Wrangler® Brings Iconic Designs To Fred Segal Sunset With Capsule Collection

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — September 5, 2019 — Wrangler®, a global icon in jeanswear and casual apparel, is taking over the pop up at Fred Segal Sunset to present a modern day, immersive interpretation of four of the brand’s pivotal points in history. The six-week long Wrangler Pop Up Experience at iconic, experiential retailer Fred Segal’s flagship location, located at 8500 Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles, will open to the public Sept. 7.

“Wrangler and Fred Segal have both held significant roles in the history of fashion for decades,” said Tom Waldron, global brand president at Wrangler. “As Wrangler evolves in front of a global audience, we embrace the opportunity to bring new experiences to consumers that allow us to stay true to our heritage, but show an unexpected and fresh twist.”

The limited-edition Wrangler collection for men and women celebrates the legacy that defines the brand today, pulling straight from the brand’s archives and taking cue from distinctive eras that testify to its cultural influence as a whole. Further tapping into the brand’s heritage, many of the products were handmade at the Wrangler Service Supply Center incorporating denim from Cone Mills, which is headquartered in its hometown of Greensboro, N.C.

“Fred Segal is a place of invention and reinvention, for the best brands in the world,” said John Frierson, president of Fred Segal. “We love the references to Wrangler’s incredible heritage story in this experiential pop up, but we’re also excited to launch these exclusive new products that are highly relevant right now.”

The featured era will rotate every few weeks, highlighting one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by each decade’s attitude. The three additional eras, along with foundational product in vintage-inspired denim washes and T-shirts, will also be featured in the space throughout the duration of the pop-up.

1919: Wrangler can trace its roots back to the emerging textile mills of Greensboro, where the Blue Bell Overall Company was born. This archive-inspired capsule, “Bluebell 1919,” celebrates the foundation of the Wrangler brand – from the laborers who wore its first coveralls to the talented tradespeople who made them. Authentic Blue Bell patches can be seen on workwear-inspired jackets and coveralls that have been updated as stylish wardrobe essentials.

1960s: As one of the most culturally complex periods in recent past, the Sixties were simultaneously unpredictable and pervaded by infectious optimism. It was during this decade that Wrangler became the definitive brand of youth culture, with garments worn by revolutionaries, riders, and rock stars alike. Every design in this collection, “War & Peace,” captures a monumental moment in time – one longing for change. Bold, rebellious pieces are complemented by fun and carefree tiedye for a juxtaposition of two attitudes.

1970s: Empowered by the appeal of protest and the promise of progress, the Seventies was a decade defined by bold experimentation. This psychedelic age introduced a new cultural landscape, which frequently blurred the lines between art, fashion, and music. Flirty flares, hypnotic patterns, and colorful prints from this capsule, “Psychedelic,” highlight the exhilarating sound and style of the extraordinary disco era.

1980s: With an attitude impacted by the pulse of pop culture, the Eighties ushered in an era where style reigned supreme. Wrangler answered the call of this legendary decade in denim with front-row seats at top racetracks, leading the racing craze with booty shorts, graphic tees, and the Wrangler Jeans Machine. The “Racing” collection pays tribute to Wrangler’s ties to racing and the fashions of this time in history.

To complete the pop up experience, guests can grab a selfie next to a custom Wrangler Indian Bobber Scout and pose in front of the large Wrangler logo that changes with each decade.

The Wrangler capsule collection apparel will be available in-store exclusively at Fred Segal Sunset for a limited time, with select pieces available online. An exclusive launch party will be held Sept. 19 for influencers and media to experience the first featured era – the 70s. Follow @wrangler to see the collection on social media.

Posted September 5, 2019

Source: Wrangler®

RISE® Innovation Award Finalists Announced: Novel And Ingenious Solutions In Research, Innovation & Science For Engineered Fabrics

CARY, N.C. — September 4, 2019 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, announces the three finalists that will present unique and innovative material science solutions as they compete for the prestigious RISE® Innovation Award during the ninth edition of the Research, Innovation & Science for Engineered Fabrics Conference, (RISE®) Sept. 24-25, 2019 at North Carolina State University, Raleigh, N.C.  The award recognizes novel innovations within and on the periphery of the nonwovens industry that creatively use next-level science and engineering principles to solve material challenges and expand the usage of nonwovens and engineered fabrics.

Meet the Finalists for the 2019 RISE® Innovation Award:

Surfaceskins – Hand washing and gel dispensers clean hands, but as soon as a person touches a door they risk becoming contaminated from a previous door user. Surfaceskins, antibacterial door push pads and pull handles, are engineered to kill deposited germs and bacteria in the vital seconds between one user and the next passing through the door, thus helping prevent the spread of some of the germs and bacteria associated with healthcare associated infections (HAIs). – Nonwovens Innovation & Research Institute (NIRI)

Reicofil 5 – The RF5 Technology delivers the most productive, reliable, and efficient line technology Reifenhäuser has ever engineered. RF5’s intelligent production line reduces hard pieces by 90 percent; increases output up to 1200 m/min; streamlines maintenance time; reduces energy consumption; improves quality and productivity; and increases uniformity, strength, and softness of engineered materials. – Reifenhäuser Reicofil GmbH & Co. KG

Remodelling™ Compound Hernia Patch – The use of traditional permanent synthetic materials for abdominal wall hernia repair can create short- and long-term complications for patient health. The Remodelling Compound Hernia Patch is an electrospun nanoscale patch designed to mimic more costly absorbable biological grafts. The new cost-effective patch serves as a growth medium for new cells, ultimately biodegrading, and has been shown to reduce the rate of postoperative complications and recurrence of hernias matching the performance of absorbable biological grafts. – Shanghai Pine & Power Biotech

RISE conference attendees — professionals in the nonwoven/engineered fabrics industry who are charged with finding “what’s new” to help advance their businesses — will vote for the recipient of the 2019 RISE Innovation Award, on Tuesday, September 24. The winner will be named Wednesday, September 25.

The three finalists were selected by technical experts on INDA’s Technical Advisory Board. The 25-member board of technical professionals is represented by companies such as Absorbent Hygiene Insights LLC, Berry Global, Cotton Inc., Crown Abbey LLC, Freudenberg, Performance Materials, Lenzing Fibers, Natureworks LLC, Nice-Pak Products, Nonwovens by Design, North Carolina State University, Poccia Consulting, Suominen, and The Procter & Gamble Co., among others. 

In 2018, the RISE Innovation Award was presented to DiviDiaper for its product, DiviDiaper, designed to prevent and reduce urinary tract infections, catheter and associated infections, and pressure sores in infants and adults.

The conference program will cover timely and relevant industry topics including: Sustainable Additives; Sustainable Polymers; Circular Innovation; Material Developments; and Market Data and Intelligence Trends. The full program can be viewed on the link: https://www.riseconf.net/conference.php

“The RISE Conference recognizes and promotes innovation across all nonwoven and engineered material sectors. Forward-thinking technology leaders will share invaluable information on new approaches and concepts to resolve material science challenges. For any technology scout or new product innovator, RISE is truly an event not to be missed,” said Dave Rousse, INDA’s President.

For registration details, visit https://www.riseconf.net/register.html.

Posted September 4, 2019

Source: INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

PMI® at 49.1%; August Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business® — Textiles Continued Growth

TEMPE, Ariz. — September 3, 2019 — Economic activity in the manufacturing sector contracted in August, and the overall economy grew for the 124th consecutive month, say the nation’s supply executives in the latest Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business®.

The report was issued today by Timothy R. Fiore, CPSM, C.P.M., Chair of the Institute for Supply Management® (ISM®) Manufacturing Business Survey Committee: “The August PMI® registered 49.1 percent, a decrease of 2.1 percentage points from the July reading of 51.2 percent. The New Orders Index registered 47.2 percent, a decrease of 3.6 percentage points from the July reading of 50.8 percent. The Production Index registered 49.5 percent, a 1.3-percentage point decrease compared to the July reading of 50.8 percent. The Employment Index registered 47.4 percent, a decrease of 4.3 percentage points from the July reading of 51.7 percent. The Supplier Deliveries Index registered 51.4 percent, a 1.9-percentage point decrease from the July reading of 53.3 percent. The Inventories Index registered 49.9 percent, an increase of 0.4 percentage point from the July reading of 49.5 percent. The Prices Index registered 46 percent, a 0.9-percentage point increase from the July reading of 45.1 percent.

“Comments from the panel reflect a notable decrease in business confidence. August saw the end of the PMI expansion that spanned 35 months, with steady expansion softening over the last four months. Demand contracted, with the New Orders Index contracting, the Customers’ Inventories Index recovering slightly from prior months and the Backlog of Orders Index contracting for the fourth straight month. The New Export Orders Index contracted strongly and experienced the biggest loss among the subindexes. Consumption (measured by the Production and Employment Indexes) contracted at higher levels, contributing the strongest negative numbers (a combined 5.6-percentage point decrease) to the PMI, driven by a lack of demand. Inputs — expressed as supplier deliveries, inventories and imports — were again lower in August, due to inventory tightening for the third straight month and continued slower supplier deliveries. This resulted in a combined 1.5-percentage point decline in the Supplier Deliveries and Inventories indexes. Imports and new export orders contracted to new lows. Overall, inputs indicate (1) supply chains are responding better and (2) companies are continuing to closely match inventories to new orders, a positive sign for future expansion. Prices contracted for the third consecutive month, indicating lower overall systemic demand.

“Respondents expressed slightly more concern about U.S.-China trade turbulence, but trade remains the most significant issue, indicated by the strong contraction in new export orders. Respondents continued to note supply chain adjustments as a result of moving manufacturing from China. Overall, sentiment this month declined and reached its lowest level in 2019,” says Fiore.

Of the 18 manufacturing industries, nine reported growth in August, in the following order: Textile Mills; Furniture & Related Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Wood Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Machinery; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Chemical Products. The seven industries reporting contraction in August — in the following order — are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Transportation Equipment; Primary Metals; Plastics & Rubber Products; Paper Products; and Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components.

WHAT RESPONDENTS ARE SAYING

“Seeing some relief in the availability of electronic components in the marketplace, but there are still pockets of short supply, allocation, long lead times and the like. Tariffs continue to be a strain on the supply chain and the economy overall.” (Computer & Electronic Products)

“While business is strong, there is an undercurrent of fear and alarm regarding the trade wars and a potential recession.” (Chemical Products)

“Slowest month (July) this year so far in sales.” (Transportation Equipment)

“Late planting of the corn and soybean crops has increased uncertainty over the final acres and yields. This is leading to volatile markets.” (Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products)

“Slightly lower rate of incoming orders may be seasonal or a sign of a general slowdown. Monitoring closely.” (Fabricated Metal Products)

“Incoming sales seem to be slowing down and this is usually our busiest season. Concerns about the economy and tariffs.” (Furniture & Related Products)

“Business is starting to show signs of a broad slowdown.” (Machinery)

“Generally, business remains steady. However, we continue to plan for a hard Brexit and a long trade war between the U.S. and China.” (Miscellaneous Manufacturing)

“The market for large building structures is slowing.” (Nonmetallic Mineral Products)

“Current business is OK, nothing to brag about. Under projections and slightly below last year, [but] margins are hanging in there.” (Plastics & Rubber Products)

MANUFACTURING AT A GLANCE

August 2019
Index Series Index

Aug

 Series Index

Jul

 Percentage

Point

Change

 Direction Rate of Change Trend* (Months)
PMI® 49.1 51.2 -2.1 Contracting From Growing 1
New Orders 47.2 50.8 -3.6 Contracting From Growing 1
Production 49.5 50.8 -1.3 Contracting From Growing 1
Employment 47.4 51.7 -4.3 Contracting From Growing 1
Supplier Deliveries 51.4 53.3 -1.9 Slowing Slower 42
Inventories 49.9 49.5 +0.4 Contracting Slower 3
Customers’ Inventories 44.9 45.7 -0.8 Too Low Faster 35
Prices 46.0 45.1 +0.9 Decreasing Slower 3
Backlog of Orders 46.3 43.1 +3.2 Contracting Slower 4
New Export Orders 43.3 48.1 -4.8 Contracting Faster 2
Imports 46.0 47.0 -1.0 Contracting Faster 2
OVERALL ECONOMY Growing Slower 124
Manufacturing Sector Contracting From Growing 1

Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business® data is seasonally adjusted for the New Orders, Production, Employment and Supplier Deliveries Indexes.

*Number of months moving in current direction.

COMMODITIES REPORTED UP/DOWN IN PRICE AND IN SHORT SUPPLY

Commodities Up in Price
Polypropylene; Scrap; and Steel— Hot Rolled*.

Commodities Down in Price
Aluminum (5); Aluminum Products (2); Caustic Soda; Corrugated Boxes (3); Natural Gas; Crude Oil; Pulp; Steel (2); Steel— Hot Rolled*; Steel Products* (8); and Steel— Stainless.

Commodities in Short Supply
Electronic Components; and Helium (2).

The number of consecutive months the commodity is listed is indicated after each item.

*Indicates both up and down in price.

AUGUST 2019 MANUFACTURING INDEX SUMMARIES

PMI®
Manufacturing contracted in August, as the PMI® registered 49.1 percent, a decrease of 2.1 percentage points from the July reading of 51.2 percent. This is the lowest reading since January 2016, when the index registered 48 percent. “The PMI® contracted for the first time since August 2016 (when it registered 49.6 percent) and ended a 35-month expansion period in which the composite index averaged 56.5 percent. The August contraction ended four straight months of expansion softening. Only one of the PMI® subindexes (Supplier Deliveries) registered expansion. Three of the six big industries modestly expanded, but two contracted strongly,” says Fiore. A reading above 50 percent indicates that the manufacturing economy is generally expanding; below 50 percent indicates that it is generally contracting.

A PMI® above 42.9 percent, over a period of time, generally indicates an expansion of the overall economy. Therefore, the August PMI® indicates growth for the 124th consecutive month in the overall economy, and the first month of contraction following 35 straight months of growth in the manufacturing sector. “The past relationship between the PMI® and the overall economy indicates that the PMI® for August (49.1 percent) corresponds to a 1.8-percent increase in real gross domestic product (GDP) on an annualized basis,” says Fiore.

THE LAST 12 MONTHS

Month PMI® Month PMI®
Aug 2019 49.1 Feb 2019 54.2
Jul 2019 51.2 Jan 2019 56.6
Jun 2019 51.7 Dec 2018 54.3
May 2019 52.1 Nov 2018 58.8
Apr 2019 52.8 Oct 2018 57.5
Mar 2019 55.3 Sep 2018 59.5
Average for 12 months – 54.4

High – 59.5

Low – 49.1

New Orders
ISM®’s New Orders Index registered 47.2 percent in August, a decrease of 3.6 percentage points when compared to the 50.8 percent reported for July. This indicates that new orders contracted after growing for one month. “Customer demand contracted for the first time since December 2015 (when the New Orders Index registered 49.6 percent) and ended a 43-month expansion period in which it averaged 58.5 percent. One of the top six industry sectors expanded, and four contracted in August,” says Fiore. A New Orders Index above 52.5 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Census Bureau’s series on manufacturing orders (in constant 2000 dollars).

Of 18 manufacturing industries, three reported growth in new orders in August: Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Machinery; and Chemical Products. The 11 industries reporting a decline in new orders in August — in the following order — are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Paper Products; Wood Products; Transportation Equipment; Textile Mills; Fabricated Metal Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Primary Metals; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Computer & Electronic Products.

New Orders %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2019 17.5 56.6 25.9 -8.4 47.2
Jul 2019 23.0 52.1 24.9 -1.9 50.8
Jun 2019 24.6 55.9 19.5 +5.1 50.0
May 2019 26.9 56.7 16.4 +10.5 52.7

Production

ISM®’s Production Index registered 49.5 percent in August, which is a decrease of 1.3 percentage points when compared to the 50.8 percent reported for July, indicating contraction after growth for 35 consecutive months. “Production contracted for the first time since August 2016 (when the index registered 49.6 percent) and ended a 35-month expansion with an average reading of 58.9 percent. Two of the big six industry sectors expanded, and three contracted. Production output was not able to improve customer-inventory positions, and backlog orders contraction rates improved compared to the prior month,” says Fiore. An index above 51.7 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Federal Reserve Board’s Industrial Production figures.

The four industries reporting growth in production during the month of August are: Textile Mills; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; and Chemical Products. The nine industries reporting a decrease in production in August — listed in order — are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Paper Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Transportation Equipment; Primary Metals; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Plastics & Rubber Products; Fabricated Metal Products; and Machinery.

Production %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2019 22.0 54.7 23.2 -1.2 49.5
Jul 2019 19.7 59.4 20.8 -1.1 50.8
Jun 2019 31.7 48.7 19.6 +12.1 54.1
May 2019 25.4 54.9 19.7 +5.7 51.3

Employment

ISM®’s Employment Index registered 47.4 percent in August, a decrease of 4.3 percentage points when compared to the July reading of 51.7 percent. This indicates contraction in August after 34 consecutive months of employment growth. “Employment contracted for the first time since September 2016, when the index registered 48.9 percent. One of the six big industry sectors expanded, and three contracted during the period. August ended an expansion cycle in which the index averaged 55.8 percent. Comments were generally neutral concerning hiring for attrition. Force reduction comments were minimal, but 25 percent of general comments were negative regarding employment expansion,” says Fiore. An Employment Index above 50.8 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data on manufacturing employment.

Of 18 manufacturing industries, six reported employment growth in August, in the following order: Furniture & Related Products; Textile Mills; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Petroleum & Coal Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; and Paper Products. The nine industries reporting a decrease in employment in August, in the following order, are: Wood Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Primary Metals; Transportation Equipment; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Fabricated Metal Products; Computer & Electronic Products; and Machinery.

Employment %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2019 15.0 66.0 19.0 -4.0 47.4
Jul 2019 19.2 66.3 14.5 +4.7 51.7
Jun 2019 26.2 61.2 12.6 +13.6 54.5
May 2019 23.1 63.6 13.2 +9.9 53.7

Supplier Deliveries

The delivery performance of suppliers to manufacturing organizations slowed in August, as the Supplier Deliveries Index registered 51.4 percent. This is 1.9 percentage points lower than the 53.3 percent reported for July. “This is the 42nd straight month of slowing supplier deliveries, but at marginal rates indicating that supply chain constraints to production performance are minimal,” says Fiore. A reading below 50 percent indicates faster deliveries, while a reading above 50 percent indicates slower deliveries.

The eight industries reporting slower supplier deliveries in August — listed in order — are: Wood Products; Textile Mills; Computer & Electronic Products; Machinery; Paper Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Transportation Equipment. The three industries reporting faster supplier deliveries in August are: Plastics & Rubber Products; Fabricated Metal Products; and Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components. Seven industries reported no change in supplier deliveries in August as compared to July.

Supplier Deliveries %Slower %Same %Faster Net Index
Aug 2019 12.7 77.8 9.5 +3.2 51.4
Jul 2019 13.1 80.8 6.1 +7.0 53.3
Jun 2019 9.7 83.0 7.3 +2.4 50.7
May 2019 11.0 82.9 6.1 +4.9 52.0

Inventories*

The Inventories Index registered 49.9 percent in August, an increase of 0.4 percentage point from the 49.5 percent reported for July. “The index contracted for the third straight month. Inventories were again depleted relative to production, due to production-output strength and the close attention being paid to input material receipts relative to new orders received. Supply chains are responding well to the decrease in demand,” says Fiore. An Inventories Index greater than 44.3 percent, over time, is generally consistent with expansion in the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) figures on overall manufacturing inventories (in chained 2000 dollars).

The seven industries reporting higher inventories in August — listed in order — are: Printing & Related Support Activities; Wood Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Textile Mills; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Primary Metals; and Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products. The eight industries reporting a decrease in inventories in August — in the following order — are: Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Transportation Equipment; Paper Products; Chemical Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; and Computer & Electronic Products.

Inventories %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2019 19.4 61.0 19.7 -0.3 49.9
Jul 2019 17.4 64.1 18.4 -1.0 49.5
Jun 2019 16.5 65.1 18.4 -1.9 49.1
May 2019 18.8 64.3 16.9 +1.9 50.9

Customers’ Inventories*

ISM®’s Customers’ Inventories Index registered 44.9 percent in August, which is 0.8 percentage point lower than the 45.7 percent reported for July, indicating that customers’ inventory levels were considered too low. “Customers’ inventories are too low for the 35th consecutive month, and the index’s decrease from the prior month is considered positive for future production potential,” says Fiore.

The six industries reporting customers’ inventories as too high during the month of August, in order, are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Primary Metals; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Computer & Electronic Products. The nine industries reporting customers’ inventories as too low during August — listed in order — are: Wood Products; Textile Mills; Machinery; Plastics & Rubber Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Chemical Products; Transportation Equipment; and Fabricated Metal Products.

Customers’ Inventories % Reporting %Too High %About Right %Too Low Net Index
Aug 2019 79 11.9 66.0 22.0 -10.1 44.9
Jul 2019 74 10.5 70.5 19.1 -8.6 45.7
Jun 2019 77 11.1 66.9 22.0 -10.9 44.6
May 2019 81 10.5 66.5 23.0 -12.5 43.7

Prices*

The ISM® Prices Index registered 46 percent in August, an increase of 0.9 percentage point from the July reading of 45.1 percent, indicating raw materials prices decreased for the third consecutive month. “Prices contracted in August, but at lower rates compared to July. Respondents reported decreases in prices for aluminum, corrugate, energy, wood pulp and steel products, but the panel also reported price growth in hot-rolled steel, which is a positive sign for future price recovery,” says Fiore. A Prices Index above 52.5 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Producer Price Index for Intermediate Materials.

Four of the 18 industries reported paying increased prices for raw materials in August: Plastics & Rubber Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Fabricated Metal Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing. The 10 industries reporting a decrease in prices for raw materials in August — listed in the following order — are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Paper Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Furniture & Related Products; Wood Products; Primary Metals; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Chemical Products; and Machinery.

Prices %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2019 14.9 62.2 22.9 -8.0 46.0
Jul 2019 15.9 58.4 25.7 -9.8 45.1
Jun 2019 19.7 56.4 23.9 -4.2 47.9
May 2019 22.0 62.3 15.7 +6.3 53.2

Backlog of Orders*

ISM®’s Backlog of Orders Index registered 46.3 percent in August, which is 3.2 percentage points higher than the 43.1 percent reported in July, indicating order backlogs contracted for a fourth consecutive month, but at a slower rate in August. “Backlogs shrank during August due to production output being able to exceed new order intake rates, but the index’s indication of slowing contraction is a positive sign for future production,” says Fiore.

The five industries reporting growth in order backlogs in August are: Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Fabricated Metal Products; and Computer & Electronic Products. The 10 industries reporting a decrease in order backlogs during August — listed in order — are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Textile Mills; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Primary Metals; Furniture & Related Products; Transportation Equipment; Chemical Products; Paper Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Machinery.

Backlog of Orders % Reporting %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2019 87 17.9 56.8 25.3 -7.4 46.3
Jul 2019 88 13.6 59.0 27.5 -13.9 43.1
Jun 2019 88 17.8 59.2 23.0 -5.2 47.4
May 2019 88 21.7 51.1 27.2 -5.5 47.2

New Export Orders*

ISM®’s New Export Orders Index registered 43.3 percent in August, 4.8 percentage points lower compared to the July reading of 48.1 percent, indicating that new export orders contracted for the second month in a row. “The index had its lowest reading since April 2009 (42.9 percent). One of the six big industry sectors expanded, and four contracted during the period. Many respondents continued to note global trade softness as a reason for sluggish activity,” says Fiore.

The two industries reporting growth in new export orders in August are: Furniture & Related Products; and Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products. The 10 industries reporting a decrease in new export orders in August — listed in order — are: Petroleum & Coal Products; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Primary Metals; Fabricated Metal Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Paper Products; Transportation Equipment; Machinery, Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Computer & Electronic Products. Six industries reported no change in new export orders in August as compared to July.

New Export Orders % Reporting %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2019 75 10.4 65.8 23.8 -13.4 43.3
Jul 2019 75 8.5 79.3 12.2 -3.7 48.1
Jun 2019 77 13.2 74.5 12.3 +0.9 50.5
May 2019 77 13.6 74.6 11.7 +1.9 51.0

Imports*

ISM®’s Imports Index registered 46 percent in August, a decrease of 1 percentage point when compared to the 47 percent reported for July, indicating that imports contracted in August for the second consecutive month. “Five of the six big industry sectors contracted, with none expanding during the period. The Imports Index reached its lowest level since December 2015 (46 percent),” says Fiore.

The four industries reporting growth in imports during the month of August are: Furniture & Related Products; Textile Mills; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing. The 10 industries reporting a decrease in imports in August — in the following order — are: Wood Products; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Fabricated Metal Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Machinery; Computer & Electronic Products; and Transportation Equipment.

Imports % Reporting %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2019 81 8.5 74.9 16.5 -8.0 46.0
Jul 2019 83 8.6 76.7 14.7 -6.1 47.0
Jun 2019 83 11.1 77.8 11.1 0.0 50.0
May 2019 84 10.7 77.4 11.9 -1.2 49.4

*The Inventories, Customers’ Inventories, Prices, Backlog of Orders, New Export Orders and Imports Indexes do not meet the accepted criteria for seasonal adjustments.

Buying Policy

Average commitment lead time for Capital Expenditures decreased by four days in August to 144 days. Average lead time for Production Materials was unchanged in August at 65 days. Average lead time for Maintenance, Repair and Operating (MRO) Supplies increased by six days in August to 37 days.

Percent Reporting

Capital Expenditures Hand-to-Mouth 30 Days 60 Days 90 Days 6 Months 1 Year+ Average Days
Aug 2019 21 4 11 18 26 20 144
Jul 2019 20 6 8 18 27 21 148
Jun 2019 19 4 11 16 29 21 151
May 2019 21 4 12 15 28 20 145
Production Materials Hand-to-Mouth 30 Days 60 Days 90 Days 6 Months 1 Year+ Average Days
Aug 2019 10 35 29 15 9 2 65
Jul 2019 11 36 26 18 6 3 65
Jun 2019 12 32 26 17 9 4 72
May 2019 11 32 27 17 9 4 72
MRO Supplies Hand-to-Mouth 30 Days 60 Days 90 Days 6 Months 1 Year+ Average Days
Aug 2019 40 34 15 7 3 1 37
Jul 2019 40 36 16 6 2 0 31
Jun 2019 37 37 17 6 2 1 36
May 2019 36 40 17 4 2 1 35

About This Report

DO NOT CONFUSE THIS NATIONAL REPORT with the various regional purchasing reports released across the country. The national report’s information reflects the entire U.S., while the regional reports contain primarily regional data from their local vicinities. Also, the information in the regional reports is not used in calculating the results of the national report. The information compiled in this report is for the month of August 2019.

The data presented herein is obtained from a survey of manufacturing supply executives based on information they have collected within their respective organizations. ISM® makes no representation, other than that stated within this release, regarding the individual company data collection procedures. The data should be compared to all other economic data sources when used in decision-making.

Data and Method of Presentation
The Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business® is based on data compiled from purchasing and supply executives nationwide. The composition of the Manufacturing Business Survey Committee is stratified according to the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) and each of the following NAICS-based industry’s contribution to gross domestic product (GDP): Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Textile Mills; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Wood Products; Paper Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Petroleum & Coal Products; Chemical Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Primary Metals; Fabricated Metal Products; Machinery; Computer & Electronic Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Transportation Equipment; Furniture & Related Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing (products such as medical equipment and supplies, jewelry, sporting goods, toys and office supplies). The data are weighted based on each industry’s contribution to GDP. Beginning in February 2018 with January 2018 data, computation of the indexes is accomplished utilizing unrounded numbers.

Survey responses reflect the change, if any, in the current month compared to the previous month. For each of the indicators measured (New Orders, Backlog of Orders, New Export Orders, Imports, Production, Supplier Deliveries, Inventories, Customers’ Inventories, Employment and Prices), this report shows the percentage reporting each response, the net difference between the number of responses in the positive economic direction (higher, better and slower for Supplier Deliveries) and the negative economic direction (lower, worse and faster for Supplier Deliveries), and the diffusion index. Responses are raw data and are never changed. The diffusion index includes the percent of positive responses plus one-half of those responding the same (considered positive).

The resulting single index number for those meeting the criteria for seasonal adjustments (PMI®, New Orders, Production, Employment and Supplier Deliveries) is then seasonally adjusted to allow for the effects of repetitive intra-year variations resulting primarily from normal differences in weather conditions, various institutional arrangements, and differences attributable to non-moveable holidays. All seasonal adjustment factors are subject annually to relatively minor changes when conditions warrant them. The PMI® is a composite index based on the diffusion indexes of five of the indexes with equal weights: New Orders (seasonally adjusted), Production (seasonally adjusted), Employment (seasonally adjusted), Supplier Deliveries (seasonally adjusted), and Inventories.

Diffusion indexes have the properties of leading indicators and are convenient summary measures showing the prevailing direction of change and the scope of change. A PMI® reading above 50 percent indicates that the manufacturing economy is generally expanding; below 50 percent indicates that it is generally declining. A PMI® above 42.9 percent, over a period of time, indicates that the overall economy, or gross domestic product (GDP), is generally expanding; below 42.9 percent, it is generally declining. The distance from 50 percent or 42.9 percent is indicative of the extent of the expansion or decline. With some of the indicators within this report, ISM® has indicated the departure point between expansion and decline of comparable government series, as determined by regression analysis. The Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business® survey is sent out to Manufacturing Business Survey Committee respondents the first part of each month. Respondents are asked to ONLY report on information for the current month. ISM® receives survey responses throughout most of any given month, with the majority of respondents generally waiting until late in the month to submit responses in order to give the most accurate picture of current business activity. ISM® then compiles the report for release on the first business day of the following month.

The industries reporting growth, as indicated in the Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business® monthly report, are listed in the order of most growth to least growth. For the industries reporting contraction or decreases, those are listed in the order of the highest level of contraction/decrease to the least level of contraction/decrease.

Responses to Buying Policy reflect the percent reporting the current month’s lead time, the approximate weighted number of days ahead for which commitments are made for Capital Expenditures; Production Materials; and Maintenance, Repair and Operating (MRO) Supplies, expressed as hand-to-mouth (five days), 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, six months (180 days), a year or more (360 days), and the weighted average number of days. These responses are raw data, never revised, and not seasonally adjusted since there is no significant seasonal pattern.

ISM ROB Content

The Institute for Supply Management® (“ISM”) Report On Business® (both Manufacturing and Non-Manufacturing) (“ISM ROB”) contains information, text, files, images, video, sounds, musical works, works of authorship, applications, and any other materials or content (collectively, “Content”) of ISM (“ISM ROB Content”). ISM ROB Content is protected by copyright, trademark, trade secret, and other laws, and as between you and ISM, ISM owns and retains all rights in the ISM ROB Content. ISM hereby grants you a limited, revocable, nonsublicensable license to access and display on your individual device the ISM ROB Content (excluding any software code) solely for your personal, non-commercial use. The ISM ROB Content shall also contain Content of users and other ISM licensors. Except as provided herein or as explicitly allowed in writing by ISM, you shall not copy, download, stream, capture, reproduce, duplicate, archive, upload, modify, translate, publish, broadcast, transmit, retransmit, distribute, perform, display, sell, or otherwise use any ISM ROB Content.

Except as explicitly and expressly permitted by ISM, you are strictly prohibited from creating works or materials (including but not limited to tables, charts, data streams, time-series variables, fonts, icons, link buttons, wallpaper, desktop themes, online postcards, montages, mashups and similar videos, greeting cards, and unlicensed merchandise) that derive from or are based on the ISM ROB Content. This prohibition applies regardless of whether the derivative works or materials are sold, bartered, or given away. You shall not either directly or through the use of any device, software, internet site, web-based service, or other means remove, alter, bypass, avoid, interfere with, or circumvent any copyright, trademark, or other proprietary notices marked on the Content or any digital rights management mechanism, device, or other content protection or access control measure associated with the Content including geo-filtering mechanisms. Without prior written authorization from ISM, you shall not build a business utilizing the Content, whether or not for profit.

You shall not create, recreate, distribute, incorporate in other work, or advertise an index of any portion of the Content unless you receive prior written authorization from ISM. Requests for permission to reproduce or distribute ISM ROB Content can be made by contacting in writing at: ISM Research, Institute for Supply Management, 309 W. Elliot Road, Suite 113, Tempe, Arizona 85284-1556, or by emailing kcahill@instituteforsupplymanagement.org. Subject: Content Request.

ISM shall not have any liability, duty, or obligation for or relating to the ISM ROB Content or other information contained herein, any errors, inaccuracies, omissions or delays in providing any ISM ROB Content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. In no event shall ISM be liable for any special, incidental, or consequential damages, arising out of the use of the ISM ROB. Report On Business®, PMI®, and NMI® are registered trademarks of Institute for Supply Management®. Institute for Supply Management® and ISM® are registered trademarks of Institute for Supply Management, Inc.

Institute for Supply Management® (ISM®) serves supply management professionals in more than 90 countries. Its 50,000 members around the world manage about US$1 trillion in corporate and government supply chain procurement annually. Founded in 1915 as the first supply management institute in the world, ISM is committed to advancing the practice of supply management to drive value and competitive advantage for its members, contributing to a prosperous and sustainable world. ISM leads the profession through the ISM Report On Business®, its highly regarded certification programs and the ISM Mastery Model®. This report has been issued by the association since 1931, except for a four-year interruption during World War II.

Posted September 4, 2019

Source: Institute for Supply Management® (ISM®)

ProdTek’s New Turf Cushion™ Enhances Sustainability And Performance With Braskem’s I’m Green™ Polyethylene Biopolymer

PHILADELPHIA/DALTON, Ga. — September 4, 2019 — Braskem — a thermoplastics polyolefins producer and producer of biopolymers — and ProdTek — a product development and manufacturing company serving the artificial turf, flooring and textile industries with innovative solutions — today announced the integration of Braskem’s I’m green™ Polyethylene (PE) bioplastic in ProdTek’s new Turf Cushion™ line of turf underlay products.

ProdTek’s revolutionary new Turf Cushion is installed under artificial turf for a wide range of applications including play grounds, play areas, sports fields, roof tops, indoor play areas and other areas where shock attenuation is critical for users. The Turf Cushion underlay is composed of recycled polyethylene and Eco Raw™, which utilizes Braskem’s I’m Green Polyethylene bioplastic, a sustainably-produced sugar cane based polyethylene, and qualifies for High Recycled Content (HRC) status. In utilizing Braskem’s I’m green polyethylene as a renewable alternative to petroleum based polyethylene, ProdTek’s Turf Cushion can make a significant contribution to reducing the level of greenhouse gas emissions in the product value creation chain.

Most injuries to children on playgrounds occur from falls on hard or abrasive surfaces. ProdTek’s new Turf Cushion underlay achieves the highest safety performance in the industry as measured by GMAX and Head Injury Criteria (HIC) readings using only one 2 inch Turf Cushion Pad.

John Karr, president at ProdTek, stated, “We feel very good about our new Turf Cushion Pad. Not only is it carbon neutral and 100-percent recyclable, it provides enhanced safety for children in playground environments and is economically advantageous for turf installation companies. We feel like we have a product that creates value for everyone and serves society as well.”

ProdTek’s new Turf Cushion underlayment offers customers a range of product lifecycle benefits including installation crews reporting up to a 25-percent reduction in installation time. At the end of its life, Turf Cushion is also 100-percent recyclable and can be reclaimed and turned into pellets for making a variety of products, including toys, containers and more.

José Augusto Viveiro, sales leader Americas for Braskem’s Renewable Chemicals, commented, “Braskem is proud to be partnering with ProdTek to enhance the sustainability of Turf Cushion with our I’m green polyethylene biopolymer. Our partnership reflects our shared vision for innovation in sustainable materials to drive better products for consumers and the planet. Additionally, ProdTek’s USDA BioPreferred status is a further testament to their commitment to environmental stewardship and increasing the use of renewable agricultural resources.”

Cultivation of sugarcane utilized in the production of I’m green Polyethylene captures carbon dioxide (CO2) and releases oxygen (O2), which means Braskem’s bioplastic has a negative carbon footprint. From a cradle-to-gate life-cycle perspective, every 1kg of I’m green Polyethylene used in the production process equates to 3.09 kg of CO2 captured from the atmosphere. I’m green Polyethylene is part of Braskem’s broader commitment to a more circular economy as well as more sustainable solutions for society as a whole.

Kate Lewis, Senior Program Analyst at U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) BioPreferred® Program said: “The BioPreferred Program is dedicated to supporting rural communities and helping promote a thriving bioeconomy. Partners like Braskem that consistently innovate and find ways to incorporate renewable biobased materials — like sugarcane — into their products are critical. ProdTek’s Turf Cushion product was certified by the program because is formulated with Braskem’s biobased content. That is quite an achievement. The benefits of this product not only help all the children who will be on sports fields and playgrounds, but rural communities as well.”

Braskem and ProdTek are members of USDA’s BioPreferred Program, which works to increase the development, use, and purchase of biobased products through a Federal procurement program and a voluntary certification and labeling program. From the farm gate through the manufacturing process, the growing market for biobased products increases the use of agricultural resources and creates jobs and economic growth throughout rural America.

To learn more about I’m green polyethylene and Turf Cushion visit Braskem at the Natural Products Expo East #6403 being held from September 11-14, 2019, at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, Md.

Posted September 4, 2019

Source: Braskem

Unifi Appoints Craig A. Creaturo Executive Vice President, CFO

GREENSBORO, N.C. — September 3, 2019 — Unifi Inc. today announced the appointment of Craig A. Creaturo as executive vice president and CFO, effective September 9, 2019. Christopher A. Smosna, who has served as interim CFO since December 2018, will continue in his role as vice president an treasurer.

Commenting on the appointment, Unifi’s president and COO Tom Caudle, said: “Craig has over 15 years of experience as an executive leader for finance and accounting teams at businesses with complex manufacturing and global operations. I am confident that Craig will complement our leadership team and that we can leverage Craig’s extensive knowledge and skillset, which will be paramount in advancing our strategic initiatives and driving improvement in our domestic and international operations. On behalf of everyone at Unifi, I would also like to thank Chris for his service as the Interim CFO. We look forward to continuing to benefit from his expertise.”

Creaturo recently served as CFO and vice president-administration of Chromalox Inc., an advanced thermal technologies manufacturing company, from February 2015 to March 2019. Prior to that, he served as CFO of II-VI Inc., a publicly traded global leader in engineered materials and opto-electronic components, from 2004 to 2014. He is a licensed CPA in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and holds a B.S. in accounting from Grove City College.

Posted September 4, 2019

Source: Unifi Inc.

A. Monforts Textilmaschinen: Responding To China’s Textile Technology Requirements In 2019

MÖNCHENGLADBACH, Germany — September 2, 2019 — It’s well-known that the astonishing success of China’s economy over the past decade has sent wages soaring and made it difficult for the country’s textile manufacturers to find and retain trained machine operators, while operating in a highly competitive market where optimised production and full resource efficiency are of paramount importance.

In direct response to this situation, A. Monforts Textilmaschinen GmbH & Co. KG has introduced a range of new Industry 4.0 technologies aimed at simplifying machine operation while providing easy access to all data and instant or remote assistance.

At the forthcoming Shanghaitex 2019 textile machinery exhibition, which takes place from November 25-28 in Shanghai, Monforts specialists will be at stand A10 in Hall W and look forward to discussing the company’s latest developments in this area with valued Chinese customers.

They include the latest Qualitex full touch panel control system, with its digital twinning capability and Smart Check and Smart Support apps, reinforced by the comprehensive Monforts Smart Sensor machine monitoring programme.

“On the very latest Monforts machines, our Smart Sensor technologies are controlling selected processing parameter and component, making it possible to access comprehensive technical machine data from any location using the Smart Support and Smart Check apps,” explained Monforts Vice-President Klaus Heinrichs. “The data is virtually mapped in the cloud in real time and provides an instant status overview of a machine’s performance.”

This, he adds, allows for vastly simplified and targeted analysis for both controlled planning and production, and insights harnessed from the data can subsequently be used to further optimize the production process.

“At the same time, potential sources of error can be remotely anticipated and eliminated to considerably minimize downtime while the digital twin capability provides information on the individual wear parts of a system,” Heinrichs said. “As a result, operators can now see how long a part will last and when maintenance or replacement is necessary. Direct access to the integrated Monforts webshop then allows users to order spares at the press of the button whenever they are required.”

This full digital control package is being made available for all Monforts machine ranges and makes operation smarter, and at the same time, considerably simpler.

Continuous Yarn Dyeing System (CYD)

Monforts will also be providing full details of its new CYD continuous yarn dyeing system which is based on the Econtrol® technique — the most effective and established dyeing process for denim fabrics that is now being applied for yarn dyeing. *

Econtrol® is a pad-dry process employed in Monforts continuous dyeing in which the reactive dyestuff is fixed to the cellulose fibres during drying.

The fixing medium is a controlled by a steam/air mixture within the Monforts Thermex unit. With sulphur and reactive dyes in particular, the improvement in both quality and fixation is considerable, and with significant savings in energy and time due to the combined bleaching and padder fixation. The use of the Econtrol T-CA technique also allows the dyeing of cotton/polyester and other yarn blends.

Weaving Preparation

The CYD system also integrates new functions and processes into the weaving preparation processes — spinning, direct beaming, warping and assembly beaming, followed by sizing and dyeing — in order to increase quality, flexibility, economic viability and productivity.

Further new concepts include the unique Eco Bleach process. This is the first bleaching system for yarn treatment available on the market and is combined with the washing units, after which the fabric is then dyed immediately, resulting in considerable savings in wastewater and chemicals.

It is possible to process short batches of yarn in order to produce minimum runs of finished fabrics in a single continuous process. By comparing the usual processing sequences within the denim industry with the new CYD system, the advantages become immediately clear.

“We are expecting keen interest in our new CYD continuous yarn dyeing system from valued customers in China who did not have the opportunity to visit ITMA 2019,” says Monforts Head of Denim Hans Wroblowski, “especially from the country’s denim manufacturers. We know from the feedback we’ve already received that the CYD system is something the market has been waiting for.”

Trials are currently being carried out with customers on the new CYD yarn dyeing pilot line at the Monforts Advanced Technology Centre in Mönchengladbach, Germany.

* Econtrol is a registered trademark of Dystar Colours Distribution GmbH.

Posted September 2, 2019

Source: A. Monforts Textilmaschinen GmbH & Co. KG

neoStampa 9: The New Version Of Raster Image Processor Software That Allows You To Connect Your Workflow

BARCELONA, Spain — August 28, 2019 — This September Inedit Software will launch neoStampa 9, the new cutting-edge version of the most popular raster image processor (RIP) software for textile digital printing.

neoStampa 9 was born with the idea of facilitating the connectivity of complex workflows. Among its many new features, the most remarkable is the Queue Manager. With it the user will send the printing jobs to different printers in a heartbeat, reducing the job processing time and organising the job queues like a PRO. The new Queue Manager will apply the technology behind Inedit’s PRINT SERVER application, which will become the main ripping station inside neoStampa 9. It will be simply faster and easier to use.

Furthermore, neoStampa 9 includes an upgraded version of the Calibration Wizard, the renowed profiles application. The new Calibration Wizard will include a new linearization process which will generate more precise color curves. Beside, it will come with an intuitive interface and even a 3D visualization of the profiles, for even better color management.

Finally, with neoStampa 9 it becomes even easier to connect with other textile tools. Thanks to the new QUICK PRINT panel, you will directly print designs from Adobe Photoshop®. The QUICK PRINT panel is not only connected to Adobe Photoshop® but also to neoTextil and neoCatalog , in order to give to the user full control over the textile workflow.

Compatible with the majority of digital printer brands, neoStampa has in recent years become the RIP Software of reference for digital textile printing. Thanks to its unique color management system, prints can be matched regardless of the media, inks and printer used.

Inèdit Software will officially launch neoStampa 9 on September 9, 2019, and will present it with a Webinar where they will show all the new features.

Posted September 2, 2019

Source: Inèdit Software

Hyosung To Invest 1 Trillion Korean Won In Carbon Fibers

SEOUL, South Korea — August 30, 2019 — Hyosung seeks to be among global top three producers of carbon fibers through heavy investment.

Hyosung will invest a total of 1 trillion Korean Won in its carbon fibers business by 2028 to expand its production capacity from the current 2,000 metric tons a year (one line) to 24,000 metric tons (10 lines). That will be the world’s single-largest factory according to Hyosung. Works for the first round of installation extension are underway. In January 2020 when the first round will be done, a carbon fiber factory with an annual capacity of 2,000 metric tons will be completed. It will churn out carbon fibers in earnest from February.

If 10 more lines are installed by 2028, Hyosung’s ranking in terms of global market share will rise from 11th (2 percent) as of 2019 to third (10 percent). Its employment will increase massively from current 400 employees. More than 2,300 new jobs are expected to be created by 2028.

Hyosung signed an investment agreement with South Jeolla Province and Jeonju City regarding the installation and extension of production facilities and investment support. Hyosung also concluded an “alliance MOU” with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and two other carbon fiber companies — Iljin Composites Co. and KAI — to strengthen cooperation through joint tests.

“We took notice of the future value of carbon fiber and decided to develop our own technology,” Hyosung Chairman Hyun-Joon Cho said in the signing ceremony for the agreements. “We will play a major role in turning Korea into ‘a materials powerhouse’ through a further development of carbon fiber because possibilities of its downstream industries are endless and the material has opened new markets in the hydrogen economy.”

“We have been world No. 1 in many fields including spandex and tire cords because we have stubbornly developed our own technologies all the way from materials to production processes to surpass our rivals,” Cho said. “We will keep exploring new fields to sow the seeds of other materials businesses.”

Posted August 30, 2019

Source: Hyosung Corp.

Jason Industries Announces Completion Of Fiber Solutions Sale

MILWAUKEE — August 30, 2019 — Jason Industries Inc. announced today the successful completion of its previously announced sale of its Fiber Solutions segment to Motus Integrated Technologies for approximately $85 million. The sale price includes up to $5 million of consideration contingent on achievement of certain performance conditions during 2019. The company expects to use the net proceeds from the sale transaction to reinvest in its remaining businesses or retire debt.

Posted August 30, 2019

Source: Jason Industries Inc.

Tukatech Opens Library Of More Than 750 Virtual Fit Models To All 3D Fashion Users

LOS ANGELES — August 30, 2019 — Tukatech has opened its library of over 750 virtual fit models for global brands and retailers to all 3D users in the fashion industry. Regardless of which 3D fashion technology system they use, anyone can access this library, which offers exact replicas of 3D fit models developed from leading brands’ live fit models. Each is a true representation of a real fit model who was body scanned or 3D sculpted using a proprietary measurement engine and digitized for the virtual world, including their measurements, shape, and posture.

The decision was made to remedy a productivity gap identified by the Tukatech CAD Specialist team. According to Tukatech’s Chief Collaborator, Savannah Crawford, many fashion professionals adopt 3D fashion technology in hopes of reducing sample iterations. However, those who only approve design virtually must still make multiple fit samples before going to production, which costs too much time.

“We want the industry to use 3D technology for fit approvals, not only for design. Otherwise, it is difficult for fashion businesses to justify the addition of 3D virtual sample-making to their product development process,” Crawford explained.

One component to using 3D fashion technology for fit approvals is to have every person in the process use the same 3D model. However, this consistency is not enough if the 3D model was not replicated properly. Crawford asserts that a major breakdown is that a lot of 3D models are replicated from body forms, rather than a real person.

She expanded: “When the brand tries the garment on at their end, they are most likely fitting on a live fit model, whereas the vendors develop patterns and samples using a body form. While the specifications may be similar, body forms do not do justice to the human body. There tends to be a lot of variance in the body shapes and posture, so much so that the drape of the garment is very different between the two.”

This is a major reason why Tukatech custom sculpts TUKA3D virtual fit models from 3D body scan data of real fit models. This practice ensures that the brands and vendors assess fit on the same body shape, so that what is seen on the screen is the same as real life.

In the last 15 years, Tukatech has 3D body scanned hundreds of fit models, representing different ethnicities, ages, sizes, and shapes. If a modeling agency does not allow for their fit models to be scanned, the fashion technology company replicates their bodies using only photographs and a proprietary measurement method. They then develop digital and physical slopers to validate the 3D fit model and correct the body until there is zero tolerance.

Once approved, TUKA3D models are rigged with real-time motion simulation to mimic the actions and exercises performed in a real sample fitting. TUKA3D models give fit feedback with tension heat maps, showing where a garment is tight or loose.

These custom avatars now make up Tukatech’s library of over 750 virtual fit models. The models in this library are provided to TUKA3D users as part of the implementation package and will now be available to users of all other 3D fashion technology systems as well. Though other 3D users will not have access to the full range of motion simulation, they will be able to see their fit model in a pose for either fit or presentation purposes.

Tukatech Chairman & CEO, Ram Sareen, explained: “Since 3D is now getting more traction with designers, we wanted to help the industry with the foundations of digital development. These models were already created for large global brands and retailers. Having a consistent virtual fit model between the brands and all vendors is the first step to seeing a correctly fitting product.”

Sareen hopes providing all players in the digital supply chain with the exact replicas of scanned fit models will give the industry a better chance of reducing the number of sample iterations. He asserts that many TUKA3D users have reduced or eliminated physical samples because of the ability to assess fit in TUKA3D.

Timex & Fergasam Group, the first in Asia to use TUKA3D for dresses in 2005, is one such company. Arshad Sattar, group managing director, explained: “Our goal 15 years ago was to have the first submitted sample approved. We chose TUKA3D as a tool to meet this goal by testing the fit virtually before we had to cut and sew a sample. We knew the only way we could do that was if we had the exact replica of each of our customers’ fit models.”

Today Timex makes over 700 new dress styles per month for over 100 brands and retailers around the world. “If we were not able to fit digital samples using 3D fashion technology, we would have closed our doors a long time ago,” Sattar said. The cost of physical sample development is too high to amortize over hundreds of SKUs and small order quantities, according to Sattar.

About Tukatech offering their virtual fit model library to all 3D users, Sattar thinks it’s a great opportunity. “The knowledge that went in to developing these digital assets will benefit the apparel industry as a whole,” he said.

Today Tukatech has the largest network of 3D users around the world. “Tukatech is kind of a hidden secret,” Sareen said. “Almost all our users are vendors catering to hundreds of brands and retailers. They are all aiming for first sample approvals. We are offering these 750 virtual fit models to help the industry sustain profitability and more widely adopt 3D fashion technology.”

Posted August 30, 2019

Source: Tukatech Inc.

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