Biomaterials company MycoWorks has opened its first commercial mycelium plant in South Carolina, USA.
The 136,000 sq ft factory will enable the company to scale its production and supply its clients with Reishi, an alt-leather made from mycelium fungus.
The material is described as having the same strength, durability and texture as animal leather, albeit with lower environmental impact.
“There have been two barriers to the decades-long search for a luxury leather alternative: product quality and scalable manufacturing,” added Matt Scullin, CEO of MycoWorks.
“In 2016, we eliminated the first by introducing Reishi to the world, and this month, we are answering the question of scale with this state-of-the-art facility.”
Since Reishi’s inception, the company has partnered with brands across luxury, home, fashion, home furnishings, and automotive industries, including Hermes, Ligne Roset, and General Motors.
“This is the moment the luxury industry has been waiting for a plastic-free leather alternative that offers undeniable beauty and performance – at scale,” said Patrick Thomas, former CEO of Hermès and MycoWorks board member.
“Now that the supply challenge has been solved, brands will move quickly to commercialise items made with Reishi.”
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