UNIFI®, Maker Of REPREVE®, Launches REPREVE With CiCLO® Technology, Globally Available Biodegradable Recycled Polyester And Nylon

GREENSBORO, N.C. — April 14, 2025 — UNIFI Inc., the maker of REPREVE® and an innovator in recycled and synthetic yarns, today launched REPREVE with CiCLO® technology, recycled polyester and nylon embedded with a biodegradable technology that enables synthetics to break down naturally. REPREVE with CiCLO technology was created in collaboration with Intrinsic Advanced Materials LLC, a joint venture between Parkdale Advanced Materials Inc. and Intrinsic Textiles Group LLC.

REPREVE with CiCLO technology is enhanced with a patented additive at the fiber level that allows synthetic yarns to more closely mimic natural materials such as wool. This will enable them to break down in environments such as soil and seawater without compromising performance, durability and dyeability. These new offerings are designed to help tackle the environmental impact of microplastic fiber pollution from synthetic textile shedding.

“We can always do more to lessen our environmental impact throughout the product life cycle,” said Eddie Ingle, CEO of UNIFI Inc. “Our collaboration with Intrinsic Advanced Materials addresses the worldwide issue of synthetic microfiber shedding by providing a globally available solution that mills, brands, and retailers can now integrate to reduce microplastic fiber pollution.”

REPREVE with CiCLO technology enables synthetic fibers to naturally biodegrade under prolonged exposure to moisture and microorganisms, significantly reducing the time synthetic fibers (microplastics) remain in the environment. Today, products containing CiCLO, are utilized by forward-thinking, sustainable brands, including Bass Pro Shops, Billabong, Champion, Oakley and Target.

“Synthetic textiles are a major contributor to microplastic fiber pollution, and it is a challenge that requires industry collaboration,” said Cheryl Smyre, vice president of Parkdale Advanced Materials. “This joint initiative integrates two powerful solutions —REPREVE and CiCLO technology — to help maximize recycled content while addressing microfiber pollution at the source. As brands navigate growing sustainability commitments and regulatory demands, the collaboration delivers a proven and effective solution that empowers brands to address two critical environmental issues while preserving performance and recyclability.”

All REPREVE-branded products can be produced with the CiCLO additive, including REPREVE Takeback™ and REPREVE Our Ocean®. Available globally, REPREVE with CiCLO technology is a drop-in solution for brands and retailers, allowing them to meet global needs for reducing microplastic fiber pollution.

UNIFI will showcase REPREVE with CiCLO technology at Booth 815, and CiCLO technology will be located at Booth 712 during the Functional Fabric Fair, held April 14-16, 2025, in the Oregon Convention Center.

Posted: April 14, 2025

Source: UNIFI, Inc. / Intrinsic Advanced Materials, LLC

Textile Veteran Tricia Carey Joins Avalo To Lead Commercialization

DURHAM, N.C. — April 14, 2025 — AI-powered crop-evolution company Avalo announced that textile-innovation veteran Tricia Carey joins as chief commercial officer to bring its new Low-Input Cotton to market.

Tricia Carey

Carey brings decades of experience in industry changing technologies. Over her career, she has helped move the textile/fashion world towards sustainability by introducing cutting-edge fibers like Tencel™, and fostered the march toward circularity during her time with Renewcell.

This exciting hire comes as Avalo is scaling up its cotton program in the Texas Panhandle. For the last two years, Avalo has been working closely with cotton growers (plagued by high fertilizer costs and decreasing water availability) to develop a regionally adapted cotton variety that requires no irrigation, and uses up to 30-percent less fertilizer. Not only does low-input cotton represent a giant leap forward in textile sustainability — it also provides a much-needed lifeline for the Texas Cotton industry, and all the agricultural communities that depend on it.

Starting this harvest season, Tricia will help Avalo scale this exciting new “high-quality, low-carbon footprint” cotton in order to help global brands address critical challenges like rising costs and scope 3 emissions.

“We’re so excited to have Tricia on board who has brought industry changing innovation to the textile world,” said Avalo CEO Brendan Collins. “That said, her experience as a strategist, supply-chain connector and coalition builder will help us bring similar innovation to other industries that desperately need it.”

Avalo is already making plans to bring similar innovation to the sugarcane industry, where they recently announced a partnership with CocaCola Europacific Partners (CCEP). They have also made progress in rubber, rice and other essential commodities facing critical market challenges or environmental externalities.

“I’m thrilled to join Avalo and be part of an exceptional team that’s pioneering innovative solutions at the intersection of agriculture, technology, and textiles,” Carey said. “Avalo’s machine-learning platform accelerates plant evolution in a ground-breaking new way, enabling us to bring more sustainable and efficient products to market faster and cheaper than ever before – which allows us to better keep pace with the agricultural challenges we’re facing. And they do this while helping the folks who sit at the center of it all, the farmers. This is an exciting moment for Avalo, and I’m energized by the opportunity to contribute to the company’s vision of making our global agriculture more sustainable, resilient and equitable.”

Posted: April 14, 2025

Source: Avalo Inc.

EDANA And INDA Advocate For Global Collaboration On Trade Policies Affecting The Nonwovens Industry

BRUSSELS/CARY, N.C. — April 14, 2025 — EDANA, the global association and voice representing the nonwovens and related industries, and INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, jointly express their concerns regarding escalating trade tensions.

Both associations recognize the potential for countermeasures and reciprocal tariffs to negatively impact the nonwovens industry globally. The nonwovens industry is a global sector, with many companies having significant operations worldwide, including in Europe and the United States. It is crucial to avoid a harmful cycle of retaliatory tariffs that could have a net negative effect on economies worldwide.

Both EDANA and INDA urge policymakers to prioritize negotiations and seek mutually beneficial resolutions. “While we understand the need to address unfair trade practices, we urge regions to prioritize negotiations and seek mutually beneficial resolutions,” stated Murat Dogru, general manager at EDANA. “Escalating tariffs create uncertainty and can disrupt supply chains, ultimately harming industries and consumers.”

Tony Fragnito, INDA’s president & CEO added: “The nonwovens industry supports fair trade and a level playing field. We encourage policymakers to consider the broader impact of trade measures and to pursue policies that foster collaboration and free trade.”

EDANA and INDA highlight the significant role of the nonwovens industry in providing essential materials for various sectors, including hygiene, healthcare, and manufacturing in many regions, including Europe and the United States. The associations urge the US and EU to recognize the interconnectedness of the industry and the importance of maintaining open trade between the regions. At a time when manufacturers are facing cost pressures from many angles, it is imperative that American and European manufacturers remain competitive globally and have long-term clarity on import costs.

EDANA and INDA remain dedicated to promoting trade policies that support a strong and adaptable nonwovens industry worldwide. Choosing collaboration over conflict, and commitment to open markets and productive engagement, will pave the way for a future where trade acts as a catalyst for shared prosperity and innovation, to the advantage of industries and consumers alike.

Posted: April 14, 2025

Source: EDANA / INDA, The Association Of The Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

Italy’s Textile Innovations Take Center Stage At Techtextil North America 2025

HOUSTON — April 14, 2025 — Italy is bringing its signature blend of tradition, innovation, and engineering excellence back to the spotlight at Techtextil North America 2025, the premier U.S. trade show for technical textiles and nonwovens, running May 6-8 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.

Led by the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) and ACIMIT, the Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers, the Italian Pavilion (Booth 3431) will host 21 top-tier Italian companies — all leaders in textile technology, automation, and sustainable production.

From advanced dyeing and finishing systems to precision weaving preparation and high-efficiency machinery, the Italian Pavilion will showcase a diverse range of innovations tailored for today’s evolving textile industry. More than an exhibition, it’s a launchpad for strategic partnerships, business development, and technology transfer between Italy and the U.S.

The United States remains a core market for Italian textile machinery, ranking fourth globally behind China, Turkey, and India. In 2024 alone, Italian textile machinery exports to the U.S. totaled €112 million, a testament to the demand for Italian-made quality and performance.

At the same time, the U.S. textile industry is undergoing a rapid evolution. With annual sales exceeding $64 billion and a workforce of over 500,000, American textile producers are increasingly investing in next-generation manufacturing solutions — exactly the kind Italy delivers.

The initiative is part of the Italian Trade Agency’s broader strategy, supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to strengthen Italy’s position in global supply chains, support SME internationalization, and promote sustainable, high-tech manufacturing. Stop by our Booth 3431 to learn more about the Italian textile industry, or contact us at houston@ice.it.

The full list of Italian exhibitors at Booth 3431 includes:

  • 4M PLANTS S.R.L.
  • BIANCO S.P.A.
  • BONINO CARDING MACHINES S.R.L.
  • COLOR SERVICE SRL
  • EFI Reggiani
  • FADIS SPA
  • FLAINOX – S.R.L. I.M.A. S.P.A.
  • MARZOLI MACHINES TEXTILE SRL
  • MONTI – MAC SRL
  • MONTI ANTONIO SPA
  • OMR SRL
  • Ramatex Italia SRL
  • RAMINA SRL
  • SILTEX SRL
  • SIMET SRL
  • STALAM SPA
  • TECNORAMA SRL
  • UNITECH INDUSTRIES SRL
  • ZANFRINI SRL
  • ZAPPA MACCHINE S.R.L.

Visit The Italian Pavilion (Booth 3431), to view Italy’s Textile Innovations in textile technology, automation, and sustainable production to learn more about Italian textile technology, or contact houston@ice.it.

Posted: April 14, 2025

Source: The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) / ACIMIT

Vandewiele Inc. Announces Leadership Change: Kevin Whiteside Promoted To President, Bob Harding To Assume Chairman Role

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — April 11, 2025 — Vandewiele Inc. is pleased to announce the promotion of Kevin Whiteside to president of the company. Whiteside will succeed Bob Harding, who is promoted to the role of chairman of the board. Harding will also continue to serve as managing director of Vandewiele’s UK operations.

Kevin Whiteside

Harding, who has led Vandewiele Inc.’s efforts since 2006, expressed confidence in Whiteside’s ability to continue the company’s strategic market penetration. “Kevin’s progressive leadership and three decades of industry experience, honed through various executive roles, have provided him with the expertise to lead Vandewiele Inc. into its next phase of growth,” Harding said.

Whiteside shared his gratitude for the opportunity and recognition. “Bob has done a tremendous job leading Vandewiele’s efforts in The Americas, and I’m honored to build upon his legacy,” Whiteside stated. “Together with our talented team, we will continue to focus on delivering innovative solutions to our customers and expanding our reach.”

Vandewiele Inc. offers an extensive range of products including state of the art tufting machines, carpet weaving machines, robotic yarn handling automation, yarn feeding devices for knitting and weaving, BCF Extrusion machinery, and shearing and finishing systems, among others. Operating from its 60,000-square-foot facility near Chattanooga, TN, the company serves as the exclusive sales, service, and distribution arm for Canada, the USA, and Central America for the Belgium-based Vandewiele Group.

Posted: April 13, 2025

Source: Vandewiele, Inc.

HAVN Awarded U.S. Air Force Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Contract To Advance EMF-Blocking Technology

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — April 9, 2025 — HAVN, a supplier of EMF-blocking apparel, has been awarded a Phase I Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) contract by AFWERX, the innovation arm of the Department of the Air Force (DAF), in partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). The $109,995 award will support the development of HAVN’s proprietary WaveStopper™ technology to enhance operational performance and long-term health for U.S. Air Force personnel.

As part of this initiative, HAVN will explore how its EMF-blocking technology can protect service members from continuous exposure to electromagnetic radiation emitted by advanced military communications systems and onboard technologies. With this contract, HAVN joins a select group of startups working directly with the U.S. military to develop next-generation personal protection tools for a rapidly evolving battlefield.

WaveStopper™ is directly inspired by spacesuit technology and blocks 99% of wireless radiation (cellphone, 4G/5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), tested and certified in military-grade laboratories. WaveStopper™ is then woven into the perfect, healthiest garment you’ll ever wear: soft, lightweight, breathable, antimicrobial, and UV blocking.

“Our selection by AFWERX is a testament to the growing recognition of EMF protection as a critical component of human performance,” said Arthur Menard Calenge, CEO of HAVN. “We pioneered the world’s first EMF-blocking clothing, and this partnership will allow us to refine our technology to meet the demanding needs of today’s military operations. We’re honored to support the Air Force in its mission to protect those who serve.”

The STTR award is part of the DAF’s Open Topic program, designed to accelerate collaboration between small businesses and defense agencies. Since 2018, AFWERX has awarded over 6,200 contracts to drive rapid innovation and strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base.

The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.

Posted: April 11, 2025

Source: HAVN (formerly Lambs)

GALLS® Announces Acquisition Of HerBlueWear Uniforms™

LEXINGTON, Ky. — April 10, 2025 — GALLS®, a uniform and tactical gear supplier serving America’s public safety and military professionals, proudly announces the acquisition of Her BlueWear Uniforms™. This acquisition marks a significant step in GALLS’ commitment to female first responders, providing them greater access to uniforms tailored for their unique needs. GALLS is Proud To Serve Those Who Serve.

GALLS purchase of Her BlueWear provides product scalability and increases accessibility for women in public safety to experience uniforms that enhance performance, comfort, and safety.  Her BlueWear Uniforms started with uniform pants.  As the largest distributor in the public safety industry, GALLS resources will augment the brand/product line by adding tailored uniform shirts. Full uniforms will be available to order at a department level first, with individual ordering capabilities coming later this year.

Mike Fadden, CEO of GALLS, stated: “For the past five years, every time I talk to a female police chief, they ask me when we [GALLS] will fix the issue of women’s uniforms not fitting. I took on the challenge personally and am proud to bring Her BlueWear into the GALLS portfolio of brands to provide female officers with tailored uniforms that fit.  Because GALLS is relentless with our focus on the customer, this partnership will give female officers greater access to uniforms that are made for their specific needs.”

Her BlueWear was founded in 2007 by Denise Czack to solve a long-overlooked issue: the lack of properly fitting uniform pants for women in law enforcement and public safety. Traditionally, female officers were forced to wear uniforms designed for men, leading to discomfort, mobility issues, and even safety concerns. Her BlueWear’s tailored designs offer three distinct fits — Balanced Fit, Defined Fit and Streamlined Fit — accommodating sizes 0 to 24.

Her BlueWear Founder, Denise Czack, expressed her appreciation of GALLS commitment to expanding access to the product line. “Her BlueWear began at a happy hour with my sister, a police officer, after yet another uniform failure. That moment sparked a fire in me; women in public safety deserved better. Her BlueWear is entering a new and exciting chapter in the mission to deliver safe, functional, and confidence-building uniforms to the women who serve. Seeing a woman light up when she puts on a Her BlueWear uniform for the first time is what drives us.”

As the only uniform company solely dedicated to designing for women, Her BlueWear led the way in providing female officers with apparel that fits, functions, and empowers. Now, with GALLS resources and a relentless focus on the customer, the ability to serve women in public safety has never been greater.

Posted: April 11, 2025

Source: GALLS, LLC® 

Hohenstein Supports Global Textile Scheme Initiative For Structured Data Exchange

BOENNIGHEIM, Germany — April 9, 2025 — Global testing and research laboratory Hohenstein has acquired shares in Global Textile Scheme GmbH (GTS). The GTS initiative aims to create an international standard for handling structured product data in the textile and apparel industry. Hohenstein will support GTS in harmonizing and automating data exchange along the supply chain.

As an internationally recognized knowledge partner, Hohenstein is expanding its expertise in data standardization and transparency in the textile sector. “The demand for reliable, structured and machine-readable data along the textile value chain is rising rapidly,” explained Dr. Stefan Droste, CEO of Hohenstein. “We want to support our customers and are committed to close collaboration with GTS.”

Additionally, Hohenstein will leverage its global network to promote the adoption of the GTS standard worldwide. The goal is to facilitate access to standardized data structures for companies — a key requirement for recycling, circularity and more sustainable production. These topics are also increasingly important for new regulatory requirements, such as the Digital Product Passport.

“The Global Textile Scheme Initiative offers a pragmatic solution for efficiently managing complex data without an excessive increase of manual processes,” emphasized Dr. Droste. “Data is becoming the backbone of the circular economy, and we are excited to actively shape this development with GTS.”

Posted: April 11, 2025

Source: Hohenstein — Hohenstein Institute America, Inc.

Ultrafabrics Introduces The Simple Pleasures Palette In Collaboration With Pantone

NEW YORK CITY — March 27, 2025 — For the third consecutive year, Ultrafabrics, a global leader in high-performance coated fabrics and alternative leathers, has collaborated with Pantone to create another exclusive color palette inspired by their Color of the Year. Rooted in the warmth of Mocha Mousse, Pantone’s beloved color of 2025, Ultrafabrics presents the Simple Pleasures palette. The collection features seven distinct colors that invite designers to embrace life’s simplest moments and reimagine the possibilities of contemporary design through sustainable alternative leathers.

The Simple Pleasures palette reflects everyday joys — the feeling of receiving freshly picked flowers, a warm cappuccino, or quiet moments of relaxation — and blends soothing tones and inviting textures to bring tranquility into designs. The color palette includes: Chai Latte — the Mocha Mousse-inspired custom color — Tusk, Mica, Savanna, Burnt Ochre, Coral Reef, and Sage. These colors are exclusively available within select Ultrafabrics collections.

“At Ultrafabrics, we continuously strive to elevate the design experience, and with the Simple Pleasures palette, we embrace the beauty of life’s simple moments,” said Barry Silverman, vice president of Marketing & Branding at Ultrafabrics. “Our ongoing collaboration with Pantone allows us to capture the spirit of the year’s standout color and translate it into materials that designers can incorporate to create inspiring, comforting environments. The Simple Pleasures palette embodies this spirit of warmth, versatility, and authenticity.”

Designed for both aesthetic appeal and high performance, Ultrafabrics’ sustainable alternative leathers are ideal for applications ranging from seating in aviation and automotive interiors to furniture and wallcoverings in healthcare, workplace, hospitality, and residential environments. Crafted using Ultrafabrics’ proprietary Takumi™ Technology, the material delivers a soft-touch feel, a stylish color palette, and industry-leading durability, making it a preferred choice for high-traffic spaces where both luxury and longevity are essential.

Ultrafabrics’ sustainable alternative leathers are bleach-cleanable (1:5 bleach/water solution) and do not contain any Red List chemicals, PFAS, PVC, plasticizers, or intentionally added formaldehyde. Simple Pleasures is SCS Indoor Advantage Gold certified and REACH compliant. The collection boasts 400,000 double rubs (Wyzenbeek), 180,000 rubs (Martindale), and reinforced rayon backing made of 100 percent FSC/PEFC Certified Rayon. It features industry-leading hydrolysis resistance for 16 weeks.

Posted: April 11, 2025

Source: Ultrafabrics

Run & Relax Chooses Q-NOVA® By Fulgar For The New Sustainable Activewear Collection SS25

MILAN — April 8, 2025 — In recent years, Northern European countries have become a global benchmark for sustainable fashion, combining innovation, ethics, and cutting-edge design. Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and Finland have placed sustainability at the heart of their industrial strategies, establishing themselves as industry leaders through advanced government policies, investments in eco-friendly materials, and a strong commitment to the circular economy. Brands are redefining the concept of sustainable fashion by prioritizing recycled or bio-based fibers, low-impact production processes, and business models centered on rental and second-hand fashion. Transparency and traceability of raw materials are essential, along with the pursuit of innovative alternatives, from biodegradable fabrics to natural dyes.

Driving this revolution is also a conscious consumer base that values durable, ethically made garments. The Nordic market does not just embrace sustainable fashion — it turns it into a true culture, influencing international trends and proving that design and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

This philosophy extends to the world of activewear, where performance increasingly meets sustainability. A prime example is Run & Relax, a Norwegian brand founded in 2011 specializing in women’s yoga and workout apparel. For SS25, the brand embodies this vision with a new eco-friendly collection, created in collaboration with Fulgar, an Italian company renowned for its high-performance yarns that merge innovation with environmental responsibility.

For select pieces in its SS25 collection, the brand has chosen Q-NOVA® by Fulgar, a sustainable nylon 6,6 fiber made from regenerated raw materials. Thanks to a low-impact mechanical process, this yarn significantly reduces the ecological footprint of textile production without compromising performance or comfort. The garments are lightweight, soft, and highly breathable.

Founded with the goal of inspiring modern women to balance work, family, and personal life through a healthy lifestyle, Run & Relax creates pieces that combine functionality, minimalist design, and premium materials. The launch of the new capsule collection featuring Q-NOVA marks another step forward in the brand’s commitment to a more responsible and sustainable fashion industry.

Posted: April 11, 2025

Source: Fulgar

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