Callaway Golf Announces Buyout Of Japan Apparel Joint Venture From TSI Groove & Sports

CARLSBAD, Calif. — June 3, 2019 — Callaway Golf Co. announced today that its Tokyo-based subsidiary, Callaway Golf K.K., acquired the remaining 48-percent stake in Callaway Apparel K.K., an apparel joint venture between Callaway and its long-time partner, TSI Groove & Sports Co. Ltd. Effective June 1, Callaway Golf K.K. owns 100-percent of Callaway Apparel K.K., which designs, manufactures and sells Callaway branded apparel, footwear, and headwear in Japan.

Callaway Golf K.K. acquired the 48-percentminority interest for 2 billion Yen, or approximately $18 million based upon a 109 U.S. Dollar to Yen exchange rate. This purchase price values Callaway Golf K.K. at approximately 9 times 2019 projected EBITDA.

“We are pleased with the success of our apparel business in Japan,” commented Chip Brewer, president and CEO, Callaway Golf.  “We have a great relationship with TSI Groove & Sports, but acquiring full ownership of this business provides our Asia team with a platform and the flexibility to support a fully integrated, multi-branded soft goods business in Asia.  This acquisition is consistent with our strategy to accelerate growth in our soft-goods business across brands and geographies.”

The joint venture began operations on July 1, 2016, with its headquarters in Tokyo. Callaway owned 52 percent of the joint venture and TSI Groove & Sports owned 48 percent. TSI had previously partnered with Callaway as a licensee, helping to successfully launch and grow that business since 2002.

Callaway Golf Company reported that this transaction would not affect the company’s prior financial guidance for 2019.

Posted June 4, 2019

Source: Callaway Golf Co.

New Technology Focused On Balance Launches Mizuno Into Training

NORCROSS, Ga. — June 4, 2019 — Mizuno, the global performance sporting goods company, debuted MIZUNO COB (Center of Balance) Technology in North America today, with the introduction of the TC Series training footwear – TC-01 and TC-02. This marks the first foray into the training category for Mizuno in the North American market. Innovative performance research was utilized to understand the benefits of balance and body awareness on athletic performance to deliver a sophisticatedly advanced training shoe.

“All athletes have different goals when training, including improving performance, preventing injury or increasing strength. Amongst all, we found balance to be a common factor during training for improved performance. Balance plays a major role in understanding and control of body movements to gain that added advantage,” said Tim Rumer, vice president of Team Sports Mizuno USA. “With MIZUNO COB, the TC Series shoes are able to work alongside athletes to aid them in pursuit of improving their balance abilities and in turn advancing their training goals.”

The MIZUNO COB Technology design introduces sensor pod clusters that enable increased feedback to transfer from the feet to aid balance. Used in the soles of the TC Series training shoes, the patent pending MIZUNO COB activation pods designed on the surface of the midsoles are linked with the design of the outsole — the part of the shoe that’s in direct contact with the ground. These activation pods allow information to be transmitted to the bottom of the feet which can lead to increased foot sensitivity and improved performance.1

The initial concept began with a study, conducted by Mizuno, among trainers across 15 different sports. The results revealed that trainers think the most important element in training for improving athletes’ performance is balance.2

From these findings, the TC Series was developed as a shoe that improves balance and pursues improved performance for athletes that work to improve their basic physical abilities in their gym training. Mizuno then began a collaboration with Dr. Benno M. Nigg and Mr. Sandro R. Nigg, CEO of Biomechanigg Sport & Health Research to further evaluate the performance of the MIZUNO COB Technology design in the TC Series.

“Balance is the basis of our movement and is very important,” said Dr. Benno M. Nigg, Biomechanigg Sport & Health Research (BSHR). “In order to improve stability and balance capabilities, the neuro system must be utilized effectively, and Mizuno is doing exactly that.”

A joint study conducted by Mizuno and BSHR, confirmed a significant increase in foot sensitivity and a trend to increase their balance capabilities and reaction time for athletes training in footwear using MIZUNO COB Technology. Test results showed that the transmission of sensory information to the bottom of an athlete’s feet appears to be linked to improving balance and the potential to enhance athletic performance.

Available in men’s and women’s, the TC training shoe comes in two models, the TC-01 and TC-02, retailing for $140 and $100, respectively, and are available for purchase online at MizunoUSA.com, and other online retailers. Follow @MizunoNorthAmerica to learn more about Mizuno and hear the latest product, athlete and partnership updates.

1 Based on the joint study with Biomechanigg Sport & Health Research, which conducts advanced research in the field of biomechanics, the trend to improve balance capabilities was confirmed.

2 Study conducted by Mizuno
(Questionnaires of what element is the most important in training to improve performance, March–September 2018, N=15)

Posted June 4, 2019

Source: Mizuno

Mon Ethos President David Whitaker Announces Launch Of U.S. Distribution Of Japanese Clothing Brand Evolife

BOSTON — June 4, 2019 — David Whitaker, president of talent and brand management firm Mon Ethos Pro, announces the launch of Evolife in the United States. Based in Japan, Evolife Apparel can be found on the bodies of a number of professional athletes, such as Xavisus Gayden and is widely popular in the fitness industry. Evolife Apparel is an innovative new fitness apparel company that sells hoodies, sweatshirts, t-shirts, long sleeved shirts, bottoms, tank tops and hats and is owned by MMA Fighter, Bodybuilder and Model Yuki Sorci.

“When the opportunity came up to distribute Evolife product in the United States, I had to take it. Many of our athletes were already wearing Yuki’s clothes, and many others were talking about joining the company as brand ambassador, and that heavy interest in the brand made me want to take a closer look, and I loved what I saw,” Whitaker said.

Evolife Apparel sells men’s fitness clothing along with women’s fitness clothing. This innovative brand The brand is currently expanding into the U.S. via a sponsorship of athletes with Mon Ethos Pro.

Posted June 4, 2019

Source: Mon Ethos Pro

INX International Ink Completes Research & Development Center Expansion

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. — June 4, 2019 — INX International Ink Co. recently completed expansion of its Research & Development complex in West Chicago, Ill. The new construction project, which began in Fall 2017, has nearly doubled the amount of space and resulted in the hiring of more employees.

The new addition to the facility, which first opened in 1996, brings capacity to nearly 70,000 square-feet. Approximately 20 additional chemists and support staff have been added, raising the total to 80 employees now servicing the INX customer base. Mark Hill, vice president, Research & Development Director for INX International, explained the significant improvements that have been made will address market needs and benefit all customers.

“The expansion effort focused on growing specific markets such as energy curable inks and coatings and inkjet ink technologies of all types,” Hill said. “Overall, this is a win-win situation that benefits all ink users.”

Hill indicated that more space was created for digital solutions, as well as for other growing market segments.

“With increasing demand for our products, we added 5,000 square-feet to our digital print applications lab. It now houses several types of inkjet printers, printhead makers and delivery systems for more complete ink testing capabilities,” Hill said. “We also devoted more space to our EHS/Regulatory department and equipment capabilities in our analytics department. The additional staff gives us the opportunity to better serve our customers regarding ever-increasing regulatory issues and other critical concerns, such as migration and troubleshooting issues.”

INX International Ink Co. is the third largest producer of inks in North America, with full service subsidiaries in Europe and South America and is part of Sakata INX worldwide operations. We offer a complete line of ink and coating solutions technology for commercial, packaging and digital applications. As a leading global manufacturer of inkjet inks, we provide a full palette of digital ink systems, advanced technologies and integrated services.

Posted June 4, 2019

Source: INX International Ink Co.

Kemin Names Kimberly Nelson President Of Garmon Chemicals

SAN MARINO/DES MOINES, Iowa — June 4, 2019 — Kemin Industries, a global ingredient manufacturer focused on improving the quality of life for more than half the world’s population, has appointed Kimberly Nelson, who helped lead the acquisition of Garmon Chemicals by Kemin, as president of the Kemin Textile Auxiliaries business unit, effective July 1, 2019.

Nelson will be taking over as president of Garmon Chemicals when the company’s founder, Maurizio Cappellini, retires. For more than 35 years, Cappellini led Garmon Chemicals to the top of the denim finishing industry with his innovative and avant-garde vision.

“We are deeply thankful to Maurizio for his strong leadership, professionalism and the amazing success he has achieved in his career. We wish him many happy years in his retirement and are grateful for his dedication to Garmon Chemicals,” said Dr. Chris Nelson, president and CEO, Kemin.

Garmon Chemicals was acquired in January 2018 after Kimberly, a third-generation Nelson family member which owns Kemin, presented the business opportunity of textile auxiliaries three years prior. Since the acquisition, Nelson has served as General Manager of Kemin Textile Auxiliaries in India. Her appointment as president is a key element in Kemin’s strategic growth plan that will drive Garmon Chemicals to advance its leadership position in the industry by further developing the brand’s R&D scope, commercial footprint and services.

“This is a big step for Kemin’s vision to continue as a family-owned-and-operated company,” said Dr. Nelson. “For Garmon Chemicals, the pace of change in today’s global markets is exceptional. As President of Garmon Chemicals, Kimberly will ensure that Kemin stays at the forefront of this evolving industry. She will continue Garmon Chemicals’ innovation and leadership in textile auxiliaries.”

This transition marks a new chapter in Garmon Chemicals’ more than 35-year history. Kemin has solidified its commitment to playing a significant role in the textile markets and will continue to provide high-quality products and services.

Reflecting on her appointment, Kimberly Nelson said, “I am honoured and excited to lead this wonderful company. The legacy of Maurizio Cappellini will only be strengthened as we continue to develop, innovate and create. I’m determined to continue Garmon’s momentum by elevating its global presence, leveraging the first-class operations and extraordinary R&D capabilities to further our creative and sustainable initiatives.”

Nelson received her bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University in 2012, and a master’s degree in Luxury and Fashion Management from Savannah College of Fashion and Design in 2016. Before joining Kemin, she worked in marketing in Hong Kong for five years. Nelson will be based in San Marino.

Posted June 4, 2019

Source: Kemin Industries

Rockline Industries Receives 2018 Manufacturer Of The Year Award

SHEBOYGAN, Wis. — June 4, 2019 — The Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce has awarded Rockline Industries with the 2018 Manufacturer of the Year Award for demonstrating excellence in business growth and employee management.

Family-owned and operated since 1976, Rockline Industries previously accepted this award in 2014. As one of the world’s leading global manufacturers of coffee filters and consumer, medical and commercial wet wipes, customers around the world count on Rockline to provide them with the smart manufacturing solutions and quality products they need to grow their businesses as well as make the lives of consumers easier, productive and more enjoyable.

“Rockline is honored to receive this award, and we dedicate it to our customers who inspire us to an unparalleled level of excellence. Every day, we partner with industry leaders who challenge us to innovate, exceed their expectations and find customized solutions that help them stay at the forefront of industry trends and deliver superior value to their customers,” said Randy Rudolph, president of Rockline Industries.

The Manufacturer of the Year Award is presented to one for-profit business headquartered or with significant operations in Sheboygan County that exhibits strong leadership, innovation and success within their industry or business sector. To qualify, companies must display achievement through growth in revenues, profits, facilities and/or job opportunities during the most recent fiscal year as well as a proven commitment to the growth and development of their employees.

As a top leader in the industry, Rockline continues to increase corporate citizenship and community involvement efforts while also investing in associate development. Dan Joslyn, vice president of manufacturing, accepted the award at the 2018 Chamber Champions Gala Tuesday, February 19, where more than 650 guests and 70 Chamber Champion Award nominees were in attendance.

Posted June 4, 2019

Source: Rockline Industries

Huntsman Textile Effects To Feature HIGH IQ® Intelligent Effects And Non-Fluorinated DWR Technology At Outdoor Retailer Summer Market

SINGAPORE — June 4, 2019 — Huntsman Textile Effects will be highlighting its HIGH IQ® intelligent effects and Durable Water Repellency technology at the upcoming Outdoor Retailer Summer 2019 show in Denver, Colorado.

As the industry leader in innovative and environmentally sustainable textile solutions, Huntsman Textile Effects offers mills and brands a comprehensive suite of intelligent effects through its HIGH IQ performance assurance program. With a wealth of textile industry knowledge and experience, Huntsman Textile Effects helps mills around the world achieve greater productivity and efficiency.

Sustainable durable water repellency at OutDoor Retailer Summer Market

  • Following the expansion of its long-term alliance with Chemours, Huntsman will feature an extended range of technology offerings, including sustainable, high performance and non-fluorinated ZELAN™ durable water repellent finishes.

HIGH IQ intelligent effects at OutDoor Retailer Summer

  • HIGH IQ Repel performance assurance program is designed to help mills, brands and retailers meet global demand for eco-friendly apparel with rain and stain protection. Combining innovative durable water repellent finishes with unparalleled technical expertise, the HIGH IQ® Repel program provides durable eco-friendly and sustainable protection for every performance need: everyday, outdoor and extreme adventures.
  • HIGH IQ Lasting White performance assurance program delivers very high and brilliant whites on cellulosic fibers, combining our latest generation of well-known UVITEX® Fluorescent Whitening Agents. With environment-friendly fluorinated (C6) or non-fluorinated stain repel and release technologies, the fluorescent whitening agents used under the HIGH IQ Lasting White program ensure garments keep looking new for longer.
  • HIGH IQ Lasting Color performance assurance program is powered by specially selected NOVACRON®dyes. Fabrics made using the HIGH IQ Lasting Color program will not fade, and there is little risk of color staining on other garments during washing.
  • HIGH IQ Lasting Color eco performance assurance program relies on Huntsman’s award-winning AVITERA® SE reactive dyes to reduce water and energy consumption by up to 50% compared to best-available technologies. Excellent washing-off performance shortens processing time and increases productivity.
  • HIGH IQ Cool Comfort moisture management program allows garments to breathe while transporting moisture away from the body through its quick-dry properties. The unique technology reduces post-exercise chill, making the effects highly suitable for sports and active wear.

Visit Huntsman Textile Effects at Outdoor Retailer Summer show at Stand 56031.

ZELAN™ is a trademark of The Chemours Company.

AVITERA®, HIGH IQ®, NOVACRON® and UVITEX® are registered trademarks of Huntsman Corporation or an affiliate thereof in one or more, but not all, countries.

© Copyright 2019. Huntsman Corp. or an affiliate thereof. All rights reserved

Posted June 4, 2019

Source: Huntsman Textile Effects

Aquafil Strengthens Its Position In The United States: Nylon, Polypropylene And Polyester Fiber Producer O’Mara Inc. Acquired For $40.5 Million

ARCO, Italy — May 31, 2019 — Today Aquafil S.p.A. finalized the acquisition of 100 percent of O’Mara Inc. for a total consideration equal to $40.5 million. The deal was completed through the Group’s U.S. subsidiary, Aquafil USA Inc.

O’MARA Inc.

O’Mara Incorporated — founded in 1970 — produces nylon, polypropylene and polyester fibres mainly in solution-dyed colors in its plant based in Rutherford College, N.C. In 2018, O’Mara reported a turnover of  $40.1 million, with margins in line with those of Aquafil Group.

Integration of O’Mara into Aquafil Group

O’Mara’s identity and market positioning are fully consistent with those of Aquafil Group. This compatibility accelerates the globalization process of the textiles business, with positive consequences for ECONYL® and Dryarn® products as well. O’Mara will provide access to a broader product range, thereby driving further development of the US market in the sectors of athletic apparel, hosiery, fashion and accessories.

As a result of the production activity in the United States, the group will benefit also from the trade agreements between the US federal government and certain Central and South American countries (CAFTA), which allow for exemptions from US tariffs on apparel produced in the latter countries using yarns of US origin.

The transaction

Aquafil S.p.A. funded the acquisition through a privately placed bond subscribed by Pricoa Capital Group, a member of the U.S. insurance group Prudential Financial Inc., for a total amount of 40 million euros, with a term of 10 years, including an initial interest-only period of three years, and an annual fixed rate of 1.87 percent.

Founded in 1965, Aquafil is one of the main producers of nylon in Italy and worldwide. The Group is present in eight countries and in three different continents, with more than 2,800 employees at 16 production sites located in Italy, Germany, Scotland, Slovenia, Croatia, Unites States, Thailand and China.

June 3, 2019

Source: Aquafil  S.p.A.

Hygienically Clean Healthcare Certification For Idaho’s Blue Ribbon Linen Supply

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — June 3, 2019 — Blue Ribbon Linen Supply Inc. — a family-owned laundry serving eastern Washington state, northeastern Oregon and the Idaho panhandle — has earned the Hygienically Clean Healthcare certification for its Lewiston, Idaho, laundry. Achieving this certification reflects its commitment to best management practices (BMPs) in laundering as verified by on-site inspection and its capability to produce hygienically clean textiles as quantified by ongoing microbial testing based on established hygienically clean healthcare textile methods and standards.

The Hygienically Clean Healthcare certification confirms the organization’s continuing dedication to infection prevention, compliance with recognized industry standards and processing healthcare textiles using BMPs as described in its quality assurance documentation, a focal point for Hygienically Clean inspectors’ evaluation. The independent, third-party inspection must also confirm essential evidence that:

  • Employees are properly trained and protected;
  • Managers understand regulatory requirements;
  • OSHA-compliant; and
  • Physical plant operates effectively.

To achieve certification initially, laundries pass three rounds of outcome-based microbial testing, indicating that their processes are producing Hygienically Clean Healthcare textiles and diminished presence of yeast, mold and harmful bacteria. They also must pass a facility inspection. To maintain their certification, they must pass quarterly RODAC and semi-annual USP 62 testing (RODAC results less than or equal to 20 cfu per square diameter and USP 62 results must show an absence of specified microorganisms) to ensure that as laundry conditions change, such as water quality, textile fabric composition and wash chemistry, laundered product quality is consistently maintained. Re-inspection occurs every two to three years.

This process eliminates subjectivity by focusing on outcomes and results that verify textiles cleaned in these facilities meet appropriate hygienically clean standards and BMPs for hospitals, surgery centers, medical offices, nursing homes and other medical facilities.

Hygienically Clean Healthcare certification acknowledges laundries’ effectiveness in protecting healthcare operations by verifying quality control procedures in linen, uniform and facility services operations related to the handling of textiles containing blood and other potentially infectious materials.

Certified laundries use processes, chemicals and BMPs acknowledged by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation, American National Standards Institute and others. Introduced by TRSA in 2012, Hygienically Clean Healthcare brought to North America the international cleanliness standards for Hygienically Clean healthcare linens and garments used worldwide by the Certification Association for Professional Textile Services and the European Committee for Standardization

Objective experts in epidemiology, infection control, nursing and other healthcare professions work with Hygienically Clean launderers to ensure the certification continues to enforce the highest standards for producing clean healthcare textiles.

“Congratulations to Blue Ribbon Linen Supply on their certification,” said Joseph Ricci, TRSA president and CEO. “This achievement proves their commitment to infection prevention and that their laundry takes every step possible to prevent human illness.”

Hygienically Clean reflects the evolution of healthcare laundry certification in light of growing global concerns about infection control, documenting practices that ensure elimination of potentially harmful microbial content while adding quantifiable verification of continuous improvement in overall cleanliness.

June 3, 2019

Source: TRSA

PVH Corp. And G-III Apparel Group Announce License Agreement For Calvin Klein Jeans Women’s Jeanswear Collections In United States And Canada

NEW YORK CITY — June 3, 2019 — PVH Corp. and G-III Apparel Group Ltd. announced today that PVH’s Calvin Klein Inc. (CKI) subsidiary and G-III have entered into a license agreement with an initial term of five years for the design, production and distribution of Calvin Klein Jeans women’s jeanswear collections in the United States and Canada. This business is in addition to the other women’s Calvin Klein businesses that are already licensed to G-III by CKI.

The arrangement will support PVH’s strategy to build a successful women’s jeanswear business in North America by leveraging G-III’s category and market expertise. The launch of G-III’s first women’s Calvin Klein Jeans collection is expected for the spring 2020 season.

Emanuel Chirico, chairman and CEO, PVH Corp., commented: “G-III has been a great partner for us over the years and has successfully grown the Calvin Klein womenswear business to be a leading resource across the North American apparel market. We look forward to our expanded partnership with G-III, as this represents another great opportunity to leverage their market expertise to drive the continued expansion of the Calvin Klein women’s apparel categories.”

Morris Goldfarb, chairman, CEO, G-III Apparel Group Ltd., commented: “We have an incredible relationship with PVH and the Calvin Klein team. They have done an outstanding job managing and marketing the Calvin Klein brand and we look forward to further developing this iconic global brand and building a profitable women’s business for Calvin Klein Jeans in the U.S. and Canada.”

June 3, 2019

Source: PVH Corp.

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