Gecko Biomedical Secures 6 Million Euros In Funding Under The Investments For The Future Programme To Develop Innovative Solutions For Tissue Reconstruction

PARIS — January 24, 2018 — Gecko Biomedical has been granted a total of 6 million euros in funding under the Investments for the Future programme (PIA) for its project proposal entitled “PIAVE” [Projets Industriels d’Avenir (Promising Industrial Projects)], which is piloted by the General Secretariate for Investment (SGPI) and operated by Bpifrance. This funding is a contribution towards the industrialization and development of innovative solutions in the area of tissue reconstruction, and the peripheral nerve in particular.

Gecko is a medical device company developing an exclusive platform of polymers allowing for tissue reconstruction. These synthetic polymers, which are biocompatible, bioresorbable, and activated by a specific type of light, can be applied onto internal tissues during surgical procedures — acting like an adhesive, a barrier or a filler product, depending on the type of surgery. They are also 3D-printable, allowing for the production of flexible, bioresorbable and very high-resolution implants.

This funding will provide support for the industrialization of Gecko’s polymers platform, as well as for the development of a new, innovative program that will enable the reconstruction of peripheral nerves, without sutures, using 3D-printed micro-conducts secured by one of the company’s exclusive adhesives.

A 1,150-square-meter (m2) manufacturing site, powered by 100-percent green electricity, is currently under construction in Roncq and will feature four clean rooms (totaling 300 m2) and an analytical laboratory extending over 140 m2.

Christophe Bancel, CEO, Gecko Biomedical, said: “This funding will allow us to speed up our industrialization process and equip ourselves with a globally unique manufacturing site. Cutting-edge processes will be performed on this site to produce all our liquid polymers in individual, sterile conditions, ready for use by surgeons. We also intend to speed up a second phase in our strategy through the industrial and clinical development of our 3D printing platform for flexible, bioresorbable and high-resolution implants, by leveraging our polymers as a biomedical resin, as well as by optimising state-of-the-art 3D printing techniques”.

Marie Zwarg, the area leader for Healthcare within the management team for Bpifrance’s Industrial Sectors, added that: “Bpifrance has supported Gecko Biomedical since its creation. We are delighted to contribute to furthering the development of its top-level technological platform with multiple applications, while also contributing to its industrialization in France”.

Posted January 24, 2018

Source: Gecko Biomedical

Milberg Factors Names Stanley M. Joseph Senior Vice President

NEW YORK CITY — January 23, 2018 — Milberg Factors Inc., one of the largest factoring and commercial finance companies in the United States, is proud to announce and welcome Stanley M. Joseph as senior vice president.

Stan Joseph brings nearly four decades of experience to Milberg Factors. As managing partner of the accounting firm Berenson LLP, Joseph helped structure financing for manufacturers, distributors and service companies in virtually every industry, including apparel and textiles. He helped facilitate mergers and acquisitions, and provide turnaround consulting for troubled companies. It was at Berenson that Joseph earned a reputation as a trusted advisor to high net worth business owners in protecting assets, maximizing profits and lowering taxes.

In 2007, Joseph negotiated the sale of Berenson to CohnReznick LLP, the tenth largest public accounting firm in the U.S. In his role as Partner and Apparel and Fashion Industry Practice Director at CohnReznick, Joseph advised businesses, with a focus on profit enhancement. His extensive management experience included recruiting, developing and overseeing staff, and building outstanding relationships through innovative solutions and a proactive approach.

“We count apparel and textile manufacturers among our many clients. With more than 30 years of experience under his belt, Stan will make a valuable addition to the Milberg Factors team,” says Chairman Leonard Milberg. “We look forward to providing an even higher level of service to our clients as he steps into his role as Senior Vice President.”

Posted January 24, 2018

Source: Milberg Factors

Ralph Lauren Corporation Strengthens Digital Capabilities

NEW YORK CITY— January 24, 2018 — Ralph Lauren Corp. today announced several senior talent appointments to drive expansion of the company’s digital presence globally.

Alice Delahunt will join Ralph Lauren in the newly created role of chief digital officer, reporting directly to Patrice Louvet, CEO, and will be a part of the company’s executive leadership team, beginning in April. She will be responsible for elevating the company’s global digital platforms and enhancing the digital experience for consumers across all channels to drive consumer acquisition, retention, value and revenue.

“We are moving urgently to expand our digital presence all over the world and bringing in the right senior talent to help us deliver,” Louvet said. “We have to meet consumers where they are, which is increasingly online, and digital expansion is one critical way we will drive new growth for our iconic business and brand.”

Delahunt joins Ralph Lauren most recently from Burberry, where she served as director of Digital Marketing and led digital innovation on social media platforms globally. Delahunt began her career at JWT London and received a degree in Business and Political Science from Trinity College in her native Ireland.

The Company has also appointed new senior leaders to support its evolution across e-commerce in North America and internationally:

  • Laura Porco has been appointed senior vice president, E-Commerce, for Ralph Lauren North America. Porco formerly ran e-commerce for Ralph Lauren’s Club Monaco brand and was previously with Amazon for 12 years where she led the launch of Kindle Books and MYHABIT.com.
  • Galen Hardy will take on the role of senior vice president, Club Monaco E-Commerce & Business Operations, joining the company from Zappos where he oversaw Apparel Merchandising, owning the growth and direction of Zappos.com’s clothing business.
  • Valeria Juarez will assume the role of senior vice president, E-Commerce, International. She served as senior vice president, E-Commerce, EMEA since 2016 and, prior to joining Ralph Lauren held various senior roles at Amazon UK and Diageo.

To support Ralph Lauren’s global digital expansion, strong core technology and infrastructure are critical, and the Company continues to strengthen the senior leadership across its Information Technology organization as well:

  • Janet Sherlock, chief information officer, joined the company in August from Carter’s, where she also served as CIO.
  • Cyrus “Cy” Fenton will be joining Sherlock’s team as senior vice president, IT Security & Infrastructure, Chief Information Security Officer. Fenton previously was at Books-A-Million Inc. where he led the omnichannel digital business and oversaw all aspects of information technology.

Posted January 24, 2018

Source: Ralph Lauren Corp.

Petrochemical Growth Is Boom For Ohio River Corridor

CANTON, Ohio — January 24, 2018 — Ohio River Corridor LLC has been created because of the demand for corporations and developers looking for site locations in the Ohio River Valley. This demand is a result of petrochemical and related facilities that require proximity to the Ohio River.

Ohio River Corridor, a holding company, will provide site selection services under the brokerage NAI Spring in Ohio and JJ Guida Airport Realty in West Virginia and Pennsylvania to assist oil & gas, petrochemical, plastics and derivatives companies in the Utica and Marcellus Shale region. The focus on this area has in part started with the Shell Petrochemical Complex (cracker) in Monaca, Pennsylvania, which will utilize ethane from natural gas as feed stock and crack into ethylene, then further process into polyethylene.

Ohio River Corridor will also provide consulting services to assist clients with their growth and success in this area. “We are currently working with organizations from the Gulf Coast and internationally to determine if locating a facility in the tri-state area is economically feasible,” stated Bryce Custer, president, Ohio River Corridor.

A third division is planned for investments and development of land and facilities along the Ohio River and Appalachian Basin. Investors are beginning to see the opportunity for investment in this emerging area of Appalachia.

“The goal of Ohio River Corridor LLC is to be recognized as the experts in petrochemical, plastics, energy services & derivative industries for site selection and consultation throughout the Appalachian Basin,” stated Custer. “We have the networking resources both regionally, nationally and internationally to provide site solutions and create value for clients’ logistics and supply chain needs with highway, rail and barge served properties.”

Bryce Custer, SIOR, CCIM, MRICS, has more than 25 years of experience in commercial real estate, and a degree in Chemistry from Kent State University.

Posted January 24, 2018

Source: Ohio River Corridor

Seegrid Announces Record Growth For 2017

PITTSBURGH — January 24, 2018 — Seegrid today announced record-setting results for 2017, continuing the company’s upward trajectory and surpassing 2016’s revenue and profit milestones. Seegrid has firmly established itself as the go-to solution for self-driving vehicles, as manufacturing and distribution facilities rapidly adopt automation to increase efficiency, safety, and profitability.

“Manufacturing and e-commerce companies are under pressure to modernize their operations and transform their facilities into the smart factories of the future,” said Jim Rock, CEO, Seegrid. “Our customers expect a partner who can not only deliver a quality product, but help shepherd the transition into a more automated, data-driven environment.”

The demand for Seegrid vision guided vehicles (VGVs) drove a significant increase in customer growth in 2017. New and existing customers selected the Seegrid Smart Platform to transform into safer, more productive facilities as connected automation becomes best practice. Existing customers in automotive, e-commerce, and distribution placed additional orders to expand their VGV fleets, having increased safety, improved workflow efficiency, and achieved ROI with Seegrid vehicles.

In 2018, automated solutions will continue to be a priority capital investment for manufacturing and distribution leaders. Seegrid will support this adoption with the expansion of its Smart Platform, releasing new self-driving vehicles and software features in 2018. As enterprise adoption of automation continues, Seegrid remains well equipped to advise and partner with existing and future customers.

2017 marked a year of continued growth and innovation for Seegrid as the company expanded its product suite with the GP8 Series 6 self-driving pallet truck, which offers fully automated material movement from pick-up to drop-off. Operating entirely infrastructure-free, the GP8 Series 6 provides an end-to-end automation solution aligned with Industry 4.0 and lean initiatives.

As Seegrid saw continued success and customer growth throughout 2017, the company added new jobs, expanding its engineering, customer engagement, and deployment departments by 30 percent. Seegrid also expanded its geographic presence with new orders in Canada and Europe.

Seegrid closed out 2017 hitting a major milestone of 800,000 production miles — 1.3 million kilometers — by self-driving vehicles in customer facilities without a single safety incident. In 2018, the company will hit 1 million miles — 1.6 million kilometers — driven autonomously by its VGVs and is committed to fulfilling its promise of zero safety incidents.

Posted January 24, 2018

Source: Seegrid

Michael Prince Elevated To CEO, W. David Cummings Elected Chairman For USPA Global Licensing

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — January 24, 2018 — USPA Global Licensing Inc. (USPAGL), the official licensing arm and national broadcaster of the United States Polo Association (USPA), announced the promotion of J. Michael Prince to CEO and the election of W. David Cummings as Chairman of the Board effective immediately. USPAGL manages the U.S. POLO ASSN. brand, the USPA’s $1.5 billion global sport-inspired apparel brand. Prince said: “I am honored and humbled by this amazing opportunity to work with a brand and sport that have unlimited potential. I want to thank David, our Board, the USPA, and all of our global partners for their support of me over the past year. We are very excited and optimistic about what the future holds.”

Prince was hired as COO of USPA Global Licensing in May 2017 as part of a long-term succession plan for Cummings who has served as President and CEO since 2004.  Cummings will assume the role of chairman and will continue to work with the USPAGL and USPA on strategic opportunities and collaborative measures intended to bring broader awareness to the sport and drive consumer desire for USPA official licensed product.

A veteran executive of iconic global lifestyle brands such as Cole Haan, Nike, Converse, and Guess, Prince believes that the U.S. POLO ASSN. brand’s authenticity to the sport of polo creates a unique opportunity in the global marketplace that appeals to today’s consumers, especially the younger Millennial and Gen Z generations. Prince noted: “The authenticity of U.S. POLO ASSN. sets it apart from all of its competitors as the only officially sanctioned brand for the sport of polo in the United States. The Huffington Post recently noted that ‘millennials want authentic messages, authentic brands and authentic interactions.’  Our brand delivers on all three of those experiences combined with a level of fashion and quality that appeals to today’s consumer.”

Prince, Cummings and the USPAGL senior leadership team have spent the past year working with their global partners to lay the foundation for a long-term strategic plan referred to as “Whitespace 2025.” This strategic plan envisions the brand exceeding $2 billion in global retail sales and expanding to over 1,300 monobrand retail stores worldwide. There will also be a major focus on transitioning into a digital and media content driven brand. This transition is part of an overall strategic move to more fully engage global consumers and sports fans through the brand’s “Live Authentically” platform. The brand’s authentic connection to the sport and lifestyle of polo will be reinforced through social media, digital, broadcasts, public relations and high-profile polo events.

The strategic plan also includes major expansion efforts in key international markets such as China, India and Turkey where the brand already has a significant presence, while also gaining market share domestically in the United States and more mature markets such as Europe and Latin America. Lastly, an expanded product offering that includes more active, technical, and functional options, as well as a larger assortment for women and kids, will drive greater consumer engagement with the brand.

Prince earned his undergraduate degree from East Central University and his MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, where he currently serves on the board. He is also a featured speaker at numerous universities and industry events discussing global brands, international business and entrepreneurship.

Cummings earned his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M. He is an apparel industry veteran with approximately 20 years’ experience as well as a long-time polo player.  He has worked within the equine industry throughout his career including several management positions within the sport of polo.

Posted January 24, 2018

Source: USPA Global Licensing

Vineyard Vines Announces Exclusive Golf Collaboration With Renowned Sports Commentator Jim Nantz

STAMFORD, Conn. — January 24, 2018 — Vineyard Vines, a brand best known for its whimsical neckties and smiling pink whale logo, announced today a new collaboration with sports commentator Jim Nantz. The new line will focus on golf apparel and accessories for men, women and kids. The partnership advances vineyard vines’ commitment to the golf lifestyle through multiple product offerings and will be inspired by Nantz’s love of the game both on and off the course. The collection will debut Spring 2019 on vineyardvines.com, at select vineyard vines retail stores and green grass shops nationwide.

Nantz has been the voice of CBS Sports for more than 30 years calling some of America’s biggest sporting events from the Masters Tournament, the PGA Championship, the PGA Tour, the Super Bowl and the Final Four. A passionate philanthropist, Nantz and vineyard vines began collaborating in Spring 2017 to create the highly successful “Forget-Me-Knot” custom-designed collection that benefits the Nantz National Alzheimer Center (NNAC) at Houston Methodist Hospital. Nantz founded the NNAC in 2011 to honor his father who suffered for 13 years with the disease.

“We couldn’t be more excited to work with Jim,” said Shep Murray, Vineyard Vines CEO & co-founder. “He has been the voice of golf for 32 years and resides steps from the American golf treasure known as Pebble Beach Golf Links. No one lives the golf lifestyle more than Jim — he knows not only what it looks like but also what it feels like. As a brand, we’ve partnered with some of the greatest institutions in the world, like the Kentucky Derby and the America’s Cup and it’s very exciting to now join forces with golf’s greatest voice!”

Ian Murray, Vineyard Vines CEO & co-founder added: “We already consider Jim part of the vineyard vines’ family and we are thrilled to expand our partnership with a respected figure in golf who shares our vision and true understanding of the ‘Every day should feel this good’ outlook.”

“Shep, Ian and vineyard vines have been incredible partners with our philanthropic efforts through the Forget-Me-Knot collection,” Nantz said. “I could not be more impressed by their commitment to this important cause for me and my family. While that will continue, I am elated by the new golf lifestyle brand we are creating that will reflect a love for the sport and the virtues it represents. Golf is a central part of my life and I look forward to working with the great folks at vineyard vines to create an authentic golf apparel brand that speaks to the golfer.”

Posted January 24, 2018

Source: vineyard vines

Gap Launches “Archive Reissue — Logo Remix” Collection With Original Film And Remixed Musical Track

NEW YORK CITY — January 24, 2018 — Gap today announced the launch of Gap “Archive Reissue – Logo Remix,” a collection of apparel for men and women highlighting its recognized logo. For almost 50 years, the Gap logo has represented the heritage of the Gap brand and its relevance in culture. To celebrate its evolution, the Logo Remix collection includes signature Gap styles, including tees, sweatshirts, and rugby shirts, thoughtfully designed with logos from throughout the decades.

To launch the collection, Gap collaborated with director Tabitha Denholm, who has directed music videos for Florence and the Machine, Haim and Jessie J, along with performance and movement director Tanisha Scott, who is best known for her work with Beyoncé, Drake and Rihanna, to create the Logo Remix film. The film brings together some of the world’s leading culture remixers in a moment of joy evoked through music and movement by paying homage to the nostalgic Gap ads of the past with a modern, remixed twist. While Tabitha used motion control video techniques to play with space and perspective, Tanisha choreographed a dance sequence that includes remixed versions of unforgettable group dances including “The Wobble,” “Cha Cha,” and “Kid-n-Play.”

Logo Remix features a global cast of talent who are remixing creative culture on their own terms, whether that be through music, acting, comedy, activism or being a strong, self-expressive voice in today’s society. This group of influential remixers includes Grammy nominated singer Sza as well as chart-topping producer Metro Boomin who remixed the music for the film. Working with the iconic ’80s anthem ‘Hold Me Now’ by British Band the Thompson Twins, off the “Into the Gap” album, Metro Boomin updated the original version with his signature 808 beat, making it relevant to today’s hip-hop culture. The track will be available across all music streaming sites beginning Thursday, January 25.

“Following the strong consumer and social interest in our ”90s Archive Reissue’ from last year, we are launching the Logo Remix collection by looking forward at the talent who are reshaping and remixing culture in their own way,” said Craig Brommers, chief marketing officer for Gap. “Gap is always one to celebrate and bring culture to the mainstream and what better way to do this and highlight this group of global individuals.”

The ‘Logo Remix’ cast:

Music:

  • Sza – The singer/songwriter is remixing modern femininity by re-shaping the R&B genre with her fierce powerful stance.
  • Metro Boomin –The go-to producer is remixing music industry rules and is responsible for many of the music charts most memorable new sounds.
  • Sabrina Cloudio – The singer/songwriter is remixing the pop genre with her soulful sound originally releasing via SoundCloud.

Film & TV:

  • Bria Vinaite – The actress is remixing Hollywood on her own terms discovered via Instagram and already tipped as one to watch.
  • Miles Heizer – The actor is remixing the teenage experience by tackling roles around mental health and sexuality.
  • Awkwafina – The comedienne/ actress is remixing the conversation for the viewpoint of second generation Asian-Americans.
  • Maya Jama – The TV presenter is remixing the script on mental health issues and family norms by speaking openly about personal experiences.

Digital:

  • Naomi Watanabe – The actress and comedienne is remixing ingrained assumptions on body image in Japan and around the world with her bold and unapologetic attitude about size-ism and style.
  • Connor Franta – The YouTube star is remixing the concept of fame in the digital age, rising to mainstream prominence when he came out as a Gay Man on his channel with a positive and profound effect on his fanbase.

Launching fully on January 28, a :30 television spot will air during The Grammys and the film will live across mobile, social and digital channels. The film is supplemented by a ‘Making Of’ video created by The Madbury Club featuring the cast sharing their thoughts on what it means to remix culture and offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the film’s creation.

In the film, each of the cast members wears pieces from the ‘Archive Reissue – Logo Remix’ collection which will be available on Gap.com on January 27 and in select Gap stores globally beginning January 29. In addition, there will be a “Limited Edition Logo Remix” capsule that includes 30 one-of-a-kind designs, made by deconstructing and remixing vintage Gap logo sweatshirts and tees from the Gap archives. Every garment was put together by hand in the Gap New York City design studio.

Posted January 24, 2018

Source: Gap

Unifi Elects PepsiCo North America CEO Albert P. Carey To The Board Of Directors

GREENSBORO, N.C. — January 24, 2018 — Unifi Inc. today announced the election of Albert (Al) P. Carey to the Board of Directors.

Carey currently serves as CEO of PepsiCo North America, a role he has held since March 2016. As a 36-year PepsiCo veteran, he has extensive experience leading multiple lines of consumer brands across snacks and beverages at PepsiCo, including as CEO of Frito-Lay North America.

“We are excited to have someone with Al’s background join our Board of Directors,” said Kevin Hall, Chairman and CEO of Unifi. “As we expand our product offerings beyond textile fibers and into numerous sustainable solutions, Al’s experience will be paramount. “His addition to our board comes at an excellent time, as we focus on growing REPREVE® and our innovative product portfolio across multiple markets.”

Carey currently serves on the board of directors of The Home Depot Inc. and The Food Marketing Institute.

“Unifi’s unique market position, product portfolio and strategic initiatives are compelling,” Carey said. “I am looking forward to being involved in the growth opportunities of Repreve, a critical sustainability story with over 10 billion plastic bottles being saved from landfills and transformed into high-quality consumer products.”

Posted January 24, 2018

Source: Unifi

Polartec To Unveil Polartec® Power Fill™ At Outdoor Retailer + Snow Show

ANDOVER, Mass. — January 24, 2018 — Polartec will unveil Polartec® Power Fill™ insulation technology — and products made by Polartec customers using the insulation — at Outdoor Retailer + Snow Show, the outdoor recreation expo and conference to be held January 25-28, 2018, in Denver.

With a deep history of creation through the Science of Fabric, including the invention of the modern synthetic fleece, grid fabrics with Polartec Power Grid®, and active insulation with Polartec Alpha®, Polartec offers temperature regulation solutions. Now, Polartec offers a best-in-class fill insulation technology with Polartec premium quality for cold conditions, featuring a superior combination of warmth-to-weight, durability, design flexibility, and recycled content.

Polartec Power Fill is a premium solution for package insulation design made from a proprietary hollow-fiber construction that is softer and more durable, forming thousands of air pockets that continuously capture and contain body heat, out of cruelty-free, 80-percent recycled content. A unique controlled melt process bonds the hollow fibers, eliminating the need for scrims or other stabilizers, while increasing durability and drapability. This gives Polartec Power Fill unmatched warmth and design versatility, and the polyester fiber’s inherent hydrophobic properties also work to ensure that Polartec Power Fill resists moisture absorption and dries quickly, while maintaining a high warmth to weight ratio.

Polartec customer Triple Aught Design has become the first to market with Polartec Power Fill product via its Bastion Hoodie and M-65 liner. For Fall 2018, Polartec customers Flylow, Giro and Millet will be introducing Polartec Power Fill product of their own, which will be unveiled in the Polartec booth, #54021-UL, at Outdoor Retailer + Snow Show.

Polartec Power Fill is available in 60, 80, 100, 135, 170 and 200 gram per square meter weights.

Posted January 24, 2018

Source: Polartec

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