We improve the lives of those who wear and those who make leather goods, footwear, gloves and PPE.
CTC introduces its laboratories
As product safety, regulatory compliance, traceability and sustainability become increasingly important, reliable testing is essential to bringing products to market with confidence.
With laboratories in France, Italy, China, Hong Kong and Vietnam, CTC supports the footwear, leather goods, apparel, glove and personal protective equipment (PPE) industries through chemical analysis, physical and mechanical testing, certification support and technical consultancy.
A Global Network Built on Consistent Quality Standards
CTC's laboratories operate under harmonised quality management systems, with international technical coordination based in Lyon.
Accredited testing activities are conducted in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025, supporting the reliability, technical competence and consistency of laboratory results.
Depending on the location and scope of accreditation, CTC laboratories are recognised by national accreditation bodies, including COFRAC in France, ACCREDIA in Italy, HOKLAS in Hong Kong, CNAS in China and AOSC in Vietnam.
This international organisation enables brands and manufacturers to benefit from coordinated testing programmes, consistent methodologies and local expertise across multiple production sites.
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Six Laboratories Across Europe and Asia
France: Technical Expertise and Innovation
Lyon — CTC's Headquarters and Main Technical Centre
Founded in 1899, CTC has its headquarters in Lyon, where its main technical facilities bring together expertise in chemical analysis, product performance, sustainable chemistry and research and innovation.
The Lyon site plays a central role in coordinating the Group's international laboratory activities and developing testing methods to address emerging industry challenges.
Chemical Analysis and Product Safety
CTC supports manufacturers in identifying and controlling chemical risks, including restricted substances such as azo dyes, phthalates, chromium VI, lead and cadmium.
Its testing programmes also cover food contact materials, helping manufacturers assess substance migration and meet applicable regulatory requirements.
Sustainable Chemistry and Wastewater Analysis
Recognised for its environmental testing expertise, the Lyon laboratory provides wastewater analysis and chemical management services, supporting manufacturers in monitoring their environmental performance and meeting industry requirements, including ZDHC-related programmes.
Living Lab and Biomechanical Testing
CTC's Living Lab combines scientific measurements with real-life product evaluations.
Using motion capture, force platforms and pressure mapping technologies, its experts analyse interactions between products and users to assess comfort, ergonomics, functionality and safety.
Physical and Mechanical Performance Testing
The laboratory evaluates product durability and performance through abrasion, tear resistance, flexing endurance, waterproofness and other physical and mechanical tests.
CTC also provides dedicated PPE testing services covering mechanical, thermal and other relevant hazards, helping manufacturers demonstrate compliance with applicable standards.
Italy: Chemical Expertise and Bio-based Materials Innovation
Santa Croce sull'Arno — CTC Ars Tinctoria
Since joining CTC in 2023, CTC Ars Tinctoria has strengthened the Group's presence in Italy, close to major tanning districts, luxury leather goods manufacturers and footwear producers.
Specialising in analytical chemistry, colour science and materials assessment, the laboratory combines established expertise with innovative testing technologies.
Bio-based Materials Assessment
CTC Ars Tinctoria measures the bio-based carbon content of materials such as leather, textiles, plastics and innovative alternatives derived from renewable resources.
Using its SCAR technology, based on laser spectroscopy and radiocarbon analysis, the laboratory determines the proportion of fossil and non-fossil carbon in materials, helping manufacturers substantiate their bio-based claims.
Testing is carried out in accordance with applicable methods and standards, including EN 16640.
Chemical Analysis and Colour Science
The laboratory also provides specialised expertise in dyes, pigments, chemical formulations and colour-related assessments, supporting manufacturers in improving material quality and managing chemical risks.
Asia: Testing Expertise Close to Manufacturing Centres
With operations in Asia since 1996, CTC supports international brands and manufacturers through laboratories located in Hong Kong, Dongguan, Shanghai and Ho Chi Minh City.
Their proximity to major manufacturing hubs enables local testing, faster technical exchanges and quality control throughout the production process.
Hong Kong — Chemical Analysis and Regulatory Compliance
CTC's Hong Kong laboratory specialises in chemical testing and regulatory compliance for international markets.
Its expertise includes restricted substances analysis, PFAS testing, assessment against regulations such as REACH and POPs, and chemical permeation testing for protective gloves.
These services help manufacturers identify chemical risks and meet product safety requirements.
Dongguan — Physical and Mechanical Performance Testing
Located in one of China's major manufacturing regions, the Dongguan laboratory focuses on the physical and mechanical performance of footwear, leather goods, bags and PPE.
Its teams conduct durability, resistance and safety assessments, alongside testing programmes supporting product certification.
Shanghai — Textile and Apparel Testing
CTC Shanghai specialises in textile and apparel testing, supporting manufacturers and brands seeking to meet Chinese market requirements.
Its services include garment performance evaluation, textile quality assessments and testing against applicable Chinese GB standards.
The laboratory also contributes to the development of testing capabilities in cooperation with other CTC facilities.
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Ho Chi Minh City — Local Support for Footwear and Apparel Manufacturing
CTC's Vietnam laboratory provides testing services and technical assistance to footwear, leather goods and apparel manufacturers operating in Southeast Asia.
Located close to production centres, it helps factories and international brands manage product quality, address non-compliance risks and respond efficiently to manufacturing requirements.
Supporting Product Innovation and Future Industry Challenges
Beyond testing, CTC supports brands and manufacturers through technical consultancy, performance benchmarking, regulatory monitoring and the development of new testing methods.
From emerging PFAS requirements and chemical safety to circularity and bio-based materials verification, CTC combines scientific expertise, international coverage and industry knowledge to help companies anticipate change and develop safer, more reliable and compliant products.
Six laboratories, complementary expertise and one shared commitment: helping manufacturers create with confidence.
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