Covid-19: Hong Kong-based TAL Apparel to launch masks that are effective even after 100 washes
- TAL launched a new version of its reusable masks under the ENRO brand in November
- Face coverings a small but important part of our business, chief executive says
Hong Kong-based TAL Apparel, which has diversified into the production of highly protective washable masks for the United States, is setting its sights on growth in the city and globally.
The city faces a glut of disposable masks and TAL’s face coverings represent a more sustainable option.
“People should be well protected [against the coronavirus pandemic], but in a sustainable way,” Roger Lee, the company’s chief executive, said in an interview with the South China Morning Post.
TAL in November launched a new version of its reusable masks under its ENRO brand. These are highly protective and breathable even after being washed about 100 times in washing machines, Lee said.
Set up in Hong Kong in 1947, TAL is the city’s first and oldest textile mill and makes one in every six dress shirts sold in the US for brands such as Brooks Brothers and Lacoste. Hurt by the economic dislocation caused by the pandemic, it started manufacturing washable masks seven months ago as part of its recovery plans.
By June last year, it had shipped more than 50 million masks, primarily to the US, where its clients included hoteliers, retailers and consumer brands, according to Lee. The company will now ship its masks worldwide.