Huntsman Textile Effects is pleased to announce the formation of a joint Innovation Council with Madura Fashion and Lifestyle, a part of the Aditya Birla Group. Madura is a renowned fashion house with a strong reputation for innovation most recently recognised by US Apparel Magazine as amongst the most innovative apparel companies in 2011. Huntsman is a clear leader in innovative solutions for the textile industry.

Speaking on the formation of the council Mr Rohit Aggarwal, Textile Effects Global Vice-President, Strategic Marketing and Planning stated, "Consumers in the Indian market are increasingly affluent and look to companies like Madura to provide the high quality, innovative products they demand. Huntsman is proud to partner with Madura to drive innovation and quality to an even higher level in the future."

For Madura, Dr Naresh Tyagi, head and vice-president, Product Development and Quality Assurance commented, "As one of the leaders in Fashion and Lifestyle within the Indian market, it is essential to continuously drive innovation. Working with strong partners like Huntsman Textile Effects is an important aspect of maintaining our leadership position."

Huntsman Textile Effects is the leading global provider of high quality dyes and chemicals to the textile and related industries. Research, innovation and sustainability are at the heart of what Huntsman does and the company uses cutting edge technology to develop innovative solutions to create innovative products and technologies with intelligent effects, such as built in freshness, sun protection or state-of-the-art dyes to reduce water and energy consumption, meeting the needs of Huntsman's customers and supporting a more sustainable environment. With operations in 110 countries and 14 primary manufacturing facilities worldwide in twelve countries (China, Columbia, Germany, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Pakistan, Thailand, Turkey, Switzerland, USA), Huntsman TE is uniquely positioned to provide fast and expert technical service wherever the customers are based.

Huntsman is a global manufacturer and marketer of differentiated chemicals. Huntsman's operating companies manufacture products for a variety of global industries, including chemicals, plastics, automotive, aviation, textiles, footwear, paints and coatings, construction, technology, agriculture, health care, detergent, personal care, furniture, appliances and packaging. Originally known for pioneering innovations in packaging and, later, for rapid and integrated growth in petrochemicals, Huntsman has approximately 12,000 employees and operates from multiple locations worldwide. The Company had 2010 revenues of over $9 billion. For more information about Huntsman, please visit the company's website at www.huntsman.com.

Madura Fashion & Lifestyle, a division of Aditya Birla Nuvo Ltd, is one of India’s fastest growing branded apparel companies and a premium lifestyle player in the retail sector. Madura Fashion & Lifestyle has a superb portfolio of brands straddling mid-price, premium and super premium segments. The retail presence and expansion strategy across different cities and locations has been done keeping in view the positioning of each brand and the relevance of the catchment. Premium brands, namely Louis Philippe, Van Heusen and Allen Solly are predominantly present in the metros and top cities. Peter England, a brand focused on the mid-price segment, has a significant presence in tier II and tier III cities, apart from metros and top cities. The Collective’s unique chain of stores offers best of international brands and services in an innovative manner. Planet Fashion retail stores has been able to successfully reach consumers in not only metros, but mini metros and with a strong distribution network. A distribution agreement with international brand Esprit has ensured that this highly growth-oriented company bolsters its international presence.

Madura Fashion & Lifestyle reaches its discerning customers through an extensive network comprising more than 1,000 exclusive and franchisee stores, and over 2,000 premium multi-brand trade outlets, both within and outside India. The company’s brands are also present in over 100 department stores.

(For more information about Madura Fashion & Lifestyle, please visit the company's website at www.madurafnl.com)