The Mills Fabrica Unveils “Performance Without Toxicity”
Starting on 26 January and running until June 2026 in Kings Cross, London, The Mills Fabrica announces Performance Without Toxicity, a powerful new exhibition housed in its Fabrica X innovation gallery in King’s Cross, spotlighting the technologies redefining performance wear for a cleaner, healthier future. The global sportswear market, valued at USD 206.64 billion in 2024 and set to hit USD 350.45 billion by 2032, is facing mounting pressure to move away from toxic petroleum-based materials as consumers become increasingly concerned about their health. Performance Without Toxicity showcases the innovators who demonstrate a roadmap to a future where high performance and environmental health can go hand in hand.
Topping the bill is lead innovation partner Goldwin – the Japanese technical outdoor and lifestyle apparel brand, whose design philosophy centres on the belief that clothing should elevate the harmony between people and the natural world. Goldwin transforms innovation into tangible products that blend Japanese aesthetic principles with advanced functionality. The exhibition spotlights Goldwin apparel and leading breakthroughs from their portfolio companies backed by its corporate venture arm, including a boundary-pushing collaboration with London-based brand J.L-A.L, created with:
● Next-generation Brewed ProteinTM fibre— a next-generation material developed by Spiber
● Approximately 50% pattern-efficiency gains enabled by Synflux’s algorithmic design technology
● PlaX: plant-derived PLA enhanced by Bioworks for improved performance and dyeability
Performance Without Toxicity also features the innovative work of companies who are part of a growing global cohort advancing the shift to a clean, circular and regenerative future.
Key collaborators and exhibitors include:
● Hyosung, the world’s largest elastane producer, is showcasing recycled, recyclable and bio-based solutions
● Balena, presenting its compostable, bio-based shoe created with Stella McCartney – a landmark for regenerative footwear
● Lenzing and The Alliance for European Flax-Linen & Hemp, both demonstrating bio-renewable materials at a commercial scale
● United Repair Centre, pioneering tech-enabled repair, remake and upcycling systems that lengthen garment life while creating social impact
● Vivobarefoot, whose regenerative business model includes innovations in algae-derived foams, bio-based polymers, and recycled natural fibres
Collectively, these innovators chart a positive path away from “performance at any cost” toward performance with purpose where advanced materials, circular systems, and human health drive the next era of sport and apparel design. Representing the entire innovation funnel, from emerging research right through to products already in the market, Performance Without Toxicity is an invitation to industry, athletes, designers, and the public alike to experience the technologies shaping a powerful new vision: performance wear that pushes human potential without disregard for the planet.
