Hanesbrands Inc. signed a 10-year supply agreement with Naturally Advanced Technologies Inc. to buy the company's flax-based fiber.

It's the first commercialization agreement for Naturally Advanced, which started working on the flax-based fiber last year. Hanes started testing the fiber, called Crailar Flax, in December. The relationship with Hanes began earlier last year with Hanes' Naturally Advanced Crailar Hemp fiber.

The company processes flax, removing the binding agents that contribute to its stiff texture. The result is a strong but soft fiber similar to cotton.

Naturally Advanced is led by Portland-based CEO Ken Barker, a former Adidas executive.

Read more at Sustainable Business Oregon.