Marmara Hemp’s novel seed to fibre network

06/05/2022
Marmara Hemp’s novel seed to fibre network
Marmara Hemp, a supplier of hemp fibres for blends with cotton, is part of a network of five companies based in France set up by The Flax Company CEO and President Denis Druon. This innovative collaborative framework traceability, transparency and sustainability, he told Inside Denim at Kingpins last month. “We are working with major hemp producers in France and this allows us to guarantee traceability ,quality and quantities year after year,” he said.

Two years ago, 98% of the hemp harvested by French hemp growers went to non-textile applications such as construction materials, seeds, and so on. Now 15% of the harvest is directed towards textile applications. “This is good for farmers as they can diversify their markets, create higher value products and access a stable long-term market through our network,” said Mr Druon.

Marmara Hemp is certified Cradle to Cradle Material Health Certificate Platinum level and also carries certification with regards to cultivation methods used and initial processing, as well as for the mechanical refining process of the fibre. A life cycle assessment has been conducted covering the full cycle from seeds to shipping at port of departure and including the farming, decorticating and cottonising processes. These confirm Marmara Hemp’s highly sustainable credentials.

“Our cottonised hemp is suitable for blends of up to 30% hemp with cotton. There is no difference in processing for spinners and once woven, it has a good hand feel,” he said. The company has already supplied hemp for major brands in the denim industry including Levi’s, PVH, Inditex, H&M, Uniqlo, Wrangler and Bestseller.

Photo by Joel Muniz on Unsplash