Donaldson Introduces Rugged Pleat Baghouse Dust Collector

MINNEAPOLIS — October 28, 2020 — Donaldson Company Inc., a worldwide manufacturer of filtration systems and parts, today introduced the Donaldson Torit® Rugged Pleat (RP) baghouse industrial dust collector. The collector is designed to capture heavy and abrasive dust inherent to woodworking, mining, grain processing and other industries.

The new RP baghouse collector features Donaldson’s SuperSep™ inlet which pre-separates up to 97 percent of the dust before it hits the filters and the PerfectPulse™ cleaning system focuses cleaning energy directly over the filters, supporting long life. With its new Ultra-Web® Spunbond filters, the collector is capable of providing up to 94-percent fewer emissions as compared to baghouses equipped with standard 16-oz. singed polyester bags, which makes it ideal for heavily regulated industries and operations that recirculate conditioned air in their facilities.

“The Rugged Pleat baghouse collector offers unrivaled performance and efficiency,” said Joe Kiolbasa, product manager in the Industrial Air Filtration division of Donaldson. “This new technology will help facility managers tackle air quality and occupational health and safety issues, while providing a lower total cost of ownership over the life of the collector.”

The new RP baghouse dust collector utilizes 44-percent fewer filters than traditional baghouse collectors, resulting in a 72-percent reduction in change-out times. In keeping with Donaldson’s commitment to providing comprehensive filtration solutions, the RP baghouse includes the iCue™ connected filtration monitoring service which allows customers to remotely monitor, manage, and optimize the operation of the dust collector.

Posted October 28, 2020

Source: Donaldson Company, Inc.

Faribault Woolen Mill Co. Debuts In Chicago

CHICAGO — October 28, 2020 — Faribault Woolen Mill Co. — maker of handcrafted blankets, decorative throws, apparel and accessories established in 1865 — opens its first-ever Chicago store in the Shops at North Bridge on November 1, 2020.

The Faribault Woolen Mill is located in Faribault, Minn. and is one of the longest standing woolen mills in the country, where fifth-generation craftspeople take raw wool through a twenty two-step process to make blankets, throws, scarves and accessories. This is the company’s first store in Chicago.

“Our Michigan Avenue store allows us to introduce our premium products to the capital city of the Midwest,” said Paul Grangaard, chairman and CEO of Faribault Woolen Mill Co. “Chicagoland shoppers are now able to experience the quality of our products in person. We look forward to debuting our entire offering including Chicago-specific merchandise like the iconic city flag blanket and the top-selling city map throw.”

The launch will be supported with a PR and marketing campaign involving partnerships with local restaurants to support outdoor dining this winter. Faribault Woolen Mill Co. is excited to provide the Chicago restaurant community support and solutions as they pivot towards the colder fall and winter months.

“We are absolutely thrilled to continue the work of expanding this heritage brand in a myriad of ways,” said Ross Widmoyer, president and COO of Faribault Mill Woolen Co. “Our Chicago store expansion is a natural next step that aligns well with our midwestern roots. We look forward to entering the market safely and sustainably, and hope our timeless blankets keep Chicagoans warm for years to come.”

In addition to the Chicago store opening, the company plans to expand its retail footprint in other American cities in 2021.

Posted October 28, 2020

Source: Faribault Woolen Mill Co.

Chico’s FAS Accelerates its Digital Transformation

FORT MYERS, Fla. — October 28, 2020 — Chico’s FAS Inc. is accelerating its digital transformation and enhancing its position as a customer-first company. The company is innovating the customer experience to drive greater digital sales across its Chico’s, White House Black Market and Soma brands.

In October, the company invested in new strategic relationships with leading technology companies, including Salesforce, Afterpay and Contentstack to modernize and personalize the digital experience for its customers. In the coming months, these collaborations are expected to leverage customer relationships to maximize marketing campaigns; fuel customer acquisition; and establish a single 360-degree view of customer data to create relevant communication and a personalized customer experience.

“Customers’ behaviors are changing, and we have developed a customer-first model where the customer is the channel. As we innovate how we seamlessly engage with and serve her, we will continue to undergo continuous optimization of the digital experience across all of our brands to forge deeper relationships, accelerate growth, drive greater profitable sales and gain market share,” said Molly Langenstein, Chief Executive Officer and President, Chico’s FAS.

One Digital Platform to Create a Seamless Customer Experience

Chico’s FAS is collaborating with Salesforce, a leading customer relationship management (CRM) provider, to modernize its marketing platform and deliver personalized customer engagement at scale. As a customer-first and customer-obsessed organization, Chico’s FAS is unlocking its ability to deliver lifecycle marketing using predictive intelligence to optimize messaging to each customer across all channels. Chico’s FAS is developing a single platform with a unified view of its customers through robust customer data that has been collected for more than three decades. This includes leveraging Chico’s FAS loyalty program, which has some of the highest participation rates in retail.

Buy Now, Pay Later

This holiday season, customers will have a new way to shop the company’s online boutiques, enjoy her purchases now and pay for them later with interest-free installments. Beginning Oct. 28, customers will have the option to use Afterpay to purchase the latest fashions from all three brands. Chico’s FAS commitment to speed and innovation resulted the implementation of this new customer service offering in just eight weeks.

Evolving the Personalized Shopping Experience

For more than three decades, millions of loyal customers have shopped Chico’s FAS brands for the one-on-one relationships they’ve established with stylists and the personalized experience they consistently receive during each interaction. Through Chico’s FAS partnership with Contentstack, the company is further building upon its foundation for delivering personalized content to customers based upon personal preference, region and weather.

“As we enhance our position as a customer-first company, organizational agility and speed-to-market are top priorities. Our teams have come together to accelerate critical areas of our digital transformation in months instead of years,” said Laura Loughran, Senior Vice President of Technology, Chico’s FAS. “As the customer continues to evolve her shopping habits, we will expand our digital services to seamlessly personalize her shopping journey at each of our brands to maximize Customer Lifetime Value. This will be critical to meeting the needs of both our loyal customers today and the increasing number of new customers that join our community.”

Posted October 28, 2020

Source: Chico’s FAS Inc.

Sun Chemical Releases 2019 Sustainability Report

PARSIPPANY, N.J. — October 28, 2020 — Sun Chemical released its 11th annual Corporate Sustainability Report for the year ending 2019.

The report describes Sun Chemical’s emphasis on sustainability in the way it develops, manufactures and distributes its products while also showing how it works with customers and suppliers to improve their sustainability goals.

The 2019 report shares key research and development highlights and Sun Chemical’s contributions to a more sustainable future, such as:

  • a long-term strategic target to reduce manufacturing CO₂ levels by at least 30 percent by 2030;
  • waste reduction programs focused on improving the utilization of incoming materials, promoting recycling and optimizing the end of life of a product or material;
  • a silver corporate social responsibility rating by EcoVadis, a 3rd party organization that measures a variety of categories, including environment, labor and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement;
  • partnerships with various industry associations and consortia focused on large-scale sustainability objectives;
  • products that are developed with bio-renewable raw materials; and
  • solutions designed to improve PET bottle recycling and composting.

“At Sun Chemical, we understand the importance of sustainability and the demands that consumers have to ensure that the environment is top of mind in the development and manufacturing of packaging,” said Gary Andrzejewski, corporate vice president of Environmental Affairs, Sun Chemical. “We’re proud to be a partner that our customers can feel confident to work with, knowing that we’re doing everything we can to prioritize sustainability both in our product offerings and in our operations.”

“The 2019 sustainability report shows that we’re taking the initiatives necessary to achieve our sustainability goals and in turn, helping our customers also reach their eco-efficiency targets,” said Michael Simoni, Global Product Stewardship Leader, Sun Chemical. “By introducing strategic programs, partnering with industry organizations and implementing solutions to reduce our energy consumption, Sun Chemical is working towards the greater goal of reducing CO₂ emissions and contributing to a more sustainable environment.”

Posted October 28, 2020

Source: Sun Chemical

Precision Textiles Unveils Its First “Cap” FR Solution For Mattresses

TOTOWA, N.J. — October 28, 2020 — Precision Textiles — a supplier of coated fabrics, nonwoven and laminations for the bedding, automotive, health care and home furnishings industries — is expanding its line of glass-free flame resistant (FR) solutions for the bedding industry with its first application that “fits” over the foam core of a mattress like a fitted sheet. The new product, EcoFlex EZ-Fit Cap, is also easier for production employees to work with and enables manufacturers to have greater flexibility in the type of ticking they use.

EcoFlex EZ-Fit Cap features elasticized edges, easily slips over the top of the foam core and fits securely around the mattress core.

“The new EcoFlex EZ-Fit Cap helps streamline bedding manufacturing and delivers a safer sleep experience,” said Keith Martin, vice president of Precision Textiles. “One person can apply the cap in half of the time that it typically takes two employees to apply a sock, lessening production time. Staying in line with our original innovation with EcoFlex, this new product remains a glass-free, chemical-free alternative to other FR solutions in the market.”

“Using the EcoFlex EZ-Fit Cap is as easy as changing the sheets on a bed. The craftsmen only have to apply the cap around the foam core, and it is in place,” he added.

Precision Textiles introduced its EcoFlex earlier this year, and industry response has been positive. OekoTek Standard 100-certified and made with inherent FR rayon, the EcoFlex line offers four-way stretch and recovery and resists breakdown when tested on rollators or rolled for  packing boxed beds. Made of the same soft, flexible fabric we use in EcoFlex, the new application offers the same FR protection in a simple to apply format.

Posted October 28, 2020

Source: Precision Textiles

Mayzo Announces Acquisition Of Bio Accutech Inc.

SUWANEE, Ga. — October 21, 2020 — Mayzo Inc., a supplier and manufacturer of specialty chemicals, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Bio Accutech Inc., a distributor of specialty chemicals for the coatings, inks and plastics markets headquartered in West Windsor, N.J. The acquisition was finalized on October 9, 2020, with immediate integration taking place this month. All activities will be managed through Mayzo’s newly established 61,000 square foot operations center in Walterboro, S.C.

“The acquisition of Bio Accutech Inc. fits Mayzo’s business model and continues to build on our strategy to provide world class chemical additive products and services,” Ben Milazzo, founder and president of Mayzo said about the transaction. Mrs. Yan, president of Bio Accutech Inc., added, “We are very excited for this acquisition and for our customers to join the Mayzo family.”

With this acquisition, Mayzo extends its global supply chain and will add several new optical brighteners, photoinitiators and PVC additives to its portfolio.

Mayzo provides specialty chemical additive solutions on a global scale in a wide range of markets. Mayzo’s proven materials make manufacturing processes safer and more efficient while reducing costs and creating more sustainable, durable and reliable end-products. Mayzo antioxidants and UV absorbers function as stabilizers to prevent product damage due to heat, light or oxygen exposure. Other technologies include optical brighteners, release coatings, polymer enhancers, and cutting edge masterbatches and blends.

Posted October 27, 2020

Source: Mayzo

DyeCoo, DuPont Biomaterials To Launch Sustainable Dyeing Process For Fabrics Empowered By Sorona® Technology

WILMINGTON, Del. — October 22, 2020 — DuPont Biomaterials and the Dutch company DyeCoo, specializing in the development of cleaner dyeing technologies, recently announced a patented, sustainable dyeing process for fabrics made from polyester or recycled polyester and Sorona®. This dyeing solution enables fashion designers and brands to deliver high performance clothing and a lesser environmental footprint.

Fabrics made from a combination of Sorona with polyester or recycled polyester can be sustainably dyed on an industrial scale with the carbon dioxide (CO₂)-based process, developed and patented by DyeCoo. This process uses no chemicals and no water, thus does not cause any wastewater and requires no wastewater treatment. The CO₂ used for the process is reclaimed from existing industrial processes, recycling 95 percent of it in a closed loop system.

Short batch cycles, efficient dye use, no wastewater treatment all contribute to significantly reduced operating costs and the ecological footprint, making this solution extremely appealing for mills, brands and consumers focused on sustainability.

The dyeing process applies reclaimed CO₂ as the dyeing medium in a closed loop process. Used in a pressurized, super-critical state, CO₂ has a very high solvent power, allowing the dye to dissolve easily. Thanks to the high permeability, the dyes are transported easily and deeply into fibers, creating vibrant colours. Reacting in a similar way to this dyeing process, polyester and Sorona fibers are perfectly matched in the creation of high-end fashion fabrics, which come with superior performance, higher quality and an extremely low ecological footprint.

Sorona is made from 37-percent renewable plant-based ingredients. This high-performance polymer offers unique benefits for the apparel industry, minimizing the impact on the environment without sacrificing quality and performance. It offers unique benefits, including incredible softness, stretch and recovery, and inherent stain resistance without the need for topical treatments. Sorona is a USDA certified bio-based product and received OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 Certification.

“DyeCoo is very happy to participate in this collaboration. It highlights how two, complementary, sustainable offerings can deliver one solution with an impact to our industry. Cross-industrial collaborations are an important way to drive change in our industry and here our two core competencies as companies really strengthen each other.” said Micke Magnusson, head of Commercial, DyeCoo Textile System B.V.

“Our collaboration with DyeCoo on this unique CO2 dyeing process will make Sorona®-based fabrics even more sustainable. We now offer a stretch solution with less impact on the environment while extending the life of the garment. Many apparel brands will benefit from such sustainable solutions without compromising performance and value. We are on a progressive journey to create innovative products that enhance performance while being environmentally responsible. This new collaboration is a great example of how we can work together to create stunning solutions while caring for our planet,” added Hao Ding, business manager, DuPont Biomaterials, EMEA.

The use of 100-percent pure dyestuff provides beautiful, vibrant colors to fabrics made from polyester and Sorona. The dye is distributed evenly over the fabric and the technology allows for easy color correction, creating intense colors with excellent quality characteristics. Fabrics made from Sorona combined with polyester and then applying the CO₂ dyeing technology developed by DyeCoo, deliver beauty, sustainability and top performance.

Posted October 27, 2020

Source: DuPont Biomaterials

Speedo Appoints Four-Time Olympic Medallist Cullen Jones To Its North America Team

Cullen

LONDON — October 27, 2020 — Speedo, the swimwear brand, has announced the appointment of four-time Olympic medallist Cullen Jones to its North America team.

Cullen, who is known for his illustrious career as a competitive swimmer, joins Speedo as Philanthropic Sales Manager. He will lead the brand’s fundraising initiatives, enhance its relationship with grassroots teams, and develop its community support strategy. Jones joins from Novant Health where was a Development Manager, responsible for fundraising and marketing initiatives.

A former Team Speedo ambassador, Cullen competed in consecutive Olympics in 2008 and 2012 where he was awarded two gold and two silver Olympic medals. He is the first Black American to hold a World Record – one that still stands today.

Cullen is the founding ambassador of the Make A Splash initiative, which promotes water safety by providing free swimming lessons to children from disadvantaged communities. With Cullen’s help, the initiative has supported over eight million children to develop life-saving water safety skills since its launch in 2007.

On his appointment, Cullen says: “It is incredible how life can come full circle. I’m excited to give my perspective from now both sides of the goggles. My goal in this role is to continue to solidify Speedo’s dominance and commit to giving back to our valued teams and communities. It is a true honor to be back working with and for Speedo USA.”

Jim Gerson, President of Speedo North America, says: “At Speedo, we pride ourselves on maintaining long-lasting relationships with our athletes which is why we’re particularly looking forward to welcoming Cullen back to the team. Alongside his stellar career in the pool, Cullen’s extensive personal charity work makes him the ideal leader of Speedo’s philanthropic initiatives, so we can continue to support more people to love the water safely.”

Posted October 27, 2020

Source: Pentland Group

The TJX Companies, Inc. Elects C. Kim Goodwin To Board Of Directors

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. — October 27, 2020 — The TJX Companies Inc., an off-price apparel and home fashions retailer in the U.S. and worldwide, announced today that on October 26, 2020, its Board of Directors elected C. Kim Goodwin to the board, effective immediately.

Goodwin is an experienced financial services professional. Her long career in the industry includes serving as managing director and head of Equities (Global) for the Asset Management Division of Credit Suisse Group AG from 2006 to 2008, and as chief investment officer – Equities at State Street Research & Management Co., a money management firm, from 2002 to 2005. She is now a private investor. Goodwin also serves on the board of directors of Popular Inc., a financial institution based in Puerto Rico that she joined in 2011, and previously was on the board of Akamai Technologies, Inc. and CheckFree Corp.

Goodwin’s many years of experience in investment and financial services, as well as her years of service as a public company director in different industries, provide her with strong analytical skills, business acumen and experience in risk assessment and management, as well as a deep understanding of financial markets and corporate strategies.

Carol Meyrowitz, executive chairman of the board of The TJX Companies Inc., stated: “We are delighted to have Kim join TJX as a new member of our Board of Directors. She will bring a fresh perspective to the boardroom, informed by her years of experience in the financial sector and as a public company director, further enhancing our Board’s diversity and strength. We look forward to working with Kim as we continue to focus on the near- and long-term strength, stability and success of the company.”

Posted October 27, 2020

Source: The TJX Companies, Inc.

Cone Denim Introduces Ionic+™ Sustainable Antimicrobial Protection for Denim

GREENSBORO, N.C. — October 22, 2020 — Cone Denim® is excited to launch the newest in denim innovation — the Self-Clean Jean. In partnership with Noble Biomaterials, the global leader in antimicrobial and conductivity solutions for soft-surface applications, Cone Denim has developed its newest denim fabric using Noble’s Ionic+™ technology, which harnesses the power of positive ions embedded in yarn fibers to inhibit the growth of bacteria and microbes on the surface of fabric. Through this advanced technology, Cone has created sustainable protection for jeans that remain clean and odor-free, thus reducing the need for frequent washing.

“Cone remains committed to being a leader in the development of sustainable denims and working with likeminded partners to identify and lead initiatives to create more sustainable, responsibly produced denims,” said Steve Maggard, president of Cone Denim. “We are very excited to be the first to bring together the advanced science of Ionic+ with Cone’s authentic denim, creating another industry first in sustainable denim innovation.”

“Consumers today are looking for apparel that provides not only comfort, but also hygiene benefits,” said Joel Furey, CCO of Noble Biomaterials. “We’re very pleased to be partnering with Cone Denim to incorporate our Ionic+ technology into this innovative, sustainable denim that provides long-lasting antimicrobial protection.”

The newest Cone denim with Noble’s Ionic+ silver technology was designed with sustainability and protection at its core. Ionic+ uses positively charged ions found in nature to disrupt the growth of microbes on Cone’s fabric, promoting self-cleaning to eliminate odors. Silver ions are permanently incorporated within the fibers and the fabric requires no additional chemistry or finishing process that could be washed or worn out. The performance lasts the lifetime of the garment, resulting in fewer needed washings and reduced water consumption and energy use. The denim is also dyed using one of Cone Denim’s Distilled Indigo (pre-reduced) shades, which offers additional water, energy and chemical savings.

Noble Biomaterials is a bluesign® System Partner and Ionic+ fibers and filaments have received OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 accreditation, which certifies that they support human ecology through biocompatibility and the absence of harmful substances in the manufacturing process.

Pierette Scavuzzo, director of Product Design for Cone Denim added: “The Self-Cleaning Jean is a game changer. The fabric is versatile in a 10.5 ounce weight with 44 percent stretch, incorporating well-balanced yarn character and a very soft hand. Combine this superior comfort with silver, odor-free technology and its many sustainable benefits that promote resource savings and you have your favorite go-to jean.”

Cone Denim is launching the Self Clean Jean in our Spring / Summer ’22 collection which debuts next week in conjunction with the Kingpins Amsterdam virtual trade show.

Posted October 27, 2020

Source: Cone Denim

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