Techtextil North America & Texprocess Americas 2020 Postponed Until Next Editions

ATLANTA — July 14, 2020 — The organizers of Techtextil North America and Texprocess Americas have announced that the co-located events have been postponed beyond 2020.

“We have been monitoring the global spread of COVID-19 that began earlier this year, and to uphold our commitment to the industry, we postponed [the events] to October 1-3, 2020. However as coronavirus cases in the U.S continue to rise, we are once again faced with the difficult decision of whether or not to proceed as planned,” Kristy Meade, Group Show Director, said in a letter to exhibitors Friday.

“While we firmly believe that our health and safety plan exceeded all recommended guidelines to provide a safe trade show environment, several outside factors including travel restrictions, quarantine mandates and other governmental regulations across the globe have made moving forward with an in-person event impossible at this time.”

The next edition of Techtextil North America will take place August 23-25, 2021 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

The next edition of Texprocess America will take place May 17-19, 2022 in Atlanta, and will be co-located with the 2022 edition of Techtextil North America.

Meade hinted at the possibility for alternative events in the meantime, stating that “While we understand there is no replacing the sense of community provided by an in-person event like ours in 2020, we intend to continue to serve the industry by providing opportunities to share products, discover the latest innovations and technologies, and network with other industry professionals until we are all able to come together again.”

Techtextil North America is Incorporated with ATME-I. Texprocess Americas is co-produced by SPESA.

For the latest event updates, subscribe to the shows’ e-mail lists at www.techtexitlna.com and www.texprocessamericas.com.

Posted July 14, 2020

Source: Messe Frankfurt

 

CINTE 2020 Exhibitor Preview: ANDRITZ

GRAZ, Austria — July 13, 2020 — International technology Group ANDRITZ will be presenting its innovative nonwovens production and textile solutions at CINTE 2020 in Shanghai, China, from September 2 to 4, 2020 (booth C02, hall N2). The broad ANDRITZ product portfolio covers state-of-the-art nonwovens and textile production technologies such as air-through bonding, needlepunch, spunlace, spunbond, wetlaid, converting and textile finishing.

ANDRITZ (China) Ltd. Wuxi Branch – The RIGHT Partner For The Asian Nonwovens Industry

At CINTE, ANDRITZ will promote the ANDRITZ location in Wuxi and focus on the aXcess range. ANDRITZ (China) Ltd.’s Wuxi Branch has an experienced platform for production and service specially geared to the Asian nonwovens industry. It designs and manufactures cutting-edge lines for the ANDRITZ aXcess product range, which includes complete lines and individual machines for air-through bonding, needlepunch and spunlace processes. The service organization has been set up and optimized to provide prompt delivery and excellent customer support. A team of technicians and process experts can be deployed quickly on demand to customer sites requiring full-range assistance. The ANDRITZ facilities include a roll service center with state-of-the-art grinding equipment and a test stand for various kinds of rolls.

The aXcess range has been specially developed for medium capacities. It is a hybrid line concept comprising European and Chinese equipment as the ideal combination to obtain the best added value for each process in the line and offering high flexibility for different business cases. Over the past five years, ANDRITZ has completed numerous hybrid lines operating with needlepunch, air-through bonding and spunlace processes.

In addition, the ANDRITZ aXcess range also offers technologies for spunbond and wetlaid processes manufactured in Europe. Rising production demands, compact and reliable design, and affordable investment costs are what customers are always seeking for in a competitive market environment. The concept of the neXline wetlaid aXcess, for example, targets smaller and medium production volumes and has been devised for new and existing lines. The compact line provides the ideal entrance to the growing wetlaid market, with a variety of final applications and options. Shipment is easy and fast due to the compact design, which fits perfectly into containers. An operator-friendly configuration and versatile design ensure efficient production at affordable investment costs.

ANDRITZ aXcess Profile Crosslapper And Prowid Web Regulating Technology

Over the past few years, ANDRITZ has consistently improved and further developed the crosslapping technology. The new aXcess Profile crosslappers PRO 25-80 and PRO 30-80 (with respective entry widths of 2.5 m and 3.0 m) offer excellent web edge control thanks to their short path design.

The newly featured and patented ProWid system will bring the aXcess Profile crosslappers to an even higher standard thanks to better web weight profile regulating with fine tuning. This ANDRITZ innovation reduces the excess weight to a minimum on either side of the fabric, providing better quality. Technology of this kind drastically reduces the CV% weight variation in cross direction, helping ANDRITZ customers to minimize waste and thus supporting them in their sustainability initiatives. At the same time, fiber savings of up to 7% can be achieved. In addition, the ProWid system allows ANDRITZ customers to access more demanding added-value markets in which outstanding CV values in the basic material are an essential feature.

Come and visit the ANDRITZ booth C02 in hall N2, where our team of experts looks forward to answering any queries you may have.

Posted July 13, 2020

Source: ANDRITZ

Surgical Mask In Development With Acteev™ Technology Shows Efficacy Against SARS-CoV-2 Plus Level III Filtration Properties

HOUSTON — July 13, 2020 — Ascend Performance Materials announced today it has submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration a 510(k) premarket notification for clearance to market its Acteev™ technology in a pair of high-efficacy surgical masks to protect against SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19.

The masks, a nanofiber and a microfiber nonwoven version each branded under the Acteev Biodefend™ line for medical devices, deliver a one-two punch of antiviral properties plus top-level barrier protection against microbes, harmful airborne particles and fluid splatter.

Acteev technology has been shown in laboratory tests to deactivate SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, and other pathogens including H1N1, betacoronavirus OC43, human coronavirus 229E and Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria such as staphylococcus and E. coli, according to Dr. Vikram Gopal, Ascend’s chief technology officer. The testing was conducted following the protocols of ISO, ASTM or other international standards organizations.

The proposed masks also meet the requirements to qualify as Level III under ASTM F2100-19 standards, as tested by independent laboratories as well as Ascend scientists. Level III is the highest tier for physical barrier and safety properties, according to the common international testing standard.

Dr. Gopal said the combination of superior physical properties and antiviral protection is a breakthrough in medical device technology, as many masks succeed either at antiviral protection or at filtration and barrier effectiveness but not at both.

“Previous technologies rely on the materials within a mask to retain an electrical charge to achieve filtration efficiency,” Dr. Gopal said. “But when antimicrobial agents are added, those materials lose their charge and begin to fail as barriers.”

Acteev masks, however, achieve antiviral effectiveness through active zinc ions embedded within the polymer structure of polyamide 66, a hygroscopic nylon material whose equilibrium moisture keeps the zinc ions active.

“With Acteev, we have cracked the code of balancing top physical performance with antiviral protection,” Dr. Gopal said.

The technology, covered by more than 15 patent families, has been tested in multiple end forms, including knit and woven fabrics; engineered plastics; and nanofiber meltblown, microfiber meltblown and spunbond nonwoven materials.

Ascend submitted its first 510(k) to the FDA last month. That submittal requests clearance to market a Level I surgical mask that is effective against SARS-CoV-2.

Also last month, Ascend launched Acteev Protect™, an antimicrobial line of protection specially formulated to guard against the growth of fungi, bacteria and other microbes to keep textiles and nonwoven fabrics fresher for longer. Acteev Protect, available for sale today in the United States and select other jurisdictions, can be used to make face coverings, filtration devices, and textiles for upholstery and apparel such as activewear.

Posted July 13, 2020

Source: Ascend Performance Materials

Archroma Starts Production Of Hand Sanitizers To Help Fight COVID-19

REINACH, Switzerland — July 13, 2020 — As part of its active engagement in the fight against COVID-19, Archroma, a global supplier of color and specialty chemicals towards sustainable solutions, started bulk production of a new range of hand sanitizers at its Landhi site in Pakistan in May 2020. The new Kieralon® HS range was developed by the R&D team at the Archroma Center of Excellence in Karachi, in line with the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations.

Sanitizers are currently in high demand in Pakistan in hospitals, isolation centers, medical institutes and other health care environments, due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The use of sanitizers has also been made mandatory in all factories, offices and public places, driving the demand even higher.

The Kieralon HS range is being produced in different grades and concentrations to eliminate a broad range of germs, bacteria and viruses, to cater for various healthcare and hygiene requirements. They also include emollients and display non-stick and quick drying effect, for skin comfort.

In April 2020, Archroma announced the introduction in Brazil of Mowiplus® HPC 9600, a new thickener for sanitizing gels, developed to address the global shortage in the thickener traditionally used for sanitizing gels.

Archroma is also actively supporting manufacturers in the production of face masks and medical protective equipment. Its antimicrobial and barrier products in particular are in high demand, and Archroma is making every effort to assist existing and new customers entering this sector by providing technical know-how and support.

The company is supporting producers of packaging & paper who are facing high demand for food packaging as many restaurants have switched to delivery or take-away, as well as for parcels and boxes supporting online shopping.

Mujtaba Rahim, CEO of Archroma Pakistan, commented: “Within Archroma we are cognizant of the acute community need for high quality hygiene products that are also comfortable for users, as hand sanitizers tend to be harsh on the skin, so we took on the challenge to develop and start production in record time. The Archroma team in Pakistan won’t rest in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, and hopes this new product will help to stop the spread of the virus and the suffering that it causes.”

Kieralon® HS sanitizers are currently available in Pakistan.

® Trademarks of Archroma registered in many countries.

© 2020 Archroma

Posted July 13, 2020

Source: Archroma

VDMA Continues Technology Webtalks For The Textile, Nonwoven And Converting Industry

FRANKFURT — July 13, 2020 — On July 15, the “Textile Machinery Webtalk – powered by VDMA” continues. Topic of the second edition is “Technologies for the production of nonwovens for respiratory protection masks (FFP masks and surgical masks).” Participants from 24 countries have already registered.

Time: July 15, 2020, 2-4 p.m. (CEST).

The presenters at a glance:

  • Automated masks manufacturing with integrated inline quality control
    • Edgar Mähringer-Kunz, general manager, IMSTec GmbH
  • Auxilium FM – High-speed Surgical Mask Production Machine
    • Sven Weissoertel, business area manager, Winkler+Dünnebier
  • Ways to certification and approval of surgical masks and FFP masks in Europe
    • Peter Stieffenhofer, lead business consultant, msg industry advisors

After the presentations, the experts will be available to answer the participants’ questions.

Due to the current situation with COVID-19 and the high demand for face masks worldwide, the Webtalk is again well received. Registration is still possible via this link: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7314492715645397006. The Webtalk is free of charge.

Further technology webtalks on other topics are in preparation. Please check www.machines-for-textiles.com/webtalk for updates.

Posted July 13, 2020

Source: VDMA

Longratex Renews Partnership With Gerber To Enable Dual Workflows — Customization And Mass Production

NEW YORK CITY — July 13, 2020 — For 32 years, apparel manufacturer Longratex has relied on Gerber Technology’s innovative solutions for its baby and children’s brand Patachou and women’s brand Sophia Kah. With Gerber’s unique end-to-end solution, Longratex is able to manufacture over 2,000 pieces daily and also meet the challenge of customization. By leveraging Gerber Technology’s innovations, which include 2D/3D CAD solution, AccuMark®, sophisticated cut planning solution, AccuPlan™, and nesting solution, AccuNest™, as well as the Gerber Paragon® and automated spreading, Longratex has the agility and flexibility necessary to adapt to the world around them and meet every challenge they encounter, whether it’s customized, short run or mass production. Since using Gerber’s robust suite of software solutions, Longratex has been able to increase productivity by 50 percent, improve fabric economy by 3 to 5 percent, and boost efficiency by about 50 percent.

COVID-19 has acted as an accelerator for eCommerce and customization, forcing manufacturers to completely re-evaluate their supply chain. By leveraging digital technologies, Longratex implemented a flexible and agile workflow, beginning with online ordering, that allowed customization, shortened production cycles and accelerated time to market. With Gerber’s solutions, Longratex effectively meets the need for on-demand products while still being able to mass produce when necessary.

“Today, digitalizing the supply chain is the only viable option for manufacturers to efficiently produce on-demand garments,” said Theo Ostendorf, vice president and general manager of Europe, Middle East and Africa of Gerber Technology. “Our end-to-end solution empowers both on-demand and mass production, allowing companies of all sizes to conquer any challenge they may face.”

Founded in 1988, Longratex has the broad manufacturing know-how to successfully provide over 600 retail stores in Portugal and the United Kingdom with products of the highest quality at an affordable price while also managing their own children’s wear and women’s wear brands. The manufacturer credits much of its success to their skilled workforce and Gerber’s advanced innovative solutions.

“The full integration of our Gerber cutting room with the AccuMark Platform was essential when we decided to launch our own brands seven years ago,” said Paulo Campos, general manager, Longratex. “We were adding more and more small series, and even customized elements, to the fundament of mass production. We needed an integrated solution to increase productivity and responsiveness.”

“Gerber has responded fully to our needs of training, assistance, and innovation, which encourages continuity in the business relationship,” Campos said. “Through the new solutions presented to the market challenges, Gerber has given us reason to believe that it remains the right technology partner to support us in this new digital era.”

Posted July 13, 2020

Source: Gerber Technology

Robert “Bob” Brill Of American Textile Maintenance Earns
 TRSA Operator Lifetime Achievement Award

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — July 10, 2020 — The Executive Committee of TRSA’s board of directors recently approved the nomination of Robert “Bob” Brill, vice president of operations, American Textile Maintenance (ATM), Los Angeles, Calif., to receive the association’s highest honor, the TRSA Operator Lifetime Achievement Award. Brill will receive this award during the Annual Awards Dinner on October 22 at TRSA’s 107th Annual Conference in Alexandria, Va.

Brill was introduced to ATM more than 37 years ago on the recommendation of a colleague. Over the years, his keen business acumen has manifested itself in 12 mergers and acquisitions. He possesses tremendous organizational design and labor management skills that have been of tremendous support to the linen, uniform and facilities services industry through his involvement with ATM, Republic Master Chefs, Medico Healthcare Linen, TRSA and other organizations.

TRSA Chair Jim Buik, Roscoe Co., noted that the Executive Committee’s decision, “allows us the pleasure of extending a heartfelt thanks for Brill’s service to the industry with the TRSA Operator Lifetime Achievement Award. This is bestowed in recognition of exceptional personal service to our industry and to the associations that serve our industry.”

Brill is a longtime, active member of TRSA who has served in many capacities including the Board of Directors, as well as committee membership and leadership to support of TRSA’s professional-development programs and roundtables. He is active with these TRSA Committees: Government Relations, Hospitality and Strategic Planning. Brill is a regular participant at TRSA events and a respected, knowledgeable voice during plant tours both in North America and overseas. “When Bob attends a plant tour, whether at the Healthcare Conference, Production Summit or European Tour,” said Joseph Ricci, CAE, TRSA president & CEO, “I spend as much time as possible with him and never fail to gain new insight into operations and production.”

Brill was pleasantly surprised by the news. “I feel very honored and humbled. I never expected to be in this position. I have enjoyed my relationships with many good people that I have had the good fortune of meeting during my time with the TRSA organization. So many people have helped me and shared their knowledge with me unconditionally. They only wanted for our industry to get better and grow. I learned that early on and hope I did my share in giving back.”

Posted July 10, 2020

Source: TRSA

Bureau Veritas Announces Accreditation Extension For Its Sri Lanka Face Mask Testing Lab

HONG KONG — July 10, 2020 — Bureau Veritas — a testing, inspection and certification provider for the consumer goods and healthcare industry — announced its Katubedda, Sri Lanka laboratory has obtained ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for new scope related to medical/surgical face masks. The new accreditation enables face mask buyers and suppliers worldwide to test medical masks, including full EU market entry scope, in the one location.

With market estimates putting face mask annual growth over 20 percent every year1, the need for additional trusted full service laboratories continues to grow. With this latest development, Sri Lanka is the first full service medical mask lab in Bureau Veritas’ network. In addition to this capability, Sri Lanka is also one of 10+ Bureau Veritas laboratories worldwide who can test fashion masks against regulatory and performance requirements.

Newly accredited capability includes packages for the EU Market – EN 14683:2019 Type I/II and Type IIR with the following accredited tests:

  • Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE%) | EN 14683:2019 / ASTM F2101;
  • Differential Pressure | EN 14683:2019 / ASTM F2101;
  • Microbial Cleanliness | ISO 11737-1;
  • Splash Resistance | ASTM F1862 / ISO 22609;
  • Flammability | 16 CFR 1610;
  • Antimicrobial Efficacy Study | ISO 20743:2013 / AATCC TM100 / ASTM E2149 – 13a / ASTM E3160 – 18 / JIS L 1902; and
  • Shelf Life Study | ASTM F1980 – 16.

Niraj Singh, director, Softlines & Analytical – Asia (Global Technical Services) for Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services, commented: “We are seeing increasing demands for a faster and more complete service from our clients, from both buyers and suppliers. I am therefore delighted that we have a comprehensive testing capability worldwide, with our specialist test center in Sri Lanka, however, we also have full capability to deliver knowledge management, supplier selection and product approval. Product inspection, supplier audit, document review, regulatory awareness and ISO 13485 management system certification services are additionally available worldwide.”

This accreditation is the latest development in Bureau Veritas Sri Lanka’s rapid expansion and evolution. As well as a full range of analytical and safety/performance testing, inspection and audit services for apparel/textiles, cosmetics, packaging and healthcare; Bureau Veritas Sri Lanka can also carry out biodegradability analysis, environmental studies on air, water and soil; drinking and processed water quality testing as well as a full range of testing services for the food and agriculture industry.

1 https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/global-face-mask-market-research-report-2020

Posted July 10, 2020

Source: Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services

Brooks Brothers Commences Chapter 11 Cases To Support Value-Maximizing Sale Process And Obtain New Financing

NEW YORK CITY — July 8, 2020 — Brooks Brothers, America’s oldest apparel company, today announced that it has commenced Chapter 11 cases in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware to facilitate a value-maximizing sale process. A transaction would ensure that the iconic Brooks Brothers brand is positioned to continue serving its loyal customers for years to come.

The company has also secured commitments for a debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing facility of $75 million from WHP Global, a brand management firm, subject to court approval. This capital, together with cash flows from ongoing operations, will provide liquidity to support the company through the sale process. This includes honoring certain employee-related wages and benefits obligations, paying claims of certain critical vendors and suppliers, and ensuring the continuation of other operations in the ordinary course of business with as minimal interruption as possible.

“For over 200 years, Brooks Brothers has remained resilient, navigating evolving fashion trends, fluctuating economic cycles, and even world wars,” said Claudio Del Vecchio, chairman and CEO. “Our long history is a testament to the strength of our brand and our mission since 1818: serving customers through innovation, fine quality, personal service, and exceptional value.”

Del Vecchio continued: “Our priority is to start this important chapter with a new owner that has appreciation for the Brooks Brothers legacy, a vision for its future, and aligns with our core values and culture. Prior to COVID-19, we were already conducting an evaluation of various strategic options to position the Company for future success in a rapidly transforming retail environment, including a potential sale of the business. Industry headwinds were only intensified by the pandemic. Seeking protection to facilitate an efficient sale of the business is the best next step for the Company to achieve its goals, over any other alternative.”

Details on the Sale Process

The company will commence a competitive auction where parties can submit qualified bids. Timing details for the process will be made available in the coming days.

Brooks Brothers expects to complete the sale process in the next few months, pending court approval.

Brooks Brothers will continue to operate its business in the ordinary course throughout the court and sale process.

Omnichannel Business Update

The company will continue to examine reopening stores that have been temporarily closed due to COVID-19, and as local and state public health and government officials allow and as it is economical to do so.

Prior to the petition date, on account of the COVID-19 pandemic, the company decided to close approximately 51 Brooks Brothers stores in the United States, and have closed, or are in the process of closing such stores.

Details on the store closures can be found in the company’s first day motions, filed publicly with the court.

Information on the DIP Lender

WHP Global is a New York City-based firm that owns and develops global consumer brands. The firm strategically invests in high-growth distribution channels, digital commerce platforms, and global expansion. WHP Global owns the ANNE KLEIN and JOSEPH ABBOUD brands. For more information, please visit www.whp-global.com.

Additional Information

The company’s restructuring counsel is Weil, Gotshal, & Manges LLP, its restructuring advisor is Ankura Consulting Group and its financial advisor is PJ Solomon L.P.

Posted July 9, 2020

Source: Brooks Brothers

Shaw Industries Ranks #2 In Elearning! Magazine’s 2020 Learning! 100 List

DALTON, Ga. — July 9, 2020 — Shaw Industries Inc. is proud to announce that the company ranked second in Elearning! Magazine’s 2020 Learning! 100 list for its comprehensive education and training efforts. Elearning! Magazine specifically recognized Shaw’s excellence in the category of Innovation for its embrace of Design Thinking culture. As the only flooring manufacturer on the list, this marks the 10th consecutive year Shaw has earned this national recognition.

Shaw provided more than one million hours of training to its associates in 2019, marking the company’s commitment to creating a better future for its customers, its people and the communities in which it operates.

“Our people are our competitive advantage, and we’re committed to empowering them through continuous training and development opportunities,” said Mike Fromm, Shaw’s chief human resources officer. “Attracting and retaining the best possible talent with a world-class associate experience that puts people first contributes to our overall success as a company.”

The Learning! 100 are comprised of 60 corporate enterprises and 40 public sector organizations that are evaluated across three criteria: Collaborative Strategies’ Collaboration Index, Darden School’s Learning Culture Index, and overall organizational performance.

Posted July 9, 2020

Source: Shaw Industries

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