The world is overflowing with travel goods, but it would be a waste to select them based solely on price and design. If you ask the person in charge of the manufacturer about their planning concept, you may discover new charms.
FamilyMart is selling the “Convenience Down” down jacket exclusively at about 90 stores in Tokyo. We asked Mr. Takehiko Sugai of the company’s Daily Necessities & Magazines Department about the aims of the development.
–What is the story behind the development of the product?
Mr. Sugai: With the goal of creating a “culture of buying clothing at convenience stores” in addition to the existing emergency demand, we launched FamilyMart’s original brand “Convenience Wear” in 2021, under joint development with fashion designer Hiromichi Ochiai. As a new item, “Convenience Down,” an outer jacket convenient for the chilly season, has been launched (* limited to approximately 90 stores in Tokyo).
–what features do they have?
Mr. Sugai: For the outer fabric, we use Komatsu Matere’s “Dantotsu Water Repellent,” which has excellent water repellency. For the padding, we use “AIR FLAKE,” a material developed by Kurabo based on research into the shape of feathers using ITOCHU’s sustainable recycled polyester “RENU” instead of waterfowl feathers from the viewpoint of animal protection. 730 fill power provides heat retention.
–What are the points of particular interest?
Mr. Sugai: We were particular about the outer material and padding, but of course we were also particular about the design. The collar has become a rib material, and it has become a design that looks good even if it is worn in one piece like a blouson. It is packable specification that can be hand-washed at home, folded small, and carried compactly.
–What kind of people would you like to see use the product?
Mr. Sugai: We have both M and L sizes for both men and women, so we hope that they can be used by a wide range of people regardless of age or gender. Since it is packable and compact, it is recommended for travel. It is also highly water-repellent, so it is recommended for outdoor use.
–Thank you very much.
© Source travel watch