Walmart US Expands SGS Approved Testing Support Across Fashion Departments

BAAR, Switzerland — November 11, 2026 — SGS, global testing, inspection and certification company, has expanded its testing support under the Walmart US Third-Party Laboratory Assignment List, increasing its ability to support suppliers across multiple Walmart US fashion departments.

As an approved laboratory supporting additional Walmart US fashion departments, SGS helps apparel and accessories suppliers meet quality, safety and compliance testing requirements, enabling efficient product approvals and market access.

For a current list of department assignments, suppliers should refer to the latest Walmart US Third-Party Laboratory Assignment List, available through Retail Link:

Product Quality and Compliance Library > a1 US Product Quality and Compliance Manual > Third Party Laboratory Assignment.

SGS supports these additional Walmart US testing assignments through its globally connected laboratory network across major sourcing markets, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Türkiye, the United States and Vietnam. By providing testing services closer to manufacturing locations, SGS helps simplify logistics, reduce turnaround times and improve coordination throughout the supply chain.

Key benefits for Walmart US suppliers include:

  • Expanded testing support across additional Walmart US fashion departments
  • Access to testing services in key sourcing markets worldwide
  • Reduced turnaround times through localized laboratory support
  • More efficient navigation of Walmart US testing requirements
  • Faster and more confident access to Walmart retail channels, both in-store and online

Through its global laboratory network and technical expertise, SGS helps suppliers navigate Walmart US requirements efficiently, supporting more efficient product approval, faster market access and stronger supply chain performance.

Posted: November 11, 2026

Source: SGS

Aero Tec Laboratories & Arclin Advance FIA Safety Fuel Tank Standards With Kevlar® EXO™

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — November 11, 2026 — Arclin, a materials science company, has partnered with Aero Tec Laboratories (ATL), a global leader in FIA-approved fuel cells and bladders, to advance motorsport safety and meet the rigorous new requirements of FIA 8875-2025 through its groundbreaking 922-C and 927-B fuel bladder materials incorporating Kevlar® EXO™.

Through its collaboration with Arclin, ATL has become the first and currently only manufacturer to successfully produce fuel bladder materials that satisfy both grades of the new FIA 8875 standard. ATL has achieved Grade 1 (“Advanced Safety Fuel Tanks”) homologation with its 922-C material and successfully passed all Grade 2 (“Competition Safety Fuel Tanks”) testing requirements with its 927-B material, both developed using Arclin’s Kevlar® EXO™ technology.

Marking the first update to motorsport safety fuel tank regulations in more than 25 years, FIA Standard 8875-2025 establishes significantly enhanced requirements for puncture resistance, impact protection, fire survivability, and compatibility with a broader range of fuels, including sustainable alternatives. Together, these advancements represent a significant step forward in motorsport safety and underscore the importance of the Arclin and ATL collaboration.

Kevlar® EXO™ played a key role in helping ATL meet the FIA’s rigorous new requirements. Its advanced molecular structure delivers approximately 40% greater strength-to-weight performance than traditional Kevlar® fiber while improving flexibility, fuel compatibility, and energy absorption. These attributes enable fuel bladder designs that are lighter, stronger, and better equipped to withstand the extreme conditions encountered in professional racing.

“The introduction of the FIA’s new fuel tank standard reflects the motorsport industry’s ongoing commitment to advancing driver safety,” said Joe Hovanec, Arclin’s Vice President of Kevlar® EXO™. “Kevlar® EXO™ was designed to push the boundaries of performance materials, and we’re proud to work alongside ATL as they bring the first homologated solution to market under these more stringent requirements.”

Arclin and ATL collaborated closely to bring the benefits of Kevlar® EXO™ technology to next-generation fuel tanks. As the exclusive reinforcement in ATL’s 922-C and 927-B fuel bladder materials, Kevlar® EXO™ combines lightweight performance with exceptional strength, puncture resistance, and resistance to heat and flame.

In high-energy racing incidents, the material’s unique combination of toughness, flexibility, and energy dissipation helps fuel bladders maintain their integrity under severe impact conditions. This enhanced protection supports the FIA’s evolving safety objectives while helping teams maintain the performance characteristics demanded at the highest levels of motorsport.

“Continued investment in research and development with trusted partners is essential to advancing the next generation of safety technologies,” said Giles Dawson, Chief Executive Officer of Aero Tec Laboratories (ATL). “By combining our fuel cell expertise with the advanced performance characteristics of Kevlar® EXO™, we’ve developed a solution that meets the FIA’s latest requirements while setting a new benchmark for fuel tank protection.”

ATL will showcase its latest fuel bladder technology featuring Kevlar® EXO™ at PMW Expo in Cologne, Germany, on November 11-12. Visitors to booth 2046 can learn more about the new FIA 8875 standard and experience the difference firsthand, handling material samples that demonstrate the unique combination of lightweight performance, flexibility, toughness, and energy absorption that helped make the new 922-C and 927-B fuel bladders possible.

Posted: November 11, 2026

Source:Arclin

The Future Of Sewn Product Manufacturing Starts Here: Registration Opens For Texprocess Americas 2027

SAN PEDRO SULA, Honduras — November 10, 2026 — The Americas Apparel Producers’ Network (AAPN), in partnership with Honduras Upward, announces SOURCE: Honduras, taking place February 9–11, 2027, in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. The event will connect leading apparel brands, retailers, manufacturers, and industry partners through an immersive sourcing experience highlighting Honduras’ textile and apparel manufacturing capabilities.

Carhartt, Fanatics, Superior Glove, Varsity Brands, and Workwear Outfitters are among the confirmed participating brands, demonstrating continued interest in strengthening Western Hemisphere sourcing relationships.

Lynsey Jones

“The participation of these leading brands reflects the growing interest in expanding sourcing opportunities across the Western Hemisphere,” said Lynsey Jones, Executive Director of AAPN.

“It’s particularly encouraging that three of our first five confirmed brands are returning after participating in SOURCE: Guatemala, reinforcing the value of bringing sourcing decision-makers directly into manufacturing facilities to evaluate capabilities, build relationships, and explore new business opportunities. Through our partnership with Honduras Upward, we’re excited to showcase the important role Honduras plays in strengthening the regional textile and apparel supply chain.”

Building on the success of SOURCE: Guatemala in August 2026, the Honduras program will feature:

  • Curated Factory Tours: Visits to participating manufacturers, including Sierra Textiles, Parkdale Mills, Caracol Knits, Finotex, and additional regional facilities.
  • Strategic Sourcing Forum: Industry discussions focused on regional manufacturing opportunities, supply chain competitiveness, and the future of Western Hemisphere sourcing.
  • Executive Networking: Opportunities to connect brands, retailers, manufacturers, and industry leaders.

Applications Open for Brands and Retailers

AAPN is accepting applications from qualified sourcing, supply chain, production, and product development executives representing brands and retailers. Approved participants may receive up to three nights of hotel accommodations and a $500 travel stipend, along with factory tours, networking opportunities, and participation in the sourcing forum.

Participation is limited and subject to AAPN approval. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

SOURCE: Honduras | February 9–11, 2027 | San Pedro Sula, Honduras

Event Information and Applications:
www.aapnetwork.net/source-honduras

Posted: November 11, 2026

Source: The Americas Apparel Producers’ Network (AAPN)

The Future Of Sewn Product Manufacturing Starts Here: Registration Opens For Texprocess Americas 2027

ATLANTA, GA— November 10, 2026 — The machinery is evolving. Production is getting smarter. And the future of sewn product manufacturing is taking shape.

Registration is now open for Texprocess Americas 2027, returning May 11–13, 2027, to the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

Co-produced by Messe Frankfurt North America and the Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA), the event brings the sewn products industry together for three days of technology, discovery, education, and meaningful business connections.

As manufacturers face increasing pressure to produce faster, operate smarter, and adapt to changing market demands, Texprocess Americas delivers something beyond the latest equipment: direct access to the innovations, expertise, and partnerships that can move their businesses forward.

See the Technology. Meet the Innovators. Discover What’s Next.

The future of manufacturing isn’t something to watch from the sidelines. It’s something to experience.

At Texprocess Americas, the show floor becomes a gateway to what’s possible, bringing together equipment manufacturers, technology developers, solution providers, and industry leaders shaping how sewn products are designed, developed, and produced.

From precision cutting and advanced sewing systems to automation, digital solutions, and integrated production technologies, attendees can explore the innovations transforming manufacturing operations and discover how those solutions translate into real-world applications.

Beyond the machinery, it’s about the people, ideas, and connections driving the industry forward.

Through live technology demonstrations, expert-led educational opportunities, and conversations with the people behind the innovations, Texprocess Americas creates an environment where ideas become actionable insights and connections open doors to new possibilities.

Whether attendees are looking to modernize production, explore new technologies, improve operational efficiency, or expand their supplier network, the show offers the opportunity to turn manufacturing challenges into opportunities for growth.

One Destination. Two Industries. Endless Possibilities.

What happens when advanced materials meet the technologies that bring them to life?

That connection comes into focus in Atlanta.

Co-located with Techtextil North America, Texprocess Americas brings together two complementary sides of the manufacturing industry for one connected experience.

While Techtextil North America showcases innovations in technical textiles, nonwovens, and advanced materials, Texprocess Americas delivers the machinery, technologies, and production solutions used to transform materials into finished products.

Together, the events create a unique opportunity for attendees to explore the manufacturing process from material innovation to production execution.

For professionals working across apparel, automotive, industrial applications, home furnishings, and technical sewn products, the combined show floor opens the door to new ideas, cross-industry collaboration, and business opportunities that extend beyond a single sector.

Powered by Industry. Built for Progress.

Behind every advancement in sewn-product manufacturing are the companies, technologies, and people driving the industry forward.

As co-producer of Texprocess Americas, SPESA (Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas) brings decades of industry expertise and an extensive network of machinery manufacturers, technology providers, distributors, and supply chain partners to the event.

“At SPESA, we’re focused on helping our members build stronger businesses and making manufacturing better. We see that work in action every day on the show floor at Texprocess Americas,” said SPESA President Michael McDonald. “That’s why we’re so excited to bring the industry together in Atlanta, where our members can share their expertise, build new relationships, and help manufacturers put better technology to work.”

Through education, advocacy, and collaboration, SPESA supports the advancement of the sewn-products industry, helping bridge the gap between the companies developing manufacturing solutions and the businesses adopting them.

This shared commitment is at the heart of the partnership between Messe Frankfurt North America and SPESA. Together, they have established Texprocess Americas as a platform where industry expertise meets practical application, giving manufacturers access to the technologies, insights, and partnerships needed to strengthen operations and prepare for evolving production demands.

The Next Move Starts in Atlanta

Manufacturing doesn’t stand still, and neither should the businesses shaping its future.

For three days, Texprocess Americas 2027 will put the industry’s next chapter on display, offering attendees the opportunity to see innovation in action, connect with decision makers, and discover solutions that could redefine what’s possible for their operations.

The technology is advancing. The industry is connecting. Your next opportunity starts here.

Registration is officially open. Make plans to be part of Texprocess Americas 2027.

Event Details:

Texprocess Americas 2027

May 11–13, 2027

Georgia World Congress Center

Atlanta, Georgia

Co-produced by Messe Frankfurt North America and SPESA

Co-located with Techtextil North America

Explore the show and register to attend:

https://texprocess-americas.us.messefrankfurt.com/atlanta/en.html

Posted: November 11, 2026

Source: Messe Frankfurt North America

The Changing Role Of Technical Textiles Takes Center Stage At Techtextil North America 2027

ATLANTA, GA— November 10, 2026 — A fabric is no longer defined simply by what it covers. In today’s industrial landscape, it may need to withstand extreme conditions, reduce weight, improve protection, support filtration, or deliver functions once associated with entirely different materials.

As performance expectations expand across industries, so does the need for specialized materials, technical expertise, and manufacturing solutions.

Registration is now open for Techtextil North America 2027, returning May 11–13 to the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

The event will bring together the technical textiles and nonwovens industry at a time when material selection and manufacturing capabilities are increasingly central to product development and industrial performance.

A Closer Look at the Materials Behind Modern Manufacturing

The role of technical textiles continues to expand across aerospace, automotive, medical, construction, filtration, protective applications, and industrial manufacturing.

With each application comes a different set of requirements, from thermal resistance and strength-to-weight performance to durability, flexibility, and production efficiency.

For companies developing products or evaluating new manufacturing capabilities, finding the right material is only part of the equation. Understanding how it performs, how it is processed, and whether it can meet production requirements is just as important.

Techtextil North America 2027 will bring these considerations into a shared industry environment, connecting material suppliers, technology providers, manufacturers, engineers, researchers, and sourcing professionals across the technical textiles and nonwovens value chain.

Attendees will be able to examine functional materials, compare production technologies, discuss application requirements directly with suppliers, and identify solutions relevant to their operations.

From Technical Research to Commercial Application

Advancements in technical textiles create opportunities for new products, but translating those developments into viable applications requires collaboration between research, engineering, material suppliers, and manufacturers.

The 2027 event will provide opportunities to engage with these different stages of development through its exhibition, educational programming, and special features.

The Innovation Awards will highlight advancements in materials, products, applications, and technologies, while the Student Research Poster Program will bring attention to emerging research and the next generation of technical textile professionals.

Industry discussions and educational opportunities will give attendees additional perspectives on changing material requirements, manufacturing challenges, and emerging applications.

Connecting Material Development with Production Technology

The 2027 edition will be held alongside Texprocess Americas, bringing two complementary segments of the textile industry together in Atlanta.

While Techtextil North America focuses on technical textiles, nonwovens, and advanced materials, Texprocess Americas concentrates on the equipment, technology, and processes involved in sewn-product manufacturing.

The co-location gives industry professionals the opportunity to examine material development and production capabilities during the same visit, creating additional possibilities for sourcing, technology evaluation, and business development.

Posted: November 11, 2026

Source: Messe Frankfurt North America

Get Into Pole Position For ITMA 2027: Pre-Register For Germany’s Textile Technology Delegations

BERLIN — November 11, 2026 — International textile manufacturers are invited to express their interest now in the Global Textile Technology Mission, taking place in Germany from 12 to 17 September 2027. Ahead of ITMA 2027 in Hanover, these thematic delegations will offer selected participants the opportunity to visit leading VDMA textile machinery member companies and textile research institutes at their own premises — discovering innovation at its source before continuing their technology conversations at the exhibition.

The initiative is a part of the Foreign Market Entry Programme for SMEs, financed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, and supported by the VDMA Textile Machinery Association.

The programme is organised by COMMIT Project Partners in cooperation with InfoAid and supported by VDMA Textile Machinery. Interested companies are now invited to pre-register their participation by no later than 11 December 2026 on

commit-group.com/ITMA-2027/

Four routes to explore technology at its source

The programme is organised around four core technology routes, enabling participants to indicate the areas most relevant to their business:

  • Spinning, Winding & Nonwovens
  • Knitting, Weaving & Braiding
  • Dyeing, Finishing, Coating & Process Control
  • Textile Recycling & Circularity

Company visits will provide first-hand insights into where and how textile machinery technology is developed and manufactured. Research institutes will present their fields of research and approaches to technology transfer, connecting industrial practice with research expertise.

Pole Position: arrive informed, connected and ready

The delegations are designed to put participants in “pole position” for their ITMA visit: offering a unique opportunity to gain deeper technological insight, establish contacts before the exhibition opens and identify topics for further discussion in Hanover. Direct exchanges at company and institute premises provide a focused starting point for exploring solutions relevant to participants’ manufacturing needs.

The programme includes a welcome dinner in Frankfurt with participating VDMA member companies and research institutes, scheduled visits to companies and institutes, local transport as specified in the programme, visa support, and business matching and networking at ITMA 2027. Networking Lunch Talks at the exhibition will provide further opportunities to continue conversations and build connections.

From company visits to ITMA 2027

The draft itinerary starts with arrival in Frankfurt and a welcome dinner on 12 September 2027, followed by company and research institute visits on 13 and 14 September 2027, transferring participants to Hannover on 15 September 2027. where additional networking components such as the Pole Position Lunch Talks are hosted at ITMA on 16 September. On 17 September 2027 the official project programme ends, debriefing participants to individually attend ITMA 2027.

Express your interest now

Decision-makers from textile manufacturing companies, including mill owners, CEOs, managing directors, technical directors, plant managers, and specialists responsible for production, automation, digital transformation, sustainability, quality, and energy management, are invited to pre-register. Get into pole position: apply non-bindingly now at:

commit-group.com/ITMA-2027/.

Applicants can indicate a preferred technology route. Places are limited and participation is subject to selection. Pre-registration does not constitute confirmation of participation; the organiser will contact interested companies with further information. Participants are expected to pay for their own accommodation and living expenses during the programme.

For information about the exhibition, visit www.itma.com.

Further information from VDMA: Germany Welcomes the Global Textile Industry to ITMA 2027 – vdma.eu – VDMA

Posted: November 11, 2026

Source: VDMA Textile Machinery

Paradigm Equity Partners Acquires STI Fabrics

Paradigm Equity Partners logoLOS ANGELES — November 4, 2026 — Paradigm Equity Partners (“Paradigm”), a Los Angeles-based private equity firm specializing in corporate divestitures and operationally focused situations, announced today the successful acquisition of STI Fabrics (“STI” or the “Company”), an American manufacturer of upholstery and performance fabrics.

Founded in 1964 and headquartered in Kings Mountain, NC, STI designs, weaves and finishes fabrics for furniture manufacturers, retailers and interior designers. The Company’s portfolio includes Revolution® Performance Fabrics, known for durable, stain-resistant, easy-to-clean fabrics made without PFAS chemicals, and Brentwood Textiles, which serves customers seeking distinctive designs and textures. STI’s integrated domestic manufacturing capabilities support responsive service, consistent quality and reliable delivery across indoor and outdoor applications.

“STI has built a business with deep customer relationships, a skilled workforce and a differentiated position in American textile manufacturing,” said Roman Zelinsky, Founder and Managing Partner of Paradigm. “Revolution combines performance and design with the reliability of domestic production. We see a substantial opportunity to build on that foundation by strengthening operations, investing in the business and expanding STI’s reach across customers and end markets.”

Paradigm’s investment approach combines transaction execution with active support for the businesses it acquires. The STI acquisition builds on the firm’s experience acquiring established businesses through ownership transitions. Paradigm works with sellers and their advisors to address transaction complexity and develop a practical plan for the business following closing.

“Our approach begins with understanding what is important to the business and what the organization needs to succeed under new ownership,” Zelinsky added. “We bring a disciplined diligence process and flexibility in structuring transactions, then work hand-in-hand with management after closing to translate the investment plan into operating results. STI is a strong fit for that approach, with an established manufacturing platform and clear opportunities to grow.”

Paradigm plans to support STI’s next phase of growth through improvements in manufacturing efficiency and commercial execution, continued product development, and expansion in outdoor and designer channels. The firm also sees opportunities to pursue complementary acquisitions that broaden STI’s capabilities and customer reach.

Honigman LLP served as the legal advisor for Paradigm.

Posted: November 10, 2026

Source: Paradigm Equity Partners

lululemon Brings Enzymatically Recycled Polyester To Two Core Run Styles

JERRABOMBERRA, Australia — November 10, 2026 — lululemon is launching a limited capsule in Australia and New Zealand featuring two core run styles made with enzymatically recycled polyester.

Developed through its long-term work with Australian-based Samsara Eco, the capsule’s Hotty Hot High-Rise Lined Short 2.5″ and Pace Breaker Linerless Short 7″ build on earlier product milestones by bringing enzymatically recycled polyester into high-performance products lululemon guests know and love.

Material progress through circular innovation

At lululemon, material progress means improving how products perform at every stage of their life, including advancing new pathways to recycle materials into new products.

Samsara Eco’s technology uses enzymes to break down plastic and textile waste into molecular building blocks that can be used to make new polyester. In both shorts, enzymatically recycled polyester makes up at least 50% of the product by weight and is used in the body material.

The capsule builds on lululemon’s first enzymatically recycled polyester product, the limited-edition Packable Anorak introduced in 2024, as well as earlier work with Samsara Eco on enzymatically recycled nylon 6,6.

“Material progress is part of how we define performance. Advancing circular innovation takes long-term collaboration, testing, and learning across the value chain,” said Yogendra Dandapure, Chief Materials Scientist at lululemon. “Bringing enzymatically recycled polyester into two of our core run styles is another opportunity to learn how new recycling pathways that can use textile waste as an input can be integrated into our products while maintaining the performance and quality our guests expect.”

Focused launches like this help lululemon and Samsara Eco better understand how new materials perform in products and inform future applications.

Samsara Eco is part of lululemon’s broader innovation ecosystem. Through partnerships across recycling and biotechnology, lululemon is developing high-performance material solutions and reducing reliance on conventional virgin inputs.

“Seeing our enzymatically recycled materials in two of lululemon’s core run styles that people can buy and wear is an important milestone, and a testament to the progress we’ve made together,” said Dr Lars Kissau, General Manager of Samsara Eco. “lululemon backed us early, and each launch helps us learn more about how our technology can integrate into existing supply chains. Moments like this help pave the way for broader adoption of enzymatically recycled materials.”

The capsule will be available exclusively through lululemon’s e-commerce site in Australia and New Zealand beginning November 10, 2026, in the Canyon Rock colourway.

Posted: November 10, 2026

Source: Samsara Eco

Circulose Resumes Recycling Of Discarded Cotton Textiles And Appoints Interim CEO

SUNDSVALL, Sweden — November 10, 2026 — Circulose announced its restart of commercial-scale production plant at Ortviken in Sundsvall, Sweden, marking a significant step in scaling next-generation materials for the global fashion industry. The Ortviken plant is the world’s first commercial-scale chemical textile recycling facility. Its restart demonstrates that the fashion industry is seeking ways to scale proven solutions that move beyond pilots and into commercial production.

In 2024, under new ownership by private equity firm Altor, Circulose set a renewed strategic direction focused on securing volume commitments from partner brands to bring CIRCULOSE® back to market at scale.

“Our focus has been to align the production restart with confirmed demand. With commitments from 16 brands, and more on the way, we are now there. Today Circulose is backed by leading brands and fiber producers, has an organization of around 130 people with deep expertise where it matters, and a plant ready to produce,” says Helena Helmersson, Executive Chair of Circulose.

With the Ortviken plant back in operation, Circulose continues supplying fashion brands and fiber producers with high-quality recycled raw material at commercial scale, supporting industry efforts to divert textile waste from landfills and incineration.

After two years leading the restart, CEO Jonatan Janmark has, together with the Board, decided that this is the right moment to hand over to a new leader for the next phase. CFO Amanda Geijer has been appointed interim CEO until a permanent CEO is in place. She will be supported by Helena Helmersson in the role of Executive Chair.

“When Jonatan joined, Circulose had just been given a second chance. Since then, he has made Circulose a leading player in textile-to-textile recycling again. That has taken a lot of energy, creativity and teamwork. I have learnt a lot from working with Jonatan, and on behalf of the board and our owners, I want to thank him for everything he has built,” says Helena Helmersson, Chair of the Board of Circulose.

“It has been a privilege to rebuild Circulose, and I am proud of what we have achieved. With confirmed market demand for our product, a strong team in place, and a plant ready for production, the time has come for me to hand over,” says Jonatan Janmark, CEO of Circulose

“For the upcoming phase, I am very pleased that Amanda, who knows the company and our plans well, has agreed to lead Circulose as interim CEO until a permanent CEO is in place. I look forward to working closely with her and the team during that period,” says Helena Helmersson.

“Restarting Ortviken is a milestone for Circulose and for the industry. Our focus now is to ramp up production safely and deliver on the commitments to our customers,” says Amanda Geijer, interim CEO of Circulose.

Amanda Geijer joined Circulose as CFO in 2025. She was previously Vice President of Finance at Billerud Europe. The change takes effect on 1st of December.

Posted: November 10, 2026

Source: Circulose

Color Solutions International Appoints Chris Plemmons As Head Of CSI

Color Solutions International (CSI) LogoCHARLOTTE, N.C. — November 10, 2026 — Color Solutions International (CSI), a provider of color standards, color forecasting, and digital color communication solutions, has announced the appointment of Chris Plemmons as Head of CSI. CSI is a member of the DyStar Group, serving brands, retailers, and manufacturers across the global textile and apparel value chain.

Color Solutions International (CSI) - Chris Plemmons
Chris Plemmons

Chris brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in global operations, manufacturing excellence, and business transformation. He holds an MBA and is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. Throughout his career, he has built high-performing teams, driven operational excellence, and developed strong customer partnerships across international markets.

Prior to joining CSI, Chris served as Senior Vice President of Global Operations at American & Efird (A&E), where he led international operations supporting major apparel brands, retailers, and manufacturers worldwide. His extensive experience in global supply chain management, operational optimization, and customer-centric leadership positions him well to guide CSI’s continued growth and innovation.

In his new role, Chris will be responsible for driving the company’s strategic direction and growth, with a focus on strengthening its market leadership in color management, standards, and digital solutions. His industry expertise, commitment to operational excellence, and customer-focused approach will further enhance CSI’s ability to deliver innovative and sustainable color solutions to customers around the world.

Eric Hopmann, Senior Vice President of Americas and Europe at DyStar Group, said:

“We are pleased to welcome Chris to Color Solutions International. His extensive leadership experience, operational expertise, and strong customer focus make him well positioned to lead CSI as it continues to strengthen its market position and deliver value to customers worldwide. We look forward to working with Chris as CSI advances its innovation capabilities and supports the evolving needs of the industry.”

Under Chris’s leadership, CSI will continue to strengthen its position as a trusted partner to the textile and apparel industry, delivering color standards, digital solutions, and innovative technologies that help customers achieve greater color accuracy, efficiency, and consistency throughout the supply chain.

Posted: November 10, 2026

Source: Color Solutions International (CSI) is a member of DyStar Group

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