Ethical manufacturing

Cofrad is always open to new ideas, especially when it comes to protecting the environment; in 2009, for example, we developed a 100% vegetable fibre manufacturing process.

The fibre is grown in China’s Jiang Xi province, under fair trade agreements, and offers the same technical characteristics as fibreglass.

Mannequins made from these renewable resources can now be recycled by incineration at a fraction (one quarter) of the temperature required by their fibreglass counterparts.

Cofrad is the first manufacturer to use this technology, although this is not the only area where we are breaking new ground. Our US subsidiary has adopted a rotocasting technique using 25% plant-based material (Duraflex Green) and we are working with US research laboratories to increase the share of green products on offer.

The new process improves the environmental quality of our products in two major respects: Duraflex releases no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the atmosphere, but it also produces a more elastic material, so our mannequins last longer.

As well as manufacturing mannequins, Cofrad has also set up a renovation and resale network for second-hand mannequins. Extending the life of existing products is one more step towards sustainability.

Cofrad is not only committed to constant innovation in design but also puts ethics at the heart of its production process for every one of its brands.