Epson Renews Its Partnership with FASHION FRONTIER PROGRAM 2026
Now in its fifth year, the partnership is supporting the creativity and challenges of the next generation

AUCKLAND, 28 May 2026 – Epson has announced the continuation of its partnership with the FASHION FRONTIER PROGRAM 2026 ("FFP"), a program organised by YUIMA NAKAZATO LABORATORY that seeks to discover and support next-generation fashion designers. Beginning in 2022, this partnership is now in its fifth year.

Under its long-term corporate vision "ENGINEERED FUTURE 2035," Epson aims to drive technological advances, engineer the optimal future and deliver value to society. Through this partnership, Epson will offer its technologies and expertise to the next generation of creators, supporting their creativity and challenges in manufacturing and design and contributing to the realisation of this vision.

Since 2021, Epson has continuously provided technical support for the creation of collections presented at Paris Haute Couture Week by YUIMA NAKAZATO, the fashion brand led by Yuima Nakazato, the initiator of FFP. Through this co-creation, Epson has advanced its inkjet technology and leveraged digital textile printing to expand freedom of expression while reducing environmental impact and exploring new possibilities in sustainable fashion.

As part of the FFP, Epson plans to provide lectures and organise tours of its Solution Centres, offering participants opportunities to deepen their understanding of its printing technology and gain hands-on experience. In addition, Epson will support the production of participants' works by drawing on the technologies and expertise it has developed through its co-creation activities and business operations.

Epson will continue to deliver real-world value through its business activities as well as through diverse co-creation and support initiatives that contribute to the future of industry and society.

About the FASHION FRONTIER PROGRAM
This program is designed to discover and support fashion designers who can bring to life clothing designs that combine social responsibility and creativity. It is composed of three elements: awards, education, and incubation. Finalists earn the chance to learn from experts and mentors across diverse fields and are provided with technical support and opportunities to present their work. For more information go to: https://ffp.jp

FASHION FRONTIER PROGRAM 2026 Schedule
• Application period closes on May 31, 2026
• Primary selection: Late July 2026
• Secondary selection: Mid-September 2026
• Incubation period: August - November 2026 (only for those who were selected)
• Final selection and awards ceremony (winner announcement): December 2026

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LinkedIn: @Epson-New-Zealand
Facebook: @EpsonNewZealand