French President Emmanuel Macron Attends Groundbreaking At Sage Automotive Interiors’ Facility

GREENVILLE, S.C. — April 27, 2026 — Sage Automotive Interiors, a leader in the automotive interior materials industry, is proud to celebrate the groundbreaking of an innovative geotextile collaboration between the French government, Occitanie Géotex and Sage at the company’s Laroque d’Olmes, France plant site.

Today’s groundbreaking event was attended by French President Emmanuel Macron, executives from Sage and Occitanie Géotex, plus other government officials and community leaders. Occitanie Géotex, a French manufacturer developing a local and sustainable alternative to synthetic geotextiles and imported natural fibers, is building its new facility at a site contributed by Sage.

“Sage is proud to partner with Occitanie Géotex and the French government on this innovative project, and we are honored by the presence of the President of the Republic,” said Dan Russian, President and CEO, Sage Automotive Interiors. “As a global leader in automotive interiors, this natural fiber geonets project marks a strategic and fundamental step for our future. This project is perfectly aligned with our values and commitments, particularly in terms of corporate social and environmental responsibility.”

As a foundational component of this project, Sage sold the brownfield site at their Laroque facility for the symbolic price of one euro. This helped pave the way for today’s groundbreaking of the geotextile production unit, which will help shape the future of the Pays d’Olmes region and beyond.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Sage Automotive Interiors and its representatives who are here today for their invaluable assistance,” said Victor Lamego, CEO, Occitanie Géotex. “This project, with which we have partnered since its inception, is the result of close and constructive local, human, technical and industrial collaboration with Occitanie Géotex, even before the company was officially established.”

Occitanie Géotex is a French manufacturer based in Ariège, specializing in the design of biodegradable geotextiles and geonets from natural fibers, mainly hemp grown in the Occitanie region. The company is
developing a local and sustainable alternative to synthetic geotextiles and imported natural fibers, with applications in multiple industrial sectors.

“It is important to remember that this factory will be built on a former SAGE industrial site,” added Lamego. “This close partnership, which began during the development of our products, aims to continue within a framework of industrial and commercial synergy.”

As a global provider of automotive interior materials for Original Equipment Manufacturers, Sage’s focus is to continually lead the market in design, engineering and technical capability, supported by world-class manufacturing. Sage operates 30 facilities across 18 countries, including two facilities in France. The historic Laroque facility, which dates back nearly 200 years and has been continually operating for the past 70.

Posted: April 27, 2026

Source: Sage Automotive Interiors

PLASTICS Economic Analysis: 100% Expensing Helps Offset Tariff Pressures On Manufacturing Investment

WASHINGTON, D.C. — April 21, 2026 — The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) Chief Economist, Dr. Perc Pineda, today released a new economic analysis examining how the permanent restoration of 100% bonus depreciation under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is helping manufacturers continue investing despite rising equipment costs driven by tariffs.

Perc Pineda, Chief Economist, PLASTICS

Dr. Pineda writes, “Higher tariffs on steel, components, and finished machinery have increased costs and created uncertainty for manufacturers.

“One important mitigating factor: the permanent restoration of 100% bonus depreciation under the 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This tax provision significantly lowers the after-tax cost of new equipment and gives businesses a strong incentive to invest despite higher upfront price.”

To read the full analysis, Visit:

https://www.plasticsindustry.org/blog/how-100-tax-expensing-shields-u-s-industrial-equipment-investment-from-tariff-pressures/

Posted: April 27, 2026

Source: The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS)

Introducing Latitude By Strataglass: A Next-Generation Marine Textile Combining Softness, Strength, And Superior Weather Resistance

EMIGSVILLE, PA — April 21, 2026 — Strataglass LLC, a manufacturer of marine vinyl enclosure products, proudly introduces a new marine fabric, Latitude by Strataglass.

This American-made marine fabric sets a new standard in performance textiles for the marine industry, blending premium aesthetics with enhanced durability. This innovative fabric is built to meet the high demands of marine fabricators, boat builders, and boat owners seeking durable protection without sacrificing appearance or ease of use.

Latitude by Strataglass uses a specially designed vinyl film technology that provides an exceptionally soft feel while ensuring the durability needed for tough marine environments. The material is engineered for easy fabrication, making it perfect for a wide range of marine uses where both performance and craftsmanship are important.

Built to withstand the toughest conditions on the water, Latitude offers outstanding resistance to cold cracking, tearing, weathering, rot, and ultraviolet exposure. Its advanced protective topcoat helps prevent damage from everyday marine contaminants while also making the material easy to clean and maintain. This protective layer not only preserves the fabric’s appearance but also extends its service life, delivering long-term value for customers.

“Latitude represents the next evolution in marine textile innovation,” said Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Craig Zola. “We designed this product to give fabricators a material that performs as beautifully as it looks, while providing boat owners with the durability and protection they expect from Strataglass.”

Latitude continues the Strataglass tradition of delivering premium marine materials that balance innovation, reliability, and refined appearance. With its unique combination of softness, durability, and weather resistance, Latitude is positioned to become a preferred choice for marine professionals and boating enthusiasts alike.

For more information about Latitude by Strataglass, visit www.strataglass.com

Posted: April 27, 2026

Source: Herculite Products Inc.

 

Vivien Altmann-Morelli New Director Of Texcare

FRANKFURT AM MAIN, Germany — April 22, 2026 — As of May 1, 2026, Vivien Altmann-Morelli will take over as Director of Texcare International and the associated brand Textile Care & Cleaning Technologies. In addition, the Food Technologies brand will also fall under her responsibility.

Vivien Altmann-Morelli will head Texcare starting May 2026. Source: Messe Frankfurt Exhibition

In her new role, Altmann-Morelli will oversee Texcare International in Frankfurt, the leading international trade fair for the global laundry, dry-cleaning and textile services industry. As a brand, Texcare is represented by four additional international events within the Technology Shows portfolio.

Altmann-Morelli will report to Kerstin Horaczek, Vice President Technology Shows at Messe Frankfurt Exhibition.

“Texcare in Frankfurt is the leading trade fair for the international textile care industry and a central hub for global technology leaders as well as emerging players. As an innovation platform, it provides key impulses for sustainable, efficient and future-oriented growth. I am very much looking forward to becoming part of this global network and to helping shape the future together,” says Vivien Altmann-Morelli.

The business administration graduate with a focus on sales and event marketing has been working at Messe Frankfurt since 2019. After starting as a Sales Manager in the Guest Events division, she took on the role of Coordinator Guest Events in 2023, where she managed various interdisciplinary projects. As part of the Sustainability Management team, she also played a key role in the strategic development of Messe Frankfurt’s sustainability activities.

As Director of Texcare International, she will also be responsible for the brand management of the four international events in the portfolio: Texcare Asia & China Laundry Expo, Texcare France, The Clean Show (USA), and Clean India Show. In addition, Altmann-Morelli will lead IFFA and oversee the Food Technologies brand.

She succeeds Johannes Schmid-Wiedersheim, who is pursuing new professional opportunities. He has successfully led Texcare since 2016.

Posted: April 27, 2026

Source: Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH

Barmag Huitong Engineering Technology Makes PA6 Direct Spinning Economically Viable

REMSCHEID, Germany / YANGZHOU, China — April 23, 2026 — Barmag’s subsidiary Barmag Huitong (Yangzhou) Engineering Co., Ltd. commissioned the first continuous polymerization (CP) plant for polyamide 6 in the Chinese province of Zhejiang.

Following a brief construction and commissioning phase of just 7 months, the plant began production at the end of 2025. Since then, 20 metric tons of high-quality polyamide 6 have been produced daily with significantly reduced energy consumption; this material is processed into filament yarn for textile applications via a direct spinning facility. With this, the renowned polyamide manufacturer has laid the groundwork to further expand its competitive edge in the demanding polyamide 6 market.

The joint venture between the German chemical fiber plant manufacturer Barmag and the Chinese chemical plant specialist Huitong has further developed the classic two-reactor technology, making it competitive and establishing the concept as the ideal choice for future PA6 direct spinning. In addition, Barmag Huitong Engineering is continuously working on process and equipment innovations to increase plant efficiency for its customers while promoting the sustainable development of the nylon industry chain.

Posted: April 27, 2026

Source: BARMAG – A Subsidiary of the Rieter Group

ACIMIT: Italian Textile Machinery Heads To Geneva For Index 2026

MILAN— April 23, 2026 — An important delegation of Italian companies will exhibit at the upcoming INDEX 2026, the world’s leading event for the nonwovens sector, taking place from May 19 to 22 in Geneva (Switzerland).

Numerous Italian exhibitors will be present within the Italy Pavilion, organized by the Italian Trade Agency (ICE) and ACIMIT, an exhibition area of over 140 square meters dedicated to the latest innovations proposed by the Italian industry.

The trade fair has always represented the main global showcase for manufacturers of nonwoven machinery. The international market for these technologies is constantly evolving, and Italy continues to play a leading role in the world trade of solutions dedicated to this specific sector.

Despite the challenges of the global market, the Italian export of textile machinery technologies has shown signs of resilience, with performance levels that underscore the competitiveness of our solutions.

“We hope that INDEX 2026 can represent a moment of strong momentum for the sector, confirming the recovery of global demand for innovative machinery,” says the President of ACIMIT, Marco Salvadè.

Over the last few years, global demand has shifted toward technologies capable of combining production cost savings with environmental respect, as also requested by major brands and final consumers. “Today, Italian manufacturers can offer highly customized solutions particularly suitable for making nonwoven production more sustainable,” confirms Salvadè. “In Geneva, Italian manufacturers will present the most recent innovations necessary to make our customers’ production processes more efficient and sustainable.”

Exhibitors at the Italy Pavilion are: A.Piovan S.r.l., Aeris S.r.l., Bettarini & Serafini S.r.l., Bianco S.p.A., Bonino Carding Machines S.r.l., Cubotex S.r.l., M.T.V. S.r.l., Marzoli Machines Textile S.r.l., Monti Antonio S.p.A., Ommi S.r.l., Texera S.r.l., Unitech Industries S.r.l..

The strength of Italian participation is further confirmed by ACIMIT member companies exhibiting at individual stands or through local dealers, including: Cormatex S.r.l., Dell’Orco & Villani S.r.l., Loptex S.r.l., Ramatex Italia S.r.l., Ramina S.r.l..

ACIMIT (Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers) was founded in 1945 with the primary objective of promoting the Italian textile machinery industry by supporting its activities both in Italy and abroad.

ACIMIT represents an industrial sector comprising approximately 300 companies (employing nearly 13,000 people) that produce machinery with a total value of about €2.1 billion, of which approximately 86% is exported. Creativity, sustainable technology, reliability, and quality are the hallmarks that have made Italian textile machinery a leader worldwide.

Posted: April 27, 2026

Source: The Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers (ACIMIT)

The Microfibre Consortium And ZDHC Advance Joint Research To Strengthen Wastewater Monitoring Of Fibre Fragmentation

LONDON / AMSTERDAM— April 23, 2026 — Building on a successful collaboration in 2023 to tackle fibre fragmentation pollution, The Microfibre Consortium (TMC) and the ZDHC Foundation (ZDHC) have launched Phase 2 of their joint initiative to strengthen how the textile industry measures and manages fibre fragmentation in wastewater.

Phase 2 moves from initial proof-of-concept to robust, data-driven validation. The project will expand wastewater testing across 15 textile manufacturing facilities globally to assess whether Total Suspended Solids (TSS) can reliably serve as a proxy indicator for fibre fragment concentration in industrial effluent.

TSS is already widely used to measure the total amount of suspended solids in wastewater. However, fibre fragments represent only a portion of these solids. Through parallel testing of TSS and Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA),  a method that directly measures fibre fragment counts, the project aims to strengthen confidence in using TSS as a practical and scalable monitoring tool for the supply chain.

By collecting matched TSS and DIA data from balancing tanks and final effluent discharge points across diverse facilities, regions, and material types, the project will generate one of the most comprehensive datasets to date on fibre fragments in textile wastewater.

“This next phase is about validating the hypothesis at scale with a significant number of facilities representing a cross-section of the industry. If TSS can be robustly established as a proxy indicator for fibre fragments, the industry will have a scalable, globally accessible way to monitor and drive reductions in fibre emissions through existing wastewater systems.” — Maria Arroyo, Sector Partnership Lead, ZDHC

“We’ve outlined the actions that can be taken, now we’re creating the conditions for credible mitigation, at scale. Our collaboration with ZDHC shares a common ambition for scientific rigour and realistic solutions, for cost-effective application across the industry.” — Kelly Sheridan, CEO, The Microfibre Consortium

From Research to Action

The project will engage vertically integrated and wet-processing facilities across key global manufacturing hubs, representing a cross-section of the industry. The research engages manufacturing facilities of a variety of raw material types – polyester, cotton and polyamide – as well as targets priority processes such as denim production and laundry.

Wastewater sampling will be conducted via regional ZDHC Approved Wastewater Laboratories and tested with TSS and Dynamic Image Analysis performed at Hohenstein Laboratories in Germany. All data will be anonymised and analysed jointly by TMC and ZDHC, with results published in a consolidated technical report.

The Phase 2 objective is clear: to validate TSS as a practical proxy indicator to monitor fibre fragmentation in industrial wastewater.

Following completion of the validation phase, TMC and ZDHC will jointly develop an action plan to support suppliers in progressing towards ZDHC Wastewater and Sludge Guidelines Aspirational Levels for TSS. This plans to include supplier training, guidance on wastewater treatment technologies, and integration into ZDHC Academy learning modules.

By aligning scientific validation with practical implementation tools, the collaboration strengthens the industry’s ability to reduce fibre emissions at source, in one of the key pathways, wastewater. And address mitigation through targeted guidance and optimised effluent management.

Industry Collaboration at the Core

Tesco, Primark, adidas and lululemon are co-funding this second phase of the project, and together with the wider participants of the task team have helped co-develop the testing plan by providing guidance and technical oversight.

This initiative reflects a continued commitment from both organisations to move beyond awareness and into measurable impact, supporting the textile value chain in reducing fibre fragmentation and protecting water ecosystems worldwide.

The project results will help strengthen industry-wide understanding of fibre fragment pollution in wastewater and the insights will support ZDHC in determining future industry guidance, reinforcing transparency and shared responsibility.

Posted: April 27, 2026

Source: The Microfibre Consortium (TMC) / The ZDHC Foundation

Tatra Textil, Slovakia, Orders A Complete Batt Forming Line From ANDRITZ

GRAZ, Austria — April 24, 2026 — International technology group ANDRITZ has received an order from Tatra Textil s.r.o. to deliver a state-of-the-art batt forming line for its new production facility in Slovakia.

From letft to right: Philippe Laburthe (ANDRITZ), Guillaume Julien (ANDRITZ), Augustin Mayer (Tatra Textil), Tobias Schäfer (ANDRITZ), Michael Reichl (REMITEX Textilmaschinen)
Photo – ANDRITZ

The line will be used to manufacture thermal insulation for applications in the apparel and bedding industries.

This investment will expand Tatra Textil’s production capacity and enable the processing of high-quality insulation materials.

The ANDRITZ batt forming line is designed to achieve a high level of fluffiness and randomization of the fibers. This is made possible by the combination of highly versatile opening and blending technologies, precise dosing of even the smallest blend percentages, and the TT card with integrated ProWin™ technology. The line ensures precise fiber blend properties with a low coefficient of variation.

The batt forming line is tailored to support the processing of Tatra Textil’s G-LOFT® product line for garments as well as sleeping bags under the brand name Carinthia. By delivering a uniform, voluminous, and stable batt structure, the line creates the ideal foundation for this premium application.

The start-up of the line is scheduled for March 2027.

This order is included in ANDRITZ’s order intake for the fourth quarter of 2025. The value of the order will not be disclosed.

Tatra Textil s.r.o., a recently established Slovak subsidiary of the Goldeck Textil Group Austria, specializes in the production of high-loft thermal insulation materials for the apparel and bedding industries. The company focuses on advanced materials for lightweight and high-performance garments.

Posted: April 27, 2026

Source: ANDRITZ AG

NONWOVENN Celebrates Strong Financial Performance With 25% Growth In Revenues And Strategic Investment

BRIDGWATER, England — April 23, 2026 — Nonwovenn, one of the world’s leading nonwoven fabric-tech companies, has announced a 25% year-on-year increase in revenue, alongside a strong rise in profitability. This significant growth has been driven in part by a strong trajectory in the businesses second biggest market.

The company’s performance reflects sustained investment across its operations, people and product innovation. Over the past five years, Nonwovenn has welcomed more than 50 new employees, strengthening its capabilities across multiple disciplines. This includes four key appointments to accelerate its ProTech division, a new Commercial Director, Innovations Director and the creation of a Next Gen Products Director role.

Nonwovenn has invested over £20 million into the business in recent years and is now positioned to deliver against its ambition to double in size over the next five years. This investment included £1.5 million towards research and development in CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear protective solutions), £10 million invested into a new operational excellence model covering manufacturing equipment, an end-to-end operational efficiency programme and enhancement in R&D and innovation capability.

The positive financial trajectory of Nonwovenn underscores its growth ambitions. Turnover has increased from £19 million in 2016 to £46 million in 2025 and is on track to reach a projected £60 million in 2026 and £80 million in 2028. The 2024/25 financial year also delivered a solid increase in sales, reflecting strong demand across all key divisions.

A key highlight of the past year was the acquisition of Nonwovenn by CorpAcq, the Altrincham-based acquisitions group backed by TDR Capital. As part of one of Britain’s largest private equity-backed platforms, Nonwovenn is well positioned to pursue further growth through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions across Europe and the USA.

Sustainability also remains central to Nonwovenn’s strategy, with the company achieving the gold medal by EcoVadis and actively working towards the Environmental Product Declaration Certification. These initiatives support the broader aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2035.

Nonwovenn’s Commercial Director, Silke Brand, said: “A 25% increase in revenue alongside significant profitability growth is a testament to the strength of our strategy and dedication of our people. With the backing of CorpAcq, and our continued investment programme across innovation, sustainability and operational excellence, we are well positioned to deliver on our ambitious growth plans.”

Nonwovenn is continuing to expand its product portfolio, including the recent development of new solutions such as PFAS-free activated carbon (AC) filter media for ostomy pouches, and significant advancements in other AC technology, improving accessibility, performance and manufacturing robustness across certified face mask ranges.

Posted: April 27, 2026

Source: Nonwovenn

Bally Ribbon Mills To Highlight Berry-Compliant Webbing And High-Performance Tapes At FedTex 2026

BALLY, Pa.— April 23, 2026 — Bally Ribbon Mills (BRM), a designer, developer, and manufacturer of highly specialized engineered woven fabrics, announces that it will showcase its high-performance tapes and webbing at FedTex 2026, booth 52, taking place May 19–20, 2026 at McKimmon Conference and Training Center on the campus of North Carolina State University.

Attendees are invited to meet with BRM’s subject matter experts and explore advanced textile solutions engineered to meet the stringent requirements of military applications.

BRM will highlight its 100% Berry Amendment-compliant woven tapes and webbing, designed to support Department of Defense contractors and federal agencies requiring domestically manufactured materials. Ideal for aircraft seat belts, fall protection and work position harnesses and equipment, tie-downs, and load-bearing systems, this webbing is manufactured to meet US MIL and PIA specifications to deliver consistent performance, durability, and traceability. Available in widths ranging from 1/4 inch to 6 inches, BRM’s webbing can be customized with a variety of weave patterns, custom dye colors, and critical characteristics to meet the mission requirements.

Also featured at the booth are BRM’s specialty binding tapes, engineered to enhance abrasion resistance and edge protection in demanding environments. These tapes provide uniform width and construction, improving sewing efficiency and overall throughput while maintaining high-quality performance in the field. Multiple finish options are available to achieve the desired hand-feel and abrasion resistance for specific military applications.

In addition, BRM will showcase harness, belt, and sling webbing solutions tailored for tactical and load-bearing equipment. Designed for strength, reliability, and adaptability, these materials can be produced in small runs with full customization of width, color, and weave design. BRM’s in-house engineering team works closely with customers to develop application-specific solutions that meet evolving defense and federal standards.

With decades of experience supporting aerospace and defense initiatives, BRM continues to provide advanced woven solutions that align with the performance demands of modern military operations.

For more information, visit BRM at booth 52 during FedTex 2026 or

go to https://www.ballyribbon.com/.

Posted: April 27, 2026

Source: Bally Ribbon Mills (BRM)

 

123...2,625Page 1 of 2,625

Sponsors

Breaking News

Load more

Digital Issue

2026 Quarterly Issue Number I

View Latest Digital Issue

FEATURED ARTICLES

© Copyright 2017 Textile Industries Media Group, LLC.