods.
(The above article, edited by Japan Echo Inc., is based on domestic Japanese news sources. It is offered for reference purposes and does not necessarily represent the policy or views of the Japanese Government.)