TEXTILES.ORG
ATA Japan held its Spring Event April 24–25, which consisted of two days of company site visits in Mie Prefecture. The event brought together members for technical insights, discussions and networking.
The first stop was Avion Co. Ltd., a manufacturer with more than a century of experience in tents, divider curtains, truck covers and awnings. Participants were especially interested in the company’s factory layout and production workflows—developed over decades—and its ability to support specialized structures such as wing-body truck systems.
Seeing live production activities provided a clear view of how accumulated know-how translates into precision and efficiency on the factory floor. For example, positioning sewists recessed into the floor and offset from one another allows the operators to handle long fabric panels more efficiently. Tour participants also paid close attention to practical details such as fabric storage methods and flooring materials designed to improve handling and cleanliness in the sewing area.
The group then visited Regar Marine Engineering Co. Ltd., a company with a distinctive approach to fabrication and product development. In addition to sewing and assembly, Regar produces original hardware components for sailboats, personal watercraft and motorboats and supports small-lot, custom manufacturing—even down to an order of one unit. The company is also active internationally through distributing SeaSucker products and being licensed for local production of SeaDek boat flooring.
Participants noted that many of Regar’s materials and components have potential applications beyond marine use, including in broader fabric structures and industrial products. Several attendees commented that having access to this kind of flexible manufacturing capability would be very helpful for their own businesses, and the visit sparked active discussions about possible future applications and collaborations.
Together, the two visits highlighted a shared strength: the integration of craftsmanship, adaptability and market awareness. For attendees, the experience offered practical ideas that can be applied across sectors within the advanced textiles industry.
The program concluded with a networking reception at Yunoyama Onsen Resort, at a traditional hot spring. In a relaxed setting, participants continued discussions, exchanged perspectives and strengthened professional connections—an essential complement to the technical program.
