Imabari City's regional trading company, Imabari Akinai Shosha Co., Ltd. (Representative Director: Shujiro Abe), in collaboration with long-established Imabari towel manufacturer Kontex Co., Ltd., has launched a new brand specializing in antibacterial and deodorizing properties, 'KIYORA,' as a Furusato Nozei return gift for Imabari City.

This brand achieved its target amount in just 10 minutes during its pre-sale on 'Makuake' in January 2026. It ultimately garnered over 3 million yen in support, ranking 11th, drawing an exceptional response. In response to passionate requests from supporters nationwide, such as 'I want to repeat this daily' and 'I want it handled through Furusato Nozei,' the brand is now making its full-scale debut.

♦ Challenging the 'towel odor problem' affecting 92.8% of people

Towels are prone to accumulating 'sebum,' 'sweat,' and 'dirt,' making it easier for odor-causing bacteria to proliferate compared to clothing. In an actual survey conducted on 2,707 people, 92.8% responded that they 'have been bothered by towel odor.' Facing these challenges head-on, Imabari towel manufacturer Kontex Co., Ltd. dedicated itself to product development.

♦ A new concept where the towel itself maintains cleanliness, endorsed by experts (*1)

The greatest appeal of 'KIYORA' lies in its unique design, combining three types of functional yarns with antibacterial, anti-odor, and deodorizing properties. Unlike conventional antibacterial treatments, by endowing the fibers themselves with functionality, it suppresses the proliferation of odor-causing bacteria, tackling everyday towel odor problems. Another feature is that the effect is long-lasting even after repeated washes. This is a new concept towel that 'prevents odors' while balancing the soft touch unique to Imabari towels with cleanliness.

*1 Odor elimination test details

Received high evaluation in an odor elimination test conducted in December 2025. All six fiber evaluation specialists reported significant deodorizing effects against ammonia and isovaleric acid. Its effectiveness has been objectively proven through strict testing compliant with the 'Sensory Evaluation Method Implementation Manual' of the Japan Textile Evaluation Technology Council.

♦ Three lineups to choose from according to the scene

✅ KIYORA PREMIUM ~Superior comfort for everyday life~ 'Just washed' feeling lasts until the moment of use✨

POINT01: No odor even when drying indoors Stress-free comfort, eliminating worries about musty smells or indoor drying odors even on rainy days or when doing laundry at night.

POINT02: A substitute for bath towels Combines high absorbency with compactness, reducing laundry.

POINT03: Sense of security with lasting cleanliness Bacteria are less likely to proliferate, allowing for safe use at all times.

POINT04: Luxurious and comfortable 'Supreme Long Pile' used High absorbency and excellent antibacterial and deodorizing properties, with a luxurious volume also being an attraction.

✅ KIYORA MOKU ~A companion for active scenes~ Kontex Co., Ltd.'s 'MOKU' is a popular towel that has sold over 4.5 million units✨

POINT01: Uses 3 types of antibacterial yarns Three types of antibacterial yarns thoroughly suppress the proliferation of various bacteria.

POINT02: Demonstrates true value in harsh environments Suppresses bacterial growth and prevents odor generation even in environments where immediate washing after use is not possible.

POINT03: Thin, light, quick-drying While maintaining the convenience of the MOKU series, antibacterial and deodorizing performance has been maximized.

✅ KIYORA skin care ~A new habit for gentle skin care~ Moisturizing and friction-free with a吸い付くようなしっとり感 (clinging moist feel)✨

POINT01: Silk-class gentleness that retains skin moisture Contains ingredients derived from tea seeds and tea leaves, achieving 'silk-class moist feel.'

POINT02: Gentle feel with reduced friction Ultra-soft pile minimizes friction on the skin, absorbing moisture thoroughly 'just by dabbing.'

POINT03: Designed to suppress bacterial growth and maintain cleanliness Suppresses the growth of bacteria that cause problems and maintains antibacterial and deodorizing effects even after repeated washes.

POINT04: Optimal size to wrap the entire face Designed to gently wrap the skin after washing, a size slightly larger than a typical wash towel.

♦ Product Overview

・Return gift name: KIYORA PREMIUM

・Size: Approx. 40cm x 100cm

・Colors: Ivory / Smoky Pink / Midnight Blue / Sage Green

・Materials: Cotton 75%, Tea seed rayon 22%, Silver ion polyester 3%

・Manufacturer: Kontex Co., Ltd.

・Seller: Imabari Akinai Shosha Co., Ltd.

・Return gift name: KIYORA MOKU

・Size: Approx. 33cm x 100cm

・Colors: Blue Gray / Smoky Pink / Midnight Blue / Sage Green

・Materials: Cotton 80%, Tea seed catechin 12

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: New Product
  • Products / services: KIYORA PREMIUM / KIYORA MOKU