CARBIOS And SASA Enter Discussions For License Of 100,000 Tons Per Year PET Biorecycling Facility In Turkey

CLERMONT-FERRAND, France and ADANA, Turkey  — August 1, 2024 — CARBIOS — a developer of biological technologies to reinvent the life cycle of plastic and textiles — and SASA — a manufacturer of polyester, fiber, filament yarn, polyester-based polymers, specialty polymers and intermediates — have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to cooperate through SASA’s potential acquisition of a license for CARBIOS’ unique PET biorecycling technology.

This licensing agreement would allow SASA to construct and operate an enzymatic depolymerization plant in Adana, Turkey, with a capacity of 100,000 tons per year of prepared PET waste, and would give access to a circular recycling technology, enabling the production of polyester pellets, fibers and textiles from various waste sources, including polyester textile waste. With CARBIOS’ biorecycling technology, SASA would diversify its offering to meet the growing global demand for sustainable materials in the textile industry, primarily catering to the European market.

SASA and CARBIOS’ partnership : a boost for European recycled polyester production

Less than 1 percent of textile waste is currently recycled into new textile fibers1. With European regulations moving towards the incorporation of more recycled content (at least 20 percent of recycled fibers by 2030), demand for recycled polyester in the EU is anticipated to increase, naturally positioning Turkey as a major producer alongside Asian countries. In this context, SASA is striving to become the largest supplier of high value-added polyester in the region and beyond. To achieve this, SASA aims to introduce recycling as part of its activities, which already encompass the whole value chain from PET production to fiber and textile conversion. CARBIOS’ PET biorecycling technology plays an important part in SASA’s ongoing transformation strategy, which includes back integration, capacity expansion, even higher competitiveness, as well as circularity.

CARBIOS has developed a revolutionary enzymatic depolymerization technology that enables efficient and solvent-free recycling of PET plastic and textile waste into virgin-like products. CARBIOS has ambitious plans to become a leading technology provider in the recycling of PET by 2035. After the recent announcement of a joint Letter of Intent with Zhink Group in China, this new Letter of Intent for a potential licensing agreement in Europe confirms global traction for CARBIOS biorecycling technology, and marks another significant step in the international roll-out of its licensing model. In addition to the world’s first industrial-scale enzymatic PET recycling plant which is currently under construction in Longlaville, France, this potential plant in Turkey would process PET waste that is currently not recyclable using conventional recycling technologies.

Emmanuel Ladent, CEO, CARBIOS, said: “With the creation of a major PET yarn and fiber manufacturing capacity on a European scale, we believe Turkey will play a pivotal role in the expanding textile market. Partnering with SASA, a leader in polyester production, is a natural fit for CARBIOS’ international ambitions for licensing our biorecycling technology, and will contribute to a more circular and sustainable textile industry.”

Dr. M. Kemal Öz, General Manager, SASA, noted: “As a leading producer of polyester, it’s our duty to pave the way in terms of sustainability and environmental responsibility. SASA needs to be a part of the recycling business and our partnership with CARBIOS reinforces our commitment to innovation to advance a circular economy for textiles.”

Posted: August 1, 2024

Source: CARBIOS

PolyQuest Expands Commercial Talent Roster With Four Appointments

WILMINGTON, N.C.   — August 1, 2024 — PolyQuest Inc. unveiled today the addition of four talents to its team. This strategic move underscores its unwavering commitment to further growth and expansion in its thermoplastics distribution business. PolyQuest welcomed Andy Fredericks, Brian Goldberg, John Sarrao, and James Nelson — all distinguished industry experts poised to further elevate PolyQuest’s industry standing.

“PolyQuest is forging ahead in exciting new directions. The addition of Andy, Brian, John, and James will be seamless within our organization. It’s very rare to find external talents such as these in one package that has the same DNA structure as PolyQuest. We welcome them with open arms,” stated John Marinelli, CEO of PolyQuest.

To further these efforts, during the Covid era, PolyQuest made strategic investments to implement new, modern Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Business Intelligence (BI) solutions that streamline its business processes, improve data analytics, and support future growth. PolyQuest is now ready to responsibly yet rapidly, scale its distribution business while maintaining a customer-centric focus with servitude as its overriding core principle.

In conclusion, Marinelli affirmed: “Although we have traditional values in building and nurturing industry relationships, our unmatched capabilities to oversee the supply chain and swiftly customize solutions for our customers stems from our people and our technologies. This is an enduring commitment.”

Posted: August 1, 2024

Source: PolyQuest, Inc.

Indorama Ventures Joins The T-REX Project To Revolutionize Textile Recycling

BANGKOK, Thailand  — August 1, 2024 — Indorama Ventures Public Company Ltd., a global sustainable chemical company, is proud to announce its role in the T-REX (Textile Recycling Excellence) Project. This ambitious initiative aims to establish a harmonized EU blueprint for the closed-loop sorting and recycling of household textile waste to help the fashion industry transition towards a more circular and sustainable future. By bringing together key stakeholders across the entire value chain, the project positions itself at the forefront of sustainable innovation.

Diego Boeri, executive president of Indorama Ventures’ Fibers business

The designated spinning partner, Indorama Ventures, will process the chemical recycled feedstock into polyester yarns and fibers through the extrusion process, ensuring the elimination of impurities. The company’s participation in the project also aligns with its goals of driving the circular economy and circular fashion industry through PET recycling and supply of recycled materials, underscoring its commitment to sustainability.

Diego Boeri, executive president of Indorama Ventures’ Fibers business, stated: “Indorama Ventures has decades-long experience in manmade-fibers processes, especially in polyester, and we are committed to driving sustainable solutions and the use of circular feedstock across the value chain to help our partners achieve their sustainability goals. We look forward to leveraging our technical expertise to contribute towards the success of the textile-to-textile recycling within the T-REX Project.”

The T-REX Project launched with the aim of creating a harmonized blueprint which will support the creation of a circular system for post-consumer textile waste within Europe. The EU funded project brings together a consortium of 13 major players from across the entire value chain along with research institutes to transform end-of-use textiles from waste into valuable feedstock and a commodity for new business models that can be adopted at scale.

Learn more at trexproject.eu

Posted: August 1, 2024

Source: Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited

ACIMIT: Italian Textile Technology At Central Asian International Textile Machinery Exhibition – CAITME 2024

MILAN   — July 31, 2024 — At the upcoming edition of Central Asian International Textile Machinery Exhibition – CAITME 2024, to be held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan September 11-14, 2024, 16 Italian textile machinery manufacturers will exhibit in the common area set up by the Italian Trade Agency and ACIMIT.

All these companies are ACIMIT’s associated members: Bonino, Brazzoli, Carù, Erhardt+Leimer, Guarneri Technology, Ima, Laip. Lgl, Martex, Mei, Mesdan, Pinter Caipo Italia, Pugi Group, Sicam, Stalam, Ugolini.

Uzbekistan is one of the largest producers and exporters of cotton and its textile industry is a relevant driver for the national economy. Thanks to the raw material’s availability and low production costs the business conditions are favorable for the development of the local industry. The upgrading of installed equipment is considered a step to achieve this goal.

Italian textile technology is well known by the Uzbek textile companies. In 2023, Italian sales in Uzbekistan amounted to 21 million euro. Among the Italian machines most in demand by Uzbek textile companies are weaving machines (32 percent of total 2023 Italian exports), followed by finishing machines (30 percent), spinning machines (17 percent), knitting machines (14 percent) and accessories (7 percent). At CAITME Italian exhibitors will show the most advanced technology applied to the textile sector, offering proper solutions in terms of efficiency, costs saving and sustainability.

Posted: July 31, 2024

Source: The Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers (ACIMIT)

Style In Motion: Wink Introduces Renew Knits And Upgraded Favorites For On And Off Shift Looks

COPPELL, Texas  — July 30, 2024 — Wink®, the leading brand in everyday premium scrubs, today unveiled its Renew Fall/Winter 2024 Collection. The new release introduces a fresh selection of cozy knits and updated versions of its best-selling signature styles perfect for fall. Expertly blending fashion, functionality, and sustainability, the collection offers healthcare professionals the high-quality, stylish scrubs they love, now with a sophisticated autumnal twist.

Wink Fall/Winter 2024 Collection Introducing Renew Knits and Upgraded Favorites

The launch of the Renew Fall/Winter 2024 Collection marks the debut of Wink Renew Knits, introducing four new soft knit options — a first for the brand. With a classic and versatile color palette, the knits are available in timeless shades such as Black, Navy, Pewter, Royal, and Wine, another colorway that will be dropping next month. The easy-to-pair knits tout the Renew line’s signature four-way stretch and are crafted to seamlessly integrate into your fall wardrobe, quickly becoming a style staple both on and off shift.

“We are thrilled to expand our Renew Collection with the introduction of new knits alongside our beloved existing products,” said Catherine Beldotti Donlan, president of Superior Cloth and Stitch. “Our mission with every collection is to provide scrubs that inspire boldness, confidence, and comfort. For the Renew Fall/Winter 2024 Collection, we’ve successfully blended the softness and flexibility of knit fabrics with the durability and functionality that healthcare professionals need, creating a refined yet practical choice for the season.”

Available for $34.98 – $42.98 and offered in sizes XS-3XL, Wink Renew Knits are designed for ultimate comfort and flexibility with a blend of interlock knit, recycled polyester, and spandex. This breathable, soft, and lightweight fabric helps healthcare professionals move with ease, whether reaching for an IV drip or kneeling to meet the smallest patients. New knit product highlights include:

  • Renew Knit Women’s V-Neck Raglan Top – With four pockets and a convenient badge loop, this knit raglan perfectly blends functionality with trendy design, making it great for both work and everyday wear.
  • Renew Knit Women’s Crew Neck Top – More than just style, this scrub top offers practicality with two front zipper pockets and a badge loop. With athletic design details, it’s ideal for those who want to blend comfort with sporty flair.
  • Renew Knit Women’s Track Pant – These pants have it all: a comfy adjustable waistband with drawstring, a modern athletic fit, and a zippered back leg detail that helps you flex your fit and style. Plus, they come with five pockets—combining practicality with a stylish twist!
  • Renew Knit Women’s Yoga Pant – Fun and functional pants with a comfortable waistband and hidden card pocket, two front cell pockets, two side scissor pockets, and a stylish flared leg. Ideal for those craving function and fashion in their wardrobe.

The seasonal offering also includes reimagined versions of two beloved Wink Renew best-sellers: the Renew Women’s Mandarin Collar Scrub Top and the Renew Women’s Cargo Jogger Jumpsuit. The Mandarin Collar Scrub Top, priced at $32.98 and available in sizes XS-5XL, comes in classic neutrals and soon-to-be-released limited-edition colors like Mineral Red, elegant Navy Heather, and subtle Wine Heather. The Cargo Jogger Jumpsuit, available for $59.98 in sizes XS-3XL, features rich hues such as deep Wine and earthy Olive, providing a broad selection to suit every preference and need.

Each garment in the Wink Renew Collection, including the new knits, incorporates the equivalent of five recycled plastic water bottles. This commitment to sustainability ensures that each product is crafted with care, offering consumers outstanding quality, comfort and peace of mind with every purchase.

Posted: July 30, 2024

Source: Wink

unspun Raises $32 Million In Oversubscribed Series B Funding To Transform Fashion Supply Chains With Groundbreaking 3D Weaving Technology

OAKLAND, Calif.  — July 29, 2024 — Today, unspun, a producer of 3D weaving technology, announced $32 million in an oversubscribed Series B funding round led by DCVC, with participation from Lowercarbon Capital, E12, Decathlon and SOSV.

The funding will fuel the rapid scaling of unspun’s innovative 3D weaving technology, Vega™ — designed to help brands realize a low-inventory, nearshore and automated supply-chain for woven products, which represent 57 percent of the total apparel market, as the company expands its operations in Europe and North America.

Vega is a 3D weaving technology for apparel. It takes thousands of yarns and weaves them into garments in minutes, allowing for (almost) zero-waste, on-demand manufacturing. This technology unlocks scalable on-demand or low-inventory production.

Because 3D weaving drastically shortens supply chains and lead times, brands and manufacturers can plug these machines into existing supply chains for localized and automated production. This opportunity allows traditional cut-make-trim facilities to vertically integrate operations, offering a faster (4 times), cleaner (53-percent emissions reduction, 49-percent reduced energy demand and a 39-percent reduced blue water consumption), more efficient (less than 3-percent cut waste, compared to the industry average of 15 percent), and a more agile supply chain that is more responsive to market demands.

unspun has signed multi-year agreements with multiple top retailers like Walmart to deploy its Vega machines for localized production in both North America and Europe. This demonstrates growing demand from major funds, brands, and retailers seeking more sustainable and efficient manufacturing solutions amid growing regulatory pressure and consumer demand for supply chain transparency and sustainability. In Europe, where new rules proposing production limits and waste bans are under consideration, local-for-local manufacturing enabled by unspun’s technology provides a clear competitive edge for compliance. With Vega machines vastly expediting the design-to-shelf process, brands will be empowered to keep up with the ultra-fast cadences set by fast-fashion disruptors while maintaining quality, profitability, and low waste.

With this funding, unspun is taking the first step in rapidly scaling its operations through licensing its technology to established manufacturing partners in Europe.

With record levels of unsold goods circulating in the industry, this has never been more timely. unspun partners with brands and manufacturers who are committed to decarbonizing their fashion supply chains with onshored, low-impact, and automated production. Vega will also have circular supply chain applications, and unspun is developing products and manufacturing techniques that allow for garments to be unspun back into yarns, and re-woven into new products.

“Overproduction has long been a taboo in fashion. It is now recognized by top-tier climate-funds as a key issue to urgently solve for the industry,” said Walden Lam, CEO of unspun. “We are overwhelmed with the enthusiasm, and excited to be partnering with DCVC, Lowercarbon, SOSV climate, Decathlon and many commercial partners to urgently scale Vega to localize apparel manufacturing across North America and Europe.”

With Vega 3D weaving the product capabilities are endless, and these high-performing jacquard machines can create woven garments using almost any yarn. The current generation of the machines is focused on producing high quality outputs for bottoms (they can also create bags and hats) while future generations of the machines will allow the company to expand into performance categories, outerwear, shoes, tops, and dresses.

“unspun offers a tremendous economic and logistical unlock for the fashion industry by eliminating costly overproduction and radically shortening the supply chain. We think it’s good business to align profits and climate impact and are excited to help unspun revolutionize the way clothing is made,” says Milo Werner, general partner at DCVC, who will join unspun’s board of directors.

This announcement follows unspun’s recent reveal of a project with Walmart, the world’s leading omnichannel retailer. The project aims to localize parts of Walmart’s manufacturing and promote a higher level of supply chain traceability in North America. Before this, unspun partnered with the fashion label Eckhaus Latta. Together, they introduced the first-ever 3D woven collection at New York Fashion Week. These products are now accessible online through various retailers and in stores globally. unspun’s Vega technology continues to be a pioneering force in the fashion and design industry, recently playing a crucial part in the launch of designer Ana Kraš’ lifestyle brand, Teget.

unspun’s technological capabilities and vision for the future of fashion have landed the company on America’s Top Greentech companies 2024 by Time magazine, Vogue 100 innovator’s list, Newsweek’s Climate Change Innovators, TIME‘s Best Inventions, and Fast Company’s World-Changing Ideas.

Posted: July 30, 2024

Source: unspun

MOTION Announces Commitment To Partnership Accreditation In Indigenous Relations Program

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.  — July 29, 2024 — Motion Industries Inc. (MOTION), a distributor of maintenance, repair, and operation replacement parts, and a premier provider of industrial technology solutions, is pleased to announce its commitment to Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations (PAIR), a program of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB).

Originally established in 2001, the PAIR program includes an online management and reporting tool that supports participating companies’ efforts toward progressive improvement in Indigenous relations and a certification program that confirms corporate performance in Indigenous relations at the bronze, silver or gold level.

The PAIR program provides a high level of assurance through the independent, third-party verification of company reports on measurable outcomes and initiatives in four performance areas: Leadership Actions, Employment, Business Development, and Community Relations (Engagement and Support).

“We felt it was important for Motion to be part of the truth and reconciliation process in Canada,” said Brent Pope, Motion Group executive, Canada. “Our involvement with the CCIB will provide direction, resources and a partnership to guide us on our journey.”

Motion’s President, James Howe, said: “Motion is proud to be a valued business partner with the CCIB, and we look forward to a longstanding relationship that showcases our commitment to prosperity within all Indigenous communities.”

Motion is committed to collaborating with Indigenous peoples and their communities in Canada to build long‐term trusting and mutually beneficial relationships based on its core values to be fair, ethical, inclusive and invested.

Posted: July 29, 2024

Source: MOTION

Dovetail Furniture Expands Partnership With Digital Wave Technology, Further Optimizes Product Experience

PONTE VEDRA, Fla. — July 29, 2024 — Digital Wave Technology today announces its continued partnership with Dovetail Furniture, one of the largest importers and wholesale distributors of fine handcrafted furniture on the West Coast. Dovetail Furniture has signed a multi-year agreement to leverage Digital Wave Technology’s product experience management (PXM) solution as a key part of its technology footprint.

Dovetail Furniture, known for its meticulously curated collections and on-trend designs, has partnered with Digital Wave Technology to provide intricate product details via the solution provider’s PXM system to ensure efficiency and accuracy. Digital Wave’s PXM, which includes product information management (PIM), master data management (MDM), and digital asset management (DAM), helps the organization:

  • Drive improved efficiency and tailor business processes to its unique needs
  • Provide a single version of the truth across all channels
  • Leverage workflow automation critical to its product information management process

“We are excited to renew our partnership with Digital Wave Technology,” said Marco Mazzoni, director of Technology and Digital Marketing at Dovetail Furniture. “The company’s PIM solution has significantly enhanced our operational efficiency and allowed us to maintain high standards of product information accuracy across our online platforms, the POS system used by our sales reps, and all third-party integrations with our vendors, customers, and online marketplaces. This partnership supports our unique business model.”

“This renewal not only reaffirms our commitment to Dovetail Furniture’s success but also paves the way for the company’s future innovations as it continues its digital transformation journey. We are a proud partner of Dovetail,” said Lori Schafer, CEO at Digital Wave Technology.

With the advanced capabilities of Digital Wave Technology’s PXM solution, Dovetail Furniture will continue delivering excellent product experiences to consumers and maintain its reputation for excellence in the luxury furniture market. This collaboration highlights a shared commitment to quality and efficiency in an ever-changing retail landscape.

Posted: July 29, 2024

Source: Digital Wave Technology

The United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA): Findings Show Sharp Increase In Sourcing Executives Who Are Concerned About The Protectionist Trade Policy Agenda In The U.S.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — July 29, 2024 — The United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) has released the eleventh annual Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study, a survey of executives from leading fashion brands, retailers, importers, and wholesalers, including some of the largest brands and retailers in the country.

Conducted in conjunction with Dr. Sheng Lu, Professor in the Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies at the University of Delaware, the survey asked respondents about their business outlook, sourcing practices, utilization of Free Trade Agreements and preference programs, and views on trade policy.

Key findings from the 2024 Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study include:

  • The top five business challenges in 2024 are: inflation and economic outlook in the U.S., managing the forced labor risks in the supply chain, shipping delays and supply chain disruptions, managing geopolitics and other political instability related to sourcing, and the protectionist trade policy agenda in the U.S.
  • 75 percent of respondents feel optimistic or somewhat optimistic about the next five years.
  • U.S. fashion companies are actively exploring new sourcing opportunities, with a particular focus on emerging destinations in Asia and the Western Hemisphere.
  • Making apparel sourcing more sustainable, ethical, and socially responsible remains a pivotal focus for U.S. fashion companies. 82 percent of respondents plan to allocate MORE resources toward sustainability and compliance in 2024 and nearly 95 percent of respondents also plan to either increase their operational budget or maintain it at the same level as last year to support enhanced sustainability and compliance efforts.

“We always expect greater concern about protectionist trade policy during a Presidential election year,” said Julia Hughes, president of USFIA. “However the sharp increase from 15 percent last year to 45 percent this year highlights a new level of concern from sourcing executives. Both parties advocate using tariffs as trade policy, and many of the proposals are difficult, if not  impossible, to plan for. While there is optimism for the year ahead, this year’s report shows greater concern about protectionist policy and geopolitical risks by the fashion industry.”

Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study: https://www.usfashionindustry.com/pdf_files/2024/2024_USFIA_Benchmarking_Study.pdf

Posted: July 29, 2024

Source: The United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) 

Eastman Exports Appoints Industry Veteran Ritesh Kumar As CEO To Lead Strategic Growth

MUMBAI — July 29, 2024 — Tiruppur-based Eastman Exports, India’s fourth largest knitwear manufacturer and exporter, has announced the appointment of Ritesh Kumar as its CEO. Kumar brings with him 25 years of extensive experience in garment industry, having previously served as the senior vice president at Shahi Exports.

Ritesh Kumar

Kumar’s appointment reflects Eastman Exports’ commitment to driving innovation and expanding its footprint in India while simultaneously strengthening its global business.  Eastman Exports supplies garments to luxury clothing brands across the world, with the U.S. being its primary market.

Kumar holds a PG in GMT from NIFT. Apart from Shahi Exports, he was associated with Dubai-based Arise IIP as the COO of its garments division setting up industry in West Africa.

“We are glad to welcome Mr. Kumar. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge in technological innovation and strategy. We are confident that his expertise will help Eastman Exports reach greater heights,” said Eastman Exports’ Chairman N Chandran.

“I am honoured to join Eastman Exports and look forward to leveraging my experience to drive innovation and propel the company to new heights in both global and domestic markets,” Kumar said.

Posted: July 29, 2024

Source: Eastman Exports

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