Australian Wool Innovation (AWI), The Organization Behind The Global Woolmark Brand Selected Bryan Fry As CEO

SYDNEY, Australia — MARCH 16, 2026 — Australian Wool Innovation (AWI), the organization behind the global Woolmark brand, has announced Bryan Fry as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

AWI Chairman George Millington says the decision by the Board follows an extensive recruitment process.

Bryan Fry

“Bryan brings global leadership experience, most recently serving as Chairman and Global Chief Executive Officer of Pernod Ricard Winemakers, where he led large-scale international operations across multiple markets and premium brands.

His career is distinguished by a rare combination of hands-on agricultural experience as an agronomist alongside deep expertise in international marketing, brand development and commercial strategy. This unique blend of skills positions him strongly to lead the research, development and marketing organization for Australian woolgrowers, including AWI’s global Woolmark program.

Bryan’s background in agriculture, coupled with his proven global leadership and brand expertise, makes him exceptionally well suited to lead the organization.

I would also like to thank John Roberts for his outstanding leadership as CEO since October 2021. During his tenure, John has delivered strategic focus and strong performance for the organization and industry alike. John will work closely with Bryan to ensure a thorough and seamless handover, supporting continuity and ongoing momentum.”

Bryan Fry said he was looking forward to commencing the role and working closely with stakeholders across the industry.

“I am excited to join AWI and to help deliver better outcomes both on and off farm. Australian wool is by far the best natural fibre in the world and I am looking forward to playing my part in securing an even brighter future for woolgrowers and the wider industry.”

Posted: March 22, 2026

Source: Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) / Woolmark

Utility Bedding Manufacturer Live Comfortably Acquires Downlite

BOCA RATON — MARCH 17 2026 — Live Comfortably, North America’s largest utility bedding manufacturer, has acquired the home and hospitality business of rival Downlite. Downlite is well known for its strength as a major manufacturer of down, feather and high end down alternative pillows and comforters. It has a strong portfolio of leading industry brands including Ralph Lauren, Nautica, Tommy Bahama, Primaloft, Pendleton and Eddie Bower.

“Downlite is a great strategic fit for us,” stated Brian Cassady, Chief Executive Officer of Live Comfortably. “They have built strong relationships with multiple key retailers that are complimentary to ours. So, the combination of our two companies will significantly diversify our revenue base and provide significant growth at a time when bedding markets have been challenging. The acquisition will be immediately accretive to our earnings and will further solidify our position as the industry leader in utility bedding.”

“The Downlite founders, families and employees have spent decades building a highly respected, successful company”, said Joe Crawford Downlite CEO. “I am proud and grateful to have been part of the Downlite team for the last 6 years.   But when the opportunity to join Live Comfortably presented itself, the timing was right.  Combining Downlite’s brand expertise and focus on quality with Live Comfortably’s manufacturing prowess and substantial resources will create the premier utility bedding company in North America.”

“We are excited to welcome Downlite’s portfolio of brands, as well as key members of its commercial team, to Live Comfortably,” said Amy Price, Chief Commercial Officer. “This acquisition further strengthens our position as the industry leader in branded utility bedding products and a premier supplier to the hospitality sector. The combination is a strong strategic fit for our organization and aligns well with our long-term growth strategy, further accelerating our ability to expand our product portfolio, deepen customer relationships, and grow across key channels. We are particularly enthusiastic about the opportunity to build relationships with several specialty retailers who will be new partners for us.”

The acquisition is Live Comfortably’s first since it became a pure play utility bedding company with the divestiture of its fashion bedding and window and shower curtain business last year. At the time, management hinted that acquisitions might be part of its growth strategy. Indeed, the Company has a long history of acquisitions, dating back to 2013 when Hollander bought Louisville Sleep products. Since then, Live Comfortably and its predecessors have grown via seven acquisitions. Live Comfortably anticipates that selective acquisitions may continue to be part of its growth strategy.

Live Comfortably is acquiring Downlite’s pillow and mattress pad manufacturing operations, which are currently conducted in two factories in Ohio and North Carolina. Downlite will retain its feather and down processing business, including its processing facilities in Ohio and Canada, as well as it sourcing office in China, which serve customers in the outdoor and furniture markets.  Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Posted: March 22, 2026

Source: Live Comfortably

PROMPERÚ Opens Call To Promote Peruvian Fashion Brands Abroad

LIMA, Peru— MARCH 18, 2026 — The Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Exports and Tourism (PROMPERÚ) promotes the international presence of Peruvian clothing and decoration brands through the Internationalization of Own Brands Program, an initiative aimed at projecting national creative talent in global markets through its participation in fairs, showrooms and specialized pop-ups.

The program provides accompaniment for three consecutive years for companies to develop commercial promotion strategies on international platforms in the fashion and design industry. This process includes support to participate in exhibition spaces and advice to strengthen their commercial projection, incorporating tools such as the strategic use of the Peru Brand and sectoral brands such as Alpaca del Perú or Perú Textiles.

Through this initiative, PROMPERÚ seeks to facilitate the access of national brands to buyers, distributors and prescribers of the global industry. To this end, it coordinates actions with the Commercial Offices of Peru Abroad (OCEX), which contribute to disseminating and amplifying the presence of these proposals in different markets.

The program is aimed at companies in the clothing and decoration sector, including fashion, jewelry, footwear, accessories and home design, that have a consolidated brand proposal and export potential.

Several Peruvian brands have already taken advantage of this momentum to project themselves on the international stage. Firms such as Saya, Gaya, Amarena and Galera, among others, have participated in specialized commercial platforms, bringing proposals that combine contemporary design with the richness of materials and knowledge from Peru.

With initiatives like this, PROMPERÚ, an entity attached to Mincetur, promotes that more and more national companies go from selling products to positioning brands with their own identity, capable of competing in the demanding international fashion and design market.

Interested companies can learn more about the program and complete their registration process, available until April 9, at the following link:

https://eventospromperu.org.pe/event/programadeinternacionalizaciondemarcas

or write to: programademarcas@promperu.gob.pe

Posted: March 22, 2026

Source: The Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Exports and Tourism (PROMPERÚ)

Intertextile Shenzhen Returns In June, Slates Textile Innovation As Key Driver For South China’s AI And Fashion Hub

SHENZHEN, China — MARCH 19, 2026 — As Shenzhen increasingly positions itself at the leading edge of fashion technology, Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics 2026 is set to align under the umbrella theme of textile innovation.

Taking place June 9 – 11, the fair will give exhibitors a platform to leverage the thriving garment sector of the city and the wider Greater Bay Area (GBA), which integrates AI with elements such as inspection, design, data, and digital transactions. The upcoming show will build on the tech-related momentum of previous editions with the debut of the Innovation Studio showcase and Future Horizons forum.

Ms Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, commented on the fair’s more focused alignment: “In recent years, a key differentiator of this platform has been its unique position to leverage Shenzhen’s reputation as a hub for both fashion and innovation. With cities in the Greater Bay Area increasingly betting on AI adoption and technological advancement for their apparel sectors, we were eager to give our exhibitors even more avenues to attract relevant buyers hailing from across the region, China, and overseas. Accordingly, the decision to adopt the textile innovation theme and launch Innovation Studio and Future Horizons is a direct response to market sentiment, and well-aligned with Messe Frankfurt’s ‘Texpertise Focus AI’ concept that is rolling out globally this year.”

Through the campaign, widescale efforts are being made to integrate AI across the company’s more than 60 textile fairs worldwide, and Intertextile Shenzhen has the potential to play a strong supporting role. Shenzhen’s public and private sectors have been working towards further developing the city, and its CBD in Futian, as a fashion hub for the GBA, identifying AI innovation and application as a key driver[1] with various events and initiatives aiding its progress. Not far away, Humen in Dongguan is another example of a regional hub using AI to improve its garment industry’s digitalisation, sustainability, and global appeal[2].

Located in the heart of Futian, and easily accessible to other textile hubs including Dongguan, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, Intertextile Shenzhen is ideally positioned to draw participation from regional and international visitors seeking the latest innovations. Meanwhile, China’s visa-free policy has extended to 50 countries and regions with the recent additions of Canada and the UK, while five new ports in the GBA are eligible for 240-hour visa-free transit[3].

Innovation Studio and Future Horizons to spotlight textile innovation
Last year’s edition, which drew nearly 40,000 visits from 64 countries and regions, saw the launch of The Closet, a display area showcasing eco-friendly materials and bold creations from emerging designers. In 2026, The Closet is set to include a cutting-edge extension – the Innovation Studio. The new area will feature advanced textile designs, materials, and solutions, enhancing visibility for exhibitors and enabling visitors to more effectively navigate trends.

To further highlight the latest textile trends, a dedicated forum – Future Horizons – will unveil innovations that are redefining the industry landscape, providing garment manufacturers, textile suppliers, and designers with valuable industry insights that drive future growth. This event will augment a fringe programme set to cover insights and trends across design, technological advancement, business, and sustainability.

Overall, the fair will showcase the full spectrum of fibres and yarns, fabrics, garments, and accessories covering ladieswear, casualwear, denim, suiting and shirting, functional wear and sportswear, as well as swimwear and lingerie. Innovation will not only be a key category for exhibitors, but also the common thread tying them together.

Exhibiting at the previous edition, Mr Justin Ko, Senior Marketing Officer at the Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design (AiDLab), said: “As a research institute focused on AI, we develop innovative applications for clothing testing and fashion design. AI significantly improves efficiency in traditional processes, simplifying and accelerating tasks. During the fair, we noticed strong interest from visitors and met potential partners. We are satisfied with our results here in Shenzhen. Most enquiries came from domestic customers, including fabric manufacturers and designers, particularly interested in our AI design solutions.”

Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics is a key platform for unveiling new trends, innovative models, and dynamic driving forces shaping the industry. By showcasing pioneering case studies and comprehensive solutions for advancement, the fair enables textile stakeholders to discover and adopt successful new models and technologies through engaging displays, seminars, and themed forums.

Held concurrently with Yarn Expo Shenzhen and PH Value, the fair is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; Messe Frankfurt (Shenzhen) Co Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Textile Information Center.

Posted: March 22, 2026

Source: Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd

The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR)  Welcomes New Policy Officer For Trade & Environment

BRUSSELS — MARCH 19, 2026 — The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) is pleased to announce the arrival of Ms Alexandra Vartan, who joined the BIR advocacy team on 17 March as Policy Officer for Trade & Environment.

Alexandra Vartan

Alexandra brings over four years of professional experience in diplomacy, governance, sustainable development and capacity building, alongside a strong international background gained across diverse institutional settings in Europe.

A Moldovan and Romanian national, Alexandra has lived, studied and worked across Europe, including in Denmark, the United Kingdom, Belgium and Switzerland. She holds an LL.M. in Diplomacy and International Law from Lancaster University and an MA in European Political and Governance Studies from the College of Europe.

Her experience includes managing EU-funded development programmes and working on climate and energy policy at the European Commission’s DG CLIMA. Most recently, she was a Young Professional at the World Trade Organization (WTO), focusing on trade and environment issues. She contributed to key initiatives such as the Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform, and supported Trade and Environment Week. Through this work, Alexandra has developed strong insight into sustainability challenges in sectors such as plastics and steel, directly relevant to BIR’s advocacy priorities.

“We are delighted to welcome Alexandra to our advocacy team at BIR,” says Alev Somer, BIR Trade and Environment Director. “Her international background, combined with strong experience in trade, climate diplomacy and multilateral policy processes, will be instrumental in advancing BIR’s work, particularly in navigating current trade disruptions and barriers affecting global supply chains and economic stability. As Trade & Environment Policy Officer, she will lead our efforts on ferrous, stainless, critical raw materials and shredders, while closely monitoring global policy developments affecting the recycling industry.”

BIR members will have the opportunity to meet Alexandra in person at the upcoming World Recycling Convention & Exhibition in Gothenburg this June.

Posted: March 22, 2026

Source: The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR)

Live Comfortably Renews Long Term License Agreement With Serta

BOCA RATON, FL — MARCH 18, 2026 — Live Comfortably, North America’s leading utility bedding manufacturer, has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Serta Simmons Bedding for a seven-year term, marking an exciting new chapter for both companies.

Through this partnership, Live Comfortably will hold the exclusive rights to develop and distribute Serta-branded bedding products across the United States and Canada, spanning all retail channels including Club, Mass, Department Stores, Off-Price, Ecommerce Pure Play, Home Improvement, and Specialty.

The license covers a wide range of key categories including Bed and Body Pillows (synthetic, natural fill, and fiber blends), Mattress Pads, Mattress and Pillow Protectors, Comforters (synthetic and natural fill, Sheets (utility and fashion) and Blankets (utility and fashion).

“Live Comfortably is a natural partner for us,” explained Tim Oakhill, Chief Marketing Officer of Serta Simmons Bedding. “Their utility bedding production capacity and brand marketing expertise are unparalleled. They are the only North American manufacturer with the ability to service multiple high volume retail accounts at once. So, they are unique in their ability to help us achieve the scale we expect to achieve with the Serta brand.”

“We are thrilled with the deepening of our partnership,” said Brian Cassady, CEO of Live Comfortably. “Having the Serta license through 2032 will allow us to make long-term decisions and investments in the brand to help drive Serta’s market share across our retail base.”

Alignment between Live Comfortably and Serta’s marketing philosophies is another key aspect of the deal.

Amy Price

“For more than a decade, we have been the utility bedding industry’s leading supplier of licensed brands,” said Amy Price, Chief Commercial Officer of Live Comfortably.  “Our organization is built on a strong foundation of brand stewardship, making us uniquely positioned to represent exceptional brand partners.  Serta is an iconic name in the category, with outstanding brand recognition and a highly positive consumer perception.  Our market research confirms that Serta aligns seamlessly with the needs and preferences of the largest consumer segments we serve.”

The two companies know each other well. Live Comfortably has been a Serta licensee in the same categories since 2020. To date, Live Comfortably has sold over a billion dollars of Serta products at retail.

Posted: March 22, 2026

Source: Serta Simmons Bedding (SSB)

Cotton Brazil Dialogues Confirms 2026 Edition With Immersive Visits To Brazil’s Leading Cotton-Producing Regions

Photo: The Brazilian Cotton Growers Association (Abrapa)

BRASÍLIA, Distrito Federal, Brazil— MARCH 19, 2026 — Cotton Brazil Dialogues is a programme that promotes responsible production practices and cross-sector collaboration among representatives of the global cotton value chain. The 2026 edition will feature immersive field trips to cotton-producing regions across Brazil. Participants will include industry experts, brands, retailers and representatives of international organizations. The initiative aims to strengthen dialogue, share knowledge and increase transparency regarding the production and sustainability of Brazilian cotton in the international market.

The trips are organized by the Brazilian Cotton Growers Association (Abrapa), in partnership with the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil) and the National Association of Cotton Exporters (ANEA), as part of efforts to promote Brazilian cotton abroad.

The programme consists of a one-week field trip to the country’s main cotton-producing regions. Participants will experience Brazilian cotton production up close, with visits to farms, HVI laboratories, cotton gins and other facilities across the production chain. Throughout the journey, participants will observe precision and regenerative agriculture practices, as well as traceability and sustainability initiatives, demonstrating how these principles are integrated across the different stages of cotton production in Brazil.

Opportunities for dialogue

Marcelo Duarte, International Relations Director at Abrapa, highlights that the initiative has become an important platform for connecting the Brazilian cotton sector with international stakeholders.

“Every year, Cotton Brazil brings together leaders from different segments of the global textile chain to experience Brazilian cotton production up close. For the 2026 edition, we decided to evolve the format by offering two sessions and by further diversifying the group of participants. The idea is to expand the dialogue and create more opportunities for meaningful exchanges between international stakeholders and the Brazilian cotton sector,” he says.

This year, the mission will have two sessions — from July 27 to 31 and from August 17 to 21 — and interested participants can find more information on the programme’s official website.

Sustainability at the center of the agenda

The programme includes technical visits to cotton farms and analysis laboratories located in the Brazilian states of Mato Grosso, Bahia and Goiás, allowing participants to learn more about different stages of Brazil’s cotton production. Throughout the trip, sustainability will be one of the central pillars, with emphasis on the standards adopted in the ABR (Responsible Brazilian Cotton) certification, which monitors the production process at every stage.

Participants will also have the opportunity to learn about the traceability initiatives used in Brazil, which make it possible to identify the origin and track the journey of each bale of cotton along the production chain. The agenda also includes roundtable discussions with Brazilian producers and other representatives from the sector, creating a space for knowledge exchange and strengthening collaboration among different actors in the global cotton industry.

Value chain stakeholders

The Cotton Brazil Dialogues reinforces Brazil’s commitment to responsible and transparent cotton production aligned with global sustainability expectations. By promoting direct dialogue with international partners, the initiative helps bring the Brazilian production sector closer to key players in the global textile value chain.

Each group is composed of a diverse audience, bringing together professionals from different stages of the value chain, including producers, traders, spinners, brands and retailers.

Lisa Ventura, Head of International Partnerships at Abrapa, explains that the 2026 edition will place special emphasis on engaging a broader and more diverse group of participants, particularly professionals responsible for sourcing for brands and retailers. “This year, we are especially focused on engaging a broader and more diverse group of participants, ensuring a multi-stakeholder approach to these field trips,” she says.

She adds that bringing these stakeholders closer to the field is essential, as it allows them to see firsthand how scale, technology, traceability and sustainability are integrated into Brazilian cotton production, strengthening transparency and long-term collaboration across the textile value chain.

Posted: March 22, 2026

Source: The Brazilian Cotton Growers Association (Abrapa)

Milliken & Company Has Been Named One Of The 2026 World’s Most Ethical Companies® By Ethisphere

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — MARCH 19, 2026 — Milliken & Company has been named one of the 2026 World’s Most Ethical Companies® by Ethisphere, marking the 20th consecutive year the global diversified manufacturer has received the recognition. Milliken is one of only six companies to be honored every year since the program’s inception in 2007.

The milestone reflects a long‑standing commitment to ethical business practices that are embedded across Milliken’s governance, culture, and operations.

“Earning recognition as a World’s Most Ethical Company for twenty consecutive years reflects something deeply ingrained at Milliken,” said Halsey Cook, president and CEO of Milliken & Company. “That kind of consistency does not happen by chance, and it’s not because of a single policy or leader. It is built over time through a culture that encourages everyone across the organization to make the right choices day after day, even when no one is watching.”

Milliken’s ethics and compliance program is built around formal governance, documented standards, and continuous oversight. Ethics and compliance are integrated into enterprise risk management and reinforced through ongoing training, leadership accountability, and reporting mechanisms that encourage associates to speak up.

In addition to the World’s Most Ethical Companies recognition, Milliken participates in multiple third‑party evaluations related to ethics and integrity, using external perspectives to further strengthen its programs and performance.

Rather than relying on static goals, Milliken continuously evaluates the effectiveness of its approach using measurement, internal review, and external assessments to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement.

“Being recognized as a World’s Most Ethical Company does not suggest the work is complete,” said Kasel Knight, executive vice president, chief legal officer, and head of sustainability. “It reinforces the importance of maintaining strong systems, remaining transparent, and continuing to evolve as expectations and risks change.”

The World’s Most Ethical Companies assessment is based on Ethisphere’s proprietary Ethics Quotient®, which evaluates companies across governance, ethics and compliance, culture, environmental and social impact, and value‑chain practices. The assessment requires extensive documentation and validation of policies, programs, and practices.

“Our World’s Most Ethical Companies process has evolved over the last two decades, and Milliken’s practices have kept pace with our rising expectations” said Erica Salmon Byrne, Ethisphere’s Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Chair. “We know that companies committed to business integrity are best positioned to navigate rapid change. Congratulations to the Milliken team for this consistent recognition.”

Posted: March 22, 2026

Source: Milliken & Company

Global Apparel Brands Expand Use Of CiCLO® Technology In Performance Fabrics To Address Microplastic Fiber Pollution

GASTONIA, N.C. — MARCH 17, 2026 — As the global textile industry intensifies efforts to address microplastic fiber pollution, Intrinsic Advanced Materials (IAM) today announced expanded adoption of CiCLO® technology across performance apparel, outdoor, and protective workwear.

Fruit of the Loom® Iconic Sweats collection

New product introductions from leading brands in Europe, Canada, and the United States demonstrate growing momentum for synthetic textiles engineered to reduce the persistence of microplastic fibers in the environment while retaining the durability, performance, and recyclability of fabrics.

Synthetic fibers now account for more than 65 percent of global textile production(1), making solutions to address microplastic fiber pollution an urgent priority for global textile producers across the performance apparel supply chain.

CiCLO technology is a textile ingredient embedded in polyester and nylon fibers during production, enabling the material to biodegrade at rates comparable to wool when it enters the environment.  When CiCLO polyester or nylon is exposed to seawater, soil, or wastewater sludge, microbes can break down the fibers, leaving behind only natural elements. Long-term comparative studies conducted by third-party labs show that CiCLO fibers fully biodegrade in under 4 years2 compared to conventional fibers that remain intact.

To support collaboration and further adoption across the textile value chain, IAM will showcase CiCLO technology at two major performance textile industry events this spring: Performance Days Munich (March 18–19, Booth #T02) and Functional Fabric Fair (April 7–9, Booth #254).

Fruit of the Loom® Iconic 250 Sweats collection

In Europe, Fruit of the Loom has incorporated CiCLO polyester into its Iconic Premium and Iconic 250 Sweats collections, including sweatshirts, hoodies, and jog pants designed for comfort, durability, and everyday wear.

“With our two new sweat collections, it was important to us to offer added value and differentiate ourselves from the competition. We succeeded by using CiCLO technology. What’s more, our distribution partners and consumers rely on us when it comes to products they wear every day, and with that scale comes responsibility,” said Christian Lanvermann, Senior Marketing Manager for Fruit of the Loom Europe. “Integrating CiCLO technology into these collections allows us to introduce an ingredient innovation directly into core apparel categories. It is a practical way to continue delivering comfort, durability, and value while helping address the growing concern around microplastic fibers.”

ROFA® MOVE EASY Workwear line

In the industrial apparel sector, ROFA is integrating CiCLO technology into the MOVE EASY Workwear line, designed for maximum movement, and the HIVIS LIGHT Warning protection line, designed for high-visibility safety garments.

“Industrial workwear is built to last and must perform under extreme conditions,” said Cornelia Jäger, product development. “Adopting CiCLO technology allows us to maintain the durability and safety standards required in protective Workwear and Warning Protection clothing while taking a responsible step toward addressing the long‑term environmental persistence of synthetic fibers.”

In the United States, Black Diamond Equipment has introduced the Rift Fleece collection featuring CiCLO technology designed for comfort and outdoor performance.

Additional market adoptions include athleisure apparel at Costco and Walmart, featuring men’s and women’s shirts and pants under the Mondetta brand, distributed across the US and Canada.

“CiCLO delivers a proven, scaled, and affordable solution for the entire existing textile supply chain,” said Cheryl Smyre, Vice President of Intrinsic Advanced Materials. “Helping brands move beyond intention into speedy adoption is unlocking the power of collaboration and partnership. We are experiencing an industry urgency to solve the environmental impact of unavoidable microplastic shedding from synthetic textiles. Responsible material innovation is at a new level, and we are committed to supporting our brand partners as they introduce durable and sustainable products across market segments. Let’s do better together, for people and planet.”

The momentum for CiCLO technology follows its recent recognition at the Textile Recovery Summit in San Diego, where it was voted as the winner of the Innovation Stage. Reflecting on this industry shift, Andrea Ferris, CEO and Co-founder of Intrinsic Advanced Materials, noted that brand partners are increasingly looking beyond traditional sustainability models. “We are seeing a real shift with brands, where producer responsibility and circularity are increasingly understood as cohesive strategies that bring more responsible materials and products to market from inception, extending beyond closed-loop recycling alone,” said Ferris.

The expansion of CiCLO adoption comes at a time when frequently evolving trade policies highlight the importance of a solid global infrastructure. Fibers and yarns made with CiCLO technology are available from certified manufacturers globally, supporting agile supply chains and enabling brands and mills to scale their use of CiCLO technology more efficiently across production networks.

Brands, mills, and fiber producers attending Performance Days Munich and Functional Fabric Fair are invited to meet with the CiCLO team to explore collaboration opportunities, supply chain integration, and co‑development of next‑generation performance fabrics that are made to last, just not here forever.

To schedule a meeting with the CiCLO team or learn more about how biodegradable technology works, visit www.ciclotechnology.com.

Sources: (1) Textile Exchange – Materials Market Report 2024; 2 Independent third-party testing | ciclotechnology.com biodegradation testing result 2026

Posted: March 20, 2026

Source: Parkdale Mills Inc.

EDANA Unveils Nominees For INDEX™26 Awards: Highlighting The Next Generation Of Nonwoven Excellence

BRUSSELS — MARCH 13, 2026 — EDANA is proud to unveil the highly anticipated nominees for the INDEX™26 Awards, the nonwoven industry’s highest accolade for technical and sustainable excellence.

Out of a record-breaking field of entries, these finalists represent the cutting edge of material science—from bio-based hygiene fibers and PFAS-free protective textiles to revolutionary water-filtration machinery.

Each nominee has been selected by a jury of industry experts for their ability to solve critical global challenges, including the transition to a circular economy and the pursuit of enhanced consumer performance.

  1. Nonwoven Roll Goods
  • Lenzing – LENZING™ Dualwipe
  • Magnera Corporation – Next-Gen Fluid Barrier Technology
  • Woolchemy – neweFlex™ ADL
  1. Finished products made from, or incorporating nonwovens – Single-use application
  • Corman – Organyc brand “Personalized Protection” Light Incontinence Pads
  • Teknomelt Teknik Mensucat – Fibrasiv®
  1. Finished products made from, or incorporating nonwovens – Durable application
  • Confitex Technology – Reusable Nonwoven Bed Pads
  • DuPont Personal Protection – DuPont™ Tychem® 6000 SFR
  • Pelsan Tekstil – Metabreathe™
  1. Raw materials or components of special relevance to the nonwovens and related converted products industry
  • Bostik – Kizen™ Miles 9.0
  • Fiberpartner – PolyPlant®
  • The Lycra Company – LYCRA® ADAPTIV fiber
  1. Innovation in machinery of special relevance to the nonwovens industry
  • Kansan – KM Hydroentanglement Filtration System
  • Teknoweb Converting – OCEAN – Converting technology for high-performance, low-impact underpads
  • ZUIKO – Converting machine for recloseable baby diapers

The winners in each category will be announced during a special ceremony at the INDEX™26 exhibition, the world’s leading nonwovens event, which will take place on the first day of INDEX™26, Tuesday, 19 May at 10:30 CET, on the EDANA stand. These awards serve not only to honor the ingenious engineering of the finalists but also to provide a roadmap for the future of the entire nonwovens supply chain.

For more information on the nominees, please visit the official EDANA website:

https://www.edana.org/about-us/news/edana-unveils-nominees-for-index26-awards-highlighting-the-next-generation-of-nonwoven-excellence

To register for the upcoming exhibition, visit the official INDEX™26 website:

https://www.indexnonwovens.com/visit/visitor-registration/

Posted: March 20, 2026

Source: EDANA

 

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