Crescent Laundry Proves Commitment To Environmental Stewardship

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Aug. 3, 2018 — Healthcare linen service Crescent Laundry, serving the Davenport, IA area for more than 100 years, has been certified Clean Green. The certification reflects Crescent Laundry’s dedication to standards for operational efficiency and sustainability.

Clean Green certification quantifies linen, uniform and facility services’ environmentally friendly performance by confirming an operation launders within TRSA-designated water and energy use thresholds; and verifies use of best management practices (BMPs) in line with the ASTM International environmental laundering standard.

Crescent Laundry’s customers can be assured their reusable healthcare textiles are washed, dried and finished with processes that maximize sustainability and reduce greenhouse emissions. Clean Green certified operations demonstrate significant commitment to conservation and green operations through these BMPs:

  • Recovering heat from drained hot water and heat dispersed from the process of warming water;
  • Recapturing drained water from rinses for reuse;
  • Using environmentally friendly detergents;
  • Removing solids and liquids from wastewater;
  • Solar energy and energy-efficient lighting;
  • Recycling programs;
  • Re-routing trucks to save vehicle fuel; and
  • Spill prevention plans.

TRSA inspects laundry facilities seeking certification and approves documentation of their water and energy use and BMP deployment through production reports they submit to auditors during the inspections. TRSA’s certification management protocol includes auditor training by the association’s inspection program administrator.

Clean Green aligns with the ASTM International standard, Guide for Sustainable Laundry Practices, which recognizes key criteria for the certification as universal indicators of maximum sustainability in commercial laundry work. ASTM’s review of TRSA BMPs verified these as the most effective and practical techniques for a laundry to achieve green objectives.

TRSA members prompted development of the standard, which was vetted in the sustainability subcommittee of the ASTM Committee on Textiles. Top technical experts, scientists and environmental professionals from outside the linen, uniform and facility services industry reviewed the BMPs. ASTM is the global leader in developing and delivering voluntary consensus standards unparalleled in building consumer confidence in product and service quality.

“I applaud Crescent Laundry for their ongoing sustainability efforts and maintaining the highest standards in their production and delivery operations,” said Joseph Ricci, TRSA president and CEO. “Meeting all the criteria for certification is not easy, but the company is committed to industry-leading processes and technologies.” Crescent Laundry achieved Hygienically Clean Healthcare certification in 2014, proving their dedication to infection prevention through compliance with recognized industry standards for processing healthcare textiles as verified by onsite inspections and their capability to produce hygienically clean textiles as quantified by ongoing microbial testing.

Posted August 4, 2018

Source: TRSA

ascena retail group Appoints Presidents Of LOFT, Ann Taylor And Lou & Grey

MAHWAH, N.J — Aug. 3, 2018 — ascena retail group inc., announced the appointment of two presidents in the premium fashion segment.

Andrew Clarke has been named president of the LOFT brand.

Since 2017, Clarke held the role of executive vice president, chief merchandising officer at ascena’s Justice brand. During his tenure, he led critical initiatives that have allowed the brand to increase their speed to market and react faster to the customer’s needs. Prior to his time at Justice, Clarke held the role of president of Kmart Apparel for Sears Holdings Corp. Clarke began his career at Marks and Spencer PLC and also served as chief product officer at France-based Pimkie, a 750 store women’s fast fashion chain, trading in 28 countries worldwide. He brings over 20 years of retail experience to this role.

Julie Rosen has been named president of the Ann Taylor and Lou & Grey brands.

Since 2016, Rosen held the role of senior vice president, general merchandise manager at ascena’s Ann Taylor brand. In early 2018, her role was expanded to include the Lou & Grey brand. Rosen has successfully cultivated a clear strategic vision bringing elevated product assortments and a customer centric focus across all channels of the business. Rosen started her career at GAP Inc. at Banana Republic and was named vice president of Women’s Merchandising in 2000 and senior vice president in 2001. In 2007, Rosen founded Julie B. Rosen Consulting working with several retailers including Nike, Theory, and Chrome Hearts. She rejoined GAP Inc. as senior vice president of Merchandising for Banana Republic in 2009.

Gary Muto, president and CEO of ascena Brands commented, “Julie and Andrew are strong leaders, who are committed to both their customer and teams, and I am confident that they will serve these amazing brands well. I’m pleased that we were able to draw from the deep talent bench within ascena to fill these critical customer-facing roles, and look forward to working with Julie, Andrew, and the rest of the ascena Brands leadership team to drive sustainable product-led growth.”

Posted August 3, 2018

Source: ascena retail group

Cintas Announces the Retirement of Founder and Chairman Emeritus Richard T. Farmer

CINCINNATI — Aug. 3, 2018 — Cintas Corp. today announced that Richard T. Farmer has informed the company’s board of directors that he will not seek re-election to Cintas’ board. Farmer will retain the chairman emeritus title but will not take part in board meetings or other activities after October 30, 2018.

Farmer created Cintas from a family-owned business processing shop towels in Cincinnati. Soon after graduating college in 1956, Farmer joined his family’s business as a sales representative. He was eventually named president of the company. In 1968, Farmer left the family business to test a new concept that involved unique fabrics and processing systems for uniforms which ultimately revolutionized the entire industry. Within two years, Farmer’s new company, Satellite Corp., was so successful that it acquired the family business. In the mid-1970s, Satellite was renamed Cintas Corp. With a strong appetite for growth and a strong record of performance, the company went public in 1983. Farmer served as CEO through 1995 and as board chairman through 2010. Since that time, he has held the title of chairman emeritus.

Today Cintas is a Fortune 500 company with revenue of $6.47 billion. The company employs 43,000 employee-partners in more than 400 locations across the US and Canada. The corporate culture Farmer instituted is a key component of the company’s long term success and includes a focus on customer-driven innovation, professionalism and exceeding the expectations of customers, shareholders and working employee-partners.

“My father has been the heart and soul of Cintas for many years,” said Cintas Chairman and CEO Scott D. Farmer. “His vision and commitment have helped the company thrive and positioned it for even greater success in the future.”

Posted August 3, 2018

Source: Cintas Corp.

DiloGroup To Exhibit At CINTE Techtextil

EBERBACH, Germany — Aug. 2, 2018 — Asia is one of the most important markets for needled nonwovens. For this reason Dilo, leading supplier for needlefelt production lines, will present its products and developments at this year’s CINTE Techtextil in Hall N1, Booth D08.

DiloGroup consists of DiloSpinnbau, DiloTemafa, DiloMachines and DiloSystems and offers machinery for complete production processes. In its 116 years of history, the company has always set new standards in regard to machine performance and efficiency. Innovative technologies like DI-LOUR, DI-LOOP and Hyperpunch have created new markets for the nonwovens industry and have contributed to continuous growth. Examples of recent developments in our machinery are the Hyperlayer, Feeder VRS-P and the DILO Compact Line.

The HyperLayer was designed on the principle of the camelback crosslapper and completely revised. The kinematic solution of this crosslapper transports and lays down the web very precisely and is especially suited for very light webs, layering only few layers. It realizes highest production speeds (web infeed speed up to 200 m/min) at a precise laydown with a minimum of draft.

The new card feeder VRS-P combines the principles of a volumetric, precisely charged feeding with the characteristics of a vibration chute feeder and saves a conventional large trunk. This results in a better and more homogeneous distribution of the flocks and the ceiling height of the building is no more a limiting factor. A vacuumed delivery apron condenses and homogenizes the fibre flock matt. Additional control flaps homogenize the fibre distribution over the working width. On the whole this results in a significantly better flock matt and consequently in a better felt quality.

The Dilo Compact Line (DCL) was first presented 2015 and has since then been successfully used in industry and research. It meets the requirement for the production of small amounts of high quality felts made from special fibers like carbon fibre, ceramic or Teflon. Very interesting topics like the recycling of carbon fibers are already researched on these lines in various projects. With a working width of the compact carding machine of 1.1 m and a layering width of 2.2 m, only 60 square meters of space is required for the installation.

We look forward to meeting you in person at CINTE Techtextil to discuss the latest developments and technologies in detail. Meet you in Hall N1, booth No. D08.

Posted August 2, 2018

Source: DiloGroup

TRSA 105th Annual Conference & Exchange: Fresh Ideas, Information And Networking Top Napa Agenda

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Aug. 1, 2018 — Leaders in the linen, uniform and facility services industry will benefit from new ideas, engage in information-sharing sessions and network with colleagues at TRSA’s 105th Annual Conference & Exchange, Oct. 16-18. Bookending the Napa, Calif. Conference are fresh perspectives from these keynote speakers:

  • Michael Mondavi of Michael Mondavi Family Estate, Wine Enthusiast’s 2015 person of the year, will impart the challenges and evolution of his family’s four-generation tradition in the Napa Valley and his growth from apprentice to international business icon.
  • Vivek Wadhwa, tech entrepreneur, columnist and one of TIME’s Top 40 Most Influential Minds in Tech will firm your understanding of the impacts of rapidly emerging technologies on your operations, customers and employees.

Industry management professionals – owner-operators, executives, directors, general, plant and purchasing managers and other laundry-based department heads – will have the opportunity to learn about the latest product innovations and business solutions by participating in the Exchange, which has replaced traditional table-top exhibits. TRSA Members – operators and associates alike – praise the Exchange as an efficient use of time since these customized meetings allow both parties to be prepared to discuss pressing challenges and product innovations or solutions.

TRSA will host two interactive panels providing unique and relevant perspectives. The International panel, Global Opportunities and Challenges in the Linen, Uniform and Facility Services Industry, will explore how shifts in economic and political conditions impact the industry. Moderated by Joseph Ricci, president and CEO, TRSA, the panelists are:

  • Jose Luis Jacques, CEO, Lavartex, S.A.P.I. de C.V;
  • Enrique Jacques, COO, Lavartex, S.A.P.I. de C.V;
  • Chris Sander, CEO and executive director, Johnson Service Group, England; and
  • Joe Sullivan, national technical operations manager, Spotless Laundries, Australia.

Enjoy access to a rare gathering of industry leaders with more than two centuries of combined experience when you participate in the Legends of the Industry panel. Moderated by Steve Fellman, principal, GKG Law, this panel will feature:

  • Bruce Boynton, former senior vice president of operations, UniFirst;
  • Alan Bubes, former president and CEO, Linens of the Week;
  • Bill Evans, former CEO, AmeriPride Services Inc.;
  • Tom Storm, co-founder, Washing Systems Inc.; and
  • Donald Struminger, chairman of the board and CEO, Mohenis Services Inc.

Breakout sessions include the following:

  • Employment Law Trials, Tribulations and Best Practices: What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You (Joseph Shelton, partner, Fisher & Phillips LLP); and
  • Textile Services Bottom-Line Performance (Andrew Wittmann, CFA, director, senior research analyst, Robert W. Baird and Co.).

Additional conference highlights are the Chairman’s Reception and Awards Dinner, honoring individuals and companies for their exceptional service to TRSA and the industry. The association’s top awards will be conferred as follows at the Oct. 17 Awards Dinner:

  • TRSA Operator Lifetime Achievement: Steve Larson, vice president of Alsco Inc.’s North American Linen Division; and
  • TRSA Associate Lifetime Achievement: David Hart, chairman, president and CEO, Mountville Mills Inc.

Learn more about these and other industry honors at www.trsa.org/awards.

Social opportunities perfect for networking include the Welcome Reception and a wine stomping and pizza making event at Peju Family Winery, and there’s also free time to explore the Napa Valley via free shuttle service to downtown Napa, one of the world’s great destinations.

Learn more and register today at www.TRSA.org/AnnualConference.  Save with early registration by Aug. 31.

Posted August 2, 2018

Source: TRSA

STOLL To Celebrate 145 Years With Exclusive Seminar

REUTLINGEN, Germany/NEW YORK CITY — August 2, 2018 — With the kick-off of the company’s 145th anniversary, the Stoll Symposium is a means to give back to the key industry players that utilize STOLL’s machinery and services as well as to educate designers and brands alike on the various knitting solutions and techniques available through working with Stoll.

The Stoll Symposium is a one-time only, free seminar that commences at 9:30 a.m. EDT and concludes after its evening reception at 8:30 p.m. EDT. The event includes seven key sessions that will walk attendees through a technical leap in time from knitting applications to techniques to machinery throughout the years. The sessions will provide an in-depth comprehension of Stoll ADF & CMS techniques, STOLL-artwork®, STOLL-autocreate®, STOLL-knit and wear®, yarn experience and usage, and Technical Textiles at Stoll. There will be an additional session dedicated to Stoll’s partnerships and customers. These companies will be discussing the current trends of the market in relation to knitting, their businesses, and technical textiles as a whole.

An evening reception will take place from 6:00 p.m. EDT until 8:30 p.m. EDT. Stoll’s CEO, Andreas Schellhammer, and Head of Fashion & Technology, Joerg Hartmann, will be toasting this reception and will present Stoll’s impact on product creation and fashion throughout the years.

Schellhammer, CEO, Stoll, stated, “We are constantly evolving as a global manufacturer, and the best way to stay afloat in this competitive industry is to learn from your customers. Stoll has worked with some of the most innovative brands worldwide, and Stoll Symposium is our way of giving back to the knitting industry. 145 years is a colossal achievement, and that is all thanks to our loyal customer base.”

Joerg Hartmann, head of Fashion & Technology of STOLL said: “We are proud to kick-off our 145th anniversary at our New York City office and celebrate with the entire industry! It is essential that the market understands the full potential of Stoll’s design, machinery, software, and service solutions. This seminar is not just to honor the many accomplishments of Stoll, but also to educate and inspire. With the launch of both STOLL-artwork and the Digital Textile Factory this past April, Stoll is truly embarking upon a new industry standard on a global scale.”

Stoll welcomes designers, engineers, and all industry players to RSVP for the Stoll Symposium at info@stollamerica.com. Please note, limited seats available. Please RSVP by August 31, 2018.

Posted August 2, 2018

Source: H. Stoll AG & Co. KG

ITMA Asia + CITME 2018 Exhibitor Preview: Savio Macchine Tessili

PORDENONE, Italy — Aug. 1, 2018 — Since 1911, the Italian manufacturer Savio is specialized in the yarn-finishing segment, being the leading supplier of winding, twisting and rotor spinning machines, with manufacturing plants spanning over Italy, China, India and Czech Republic.
 Savio will exhibit in Shanghai energy saving and Industry 4.0 solutions in the winding segment: Polar Evolution and Eco PulsarS winding machines, plus an Industry 4.0 corner with smart solutions for mill monitoring.

Polar Evolution winding machine: a high performance, energy saving and less labor-intensive product for the Chinese customers.
Polar winding machines have been recently developed to the Evolution series, gathering all the innovative solutions in terms of technology, efficiency, quality output and maintenance. A further step for Polar family to catch the world of I.T. connectivity and the new fibers applications.

The machine on display will be a round magazine feeding one, provided with an efficient and fast automatic doffer.

Eco PulsarS: with its innovative platform can save up to 30% power bill thanks to “Suction on Demand” system.
Eco PulsarS winding machine, with its sustainable eco-green advantage, replies to the market demand of energy saving, including room air conditioning, together with improved production performances, high quality packages and utmost automated solutions.

Energy is a major cost component in the textile industry. The rising energy prices, affecting fuel and electricity, have caused soaring costs in the process, thus reduced the competiveness of textile products in some domestic markets, where imported products may be cheaper.
Suction represents 75% of the total energy of a winding machine. EcoPulsarS’s solution of the “individual and independent suction unit per spindle” represents a real break-through versus the conventional system. Each unit operates at optimum suction values without influencing the rest of the spindles. This means no more compromises in balancing the suction as in conventional centralized systems, in which the fan is permanently in operation. Since suction is generated only when needed, customer can save up to 30% power bill costs, while a better efficiency, a smoother winding process and overall superior package and yarn quality are achieved too.

Reduction of noise is another key aspect. EcoPulsarS combining all new features and design has created an environment in which each part of the machine can operate at its optimum level. Spindles and bobbins feeding systems set independently the level of suction required. Suction is generated as needed and used without losses. The new Controlled Cut System, Yarn Tension Control System, Waste Collection System and Upgraded Splicing Solutions, each contribute to the overall reduction of noise and process downtimes.

Automation – Link system

The Savio Direct Link System (I/DLS) solution, for linking the ring spinning frames (RSF) to the winders, enables a fast and efficient direct feeding of bobbins, along with the full interfacing flexibility with all kind of RSF. From RSF bobbin to the final package, the yarn is processed untouched and with zero transit time, ensuring maximum quality, less material handling and no chances of contamination. Many important markets are investing on this kind of high-automatic systems for the production advantages that such solution offers, but also for guaranteeing the end-product quality. In order to satisfy each new developments on ring frame design, Savio Direct Link System has been designed in a “modular type” granting the possibility of reaching the highest number of winding heads, to match the trend of the spinning frame manufacturers with longer and longer machines up to 2.000 spindles.

Savio Winder 4.0 – Smart Industry Solutions for Textile Mills

Once composed solely by mechanical and electrical parts, now winding machines have become complex systems that combine hardware, sensors, data storage, microprocessors, software and connectivity. These smart machineries can increase the efficiency of the spinning mill and perform predictive maintenance avoiding breakdowns and downtimes. Savio winding machines can be equipped upon request of Smart Industry Solutions for connectivity, data management, remote machine set up and operator real-time interactivity. Savio Winder 4.0 represents an important step towards a wide digitalization process, being a solution for intelligent networking of machines in the spinning/winding room. This data management system is a very modern and important management tool, relieving mill management staff of time- consuming routine work. The mill manager can have the winding room live monitoring directly from his/her desk. Thanks to data analytics, a wealth of data are available, allowing to manage the different production phases in the best possible way and to monitor all significant parameters anytime and anywhere, making use of mobile devices. All these features enable Savio customers to control overall equipment effectiveness, increase workforce efficiency, and maximize quality and working time.

Posted August 1, 2018

Source: Savio Macchine Tessili

Summer 2018 Edition Of Texworld USA And Apparel Sourcing USA Welcomed Exhibitors And Attendees Alike For An Impressive Fashion Sourcing Platform In New York City

NEW YORK CITY — Aug. 1, 2018 — Texworld USA presented the latest trends in materials, textiles, sustainable solutions, accessories and more while reinforcing its leadership position in the international fabric fashion arena. The summer 2018 editions of Texworld USA, Apparel Sourcing USA and Home Textiles Sourcing, opened their doors to exhibitors and visitors on Monday, July 23 at the Javits Center. Over a span of three days, international suppliers from around the globe showcased textiles, trims, accessories, manufacturing and private label development services and finished apparel for industry buyers, designers and experts.

Texworld USA, Apparel Sourcing USA and Home Textiles Sourcing Summer 2018 featured 837 exhibitors representing 19 countries and over 5,000 visitors. The show presented textiles with innovative structures, material mixes and surprising color palettes across 15 product categories. Attendees viewed the latest colors, trends, materials, fabrics and more with an exclusive opportunity to network and meet designers and suppliers from around the world while taking advantage of complimentary educational seminars and inspiring workshops.

“This summer, we offered an expanded array of exciting exhibitions and seminars for attendees. Our focus for the season was on the Art of Customization with our SPOTLIGHT, findings, trims and accessories. We believe that our customers want to better express themselves through personalized clothing and accessories. Overall, the show provided attendees with new knowledge on upcoming trends, the ever-evolving textile industry and new ways to expand their business ,” said Jennifer Bacon, show director.

Lenzing Fiber’s Educational Series Returned to Bring Attendees the Latest Information within the Industry
Texworld‘s educational seminar series, organized by Lenzing Fibers, returned for Summer 2018 with sessions hosted by curated panels of industry experts who discussed the global textile and sourcing landscape including sustainable solutions and the circular economy. Featured discussions were led by Sourcing Journal, the Pantone Color Institute and Global Purchasing Companies. Textile Talks were also a continued success at this year’s show led by StartUp

FASHION, Mintmoda and more. This year’s show included relevant topics on Microplastics and the hidden problem with microfibers, deconsumption and consumers patterns, as well as how to produce a fabric line in 2018.

Lenzing Fibers was pleased with the outcome of the fair. “Texworld USA consistently delivers an incredible show bringing the global textile and apparel companies to New York City. Our collaboration of the Lenzing Seminar Series supports exchange of new ideas around design, sourcing, and sustainability. Texworld USA was the ideal event to launch our new brand platform Feels So Right: TENCEL™ said Tricia Carey, Global Business Development, Lenzing Fibers.

New to the Show this Year: Local Loft

Local Loft was added to the show floor this year, featuring a new section with a loft-like feel highlighting local apparel factories, contractors and services. Local Loft was created in response to attendees seeking domestic and locally-sourced production facilities. Highlighted companies included AGH Trimsource, Suuchi Inc, Whispering Spirit Alpaca and more.

Texworld Trend Showcase Explored the Latest Design Trends for the Upcoming Season

Texworld’s USA Trend Showcase curated by Texworld’s Art Directors, Louis Gerin and Gregory Lamaud returned to the trade floor, bringing their vision and expertise for the upcoming season.

Attendees were inspired as the display area featured fabrics from select exhibitors at the show as well as a focus on The Art of Customization: Findings, Trims and Accessories. Visitors also had the opportunity to preview the newest colors and textile offerings for the Autumn/Winter 2019/20 season.

Exclusive Screening of RIVERBLUE

Texworld USA held an exclusive screening of the documentary, RIVERBLUE. The film follows river advocate Mark Angelo as he spans the globe to infiltrate one of the world’s most polluted industries, fashion. Narrated by clean water supporter Jason Priestley, this groundbreaking documentary examines the destruction of our rivers.

Explore the Floor Series Returned to Texworld USA

Texworld USA expanded, “Explore the Floor” series featured guided tours that allowed attendees to walk the show floor with seasoned industry experts in an intimate setting. These tours provided visitors with insights on different exhibitors relevant to their businesses and allowed questions from attendees in an open format. Topics included: ethical sourcing, sustainability, agroforestry, fashion law and more.

Trim Activation Area Curated by Trim Queen and MintModa

Jana Platina Phipps, a New York City-based expert known as Trim Queen, curated a trim activation. Known for her refined vision in the world of trimmings in fashion and home furnishings, Jana also conducted a hands-on passementarie workshop providing how-to and tips for attendees.

Resource Row Offered Attendees Complimentary Industry Resources and Networking Opportunities
Resource Row, a value-added asset for attendees featured industry tools including trend consultants, fabric recyling companies, technology and more. This summer, the show welcomed six new additions in fashion consulting, creative learning, workshops and more.

The next edition of Texworld USA and Apparel Sourcing USA will be January 21-23, 2019 at the Javits Center.

Collocated Home Textiles Sourcing Returned for Summer 2018 Edition

Home Textiles Sourcing provided attendees with a wide list of exhibitors specializing in six main product categories: Bed, Bath, Floor, Table, Window and Upholstery. Educational events were centered on translating fashion to the home, the global home textiles landscape as well as color trends. Among the many offerings, Home and Textiles Today led an informative presentation and panel discussion on ‘The New Home Textiles Landscape – What’s Needed to Survive and Thrive Tomorrow’.

Posted August 1, 2018

Source: Messe Frankfurt

Unifi Elects Eva Zlotnicka To The Board Of Directors

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Aug. 1, 2018 — Unifi Inc. today announced the election of Eva Zlotnicka to the Board of Directors.

Zlotnicka is a vice president at ValueAct Capital, a San Francisco-based investment firm with over $15 billion in assets under management. She has extensive experience in sustainable investing and multinational environmental, social and governance initiatives, with prior professional roles at both Morgan Stanley and UBS Investment Bank. ValueAct Spring Master Fund L.P. is currently one of Unifi’s largest investors.

“I am excited to be a part of Unifi’s sustainability journey, converting billions of plastic bottles into everyday articles, while maintaining a global supply chain that allows for a unique, competitive position for innovative textile solutions,” said Zlotnicka.

“Eva’s experience in sustainable investing, deep background in environmental and social issues and significant network of like-minded sustainable companies will provide invaluable insights and resources as we expand our REPREVE® offerings around the globe,” said Kevin Hall, chairman and CEO of Unifi. “We are pleased to welcome Eva to the board.”

Posted August 1, 2018

Source: Unifi Inc.

Emerald Textiles Acquired By Encore Textile Services

SAN DIEGO — July 31, 2018 — Encore Textile Services, a portfolio company of Los Angeles-based private investment firm Highland Avenue Capital Partners LLC, has announced the completion of the acquisition of Emerald Textiles, a San Diego-based healthcare linen service provider. The acquisition brings together the two largest independent healthcare laundry providers in California, with the combined entity having a total of five locations on the West Coast. The combined business will have an unparalleled ability to better serve all the needs of their large regional customers in both Northern and Southern California.

“We are excited to welcome the Emerald team to the Encore family. It is our belief Emerald’s team of experienced and respected professionals will complement the Encore team as we continue to scale the organization through organic growth, acquisitions and greenfield opportunities. Encore and Emerald are committed to providing the best value-proposition for current and future customers and look forward to continuing to serve our combined customer base with continued high-level service,” said Greg Anderson, CEO of the combined Encore and Emerald.

Under Highland Avenue’s ownership, Encore has grown through significant new customer wins, material investments in upgrading facilities and a universal commitment to servicing the customer.

“I am tremendously proud of what the Emerald team accomplished over the past eight years, and I am confident that the business is well positioned to continue to grow and thrive,” said Tom Gildred, CEO of Emerald.

Chris Sznewajs, co-founder and managing partner at Highland Avenue, added, “Highland’s original investment thesis centered around building scale while enhancing the Company’s ability to service its consolidating customer base. The addition of Emerald to the Encore platform is a realization of that thesis and allows us to serve the entire California market. We are excited about the two entities coming together and wanted to thank Tom Gildred and the entire Emerald team for building a great organization focused on their customers.”

Northleaf Capital Partners and AIG provided the debt financing for this transaction. Jones Day acted as Buyers counsel. Cooley LLP acted as legal counsel to Emerald. Latham & Watkins LLP, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP provided debt counsel. VERCOR acted as financial advisor to Encore and Highland Avenue. Piper Jaffray & Co. served as sell-side financial advisor as well as advisor for the debt capital raise. Grant Thornton LLP and Ernst & Young LLP provided accounting advisory services.

Posted August 1, 2018

Source: Encore Textile Services

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