Founded in 1985, DANKEN Enterprise Co., Ltd. (DANKEN) is a global professional supplier of socks and a pioneer in applying functional materials to hosiery in Taiwan. For 40 years, the company has continuously invested in high-tech textile processing technologies and the development of innovative functional materials.
In recent years, with the growing diversity of international markets and customer demands, DANKEN has advanced its sustainability transition and circular economy practices with the support of the Small and Medium Enterprise and Startup Administration (SMESA) and the assistance of the Plastics Industry Development Center (PIDC). Together with its local supply chain partners in Changhua, the company has developed “one-piece integrated knitting” equipment and technology, eliminating three conventional manufacturing steps—turning, stitching, and re-turning socks. This innovation has improved production efficiency by at least 19.4% while significantly reducing material waste through optimized yarn-saving knitting techniques.
DANKEN has also incorporated green design concepts into its product packaging by adopting 30% recycled materials, reducing the carbon footprint of each pair of socks by over 85%. Additionally, by collaborating with Changhua’s local hosiery cluster to promote energy saving and carbon reduction—shortening transportation distances, adopting sustainable packaging materials, and reducing packaging volume—the average carbon emissions per pair of socks have been reduced by at least 25%.
To meet the diverse needs of global customers, DANKEN continues to invest in product design and R&D. This includes the development of waste-fiber reutilization technology, which transforms production offcuts into high-value recycled yarns. Through continuous product application testing, the company aims to further realize a fully circular textile economy.
In line with international sustainability trends, the European Union’s Eco-design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR)—part of the 2019 Green Deal’s new Circular Economy Action Plan—came into force on July 18, 2024. The regulation introduces the Digital Product Passport (DPP) system, scheduled for implementation in 2026, requiring transparent disclosure of product information. To stay aligned with international brand expectations, DANKEN has begun strengthening its corresponding capabilities to maintain competitiveness in the global market.
Beyond environmental initiatives, DANKEN is also committed to ESG and social engagement. The company actively participates in social welfare by sponsoring major running events and donating socks to underprivileged elders and schoolchildren in remote areas, fulfilling its corporate social responsibility.
Mr. Chen, General Manager of DANKEN, stated:
“DANKEN remains committed to supporting and promoting Made-in-Taiwan products—high-quality, high-performance, and low-carbon socks. We drive corporate development through three pillars: sustainable products, circular innovation, and social contribution, demonstrating the strong competitiveness of Taiwan’s textile industry in the global sustainability market.”
