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ABOUT US

SHOWA® is a fully integrated, global manufacturer specializing in high-quality industrial hand protection. We maintain complete control over our entire supply chain, from machinery and materials to design and production, ensuring 100% quality control at every stage.

This vertical integration gives us a strategic advantage, allowing us to drive innovation and deliver superior products tailored to regional market needs. Rooted in the Japanese principle of balance, our approach prioritizes meticulous control of all processes.

Since revolutionising the industry with the world’s first PVC glove in 1954, SHOWA has consistently led with innovation, introducing numerous industry-firsts that enhance protection, comfort and performance.

LEADING THE FUTURE OF HAND PROTECTION

Driven by our “Always Innovating. Never Imitating.” ethos, we invest heavily in R&D.

We drive progress with significant R&D investment, anticipating global demands. Our dedicated team of 50+ experts, supported by 100+ patents, ensures cutting-edge solutions tailored to your needs. These experts are specialists in design, former technology, knitting, ergonomics manufacturing and compounding of various types of coating.

MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE: MASTERY MEETS ASSURANCE

Experience the SHOWA difference. We engineer perfection in every glove. Our uniquely designed gloves provide superior comfort, agility, and productivity thanks to our bespoke formers to ensure the glove fits to the curvature of the human hand. We prioritize your safety with advanced allergy and odour reduction processes.

Uniquely, we perform 100% visual inspection on every product, guaranteeing quality you can trust. We are environmentally committed, comply with ISO 14000, and are supported by unparalleled production and machinery management expertise.

A LEGACY OF INNOVATION: AKEO TANAKA, FOUNDER

SHOWA’s origin story begins with a soldier’s vision. Witnessing firsthand the inadequacy of hand protection, Akeo Tanaka was driven to revolutionise the industry. His breakthrough? In 1953, he invented the world’s first PVC glove – a solution blending safety with the practicality that he had learnt from his time developing PVC ink cartridges for premium fountain pens.

This innovation led to the launch of SHOWA in 1954, built on a foundation of integrity, harmony, and customer trust. Tanaka’s vision continues to shape our commitment to excellence and customer-centricity.

SETTING THE STANDARD FOR HAND PROTECTION

At SHOWA, quality and innovation are not just goals, they are our foundation. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and our comprehensive PPE expertise, we deliver the ultimate in hand protection.

This unwavering commitment to consistent excellence is why millions worldwide trust and rely on SHOWA.

WHY SHOWA?

SHOWA offers unmatched quality and innovation in industrial hand protection.

As a fully integrated global manufacturer, we control every step, ensuring 100% quality.

With a legacy of industry-firsts, like the first PVC glove and biodegradable options, SHOWA prioritises innovation and customer needs.

Our rigorous inspection process, advanced technologies, and dedication to comfort and safety set us apart.

Choosing SHOWA means relying on a forward-thinking company with extensive expertise and a commitment to delivering superior hand and arm protection.

KEY MILESTONES

SHOWA Company Milestones

1954

Company Founding

Company founded and manufactured the world’s first PVC gloves.

1985 / 1989

First PU Palm-Coated Glove

Launched the first ever PU palm-coated glove, SHOWA B0500.

1992

First 100% Nitrile, Latex-Free Glove

The world’s first 100% nitrile, latex-free glove, Best N-DEX, was launched.

1994

Improved Dipping Method

SHOWA 310 was developed with our improved dipping method: latex is coated onto the knitting directly, penetrating the liner and providing permanent flexibility and durability.

2005

Breathable and Waterproof Technology

Showa developed and launched the first glove with breathable and waterproof technology, TEMRES 280. The name is derived from the Japanese words “Te” (hand) and “Murezu” (no humidity).

2007

Acquisition of Best Manufacturing

SHOWA acquires Best Manufacturing (founded in 1951).

2012

Biodegradable Disposable Gloves

Invented the world’s first biodegradable disposable gloves, GREEN-DEX.

2014

SHOWA Logo Revamp

Following the acquisition of Best, the SHOWA logo was revamped to reflect a unified brand across a global market.

2021

Launch of ChemRest

Launch of ChemRest, an online tool to help users select the appropriate chemical-resistant hand protection for their various applications.

2023

New CEO & President Appointed

Tatsuya Hoshino appointed current CEO & President.

2024

SHOWA MFT PRO Launch

Launched SHOWA MFT PRO ‘Performance by Design’ delivering a new standard of performance with uncompromising breathability and comfort.

2025

New Single Use Glove Factory

SHOWA opens a new state-of-the-art, Single Use glove factory in Sakaide, Japan making a total of 7 manufacturing facilities across the globe.