MycoWorks launches material facility for innovative leather alternative

MycoWorks, a biotechnology company, has started production at its new manufacturing facility in Union, S.C. This facility uses their innovative Fine Mycelium™ technology to create a leather alternative called Reishi™, a material that matches the quality of calfskin leather.

The company has notable partners like Hermès and General Motors, and this expansion into large-scale manufacturing marks a significant step forward for biomaterials, showcasing their leadership in materials science. MycoWorks is now operating the world’s largest mycelium material operation, starting with leather and aiming to expand to other applications.

The facility in South Carolina, covering 136,000 square feet, is equipped with advanced robotics, digital analytics, and AI capabilities. Through automation, they’ve achieved high-quality production while reducing costs and maintaining critical quality checks. This move is a breakthrough in supply chain management for the leather industry, offering predictability, transparency, and control over the production of natural materials, ultimately reducing waste.

Governor Henry McMaster expressed excitement over MycoWorks’ presence in Union, highlighting the positive impact on job opportunities, housing, businesses, and overall investments in the community.