[First in Japan] Acquired the International Certification 'OEKO-TEX® STeP' as the First Sewing Factory. Ogura Meriyasu Manufacturing Fully Activates Next-Generation Domestic Production System Eyeing the Global Market

Ogura Meriyasu Tochigi Factory Co., Ltd. (Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ogura Meriyasu Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Sumida-ku, Tokyo, CEO: Daisuke Ogura), obtained the international certification 'OEKO-TEX® STeP', which proves sustainability in textile production facilities, in March 2026. This is the first time a sewing factory in Japan has obtained this certification.

OEKO-TEX® STeP Certification Certificate

Background of Certification Acquisition: Responding to Overseas Markets' Demand for 'Proof of Production Background'

In the global apparel business, centered around Western markets, it is becoming an essential condition for continuing business transactions that third-party organizations certify not only quality but also the reduction of environmental impact, consideration for human rights, and occupational safety at production sites. Our company, which has honed its skills since its founding in 1929, has strategically pursued this certification as a common language to send Japan's high manufacturing capabilities back into the overseas market.

■ Achievements and Prospects: Collaboration with Active Overseas Markets and Listed Companies

Following the acquisition of this certification, we are already receiving specific inquiries via trading companies and textile manufacturers from brands whose main battleground is overseas, as well as apparel companies planning to expand into overseas markets. The foundation of being a 'Japanese sewing factory with international certification' is a highly effective key to partnerships for overseas markets that emphasize risk management and listed companies that require strict supply chain management based on ESG management.

■ Developments Based on This Certification

Centered on this certification, our company will deepen co-creation in the following areas.

To Trading Companies, Fabric Merchants, and Textile Manufacturers: By providing objective proof of internationally certified MADE IN JAPAN, we will strongly support the conclusion of overseas export projects and proposals to brands with high environmental and compliance awareness.

Utilization of 'MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX®': By commercializing materials that have already acquired OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 at our factory (STeP certified), it becomes possible to attach the highest-peak label 'MADE IN GREEN' to the product. This allows us to appeal to transparency in both the product itself and the production process.

■ Comments from CEO Daisuke Ogura

'As the domestic manufacturing environment changes, I believe the way for Japanese sewing factories to survive is to give shape to world-standard trust. In Europe and the US, the reality is that no matter how good the quality is, factories without proof of environmental and human rights standards are unlikely to be considered as transaction options. In fact, we have already begun to receive specific consultations with an eye on overseas markets, and we strongly feel the necessity of this international standard. Together with trading companies and fabric merchants, we want to build a new MADE IN JAPAN that is recognized worldwide.'

[Certification Overview]

Certification Name: OEKO-TEX® STeP (Sustainable Textile & Leather Production)
Obtaining Organization: Ogura Meriyasu Tochigi Factory Co., Ltd. (1098 Akamicho, Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture)
Scope of Certification: Making up of product, Cutting, Sewing, Finishing, Bagging, Shipping

[About Ogura Meriyasu Manufacturing Co., Ltd.]

Founded in 1929. Based in Sumida-ku, Tokyo, we manufacture high-quality knitwear and cut-and-sew garments for everyone from babies to seniors at our own factory (Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture). In 2026, we became the first sewing factory in Japan to acquire the OEKO-TEX® STeP certification, establishing a sustainable production system.

Representative: CEO Daisuke Ogura
Headquarters Address: 3-12-9 Ishihara, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0012
Official Website: https://www.ogura-m.com/
OEKO-TEX® https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/buying-guide/
*Please click the 'O' on the search page.

[Contact for Inquiries Regarding This Matter]

Ogura Meriyasu Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
Person in Charge: Goki Koga, Director and General Manager of Sales
Phone: 03-3622-5082
E-mail: otoiawase3129@ogura-m.com