Altri SGPS acquires controlling stake in AeoniQ to scale green fibre production

GlobalData

Mon, Jul 7, 2025, 6:34 AM 3 min read

The investment by Altri, which includes a capital increase, is aimed at developing commercial-scale production capacity for AeoniQ, aligning with its strategy to diversify into high-value, environmentally friendly cellulosic applications.

This move is seen as a “decisive leap” into the sustainable textiles sector.

AeoniQ, originating as a cleantech spin-off from HeiQ Materials in Switzerland, is claimed to have created the first climate-positive, biodegradable cellulosic filament yarn designed to replace traditional polyester and nylon.

The AeoniQ platform offers a fully circular, plastic-free alternative that matches the performance of synthetic fibers without their environmental drawbacks.

Industrialising AeoniQ in Portugal

Under the agreement, the first industrial-scale AeoniQ facility will be built at Altri's Caima pulp mill, with construction slated to begin in 2026 and an initial production capacity of 1,750 tonnes annually.

Complementing existing pilot lines in Austria, a pre-industrial plant will be established in Portugal by early 2026 to expedite prototyping and collaborations with brands.

The joint venture, named AeoniQ, combines Altri's industrial capabilities with HeiQ's technological expertise—"A" for Altri and "iQ" for HeiQ.

This partnership aims to integrate eucalyptus-based pulp into finished yarn production and later expand to include recycled materials such as cotton textile waste and bacterial cellulose from food waste.

Sustainability aspect

AeoniQ’s cellulosic filament yarns are certified biodegradable across various environments by TÜV Austria and OEKO-TEX. These yarns are claimed to offer natural elasticity, softness, durability, and texturability, making them suitable for diverse applications such as lingerie, workwear, footwear, home textiles, medical apparel, and automotive interiors.

Two independent Life Cycle Assessments indicate that AeoniQ cuts down CO₂ emissions by at least 3.2 kg per kg of yarn compared to polyester. The yarn has already been featured in four capsule collections by Hugo Boss and in Lameirinho's "vegan silk" bed linen line showcased at Heimtextil 2025.

Strategic alliances to transform the textile ecosystem

The AeoniQ joint venture is supported by global entities within the textile industry: German fashion brand Hugo Boss and MAS Holdings from South Asia are equity co-investors, while The Lycra Company holds exclusive distribution rights. Additional development partners include Riopele, Impetus, Lameirinho, Beste, Feinjersey, Taiana, Dolinschek, Aunde Group, Amann, and Strahle + Hess.