SUSMATA AG is a material technology company focused on bio-based and recyclable materials. It recently presented its innovations at the LINEAPELLE trade fair in Milan. LINEAPELLE is one of the world’s leading trade fairs for leather, materials, and components.
The trade fair attracts manufacturers, brands, and materials innovators from over 40 countries. It is a trend barometer for the fashion, furniture, and automotive industries. SUSMATA saw this event as a key opportunity to demonstrate its materials’ performance, sustainability, and industrial scalability.
Their main focus is WASTEA, a vegan leather alternative. WASTEA contains 40 to 95 percent bio-based content. It is made from plant-based residues, including tea waste. WASTEA is PVC-free, lightweight, heat-resistant, water-repellent, and antibacterial.
The material meets the demands of high-end customers in automotive and luxury goods. It can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 80 percent compared to traditional leather. Erdem Dogan, CEO of SUSMATA, said LINEAPELLE is where concepts move from labs to the market. The company is showcasing industry-ready materials that meet series standards.
A key advantage for SUSMATA is its access to class 4 tea waste. This waste is produced during industrial tea production. SUSMATA has an exclusive partnership with the Turkish state-owned tea producer, Çaykur. This ensures a reliable, long-term supply of raw materials.
Besides WASTEA, SUSMATA will be presenting other vegan leather options made from rose, coffee, and lavender waste. They will also introduce NOTPLAST, a bio-based plastic substitute, later this year. All materials are produced under strict quality controls using patented technology.
SUSMATA aims to become a major player in the global “material revolution.” With increasing regulation against traditional leather and plastics, the market is shifting toward plant-based, recyclable alternatives.
