Archroma and Nicca Extend Textile Partnership
The agreement sustains global distribution for PFAS-free durable water repellents in apparel manufacturing.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Accessories
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Archroma and Nicca have extended their partnership to continue the global distribution and technical support of ZELAN textile products. This collaboration ensures consistent supply for manufacturers transitioning to eco-friendly water-repellent solutions.
Why it matters
The extension provides ongoing support for textile mills and brands moving away from traditional chemicals in favor of PFAS-free alternatives. It integrates ZELAN finished textiles into the Archroma HIGH IQ lastingrepel PRO assurance program.
ZELAN R3 is a perfluorochemical-free water repellent containing 63% plant-based materials from non-GMO, non-food feedstocks. The product maintains a Conformance Level 3.1 rating on the ZDHC Gateway.
The players
Archroma
Headquartered in Switzerland, this company is a global leader in specialty chemicals for the textile, paper, and emulsion industries.
Nicca
Based in Japan, this firm specializes in the development and manufacturing of textile chemicals and surface-active agents.
The details
Archroma serves as the exclusive global distributor for ZELAN and Teflon EcoElite technologies, providing marketing and technical support to the industry. The firm acquired the ZELAN business from Huntsman Textile Effects in 2023 to consolidate its portfolio of sustainable textile finishes.
Timeline
2015: Archroma began its role as the global distribution and support partner for ZELAN products.
2023: Archroma finalized the acquisition of the ZELAN business from Huntsman Textile Effects.
October 2026: Archroma and Nicca officially extended their partnership agreement.
Culture Shift
This partnership reflects a broader industry movement toward sustainable, bio-based materials in performance apparel and accessories. It signals a shift away from traditional chemical treatments as brands adapt to stricter environmental standards and consumer demand for cleaner production processes.
Consumers can expect more apparel items to feature eco-friendly, PFAS-free water repellents as manufacturers utilize these verified technologies. This move simplifies the supply chain for brands seeking to meet sustainable performance standards in their clothing and gear.
The takeaway
The move highlights the industry's continued transition toward bio-based materials as a primary alternative to synthetic chemicals. Shoppers looking for sustainable gear should monitor labels for ZELAN or HIGH IQ certifications to confirm the use of these eco-friendly finishes.
Further reading
Explore the latest industry developments in our Accessories section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Alchempro.
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