Sympatex To Showcase Innovative Sustainable Solutions At PERFORMANCE DAYS 2024 In Munich

MUNICH, Germany— October 8, 2024 — Sympatex Technologies is excited to announce its participation in the upcoming PERFORMANCE DAYS trade fair, taking place on October 23-24, 2024, in Munich. Visitors can find Sympatex at two dedicated booths: Apparel A2/P17 and Footwear A1/FW07.

Apparel Innovations: Fiber-to-Fiber Portfolio Expands

At the Apparel booth, Sympatex will spotlight its expanding fiber-to-fiber portfolio, emphasizing mono-materials as the central theme. Highlights include:

  • Vitoria Spring AS: A high-performance 3-layer laminate crafted from chemically recycled textile-to-textile fibers. Perfect for outdoor garments and sportswear like hiking, skiing, and snowboarding, it features a structured, stretchy ripstop surface and a soft jersey backing, delivering substantial sustainability benefits.
  • Toulouse Ice EU: This 3-layer laminate, made with chemically recycled stretchy PES yarns, is designed for high breathability and waterproofness. With a soft jersey backing made from dope-dyed yarns, it’s ideal for cycling, hiking, and skiing, showcasing a lower environmental impact through innovative dyeing technology.
  • Seon AS: A high-performance 2-layer laminate composed of chemically recycled ultra-stretchy T8-PES yarns, offering breathability and waterproofness for activities like running and cycling.
  • Kunming Spring AS: Made from Cordura-certified polyester, this 3-layer laminate is suited for heavy-duty outdoor garments, combining durability and sustainability for activities such as snowmobiling and mountaineering.

Additionally, Sympatex will introduce its new Digital Fabric Library, showcasing the latest in sustainable textile sourcing.

Footwear Solutions: Leading the Way in Sustainable Performance

In the Footwear area, Sympatex will present cutting-edge technologies that redefine comfort and sustainability:

  • Cool Comfort, Dry Performance: The innovative moisture-tech by Sympatex® offers rapid sweat absorption and quick drying, significantly reducing heat inside the shoe – demonstrated to cut heat by 45% in tests. This technology not only minimizes blister formation but also enhances wearer comfort.
  • Sustainable Comfort, Proven Performance: Sympatex’s non-woven laminates eliminate polyurethane foam from production, achieving a 10% reduction in CO2 emissions and a 15% decrease in water consumption. Yasemin Malcolm, Product Manager Footwear at Sympatex, states, “We have replaced the polyurethane layer with 100% recycled polyester non-woven fabric, enhancing our resource efficiency and moving closer to achieving mono-materiality and recyclability for our laminates.”

Sympatex is also thrilled to unveil the new SAM Campaign (Sustainability And Me) in further detail at the fair, an initiative aimed at engaging families in both stores and online. This vibrant, interactive campaign showcases the sustainability and performance benefits of children’s footwear featuring Sympatex membranes through engaging illustrations and eye-catching displays.

PERFORMANCE DAYS: A Focus on Footwear Innovation

This year’s PERFORMANCE DAYS will highlight sustainable production methods for waterproof shoes. The event’s theme, “Colorization – Chemistry is Everywhere,” encourages environmentally friendly alternatives to textile dyeing. With a dedicated Footwear Forum, industry experts will explore innovative trends and developments in the sector.

Visitors can look forward to exciting platforms in the Footwear area, including testing ranges with James Heal and HDry. These tests will measure water repellency and waterproofness to ensure the highest standards for outdoor gear.

Want to know more? Visit PERFORMANCE DAYS Footwear Area in hall A1 with its exciting test range and learn more about the exciting test area here: https://www.performancedays.com/news/detail/visit-performance-days-footwear-area-with-exciting-platforms.html

Join Us at PERFORMANCE DAYS

Save the date for the leading trade fair for functional fabrics and accessories! PERFORMANCE DAYS is an essential platform for showcasing innovative materials and technologies, facilitating exchanges between designers, product managers, and manufacturers in the sports and fashion sectors. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the latest fabric highlights for A/W 2026/27!

Register now for your free ticket and stay updated on all event details: https://www.performancedays.com/the-fair/visit/register-now.html

Posted: October 8, 2024

Source: Sympatex Technologies GmbH

The National Retail Federation (NRF): October Import Cargo To Remain Strong Despite Three-Day Strike At East Coast And Gulf Coast Ports

WASHINGTON— October 8, 2024 — Imports at the nation’s major container ports should continue at elevated levels this month despite a strike that briefly shut down operations from Maine to Texas last week, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“It was a huge relief for retailers, their customers and the nation’s economy that the strike was short lived,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “It will take the affected ports a couple of weeks to recover, but we can rest assured that all ports across the country will be working hard to meet demand, and no impact on the holiday shopping season is expected. The strike wasn’t without impacts – retailers who brought in cargo early or shifted delivery to the West Coast face added warehousing and transportation costs. But the priority now is for both parties to negotiate in good faith and reach a long-term contract before the short-term extension ends in mid-January. We don’t want to face a disruption like this all over again.”

Members of the International Longshoremen’s Association went on strike at East and Gulf Coast container ports on October 1 after their contract with the U.S. Maritime Alliance expired. But the strike lasted only three days, ending after a tentative agreement was reached on a wage increase and a short-term contract extension until January 15. The move came after NRF led a coalition in asking President Biden to use “any and all authority” to end the strike.

Ports handled unusually large volumes of cargo beginning this spring as importers brought in goods early because of the potential for a strike and shifted a number of vessels to the West Coast, where dockworkers are represented by a different union.

“The surge in imports over the past few months has clearly been the result of contingency imports by wholesalers, retailers and industrial companies in anticipation of the East and Gulf Coast port strike rather than a sudden increase in demand,” Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said. “We may see some short-term congestion on the West Coast but nothing significant, and East Coast delays should be limited.”

U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 2.34 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units – one 20-foot container or its equivalent – in August, although the Ports of New York/New Jersey and Miami have yet to report final data. That was up 0.9% from July and up 19.3% year over year for the highest volume since the record of 2.4 million TEU set in May 2022.

Ports have not yet reported September’s numbers, but Global Port Tracker projected the month at 2.29 million TEU, up 12.9% year over year. October is forecast at 2.12 million TEU, up 3.1% year over year. That is slightly higher than the 2.08 million TEU forecast for October a month ago, and the strike did not appear to affect national totals.

November is forecast at 1.91 million TEU, up 0.9% year over year, and December at 1.88 million TEU, up 0.2%. That would bring 2024 to 24.9 million TEU, up 12.1% from 2023. January 2025 is forecast at 1.98 million TEU, up 0.8% year over year, and February 2025 is forecast at 1.74 million TEU, down 11.2% because of fluctuations in the timing of Lunar New Year shutdowns at Asian factories.

The import numbers come as NRF is forecasting that 2024 retail sales – excluding automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants to focus on core retail – will grow between 2.5% and 3.5% over 2023.

Global Port Tracker, which is produced for NRF by Hackett Associates, provides historical data and forecasts for the U.S. ports of Los Angeles/Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle and Tacoma on the West Coast; New York/New Jersey, Port of Virginia, Charleston, Savannah, Port Everglades, Miami and Jacksonville on the East Coast, and Houston on the Gulf Coast. The report is free to NRF retail members, and subscription information is available at NRF.com/PortTracker. Subscription information for non-members can be found at www.globalporttracker.com.

As the leading authority and voice for the retail industry, NRF analyzes economic conditions affecting the industry through reports such as Global Port Tracker.

Posted: October 8, 2024

Source: The National Retail Federation (NRF)

Birla Carbon Selects Orangeburg County For First South Carolina Operation

COLUMBIA, S.C. — October 8, 2024 — Birla Carbon, a manufacturer and supplier of carbon solutions, today announced it selects Orangeburg County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation. The $1 billion investment will create 124 new jobs.

With more than 160 years of experience, Birla Carbon is one of the largest manufacturers and suppliers of high-quality carbon additives globally. The company currently operates 17 manufacturing facilities in 14 countries, providing solutions for rubber, plastics, coatings, inks and other niche industries.

Birla Carbon will construct a 435,000-square-foot building at the Tri-County Industrial Site in Orangeburg to serve as a next-generation, synthetic graphite continuous production facility. The new operation will supply anode active materials which is enough to support more than 40-gigawatt hours (GWh) battery plants. The initial phase will produce 25,000 tons of synthetic graphite annually to meet the projected demand for the electric vehicle, energy storage and defense markets.

Operations are expected to be online in 2026. Birla Carbon will be providing education and internship opportunities to build a pipeline of employees, as well as childcare subsidies to help new parents work at the company’s facility. Employment opportunities will be available in 2025.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.

“Birla Carbon is excited to join the state of South Carolina in making this significant investment that will contribute to the growth of this critical industry domestically,” said Birla Carbon President and CEO John Loudermilk. “As a global leader in our industry, we are constantly looking for opportunities to collaborate with like-minded partners that make a real difference. This plant is an investment in the future as the demand for electric vehicles and energy storage markets will only grow. The investment aligns with our purpose to ‘Share the Strength’ as we will create value and drive positive change, supporting our stakeholders, especially our customers and the communities in which we operate.”

“South Carolina’s strong economy and pro-business climate continue to attract major investments for our state,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “Birla Carbon’s substantial $1 billion investment and the 124 new jobs it will create will have a transformative impact in Orangeburg County, and we look forward to the company’s success in our state.”

“When innovative global companies like Birla Carbon choose to invest in our state, it sends a message that South Carolina has the resources and workforce necessary for businesses to thrive,” said Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III. “We appreciate Birla Carbon’s significant investment in Orangeburg County and its confidence in South Carolina to be a partner for the future.”

“Orangeburg County is proud to welcome Birla Carbon to our growing community of innovative industries,” noted Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright. “With a capital investment of $1 billion and the creation of 124 new jobs, this advanced manufacturing facility, specializing in synthetic graphite, highlights our county’s immense potential and reinforces our commitment to fostering long-term economic growth. We look forward to the opportunities this will bring to our residents and the positive impact it will have on our community. On behalf of the county council and the citizens of Orangeburg County, we extend our gratitude to Birla Carbon for choosing Orangeburg as the home for this groundbreaking facility.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Birla Carbon to the Cooperative family,” said Tri-County Electric Cooperative CEO Chad Lowder. “This project reflects the strategic investments Tri-County Electric Cooperative has made in infrastructure and site development in Orangeburg County. The job creation and investment in our community will not only boost our local economy but also highlight our commitment to fostering growth and innovation in the region.”

FAST FACTS

  • Birla Carbon selects Orangeburg County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation.
  • The company’s $1 billion investment will create 124 new jobs.
  • Birla Carbon is a leading manufacturer and supplier of carbon solutions.
  • The company will be located at the Tri-County Industrial Site in Orangeburg, S.C.
  • Employment opportunities will be available in 2025.

Posted: October 8, 2024

Source: South Carolina Office of the Governor

EDANA Sustainability Forum 2024: Driving Innovation And Circular Solutions In The Nonwovens Industry

BRUSSELS — October 7, 2024 — EDANA, the global association for the nonwovens and related industries, is excited to announce the EDANA Sustainability Forum 2024, an event that will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to shape the future of sustainability in the nonwovens sector.

This highly anticipated forum, taking place at the prestigious Royal Library of Belgium in Brussels, is designed to address critical topics surrounding sustainability, from circular economy innovations to responsible production practices. It promises to deliver actionable insights and foster collaboration across the nonwovens value chain.

Key highlights:

  • When? November 5-7, 2024
  • Where? KBR – The Royal Library of Belgium, Brussels
  • Registration? Register here

The EDANA Sustainability Forum evolved from EDANA’s Circular Nonwovens Forum and is set to cover all major sustainability topics relevant to the nonwovens industry, including circularity, the bioeconomy, consumer expectations, and natural raw materials.

The three-day event will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, interactive roundtables, and networking opportunities with industry leaders. Sessions will address topics such as:

  • How the EU Green Legislation will Shape the Nonwovens Industry
  • Navigating Corporate Sustainability and Social Responsibility in the Nonwovens Industry
  • How to Measure your Sustainability Performance
  • Unveiling the Future: Advancements in Durable Nonwovens for Sustainable Solutions
  • How to Make Trustworthy Environmental Claims
  • Fit for a Circular Economy: The Challenges and Opportunities of the Medical Nonwovens Industry

Why Attend?

The EDANA Sustainability Forum offers unparalleled opportunities to:

  • Network: Connect with key players in the nonwovens and sustainability sectors.
  • Learn: Gain insights from industry pioneers and policy influencers.
  • Collaborate: Discover new partners and explore opportunities for advancing sustainability.

Registration: Secure your spot today and be part of the conversation shaping the future of the nonwovens industry! To register, go to: https://www.edana.org/events/edana-sustainability-forum

Posted: October 8, 2024

Source: EDANA — European Disposables and Nonwovens Association

TRSA Celebrates Industry Milestones At 111th Annual Conference And Exchange

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — October 7, 2024 — The Textile Rental Services Association (TRSA) recently held its 111th Annual Conference and Exchange at The Broadmoor September 24-26. The event brought together TRSA members, guests and staff to celebrate and advance the industry.

Left to Right: Milton Magnus, M&B Hangers; TRSA Maglin-Biggie Award Winner Phil Hart, Kannegiesser ETECH; TRSA Operator Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Jim Buik, Roscoe Co., Chicago; and Mark Brim, Brim Laundry Machinery, pose for a picture at the Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner at TRSA’s 111th Annual Conference.

The conference kicked off with a Welcome Reception in The Broadmoor’s courtyard, where attendees enjoyed local Colorado beers, wines, and spirits, along with a variety of hors d’oeuvres. This reception provided an excellent opportunity for TRSA members to network and reconnect with industry peers.

The educational program began the following morning with a keynote session by Jay Samit, who shared his insights on breaking free from the status quo and embracing change. Samit’s presentation highlighted 12 truths for navigating uncertainty and maximizing opportunities, drawing from his extensive experience in transforming the digital landscape.

Attendees then participated in breakout sessions, choosing from topics such as safety excellence, presented by Brian Varner of Safety Solutions for Healthcare, and market growth strategies by Mark Kowalski of Envise Partners LLC. Additional sessions included an industry performance report by Andrew Whittman of Robert W. Baird & Co. and a discussion on organized labor trends in 2024. The day concluded with a creative “Cupcake Clash,” where participants showcased their decorating skills.

The final day featured TRSA’s Annual Business Meeting, focusing on the association’s current projects and the swearing-in of new board members. A panel discussion on succession planning followed. This session featured insights from Bill Evans, retired CEO & chairman of AmeriPride; Patrick Garcia, president, Division Laundry & Cleaners Inc.; Theresa Garcia, COO, Division; and Jim Doro, retired president/owner, Doritex Corp. The panelists discussed the actions they took, or are now planning to take, to maintain their organization’s legacy amid leadership changes.

The final keynote speaker of the conference was renowned drummer and rock n’ roll legend, Kenny Aronoff. He seamlessly blended inherited wisdom with hard-earned expertise, offering valuable lessons for succession planning, both within and beyond family businesses. Aronoff identified the tempo shifts required for effective leadership transitions, whether passing the torch within an organization or entering new arenas. His resilience in the face of challenges inspired others to stay in tune with their goals, even when the rhythm gets complicated. He provided insights into overcoming obstacles, maintaining focus, and creating a unique rhythm of success.

In between sessions, attendees had the opportunity to tour The Broadmoor’s on-premise laundry (OPL), organized by Jim Slatcher of Lavatec Laundry Technology Inc. The OPL handles all manners of hospitality facility services, as well as dry-cleaning and repairs to customers’ garments. The tour included a look at the OPL’s new tunnel washer, which has 10, 132 lb. (60 kg) compartments, a 40 bar press, and four double-batch dryers.

The conference concluded with The Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner, where Jim Kearns, COO of Alsco Uniforms, Salt Lake City, was honored for his term as TRSA Chairman of the Board. Jim Buik, president of Roscoe Co., Chicago, received the Operator Lifetime Achievement Award. Phil Hart, president/CEO of Kannegiesser ETECH, Minneapolis, was honored with the Maglin-Biggie Award, TRSA’s highest award for a supplier partner.

For more information about TRSA and its initiatives, visit TRSA’s website: trsa.org

Posted: October 7, 2024

Source: The Textile Rental Services Association (TRSA)

Verlo Mattress® Announces New Partnership With Culp, Inc. 

MILWAUKEE — October 1, 2024 — Verlo Mattress®, a supplier of customizable, American-made and locally crafted mattresses, today announced an exciting new partnership with Culp Inc. Beginning this fall, Verlo Mattress retail stores nationwide and online will feature Culp manufactured covers for their zipper cover line of mattresses. The zipper cover is a key component of Verlo’s Lifetime Comfort Guarantee, allowing in-home mattress adjustments without the hassle of returning the mattress to the factory, offering an unparalleled level of convenience. This partnership solidifies Verlo’s commitment to comfort, innovation, and working with the best in the industry.

“At Verlo Mattress, we are always striving to offer the highest quality sleep solutions for our customers, and our partnership with Culp allows us to enhance our product offerings with world-class fabrics and innovative designs,” said Dirk Stallmann, president of Verlo Mattress. “Culp’s high-performance materials and technical knowledge align perfectly with our commitment to providing customizable and durable products that ensure a better night’s sleep.”

Culp is known for producing cutting-edge fabrics and covers that combine innovative design with advanced performance. The company’s focus on environmentally mindful production processes further supports Verlo’s commitment to quality and environmental responsibility. Culp’s offerings are designed to be durable, comfortable and breathable, providing an exceptional foundation for Verlo’s customizable mattresses and bedding products.

The new partnership will feature Verlo’s zipper cover mattress models, delivering a superior sleep experience through advanced technology, comfort and durability.

“Culp is excited to partner with Verlo Mattress in creating a new level of comfort and innovation for consumers,” said Tommy Bruno, president of Culp Home Fashions. “With our shared dedication to quality and craftsmanship, we look forward to bringing our responsibly made, high-performance products to Verlo’s loyal customer base.”

Posted: October 7, 2024

Source: Verlo Mattress®

TreeToTextile And Lenzing Join Forces For Next-Generation Cellulose Fibers

STOCKHOLM — October 7, 2024 — The Austria-based Lenzing Group has invested in Sweden-based fiber company TreeToTextile to accelerate development of a new renewable and resource efficient cellulose fiber for textile and nonwoven applications. The fiber aims to replace part of the cotton fiber market and help the industry reduce its environmental footprint significantly1.

“We are both proud and excited to have the leading global cellulose fiber producer join us on our journey to produce renewable and resource-efficient fibers with low environmental impact,” said Dr. Roxana Barbieru, CEO of TreeToTextile. “Scaling innovation requires time and knowledge, and we are fortunate to have the strong support from our current owners H&M Group, Inter IKEA Group, Stora Enso and LSCS Invest. Now with the additional expertise and sustainability leadership of our new shareholder Lenzing Group, our speed to market will increase significantly, to reach our ambitious goals and become an important player in the textile industry.”

Ever since TreeToTextile AB was established in 2014 by the Swedish entrepreneur Lars Stigsson, TreeToTextile’s mission has been to develop and commercialize a new, renewable and resource efficient cellulose fiber, that not only minimizes environmental impact by reducing chemical use and conserving water and energy, but also stands out in the market with its cost-effectiveness and enhanced fiber properties. The development of the fiber has been supported by its owners and strategic partners, H&M Group, Inter IKEA Group, Stora Enso and LSCS Invest. To accelerate the next phase of the company, Lenzing Group is joining with more than 85 years of experience in scaling new fiber technologies.

The Lenzing Group has a revenue of 2.52 billion euros, approximately 8,000 employees and production sites and sales representation in more than ten countries. Its nominal fiber production capacity is 1,110,000 tons and the company is behind the well-known trademarks of TENCEL™, LENZING™ ECOVERO™, VEOCEL™ and REFIBRA™.

“We are excited about TreeToTextile’s award-winning technology and production process, which further reduces environmental impact, promotes the transition to a more sustainable future and is fully in line with our corporate strategy,” said Rohit Aggarwal, CEO of the Lenzing Group. “This partnership is a significant investment and a sign of Lenzing’s relentless commitment to innovation by combining the power of its own innovation engine with a strong strategic cooperation approach. We look forward to contributing our expertise to TreeToTextile’s mission”

TreeToTextile was established in 2014 by Swedish entrepreneur Lars Stigsson, H&M Group and Inter IKEA Group, with the objective to develop and commercialize a more sustainable process for man-made cellulosic fiber. In 2016, the first fiber-volumes were produced and in 2017 an initial proof of concept was developed. Stora Enso joined in 2019, and in 2021, the announcement of the establishment of a Demo plant at Stora Enso’s former premises in Nymölla, was communicated. The investment has been supported by the Swedish Energy Agency and the Demo plant was inaugurated in 2023. In June 2024, the first bale of fiber was produced in the Demo plant, followed by continuous strong development in the different process steps.

The agreement is pending merger control and regulatory approval from relevant authorities.

Posted: October 7, 2024

Source: TreeToTextile AB

Piana Sleep Partners With Woodstock Furniture And Mattress Outlet To Carry Groundbreaking And Sustainable Rinnovo Mattress In-Store

CARTERSVILLE, Ga. — October 7, 2024 — Piana Sleep, a division of Piana Technology dedicated to pushing the mattress industry forward through sustainability and breakthrough innovation, is proud to announce it has partnered with Woodstock Furniture and Mattress Outlet to bring the Rinnovo mattress to five locations in the Atlanta area. Piana Sleep’s Rinnovo mattress is elevating expectations of what sustainable luxury can look like in the bedding industry.

Piana Sleep Partners With Woodstock Furniture And Mattress Outlet To Carry Groundbreaking And Sustainable Rinnovo Mattress In-Store

“The quality of the Rinnovo mattress, as well as the fit and feel, is very distinctive and special. The patents that Piana has obtained and the application of that technical expertise into a unique product like Rinnovo solves many of the problems that consumers have today,” said Brian Aaron, executive vice president at Woodstock Furniture and Mattress Outlet. “We are thoroughly impressed with Piana’s history of innovation and the forward-thinking to help solve an industry-wide concern of sustainably made products.”

Started in 1988, Woodstock Furniture and Mattress Outlet prides itself on its friendly, laid-back environment, hands-on customer service, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The retailer is well known for its hard-working, knowledgeable furniture and mattress experts, cementing them as a fixture in the local Atlanta community with a loyal customer base.

“We are very happy to partner with such a well-respected local retailer,” said Silvia Galasso, executive vice president of Piana Sleep. “Woodstock has a fantastic team that deeply cares about their community. For years, they have been facilitating mattress recycling for the beds they take back. They have always been ahead of the curve on that. We knew it would be a great fit with our commitment to sustainability and to alleviating the landfill problem in the US.”

The Rinnovo mattress blends foam and Piana’s transformative V/SMART fiber technology to create a more sustainable and uniquely comfortable mattress. V/SMART’s groundbreaking design includes the company’s Molecular Printing technology that infuses molecular compounds into materials tailored to deliver countless health benefits, such as active cooling, aromatherapy, antimicrobial and dust-mite protection, sleep and mood enhancers, and much more – producing an unparalleled and deeply restful night’s sleep.

The Rinnovo highlights Piana Sleep’s devotion to minimizing waste, reducing its carbon footprint, and conserving energy in the bedding industry. The Rinnovo mattress is made using Piana recycled technology, resulting in up to 46-percent fewer CO2 emissions and up to 52 percent less energy to make than an equivalent all-foam mattress. And it is up to 31 percent lighter.

The Rinnovo mattress is available for purchase in select Woodstock Furniture and Mattress Outlets starting immediately.

Posted: October 7, 2024

Source: Piana Technology

Sustainea, Primient Join Forces To Establish Largest U.S. Bio-MEG (Monoethylene Glycol) Facility In Lafayette, Indiana

LAFAYETTE, Ind. — October 7, 2024 — Sustainea and Primient announced a co-location partnership for the supply of corn dextrose from Primient’s facility in Lafayette, Ind., to Sustainea’s first Bio-MEG (monoethylene glycol) plant. Sustainea’s planned facility represents an investment of around $400 million and will produce a renewable, plant-based alternative to petroleum-based MEG.

Sustainea and Primient Join Forces to Establish Largest U.S. Bio-MEG Facility in Lafayette, Indiana. Photo — Business Wire

Sustainea is a company created with the ambition to be the global leader in Bio-MEG, which can be used as a drop-in product, delivering high quality and functionality while significantly reducing the carbon footprint. Primient is a leading manufacturer of plant-based ingredients and industry leader in producing high-quality, low carbon dextrose. Adding Primient’s feedstock to Sustainea’s Bio-MEG plant, will significantly reduce the need for traditional fossil-based plastics by producing bioproducts for beverage bottles, food containers, apparel, and footwear.

Gustavo Sergi, CEO of Sustainea, said: “This partnership marks a significant step forward in building one of the largest sustainability ventures globally. Primient has proven to be a strategic partner and long-term ally, with notable operational synergies and shared values. The high energy efficiency and low-carbon dextrose produced at the Lafayette plant will uniquely position Sustainea’s products for both sustainability and competitiveness. This announcement greatly serves our customers who will benefit from decarbonizing an ever-growing PET [polyethylene terephthalate] market.”

Jim Stutelberg, CEO of Primient, said: “We chose a co-location partnership with Sustainea due to our aligned vision and mission, and because Sustainea’s Bio-MEG has a very strong value proposition in today’s marketplace. The selection of Lafayette is a validation of Primient’s industry-leading low carbon footprint, enabled by our investments in co-generation capabilities to transition production entirely away from the use of coal. Our collaboration with Sustainea is a great example of Primient truly living our vision of building a better future through plant-based solutions. By integrating Primient and Sustainea’s strengths, we are driving biobased innovation and filling the void for renewable, plant-based solutions.”

With enthusiastic support from the state of Indiana and the city of Lafayette, the agreement was influenced by the region’s strong infrastructure, existing transportation networks and supportive local policies. Groundbreaking is set to begin after conclusion of engineering and final investment decision, with production expected to start in 2028.

Posted: October 7, 2024

Source: Sustainea and Primient

UNTUCKit Unveils Fall 2024 Commercial, Celebrating Effortless Style And Confidence For Every Man

NEW YORK CITY — October 3, 2024 — UNTUCKit, the brand known for revolutionizing men’s casual style with its signature “Shirts Designed To Be Worn Untucked,” is thrilled to unveil its Fall 2024 commercial. With a clear, powerful message — “We Just Make Guys Look Better” — the spot captures the moment men discover how UNTUCKit’s head-to-toe styles offer the perfect fit and effortless style.

The creative was led by Patrick O’Neill, chief creative of PTO Creative and former TBWA\CHIAT\DAY executive creative director, and directed by Ian Karr of IKA Productions. The spot recreates an UNTUCKit fitting room, showcasing the “a-ha” moment when men realize UNTUCKit is designed with them in mind. The diverse casting highlights men of all shapes and sizes, reflecting the brand’s inclusive fit system that ensures everyone can find their perfect style.

The commercial invites viewers to experience the ease of getting dressed with UNTUCKit. With minimal shrinkage and consistent sizing across the collection, every shirt delivers that “just-right” feeling—day after day. The spot also features appearances from the brand’s executives, including the vice president of Marketing, vice president of IT and Systems, and the director too.

“Creating a space where guys of all shapes and sizes can feel confident and comfortable has always been our mission,” said Chris Riccobono, UNTUCKit’s founder, who also makes a fun cameo at the end of the commercial. “We offer more than 30 size and fit combinations because we believe every man deserves styles that fit perfectly. Size inclusivity in men’s fashion doesn’t get enough attention — and we’re here to change that.”

Posted: October 7, 2024

Source: UNTUCKit

 

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