Tapis Corporation

Tapis Corporation has developed fabrics for aircraft interiors since 1977. Its materials are used by airlines and on business jets, and are chosen for passenger comfort, durability, weight savings and sustainability. It is a woman owned business and is certified as a Women's Business Enterprise by the Women's Business Enterprise National Council.

Products

• Ultrafabrics: polyurethane performance fabrics that look and feel like leather, PVC free, including the Ultraleather 9 Series for commercial vertical surfaces
• Ultrasuede: a soft non-woven fabric made from fine microfibers, stain resistant and washable
• TapiSuede: a washable fabric made from recycled polyester
• Heat release fabrics for commercial aircraft seats and vertical surfaces
• Flame retardant custom carpets for the VIP market

History

Tapis began in the VIP sector of aviation, making flame retardant custom carpets. Its next product was Ultrasuede for headliners in private jets. The founder, Al Caputo, later developed one of the first AN61 heat release fabrics, which the company says is now used by more than 50 carriers. Tapis entered the commercial aviation sector in 1985, and Karen Caputo began running operations as President and CEO in 1988.

Facilities and sustainability

• A 38,000 square foot complex in Dallas, Texas, for flame treatment, quality control and aviation testing
• A stock of performance fabrics held in Dallas for fast order fulfilment
• A sister company in Texas, called BAKS, that adds products and does its own flame treatment
• Aims to reduce the carbon footprint of air travel with cleaner manufacturing, recycled and plant based materials, longer product life and lighter seat and wall coverings

Company facts

• Founded in 1977
• Phone: +1 914 273 2737