Preliminary Conference Program Announced For The 2026 World Of Wipes® (WOW) International Conference

CARY, N.C. — March 3, 2026 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, has released the preliminary conference program for the 2026 World of Wipes® (WOW) International Conference, to be held June 29–July 2 at the Grand Hyatt Nashville in Nashville, Tennessee.

Under the theme, “Redefining Wipes: Smart. Sustainable. Scalable,” this year’s program will bring together manufacturers, suppliers, brand owners, and thought leaders to examine the technologies, regulations, and market forces shaping the next generation of wipes.

The conference will explore sustainable packaging trends, evolving standards and regulations, substrate evaluation, formulation science, decarbonization strategies, household and baby wipes, and developments across the global market and value chain. Additional presentations will be announced in the coming weeks.

Preliminary Conference Presentations

Confirmed presentations to date include:

  • CHT USA, “From Use to Return: Degradable High-Performance Chemistries Transforming Wipe Formulations”
  • Clariant Corporation, “Impact of Formulation Complexity on Preservative System Robustness and Contamination Prevention in Wet Wipes”
  • The Clorox Company, “Navigating the Regulatory Landscape to Develop Antimicrobial Wipes Products”
  • David E. James Consultancy, “Beyond Plastic: The UK Plastics in Wet Wipes Ban and Its Implications for Products, Labelling, Flushability, and Europe: The end of the beginning—or the beginning of the end?”
  • Euromonitor International, “From Routine to Ritual: Capturing Growth in Wipes Through Proactive Skin Care, Experiential Elevate and Occasion Targeting”
  • INDA, “Navigating the Regulatory Storm: Tariffs, PFAS Bans, Plastics Restrictions, and the Fight for National Do Not Flush Labeling in 2026”
  • INDA, “The Evolving Landscape of Wipes Standards and Regulations”
  • The Pack Hub, “Wipe Packaging at a Crossroads: Navigating Sustainability, Regulation, and Performance”
  • Rockline Industries, “From Crisis Response to Daily Use: How COVID-19 Reshaped Household vs Disinfecting Wipe Requirements”
  • Sharon Personal Care, “New Product Development for Wet Wipes – A Holistic Approach for Today’s Sophisticated Essential”
  • Soane Technologies, “Strong When It Matters, Gone When It Counts: Advances in Flushable Nonwoven Design”
  • SPGPrints America, Inc., “Enhancing Consumer Wipe Performance Through Specialty MPS & NCS Screens for Spunlace Lines”
  • Strategic Packaging Partners, “The Future of Wipe Packaging Under EPR: Risks, Opportunities, and Engineering Solutions”

Additional Conference Highlights

Wipes Development Course – June 29–30
Led by Heidi Beatty, CEO of Crown Abbey, this 12-session course provides in-depth instruction spanning the wipes development process—from concept and fabric selection to formulation design and packaging considerations.

Exhibits & Lightning Talks – June 30 & July 1
Attendees can discover the latest products, innovations, and technologies from industry suppliers in the Exhibits. Select exhibitors will also deliver five-minute Lightning Talks, offering concise insights into new developments ahead of the networking receptions and new technology showcases.

Lunch Arounds – June 30 & July 1
These small-group lunch discussions offer an opportunity to connect with peers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in an interactive setting designed to encourage dialogue and collaboration.

Pre-Conference Webinars
A series of webinars leading up to the event will provide additional insight into key industry topics.

World of Wipes Innovation Award® – June 30 & July 2
This annual award recognizes advances in nonwoven-based wipes that expand functionality and application. Finalists will present their innovations on June 30, and the winner will be announced on July 2.

For more information and to view the preliminary conference program, visit:
https://www.worldofwipes.org/conference-schedule

To register, reserve a tabletop exhibit, or become a sponsor, visit:
https://www.worldofwipes.org/

Posted: March 3, 2026

Source INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

 

The Netherlands Presents Its Leading Circular Textile Innovations To Europe At Techtextil

Credit beeld: ontwerp Studio Eva de Laat, editing & retouche Hilmer Thijs

ZEIST, The Netherlands — February 26, 2026 — Europe aims to become fully circular by 2050. The Netherlands is at the forefront of circular textiles and digital innovation, and will therefore present its first national pavilion and programme at Techtextil, taking place 21–24 April in Frankfurt. The delegation brings together pioneering Dutch textile innovators alongside industry association Modint, Circular Textile Days, and the Circular Textile Action Plan (a program of CLICKNL – https://www.clicknl.nl/ ).

Mission theme: NL Circular Textile Solutions, Ready for Europe. Goal: accelerate scaling.

A strategic economic transition

The Dutch textile, clothing, leather and footwear industry (TCLF) represents approximately €24 billion, or about 2.4% of national income. The transition toward a circular and digitally driven sector is therefore not only an environmental necessity, but also a strategic contribution to the Netherlands’ future earning capacity, which policymakers describe as its maatschappelijk verdienvermogen (societal earning capacity).

With several global frontrunners active in the field, significant opportunities arise both through international trade and through scaling Dutch innovations abroad.

For example, scale-up SaXcell has developed fibre-to-fibre recycling technology that turns discarded cotton into new raw material. Lamoral Coatings introduces PFAS-free performance finishes that retain their functionality even after repeated washing. In the field of digitalisation, tex.tracer replaces manual tracking with an automated, data-driven platform that guarantees real-time traceability of garments. These companies will be present at the national pavilion.

The ambition is that visitors leave Techtextil with a clear association: for circular textiles and digital innovation, you go to the Netherlands.

The pavilion marks the first visible public-private collaboration investing in the European positioning of the Dutch textile sector around circularity and digitalisation. Techtextil, focused on technical textiles, non-wovens and innovation, provides the ideal international meeting place. According to organiser Messe Frankfurt, the fair expects over 1,500 exhibitors and approximately 37,000 visitors from more than 100 countries.

The ultimate goal is faster scaling of circular business models and technologies. Companies working toward this transition encounter several barriers, including regulatory uncertainty around topics such as mandatory recycled content. Yet a number of Dutch entrepreneurs are already successfully commercialising their technologies regardless of how regulation evolves, demonstrating both resilience and market readiness.

From waste stream to resource

Several participants illustrate how circularity is moving from concept to industrial reality.

Vodde collects millions of kilograms of discarded textiles from businesses, consumers and governments and transforms them into high-quality socks and yarns used in retail, fashion and public procurement. Designer Eva de Laat developed Materialliance, a digital material-intelligence platform that helps designers and product developers make technically feasible choices in yarns, constructions and supply chain partners. Arly enhances textile performance through lamination processes that improve waterproofing, insulation, flame resistance and shape retention, supported by an extensive library of recycled and recyclable materials.

Additional participants further demonstrate the breadth of the Dutch ecosystem. EeCoff has developed a patented recycled polyester fabric in which carbonised coffee grounds are used as a colour pigment, while bAwear enables brands to measure and compare the environmental footprint of textile production. EE Labels introduces woven QR codes that remain scannable until the end of a product’s life, supporting transparency and traceability. Permess focuses on fabrics made from post-consumer recycled materials, and Hollanders Printing Solutions enables precisely measured sample production, helping companies avoid overproduction and textile waste.

Together, these companies aim to position the Netherlands as a European hub for circular textile technology and innovation.

The opportunity is here

Pieter van Kessel, co-founder of Circular Textile Days and owner of De Novo Fabrics:

“It is important to position the Netherlands as an innovative circular textile brand. With a curated pavilion and programme, participants gain visibility while strengthening each other through collaboration.”

Nanette Hogervorst, innovation director at Modint:

“As an industry association we stand behind entrepreneurs who dare to operate against the linear economy. Together they are ready to scale impact. The opportunities exist, and support from the government through the Circular Textile Action Plan and CreativeNL enables this pavilion.”

Jaap Zandbergen, one of the coordinators of the Actieplan Circulair Textiel:

“At Techtextil you achieve in a few days what normally takes months. It is the European meeting point for the entire value chain, brands, suppliers, machine builders, recyclers and traceability providers, exactly where scaling happens.”

Posted: March 2, 2026

Source CreativeNL

Texprocess 2026: Market Overview For Strategic Future Investments

FRANKFURT AM MAIN, Germany — March 2, 2026 — At Texprocess 2026, 200 exhibitors from 28 countries will be represented. In a challenging market environment, the leading trade fair is a constant and reflects progress in textile processing – driven by automation, digitalisation and AI. In addition, international start-ups present their ideas and meet partners from industry and research. Techtextil takes place in parallel with an optimised hall layout.

Photo: Messe Frankfurt / Pietro Sutera

Those investing in new processing technologies today are strengthening the future viability of their companies. New technologies offer solutions to a wide range of requirements – from increased efficiency and enhanced quality to optimised use of resources. At Texprocess, from 21 to 24 April 2026, visitors find a comprehensive market overview for these investment decisions. The leading international trade fair brings together 200 exhibitors from 28 countries at the Frankfurt exhibition grounds. The most represented exhibitor nations are Germany, Italy, Taiwan, Turkey and Great Britain. New exhibitor countries are Australia, Finland, Slovakia and Hungary.

Exhibitors include both long-standing customers and new participants. Again represented are e.g. bullmer (Germany), Brother Internationale Industriemaschinen (Germany), Eton Systems (Sweden), Kai Corporation (Japan), Morgan Tecnica (Italy), Style3D | Assyst (Germany), Veit (Germany) and Zünd (Germany). New exhibitors include e.g. Amann & Söhne (Germany), Coats Group (Great Britain), Melco International (Switzerland), NedGraphics (USA), Ozbilim (Turkey), Pathfinder Australia, PGM System (China) and Robotextile (Germany).

Up-and-coming newcomers are also showcasing their solutions at Texprocess. In the Start-up Stars area, participants include, among others, ProMSD – Pusztay (Slovakia), Prodactive Solutions (Belgium), Qsee.ai (Hong Kong) and White Pattern (Germany). Here, they connect with partners from industry and research.

Across 15 product groups, visitors discover new perspectives for their business. They compare solutions along the entire process chain – from CAD/CAM to cutting, sewing, embroidery and finishing. This forms the basis for investment decisions. For example, visitors benefit from the world’s most comprehensive range of cutting technologies. New exhibitors in this segment include Anhui Han-Bond Technology (China), Comelz (Italy), Cutting Edge Automation Machines (Italy) and Sheffield Cutting Equipment (USA).

Texprocess exhibitors present state-of-the-art processing technologies and world premieres for a wide range of requirements – whether for increasing efficiency or the precise processing of high-tech materials for extreme applications.

Efficient processing technologies, digital processes and AI-optimised workflows drive the future viability of the industry.

“Texprocess shows us the opportunities that new technologies offer to many companies. Investing in fast, connected and cost-efficient systems enables businesses to future-proof their production. Especially in light of current challenges such as volatile tariff policies, skilled labour shortages and persistently high energy costs, performance-optimised machinery and processes provide a decisive competitive advantage,” says Sabine Scharrer, Director Brand Management Technical Textiles & Textile Processing, Messe Frankfurt.

Rewarded innovations

Texprocess is the industry’s most important platform for experiencing innovations first-hand. The Texprocess Innovation Award showcases particularly outstanding ideas – selected by a renowned jury of experts. The focus is on solutions for quality enhancement, digitalisation and AI, as well as ecological and economic optimisation. The number of submissions has increased. What unites the selected innovations is their transformative impact on the textile industry. Guided tours to the award winners’ stands offer an in-depth insight into these developments.

Expert knowledge and best practices

At the Texprocess Forum, leading industry experts come together to discuss topics ranging from sustainable processing to AI-driven solutions. Selected presentations include: “AI for fashion – an E2E Ecosystem from Digital to Physical” (Gerhard Karl, Style3D | Assyst) or “Modernizing Fashion Manufacturing Without Major Investment: A Scalable Path to Industry 4.0” (Gregory Gueret, Lectra).

The entire textile production process in one place

Techtextil, the leading trade fair for technical textiles and nonwovens, takes place in close proximity to Texprocess. The two events cover the entire textile production process. Together, they bring more than 1,700 exhibitors to the Frankfurt exhibition grounds. Texprocess visitors find high-tech materials for their applications at Techtextil. Of particular relevance to the apparel industry: the Performance Apparel Textiles product segment is newly positioned in Hall 9.0 of Techtextil. Thereby it moves even closer to Texprocess in Hall 8.0. For visitors, this means: short distances and additional networking opportunities.

Posted: March 2, 2026

Source Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH

DEMGY Group Announces To Showcases Advanced Thermoplastic and Thermoset Composite Solutions At JEC World 2026

SAINT-AUBIN-SUR-GAILLON (NORMANDY, EURE), France — March 2, 2026 — At JEC World 2026, DEMGY Group, will present its 2025 results, outline its 2026 growth strategy, and highlight a strengthened portfolio of thermoplastic and thermoset composite technologies for aerospace, medical, defense and high-performance industrial markets.

2025: A Milestone Year

At JEC World, DEMGY will report 2025 as a milestone year with the acquisition of Tool Gauge in the US, which became DEMGY Pacific. This strategic operation that followed the integration of DEMGY EIS in Germany has significantly strengthened the Group’s position in the aerospace market, that now account for around two-thirds of its turnover. As a result, DEMGY has become the world leader in plastic and composite aircraft interior parts acting as a Tier 1 and Tier 2 supplier of major aircraft programmes including Boeing and Airbus.

With a consolidated revenue of approximately €125 million ($146 million), with one-third generated in the United States and two-thirds in Europe, the Group’s growth has been driven by a strong momentum in the aerospace, defense, medical and luxury sectors, despite a marked slowdown in automotive. DEMGY has doubled in size in five years, both in terms of revenue and headcount, and has significantly expanded its international footprint.

2026: Consolidation and Targeted Investment

For 2026, DEMGY is targeting revenue of €137 million ($160 million), while maintaining profitability to fund continued investment and innovation.

Strategic priorities include:

  • Finalizing the integration of DEMGY Pacific, following on from the successful integration of DEMGY EIS, to maximise the industrial and commercial partnerships between the European and American sites.
  • Further strengthening of its aerospace and defense leadership, capitalising on market growth, Boeing’s recovery and increased efficiency between the Group’s sites.
  • Acceleration in the medical sector, with the doubling of DEMGY Chicago’s clean rooms and the transformation of the DEMGY Frasne workshop into a 100% ISO 8 clean room including ISO 7 production and assembly stations as well as the upcoming launch of a new clean room at DEMGY Atlantique.
  • Sustained investment at approximately 7% of revenue to enhance competitiveness, innovation and carbon reduction.

To support this next phase, Bastien Beley has been appointed as Chief Development Officer (CDO), working alongside President & CEO Pierre-Jean Leduc and COO Emmanuel De Battista, to drive business development, marketing, innovation and external growth.

Advanced Thermoplastics and Thermoset Composite Solutions for JEC World 2026

On a new booth in Hall 6 (6B31), DEMGY will present a comprehensive range of thermoplastic and thermoset composite solutions developed for major OEMs, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers across aerospace, defense, automotive, medical and industrial sectors. The focus will be on high-performance material, lightweight, and function-integrated components designed for serial production.

Technologies on display will include:

  • Press&Make: DEMGY’s proprietary process for advanced thermoplastic composite forming. Designed for repeatable, high-rate manufacturing, the technology enables the shaping of high-performance composites such as SRPP (self-reinforced polypropylene).
  • High-precision additive manufacturing combined with functional metallisation. DEMGY will present high-precision additive manufacturing combined with functional metallisation (plastronics), enabling structural components to incorporate electrical conductivity. This capability is demonstrated in a Smart Plastic Drone Demonstrator, produced through additive manufacturing and integrating advanced functional features within a lightweight structure.
  • Engineering for eXtreme offering: DEMGY’s expertise in the distribution and processing of very-high-performance polymers (PEEK, Torlon®, Vespel®)
  • Natural fibre composite solutions developed through its dedicated Flaxcomp® technology.

DRAKE Plastics Ltd. Co and DEMGY Group introduce a new partnership for high performance polymers (HPP)

DRAKE Plastics Ltd. Co and DEMGY Group have established themselves as leaders in high-performance polymer solutions in their respective geographic markets. By combining their application development, production, and market coverage capabilities, DEMGY Group and DRAKE Plastics Ltd. Co offer the European market:

  • Unique capabilities for extruding ultra-high-performance polymers into semi-finished shapes.
  • Expertise in the transformation of very high and ultra-high-performance polymers thanks to DEMGY Group’s historic know-how in high precision machining, injection, thermoforming, and metallization.
  • Extreme-performance polymers available via its digital platform buypolymers.demgy.com

Series Production Components on Display

A series of finished aerospace interior components will also be on display and will further underline DEMGY’s serial production credentials. Exhibits include: an AIRBUS Atlantic Composite Dashboard, injection moulded seat components and arm rests, composite aircraft dividers, and aircraft security parts such as emergency signage equipment produced through high-precision injection moulding.

Together, these parts illustrate the Group’s ability to deliver certified, flight-ready components combining structural performance, aesthetic quality and industrial efficiency.

“2025 confirms the robustness of our international model and our aerospace leadership. In 2026, our priority is clear: to consolidate our global footprint, accelerate in high-value markets and invest in advanced thermoplastic technologies that deliver lighter, smarter and more industrially efficient composite components” said Pierre-Jean Leduc, President & CEO of DEMGY Group. “JEC World 2026 is the ideal platform to demonstrate how DEMGY combines materials expertise, process innovation and industrial scale.”

Posted: March 2, 2026

Source: DEMGY Group

Bremen Cotton Exchange: Beyond The Wardrobe – Innovative Cotton Takes The Spotlight

BREMEN, Germany — March 2, 2026 — Cotton can do more – a lot more. Cutting-edge textiles and high-tech products made from 100% cotton prove just how powerfully performance and sustainability can come together. That very surge of innovation is front and centre at the 38th Bremen Cotton Conference, taking place March 25–27, 2026, at Bremen’s Parliament on the historic market square – culminating in a bold and dedicated closing session on Friday. In the spotlight: performance upgrades for pure cotton, smart strategies for circular textile waste solutions, and pioneering concepts for demanding technical applications. From natural fibre–reinforced composites to highly effective flame-retardant solutions, cotton steps out of the closet and shows the future potential woven into every fibre.

Cotton is so much more than just a T-shirt. As a renewable resource, it’s biodegradable, free from microplastics, naturally breathable, and delivers comfort you can actually feel. But this fibre has long since broken free from the fashion rack. Cotton is evolving into a versatile high-tech material.Thanks to advanced finishing technologies, functional coatings, innovative hybrid yarns, and bio-based material blends, its range of applications is expanding fast – far beyond traditional textiles. For companies, that means real opportunity: replacing fossil-based resources with sustainable alternatives, staying ahead of regulatory demands, and unlocking new high-performance markets. Cotton is transforming from a natural product into a true engine of innovation.

Cotton Textile Waste as a Resource

Future-ready innovation means thinking across the entire product lifecycle. Production scraps, offcuts, and post-consumer textiles are not just a growing waste problem — they are also a valuable and largely untapped resource. In his presentation, Dr. Matthew Farrell of Cotton Incorporated (USA) demonstrates how cotton textile waste can be converted into glucose. Since these materials consist primarily of cellulose — aside from dyes and finishes — they can be broken down into their sugar building blocks through hydrolysis.* The resulting glucose serves as a bio-based platform feedstock for a wide range of value-added products. Drawing on two processes developed in recent years, Farrell illustrates how used cotton textiles can be integrated into viable circular economy concepts.

* Note: During hydrolysis, cellulose chains are broken down into glucose using water — often supported by acids or enzymes.

Natural Fibre Systems and Flame Retardancy

At the same time, the market for natural fibre-reinforced composites is expanding rapidly, as industry and research increasingly turn to renewable, lightweight, and resource-efficient materials. Natural fibres generally offer a lower carbon footprint than glass or carbon fibre reinforcements and are especially attractive for applications driven by clear sustainability targets. However, fire performance presents specific challenges. As plant-based fibres are inherently combustible, natural fibre composites often exhibit less favourable fire behaviour than their glass- or carbon-fibre-reinforced counterparts. Meanwhile, regulatory and safety requirements are becoming more stringent: beyond flammability itself, parameters such as heat release rate, smoke development, and smoke toxicity are moving into sharper focus.

At the Bremen conference, Dr. Thomas Mayer-Gall from the German Institutes of Textile and Fibre Research North-West (DTNW), Krefeld, will present newly developed, halogen-free flame-retardant systems from DTNW research designed for these demanding applications.

More Performance from 100% Cotton

Complementing the circularity perspective, Seth Winner of Cotton Incorporated turns the spotlight on enhancing the performance of textiles made from pure cotton. The goal: to elevate 100% cotton fabrics with targeted functional upgrades — improving breathability, thermal insulation, and stretch, among other properties.

He will present innovative approaches that enable the precise functionalization of cotton textiles, using both new and established technologies to unlock the full performance potential of pure cotton.

Innovation Meets Circularity

Against the backdrop of rising demands for resource efficiency, circular economy solutions, and product safety, the closing session of the Bremen Cotton Conference sends a strong message. It delivers fresh, hands-on impulses for manufacturers, finishers, and developers — and showcases the remarkable innovative power of cotton.

Cotton is no longer just a traditional apparel fibre. It is evolving into a high-performance raw material platform for technical and sustainable applications — with strategic relevance for the textile and materials industries of tomorrow.

Posted: March 2, 2026

Source: Bremen Cotton Exchange

 

AATCC Color Management Workshop Heads To The West Coast

DURHAM, N.C. — March 2, 2026 — This year, AATCC brings its highly regarded Color Management Workshop to California, offering West Coast professionals a convenient opportunity to learn from leading industry experts. The workshop will be held August 26–27, 2026, at the Hilton Los Angeles North/Glendale & Executive Meeting Center in Glendale, CA, USA.

Participants will hear world-renowned color experts discuss topics including:

  • Color Basics: Balancing Theory and Application — Tim Williams, Color Solutions International
  • Color Communication — Tim Williams, Color Solutions International
  • Leveraging Digital Technology to Speed the Color Approval Process — Doug Bynum, natific AG
  • Understanding Whites and Other Fluorescent Materials — Tanga Crosby, Archroma
  • Fundamentals of Dyeing and Challenges to Meet Performance Standards — Fred Gliddon, Archroma
  • Light, Color, and the Impact on Our Business — Steve Paolini, Telelumen
  • Supply Chain Conformance — Why Don’t My Numbers Match Yours? — Ken R. Butts, Datacolor
  • The Evolution and Revolution of Global Color Management — Carol T. Revels
  • Ultra-Portable Color Measurement: A Spectro in Your Pocket? — Ken R. Butts, Datacolor

Designed for merchandisers, retailers, manufacturers, product developers, color approval managers, specifiers, and designers, the workshop delivers practical insights and real-world strategies for improving color accuracy across the supply chain.

Sessions will explore illumination and observer issues; sample analysis and measurement techniques; processes and technologies for stronger color control; and the realities of color management in retail.

Individual and Corporate AATCC members can take advantage of discounted registration fees. Registration includes luncheons, digital copies of the AATCC Color Guidebook and Textile Coloration for the Retail Supply Chain, as well as access to all available presentations. Rates increase after June 1

Posted: March 2, 2026

Source The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC)

Textile Exchange Unveils Commitment-Based Pathway For Members To Accelerate Responsible Raw Material Production

LONDON — February 26, 2026 — Textile Exchange has unveiled further details about its new membership structure, designed to guide the fashion, textile, and apparel industry in a collective course of action toward preferred production systems for raw materials and fibers.

The organization first announced its pivot toward a more action-oriented membership in November 2025. The new structure introduces two distinct cohorts: the Community Cohort, suited for organizations who do not directly produce or source raw materials, and the Action Cohort which offers clear steps for brands, retailers, and raw material producers.

This approach is designed to better cater to the distinct needs and goals of different organizations and support them to take steps to scale preferred production systems while achieving beneficial outcomes for climate, nature, people, and animals.

Today’s announcement focuses on the Action Cohort and introduces the three-step pathway:

Step one: Reporting on progress to build clarity and momentum

Action Cohort members begin by reporting data relating to their materials sourcing or production. Reporting helps members and the broader community collectively identify gaps, measure progress, and more confidently plan the next steps for deeper, more effective action. For many current members, this will be a continuation of reporting through Textile Exchange’s Materials Benchmark.

For 2026, reporting will continue on a voluntary basis for members, with it becoming mandatory for brands and retailers in 2027. For organizations in Tiers 1–3 and Tier 4, the introduction of reporting requirements will be on a longer timeline.

Step two: Verifying best practice to strengthen credibility and outcomes

As Action Cohort members progress, they focus on increasing the proportion of their materials sourced or produced from verified preferred production systems. These include materials produced under Textile Exchange standards and other certification and verification schemes with third-party assurance to ensure that practices, data, outcomes, and claims are accurate, consistent, and independently assessed.

Best practice verification will focus on actions in key areas, including:

  • Pesticide and fertilizer use
  • Deforestation and conversion
  • Animal welfare
  • Textile-to-textile recycling
  • Human rights and livelihoods
  • Overall certified/verified sourcing

Members will also be supported in setting achievable and meaningful targets to increase their proportion of materials from verified systems, guided by aggregate targets that provide a clear direction of travel for the industry.

These targets, with further details to be published shortly, combined with reporting requirements, provide a standardized way to credibly measure and track progress, with a focus on doing so via best practices that are verified by standards and certifications.

Target-setting will be required of brands and retailers in the Action Cohort starting in 2027, with supplier and producer requirements introduced at a later stage.

Step three: Lead to deliver impact at scale

Textile Exchange intends to accelerate collective action toward system transformation by working with leading brands, retailers, suppliers, and producers who raise the bar on what credible progress looks like. Through designated working groups, members will be supported to take decisive actions that drive system-wide impact beyond what any one organization could achieve alone.

Sarah Needham, Chief Engagement and Partnerships Officer, said: “By introducing a clear pathway for our new Action Cohort, we give both those who source materials and those who produce them the structure and confidence to accelerate their impact and help transform our industry. We know the ambition and appetite for change is there. This new approach clearly sets out how we move forward, concretizing the steps needed to accelerate the shift to preferred production systems, and supporting organizations in driving lasting impact.”

What membership means in practice

Textile Exchange membership offers a wide range of resources and tools tailored to support organizations at every stage of their journey. Those in the Community Cohort receive access to all of Textile Exchange’s reports and research, providing actionable insights into material production, sustainability progress, and key industry trends. They can also connect virtually with peers through Textile Exchange’s members-only forum, The Hub, join members-only convenings, and enjoy discounted access to the Textile Exchange conference and other events.

Action Cohort members receive all of these benefits, alongside expert guidance and hands-on support to advance their organization’s efforts to source or produce more responsible materials. This includes support with reporting and target-setting, access to workshops, opportunities to participate in active change and leadership, and complimentary tickets to the Textile Exchange conference.

As organizations renew their Textile Exchange membership, they will be placed into the cohort that best aligns with their needs and their organizational status.

Find out more

For more information on Textile Exchange’s transition to a new membership structure, visit: https://textileexchange.org/membership/

Posted: Marchy 2, 2026

Source: Textile Exchange

Former Starbucks And Levi’s Executive Michael Kobori Joins Avalo To Accelerate Agriculture’s Resilience Revolution

DURHAM, N.C. — March 2, 2026 — Michael Kobori, former board director of Bunge Global SA, former Chief Sustainability Officer at Starbucks, and former Vice President of Sustainability at Levi Strauss & Co, has joined the board at Avalo, an advanced crop-innovation company using AI to rapidly accelerate the creation of sustainable crop varieties.

Michael Kobori

Kobori’s career has focused on efficiency and sustainability in complex agricultural supply chains like fashion and food, making him an exciting addition to Avalo’s team who are focused on evolving the agricultural system from “seed to store.”

“In Michael, we found someone as obsessed with changing the agricultural status quo as we are. We’ve shown him that we now have the technology and tools to rebuild these systems from first principles,” said Avalo CEO and co-founder Brendan Collins. “Michael’s pragmatic experience implementing sustainability at some of the world’s most beloved and customer-obsessed brands, along with guiding one of the largest agricultural supply chain companies on the board at Bunge, is exactly the practical leadership we need to ensure our products reach the market and deliver the most impact.”

As Levi’s sustainability lead, a member of the Cotton Board, and founding Council member of the Better Cotton Initiative, Michael also brings a deep passion and understanding of commercializing sustainable cotton, which is Avalo’s first scale-up crop. In 2026 Avalo is introducing its Low-Carbon American cotton to the marketplace which will help fashion brands address historically hard-to-tackle scope 3 emissions, while simultaneously creating more value for farmers.

However, unlike other Agtech companies whose role ends at gene discovery, Avalo delivers innovation downstream to farmers, manufacturers, processors and brands in order to improve efficiency and sustainability across the entire supply chain. To do this, Avalo has developed eight proprietary AI models that guide breeding, seed production, agronomy and processing optimization.

“I am thrilled to join the Board of such a transformational company,” says Michael Kobori. “By using AI to accelerate development of more productive and resilient crops, Avalo will improve farmer livelihoods and drive value across the agricultural supply chain.”

Though cotton is Avalo’s flagship crop, the company has already begun the march to expand its impact on other critical global staples like lowering the carbon footprint of sugarcane by partnering with industry shapers like Coca-Cola Europacific Partners. Says Mariano Alvarez, Avalo’s other co-founder and Chief Science Officer: “We created a technology platform that can improve any industry, because we know every industry must evolve to address the critical agricultural challenges of the next century.”

Posted: Marchy 2, 2026

Source: Avalo Inc.

Lyle Shipley Joins Herculite As Director Of Innovation

EMIGSVILLE, PA — March 2, 2026 — Herculite Products is pleased to announce that Lyle Shipley is joining Herculite as the new Director of Innovation. In this role, Lyle will focus on advancing Herculite’s innovation strategy, developing new products and solutions, and supporting growth across the organization.

Lyle Shipley

With over 25 years of experience in the plastics industry, Lyle has a strong background in film formulation, product management, technical services, and new product development. Most recently, he served as Senior Product Manager at Continental AG, where he led new product development initiatives and customer launches across healthcare, flooring, automotive, and specialty product lines.

Lyle holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology/Chemistry from Shepherd University, has completed additional leadership and business systems training, and received the Continental Excellence Award in 2022. Throughout his career, Lyle has dedicated himself to driving innovation, supporting continuous improvement, and partnering cross-functionally to bring new ideas from concept to market.

 

Posted: Marchy 2, 2026

Source: Herculite Products Inc.

2025 Quarterly Issue IV

Bruno

Marco Bruno Appointed Global R&D Head at Avgol

Israel-based Avgol, an Indorama Ventures company, appointed Marco Bruno as Global R&D Head. With more than 20 years’ experience and 10-plus patents, Bruno’s key goal is to drive innovation and value-chain collaboration, developing next-generation personal care applications.

Taylor

Angelica Taylor Named President of Cabot Hosiery Mills

Cabot Hosiery Mills, located in Northfield, Vt., is pleased to promote Angelica Taylor to President, its first non-family leader. She previously served as CFO and COO, overseeing brands including Darn Tough Vermont. “Angelica’s leadership has proven time and time again she’s going to do big things in our industry,” said CEO Ric Cabot.

Knadler

Fawn Knadler Promoted As PrimaLoft’s North American Sales Director

Latham, N.Y.-based PrimaLoft, Inc. promoted Fawn Knadler to North American Sales Director, having led key accounts including Nike and Patagonia. Knadler will now oversee regional sales strategy across the U.S. and Canada. “I’m thrilled to step into this new role and continue building strong partnerships with our customers across North America,” said Knadler.

Bridges

Stacey Bridges Appointed VP of Sales & Operations Clover Knits

Clover Knits, Inc., in Clover, S.C., appointed Stacey Bridges to the newly created position Vice President of Sales and Operations. With more than 30 years of textile experience, Bridges previously served as VP of Sales at Hanes Dye & Finishing. “Stacey’s vast experience makes him the perfect fit to drive sales growth,” said President Kevin McCarter.

Cooperman

Cindy Cooperman Promoted With Pantone, Now VP & GM

X-Rite Pantone, in Grand Rapids, Mich., promoted Cindy Cooperman to Vice President and General Manager of Pantone. Cooperman has more than 25 years of experience leading strategic color-consulting initiatives. In her new position, she will strengthen Pantone’s role in shaping color workflows, color standards in digital workflows and help create a seamless customer journey from inspiration to product.

Pourdeyhimi

Behnam Pourdeyhimi To Step Down, Raoul Farer Promoted To NWI Director

After more than 25 years as executive director of The Nonwovens Institute (NWI) in Raleigh, N.C., Behnam Pourdeyhimi will step down Dec. 31. Under Pourdeyhimi, NWI became the first accredited academic program in engineered fabrics.

Farer
Stepping up is Raoul Farer, executive deputy director and a professor of textile engineering, chemistry and science.

“I’ve been incredibly impressed with his accomplishments and firmly believe he is the right choice to lead the institute into the future,” Pourdeyhimi said.

(clockwise from upper left) Brian Johnson, Stacy Swider, Steven Tran and Francisco J. Martinez

AFFOA Appoints Four Industry Leaders to Board

Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA) in Bedford, MA, appointed four leaders to its Board of Directors to accelerate functional fabric technology and national security initiatives. New members include Brian Johnson, president of MassMEDIC, bringing deep medical device market knowledge; Francisco J. Martinez, vice president of R&D at Bethel Industries will guide AAFOA government relationships; Stacy Swider, vice president of investments at MassVentures leverages high-potential deep-tech startup experience ; and Steven Tran, executive vice president of finance and contracts at Activate has knowledge in financial planning, audits, contracting, and grant processes. Their expertise further strengthens AFFOA’s mission to advance smart textiles manufacturing and commercialization nationwide.

“We are excited about the wide-ranging expertise of our board,” said Sasha Stolyarov, Ph.D., AFFOA CEO. “I am looking forward to working with each new board member in expanding our impact regionally and nationally.”

Harris

TSG Finishing Names First Non-Family Partner

TSG Finishing, LLC, a 125-year-old textile finishing leader based in Hickory, N.C., appointed Benjamin Harris as its first non-family partner. Harris, formerly COO, will guide strategic decisions, operations, and long-term growth while supporting innovation and the company’s ongoing evolution. “I’m honored to take on this responsibility,” said Harris. “It’s a testament to the company’s vision of building a strong foundation for future generations.”

MacMeccan

Robert MacMeccan Named General Manager at Turf

Located in Chicago, Turf appointed Robert MacMeccan, Ph.D., WELL AP, as general manager, leading the next phase of growth in design-forward acoustic solutions for the architecture and design industries. With more than 18 years of executive leadership experience at Milliken & Company and a systems-driven yet creative approach to leadership, MacMeccan will support Turf’s continued momentum, building on the brand’s strong legacy of customization, service, and design integrity.

Baskhron

Fire-Dex Appointed Maged Baskhron VP of Operations

Medina, Ohio-based Fire-Dex, manufacturer of head-to-toe PPE for first responders, appointed Maged Baskhron Vice President of Operations. Baskhron is intentional about trust, accountability and enabling teams to act. “I’m eager to help our teams build it right, deliver it right, and keep safety as the starting point,” Baskhron said.

Robinson

Renfro Brands Promotes Jay W. Robinson President & CEO

Jay W. Robinson, with more than 30 years in consumer products and apparel, has been promoted to President and CEO of Renfro Brands, based in Mount Airy, N.C. His leadership approach combines strategic vision with a commitment to building high-performing teams. “We have a tremendous team here at Renfro Brands and I am honored to be entrusted with guiding our efforts at such an exciting time in the Company’s long history,” said Robinson.

Wagner
Scott Roubic

MMI Textiles Strengthens Executive Team

MMI Textiles in Cleveland, Ohio, announced two leadership updates to position the company for continued growth and operational excellence, while advancing innovation and growth across its diverse markets.

Kathleen Wagner has joined as Director of Sales, bringing 15 years sales and leadership experience and a fresh perspective from outside the textile industry to support the company’s next phase of growth.

Scott Roubic has joined the company as Chief Financial Officer, bringing 30 years senior financial leadership experience across public, private, and private-equity-backed organizations.

Sharrett

Children’s Brand Hanna Andersson Appoints Kacey Sharrett Chief Digital Officer

Hanna Andersson, in Portland, Ore., appointed Kacey Sharrett as Chief Digital Officer. She will lead the brand’s digital strategy, customer experience, and ecommerce initiatives, leveraging nearly two decades of digital and direct-to-consumer leadership experience.

“Kacey’s experience modernizing digital capabilities and driving performance marketing at scale will be invaluable in unlocking new ways for customers to experience our brand.” shared Aimée Lapic, CEO Hanna Andersson.

Sylvester

Cotton Incorporated Names Bev Sylvester Chief Marketing Officer

Cotton Incorporated, based in Cary, N.C., appointed Bev Sylvester to the newly created role as chief marketing officer, where she will lead demand-building initiatives, shaping compelling narratives around cotton’s value, aligning with the needs of mills, manufacturers, brands, and retailers.

Formerly with Unifi Manufacturing, Inc., Sylvester led efforts with mills to drive adoption and fiber preference for REPREVE, providing insight on fiber-level supply chain decisions.

Her appointment aligns with Cotton Incorporated’s market-driven approach with a focus on strengthening industry engagement while maintaining consumer demand-building strategies.

2026 Quarterly Issue I

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