ROICA™ By Asahi Kasei And TENCEL™ By Lenzing To Continue The Joint Efforts To Create A New Generation Of Circular Driven Innovations Supported By Brugnoli, Maglificio Maggia And Maglificio Ripa

MILAN — July 8, 2024 — The partnership between ROICA™ by Asahi Kasei, a pioneer in premium stretch fiber and TENCEL™ by Lenzing, a leader in wood-based cellulosic textile fibers continues in introducing a concept of sustainable and circular-driven textiles, to different applications from general apparel to indoor sportswear or lingerie. This collaboration sets new benchmarks for sustainability, performance and design in textiles, offering a step forward in circular and responsibly produced next-generation materials to provide an innovative composition with creative opportunities, new fabric design, performance and quality, as well as end of life solutions.

In occasion of next Milano Unica we will have on stage three new collections aiming to reach contemporary consumer new generation of wardrobe through this project:

  • Performance wear: Yogatime by Brugnoli – MODA IN FABRICS, HALL 2, booth C09 C11 C13 / MAREdiMODA, HALL 3, booth MdM15
  • Fashion: De Rerum Natura by Maglificio Maggia – IDEABIELLA, HALL 4, booth H05
  • Lingerie – underwear: ECO proposals by Maglificio Ripa – MODA IN FABRICS, HALL 1, booth B10

Mr. Hiroaki Shinohe, Chief Marketing Officer of ROICA Europe at Asahi Kasei on the collaboration: “With this amazing partnership we are aiming to support the circular economy, sharing the same vision and goals: providing the quality of our materials of unique touch, comfort and performance combined with a high level of sustainability that leads to a responsible environmental impact when it comes to the end of life of a material”.

Mr. Carlo Covini, Business Development Manager of textiles business, Italy and Switzerland of Lenzing, comments: “Combining TENCEL™ and ROICA™ we are moving together towards a more sustainable textile industry which definitely HAS to tend to circular approach solutions. We are proud of this partnership and keep on finding new collaborations and partners to give our fibers the opportunity to express themselves in innovative and planet conscious collections with contemporary consumers looking for them in mind”.

All started with an interesting proposal for performance wear in occasion of last Performance Days, and now also in occasion of Milano Unica, Brugnoli introduces YOGATIME, a line made by three articles featuring innovative fabrics combining TENCEL™ Modal and the degradable stretch yarn ROICA™ V550, matching the needs of each garment designed for yoga and loungewear with a conscious approach. You can see it at MODA IN FABRICS, HALL 2, booth C09 C11 C13 / MAREdiMODA, HALL 3, booth MdM15.

And now we continue this journey touching base with a brand-new item of the wardrobe: fashion. We do it with the support of Maglificio Maggia, a company specialized in the manufacturing of fabrics knitted on circular looms, that will introduce their fabric made with TENCELTM Modal and ROICA™ V550 in occasion of Milano Unica at IDEABIELLA, HALL 4, booth H05, with two articles finished by Tintoria Finissaggio 2000:

556981 : elastic Milan stitch fabric, a weaving stitch that makes it structured and tactile with a high compactness and shape capable of best expressing itself in the creation of supported garments such as jackets and overshirts, pleasant and comfortable to the touch thanks to the perfect combination of cashmere and TENCEL™ Modal fibers. It remains fluid and smooth to the hand, thus positioning itself as 55698 an excellent option for a product with a winter taste but which does not give up that freshness, due to the texture, always pleasant in contact with the skin.

511502 : simple elastic jersey with a prestigious composition that blends cashmere and TENCEL™ Modal, two fibers capable of working together to provide an excellent tactile experience, perfect product for winter t-shirts and light garments. Worthy of mention is the premium stretch component which gives the fabric a high wearing comfort and is therefore able to optimally follow muscle movements, guaranteeing a high-level experience of use and performance.

The garments are now in the making of phase thanks to the designer Emanuele Stocco and the producer Andrea De Marco.

Giovanna Maggia, stakeholder of Maggia, adds: “There is no progress without the right, needed attention and a sustainable strategy. Maglificio Maggia interprets contemporary social and environmental responsibility values by conducting business with respect to the wellbeing and health of people and the planet, acknowledging that the textile sector can play a pivotal role. That’s why we choose to partner with TENCEL™ and ROICA™, united we can multiply our power”.

And after sport and fashion, here we come with another absolute relevant item for everyday life and health: lingerie and underwear. And our master here is called Maglificio Ripa.

Maglificio Ripa has been one of the most qualified fabric producers on the international scene for over sixty years, collaborating with most major fashion houses and the best-known lingerie, swimwear and sport brands. Maglificio Ripa will be introducing this new responsible innovation at Milano Unica at MODA IN FABRICS, HALL 1, booth B10 and MAREdiMODA, HALL 3, booth MdM03.

Following innovation and the production trend linked to circularity and degradability in textiles, Maglificio Ripa presents two new articles, ECO202AX 3 and ECO 373AC 4 , in TENCEL™ Lyocell with Micro technology and ROICA™ V550. Both have a super soft hand and are desired for “fashion underwear” and base-layer applications. The jersey, with a sheer and soft feel on the skin, is characterized by a light weight and a slight transparency, while maintaining the very warm feel of TENCEL™ and the technical characteristics of ROICA™ V550. The interlock, however, with the CLEAN CUT (a fabric produced in double needle beds and with a sharp cut) feature, gives comfort even to the most structured garments.

Luca Bianco, CEO of Maglificio Ripa, comments: “In Maglificio Ripa we truly believe that this kind of partnership are able to open new horizons for productions and collections that combine the expertise of valuable companies and their concrete commitment towards a more sustainable world. We put our knowledge at the service of the common goal of creating something new, beautiful and responsible”.

This collaborative venture is going to make a further step in circular economy for the textile industry and to set a new concept of sustainable and circular driven textiles enhancing degradability and environmental sustainability. Many things have been done, many valuable partnerships have been made, but we’re just at the beginning of this exciting path towards sustainability a new generation of wardrobe in the textile industry.

1 Technical data: 130hcm, 200grm2, 260grml. Composition: 87% TENCEL™ Modal, 8% cashmere and 5% ROICA™ V550 premium sustainable stretch

2 Technical data: 115hcm, 150grm2, 175grml. Composition: 82% TENCEL™Modal, 7% cashmere, 11% ROICA™ V550

3 ECO 202AX – 85% LYC (100/1 TENCEL™ Lyocell x Micro), 15% ROICA™ V550, a 130g/mq jersey in green

4 ECO 373AX – 87% LYC (100/1 TENCEL™ Lyocell x Micro), 13% ROICA™ V550), a 175g/mq interlock in pink

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: C.L.A.S.S. Eco Hub

Sympatex To Attend Functional Fabric Fair In New York

MUNICH, Germany — July 8, 2024 — Sympatex Technologies, a global supplier of sustainable functional textiles, is excited to announce its participation in the Functional Fabric Fair at the Javits Convention Center, New York, on July 16-17, 2024. This prestigious event, where function meets fashion, is a key platform for showcasing cutting-edge innovations in outdoor, lifestyle, and activewear textiles, footwear, and accessories.

Sympatex, known for its international presence beyond Europe, will have a strong representation at the fair. Kim Scholze, Chief Sales Officer, will play a pivotal role as the moderator of expert talks, bringing valuable insights into sustainable textile solutions. Additionally, Leandra Reisner, Sales Apparel at Sympatex, will present the company’s groundbreaking fiber-to-fiber collection.

Highlights of Sympatex’s Participation:

Expert Talks:

Kim Scholze, CSO, will moderate discussions with industry leaders on sustainability and innovation in functional textiles. “Sustainability and innovation are not just goals but ongoing journeys that shape the future of textiles,” says Kim Scholze.

Fiber-to-Fiber Collection Display:

Leandra Reisner will showcase Sympatex’s innovative fiber-to-fiber laminates, including:

  • Banff F2F AS
  • Banff F2F Spring AS
  • Minzhu F2F Spring AS
  • Minzhu F2F AS
  • Minzhu F2F Sky AS
  • Tokyo F2F AS
  • Tokyo F2F Sky AS
  • Tokyo F2F Spring AS
  • Vitoria F2F AS

Sympatex’s fiber-to-fiber initiative highlights the company’s commitment to true circularity in the textile industry. Developing fiber-to-fiber laminates is a significant challenge due to the complexities involved in recycling and reprocessing materials without compromising on performance or quality. By overcoming these challenges, Sympatex has established itself as a leader in sustainable innovation. This commitment is further underscored by the company’s ongoing efforts to advance a circular economy, which is the only viable path to sustainable textile production.

To further support this mission, Sympatex will be launching the Circular Design Lab in the fall, in collaboration with Performance Days, the European counterpart of the Functional Fabric Fair. This program aims to drive forward sustainable practices in design across the industry, reinforcing the necessity and benefits of circularity.

“Our fiber-to-fiber laminates represent the pinnacle of eco-friendly design, merging performance with sustainability,” says Leanda Reisner.

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: Sympatex Technologies GmbH

Paradise Textiles And Nanollose Sign Exclusive R&D Deal

ASIA PACIFIC — July 8, 2024 — Paradise Textiles, the material science hub of Alpine Group, has signed a deal with biotechnology company, Nanollose for the exclusive supply of its sustainable Nullarbor™ fibres.

Under the non-binding term sheet for the joint venture agreement, Paradise will work closely with Nanollose, undertaking research and development (R&D) to manufacture yarns and fabrics from cutting-edge Nullarbor™ fibres. They will also supply samples to bolster customer engagement, working closely with Nanollose to promote the Nullarbor™ brand and its fibres and fabrics to prospective clients.

Paradise Textiles is the dedicated technology-first innovation hub of Alpine Group, driving cutting-edge research and innovation on sustainable materials, performance, and advanced manufacturing to reinvent the fabric of fashion.

Nullarbor™ fibres are eco-friendly, tree-free fibres produced through a microbial fermentation process that converts waste products into microbial cellulose, using minimal land, water, and energy. The microbial cellulose is then transformed into Nullarbor™ fibres using Nanollose technology, offering a viable alternative to conventional plant-derived cellulose fibres.

The partnership between Paradise and Nanollose represents the next phase in their ongoing collaboration to commercialise scalable technology to create fibres and fabrics with minimal environmental impact. Since May 2022, they have gained experience developing and presenting high-quality fabric constructions to select fashion and footwear brands.

Ashok Mahtani, co-Chairman of Alpine Group, said: “We are proud to announce the successful pilot production of next-generation fabrics utilizing Nullarbor pulp. This achievement signifies Paradise Textiles’ ongoing commitment to innovation in fabric development and collaborative partnerships. Nullarbor fibre’s unique properties and production process will enable us to offer our customers high-performance, sustainable textile solutions. We are confident that this partnership will drive significant advancements in the textile industry and help towards achieving our goal of making fashion fit for the future.”

Commenting, Nanollose Executive Chairman, Dr Wayne Best, said: “I’m delighted to see this collaboration begin to formalise in a way that establishes a framework for both companies to achieve a commercial outcome. The relationship has been growing organically for some time and we’ve been delighted with the enthusiasm Paradise Textiles has displayed for our technology and fibres. Their expertise, commitment to sustainability and innovation, and customer base is a natural fit for our Nullarbor fibre technology. It’s proven to be a strong working relationship to-date and I look forward to the joint pursuit of our commercial goals through this strategic Joint Venture agreement.”

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: Paradise Textiles / Alpine Group

Transparent From The Beginning To The End: New Traceability Projects At Milano Unica

BERGAMO, Italy — July 8, 2024 — A navy blue nylon dress, providing elegance and comfort to the wearer while simultaneously highlighting the entire Made in Italy production chain: this is the new project RadiciGroup is presenting at Milano Unica, from July 9th to 11th at the Innovation Forum (HALL 3 Booth IN24) promoted by the TexClubTec section of Sistema Moda Italia.

The dress is the result of a concrete traceability project led by RadiciGroup, involving different players in the textile sector: from the yarn producer to the fabric manufacturer to the final consumer.

A “tracer” has been inserted into the yarn, which is detectable through a special scanner and allows to map the entire garment creation process – both physically and digitally – from the origin of the fibre to the item end of life. Through a QR code printed on the label, all the “stages” defining the outfit’s journey can be seen, including the production of the fabric made by another company from Bergamo, Sitip (Hall 2 – Stand A24/26). In this way, the final consumers can learn more about the production sites of what they wear, making more conscious purchasing choices.

At the booth of another Italian textile company, Tessitura Vignetta (Hall 2 – Booth A23), visitors will be able to touch several types of fabric made with the “traced” nylon produced by RadiciGroup.

This is another concrete example of how important it is to work transparently and collaboratively in the textile supply chain. Through the traceability of textile products, the goal is to fight counterfeiting and enhance products made in Europe, in line with the principles of the Digital Product Passport under development at the European Union.

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: RadiciGroup

Governor Ivey Champions Alabama Manufacturers On National ‘Made In The USA’ Day

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey

MONTGOMERY, Alabama — July 2, 2024 — Governor Kay Ivey praised Alabama’s robust manufacturing sector today in honor of ‘Made in the USA’ Day, highlighting its role in driving economic growth statewide through high-quality jobs and products in demand worldwide.

Governor Ivey emphasized Alabama’s status as a powerhouse in U.S. manufacturing, ranking in the top 5 states for manufacturing job concentration. The sector contributes approximately 17% of the state’s Gross Domestic Product, with an economic output exceeding $40 billion annually.

“Some of the best products found around the world are produced right here in Alabama,” said Governor Ivey. The ‘Made in Alabama’ badge has become a globally recognized symbol of unbeatable craftsmanship and unmatched quality.”

The Ivey Administration continues to prioritize initiatives that support and expand the manufacturing sector, including workforce development programs, investment in infrastructure and fostering a pro-business climate. These efforts have resulted in significant job creation and economic development across the state.

“Alabama’s manufacturers exemplify the best of American industry, and their contributions are vital contributors to our state’s economic resilience and national industries. ‘Made in the USA’ Day is celebrated every day here in Alabama because our state is a recognized leader when it comes to producing world-class products,” added Governor Ivey.

‘Made in the USA’ Day, celebrated on July 2, boosts sales of locally made products and honors the companies and individuals behind them.

With over 275,000 people employed at more than 4,000 enterprises, Alabama’s manufacturing landscape is both diverse and dynamic. The state serves as a key automotive manufacturing hub, a leader in aerospace and a top U.S. producer of steel and advanced materials.

Alabama is home to many renowned manufacturing brands and successful homegrown companies, as well as smaller producers turning out first-class consumer items.

“Alabama’s manufacturing sector has witnessed remarkable growth across numerous industries, benefiting communities and families statewide,” said Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “Manufacturers statewide are dedicated to excellence and innovative advancements that propel Alabama toward a more prosperous future.”

Moreover, manufactured goods represent a substantial portion of Alabama’s exports, totaling a record $27.4 billion in 2023, shipped to 190 countries. Last year, Alabama became the top auto-exporting state for the first time.

“Alabama is a hub for manufacturing. Thanks to Governor Ivey’s leadership and the hardworking men and women of this state, we continue breaking record after record,” said Manufacture Alabama President and CEO Jon Barganier. “Not only do our manufacturing industries positively impact Alabama through their $40 billion annual economic impact, but they provide great opportunities for our people. Through these good paying jobs, more Alabamians are able to live, work and raise a family here.”

According to the National Association of Manufacturers, average annual wages in Alabama’s manufacturing sector exceed $82,000 — significantly higher than the state average.

Posted: July 6, 2024

Source: The Office of Alabama Governor Kay Ivey

Hailin Xu Appointed New CEO Of The Saurer Group

ARBON, Switzerland — July 1, 2024 — Effective July 1, 2024, Hailin Xu will become the CEO of the Saurer Group, succeeding Dr. Uwe Rondé, who is leaving the company at his request.

Hailin Xu

Hailin Xu joined the Saurer Group in 2018 as Senior Vice President and Managing Director of the Global Open End Product Line.

Born in China and now a Swiss citizen, he brings extensive management experience and high intercultural expertise. Hailin Xu holds a degree from the Faculty of Chemical Engineering at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. He also has a Master’s degree from the China Institute of Atomic Energy and a Master’s in Business Administration from Lancaster University in the UK and the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland.

Before joining Saurer, Hailin Xu worked for the ABB Group in Switzerland from 2008 to 2018, serving as Vice President of Global Supply Chain for the Transformer Division.

“Given the drastic changes in the world and the many challenges and opportunities Saurer is facing, we are very pleased that with Hailin Xu we have been able to attract an internationally experienced manager with extensive knowledge in the strategic direction of the product and service business,” says Xueping Pan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saurer Group. “He also deeply understands Eastern and Western cultures, enabling him to promote synergies even better.”

For personal reasons, Dr Uwe Rondé has resigned from his positions as Group CEO, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, and other related positions. The Supervisory Board would like to thank Dr. Uwe Rondé for his great contribution to the company’s development during his tenure.

Posted: July 6, 2024

Source: Saurer Intelligent Technology AG

New European Initiative To Promote The Textiles, Clothing, Leather And Footwear Industry (TCLF) Skills Development At Regional Level – Launch Of The TCLF SkillBridge Project.

BRUSSELS — July 5, 2024 — Today, European Apparel and Textile Confederation (EURATEX) together with The Confederation of National Associations of Tanners and Dressers of the European Community (COTANCE) and  European Footwear Confederation (CEC) hosted the Textiles, Clothing, Leather And Footwear Industry (TCLF) SkillBridge Stakeholder Event, an important step towards forming regional skills partnerships by bringing together various stakeholders from industry, education, and public sectors.

Co-financed by the European Commission, TCLF SkillBridge aims to establish and nurture regional partnerships between TCLF industries, regional authorities, and local universities and VET providers. The project will target up to 25 European regions with a strong concentration of textile, clothing, leather or footwear industries.  This regional focus will allow the development of specific action plans related to reskilling and upskilling, which meet the needs of each target region.  The project will support the creation of such partnerships, facilitate community exchanges for knowledge sharing, and provide support to SMEs, enabling them to upskill and reskill their workforce in tune with the evolving demands of the industry.

The TCLF SkillBridge project complements 2 other initiatives – AEQUALIS4TCLF and METASKILLS4TCLF – which have already been launched under the Erasmus+ Programme. As a result, the industry has now a coherent set of instruments across the EU to address the skills challenges.

During the event today, stakeholders from the Emilia Romagna Region, ATEVAL, and Verband der Deutschen Lederindustrie e.V. gave insights in their experiences in skills collaborations in their regions. An interactive session then followed, where stakeholders discussed how to successfully establish such regional partnerships under the Pact for Skills.

Dirk Vantyghem, EURATEX Director General was excited to host the event as coordinator of the TCLF SkillBridge project: “This project confirms the importance of working at regional level, close to the SMEs and understanding the specificities of each region. We hope TCLF SkillBridge will act as a trigger to mobilise relevant stakeholders to co-invest in their TCLF industries.”

In this relation, Carmen Arias, Secretary General in the European Footwear Confederation (CEC), added: “By investing in education and training that align with the region’s economic priorities, policymakers can ensure that workers have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the evolving labour market. As CEC, we will continue helping these industries build a competitive advantage and position themselves in the global market.”

COTANCE Secretary General, Gustavo González-Quijano: “In the SkillBridge project, COTANCE is leading the charge by offering tailored mentorship to TCLF stakeholders aimed at guiding their regional skills partnerships towards developing educational strategies for higher levels of sustainability and competitiveness in their respective industries. Working closely with partners across Europe, we are united in our mission to drive the EU leather, textiles, clothing, and footwear sectors towards a greener, more resilient and innovative future”.

Posted: July 5, 2024

Source: European Apparel and Textile Confederation (EURATEX)

 

The New RE 4-1 Elastomeric Raschel Machine From KARL MAYER For Greater Competitiveness In The Commodity Market

OBERTSHAUSEN, Germany — July 2, 2024 — KARL MAYER launches its RE 4-1, a new Raschel machine for the extremely efficient production of highly elastic textiles. With this newcomer, the global player is expanding its successful Elastomeric series and supplementing the established RE 4-1 as part of its two-product line strategy. With an excellent price-performance ratio, the machine fulfils the requirements of the volume business in particular. It is also in no way inferior to its counterpart for the premium sector in terms of speed and quality.

Sascha Müller

“The RE 4-1 is particularly interesting for our customers in price-sensitive markets such as China and Türkiye. It offers highly efficient production of standard Power net articles at an extremely competitive price,” explains Sascha Müller, Product Owner Global Lace & Raschel at KARL MAYER.

RE 4-1

A 170″ version of the machine has already been on sale in China for several months. The pre-release got off to an extremely successful start. Encouraged by the feedback from the market, KARL MAYER has developed an RE 4-1 with a working width of 190″ and will be offering both models to its global customers from middle of July 2024.

Technical equipment: perfect for basic Power net

The RE 4-1 can be ordered with E 28 and E 32 gauges. The 170″ version is also available with E 36. The standard equipment includes KAMCOS® 2, batching device 18 E, Carbon fibre technology and N-pattern drive for controlling the guide bars: stitch-forming GB 1 to GB 3 and inlayGB 4. There are also optional features, including sensors for measuring the yarn tension, laser stop, batching device 34 A, LED lighting and an installation kit.

Product portfolio: everything for the lingerie volume market

Power net

With its technical configuration, the RE4-1 is optimised for the production of elastic and non-elastic standard fabrics, especially for the underwear sector. One of the top products of the Raschel machine with its high productivity and short amortisation time is elastic Power net. This open-meshed, airy fabric has become an indispensable part of the lingerie and clothing sector. It is often used in the wings of bras as well as for inserts in sports leggings, shirts, jackets and swimwear, where it provides delicate control and comfort. Power net can also be found in semi-technical applications, for example as outer and inner pockets for rucksacks and clothing.

Raschel Locknit

In addition to Power net, Raschel Locknit, Sleek net and Satin net are also part of the production repertoire of RE 4-1. The fabrics with a decreasing density from Raschel Locknit to Satin net also play a role in underwear and clothing production.

Satin net

For their production, filament yarn is threaded in the front two guide bars and elastane in the back ones.

Launch according to plan

The new Elastomeric machine was presented to a number of exclusive customers, particularly from Türkiye, at ITM 2024 in Istanbul and was very well received. There were numerous discussions during the exhibition, some of which were in-depth and advanced. The exchange at the ITM showed that KARL MAYER is on the right track with the RE 4-1.

A RE 4-1 has been available for performance demonstrations in the KARL MAYER (CHINA) showroom in Changzhou since June of this year. You can register informally for an appointment for viewing the machine by sending an e-mail to Xia Peng at peng.xia@karlmayer.com. The Product Owner Local Lace &Raschel at KARL MAYER is looking forward to welcoming his guests and to many interesting conversations.

Posted: July 5, 2024

Source: KARL MAYER GROUP

 

Gordon Boggis, CEO Of Carnegie, Named To Fast Company’s Impact Council

NEW YORK, NY — July 2, 2024 — Gordon Boggis, CEO of Carnegie, a leader in sustainable textiles and acoustical management solutions for the commercial industry, has joined Fast Company’s Impact Council. Carnegie’s Outdoor Biobased Xorel, the world’s first and only plant-based, commercial-grade indoor/outdoor textile, was also honored as a Fast Company Innovation by Design honoree, recognized in the “Bio Design” category for products that use organic matter or are directly inspired by nature.

Gordon Boggis, CEO of Carnegie

The Fast Company Impact Council is a collective of the most innovative leaders in business. Members meet several times a year for roundtable discussions focused on finding innovative solutions to today’s most pressing and complex business problems . These gatherings focus on the role companies and council members can play in shaping the future by steering their industries towards more efficient, equitable, and sustainable operations. Fast Company amplifies members’ impact by publishing their thought leadership and tapping their expertise to inform the publication’s coverage of innovation across the business world.

“I am honored to join Fast Company’s Impact Council, a unique forum that brings together visionary leaders dedicated to addressing some of the world’s most critical challenges through innovation and collaboration,” said Boggis. “At Carnegie, we believe in the power of design to make a positive impact on people and the planet. Being part of this esteemed council is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and innovation. I look forward to contributing to the conversations and initiatives that will help shape a more sustainable future for all.”

As CEO of Carnegie, Boggis has been instrumental in continuing the brand’s 70+-year commitment to responsible innovation. Carnegie continues to be the first and only 100% PVC-free textile and acoustic solutions company in the industry. During Boggis’s tenure, the company has maintained its status as a certified B Corporation (B Corp), a designation that requires the highest environmental standards of verified environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Carnegie has been B Corp-certified since 2014 and was recertified in 2022, a process that requires a rigorous and holistic evaluation of the company’s achievements in the environmental and social spaces.

Before joining Carnegie in April 2021, Boggis led companies across various industries, focusing strongly on textiles, innovative materials, health and wellness, and purpose-driven and environmentally sustainable businesses. He’s passionate about harnessing the talents of companies to be a force for good and deliver positive environmental change.

In alignment with Boggis’s vision for the company, Carnegie launched Outdoor Biobased Xorel in December 2022, the world’s first plant-based, fossil fuel-free, commercial-grade outdoor textile. Rising above any unsubstantiated greenwashing claims, Outdoor Biobased Xorel is the first and only indoor/outdoor textile to achieve Cradle to Cradle Gold and Living Product Challenge certifications. Sourced from rapidly renewable sugarcane, it has a significantly lower environmental footprint than any fossil fuel-derived product while maintaining Xorel’s legendary performance qualities. For each ton of sugarcane used to produce Outdoor Biobased Xorel, 2.5 tons of carbon is captured and sequestered, making it a climate-positive product.

“The Impact Council represents the ideal version of Fast Company’s readers,” says editor-in-chief Brendan Vaughan. “These are some of the more creative, mission-driven people in business, with some of the most original ideas about how to solve big problems and build the future. It is our great pleasure and privilege to bring this community together.”

For more information about Carnegie, visit www.carnegiefabrics.com.

Posted: July 5, 2024

Source: Carnegie / Fast Company

Jones Family Of Companies Announces New Hires And Fourth-Generation Investment

HUMBOLDT, Tenn. — June 24, 2024 —The Jones Family of Companies is delighted to introduce some of its recent hires, including the fourth generation of the Jones family.

William Jones Joins the Family Business

William Jones

The newest addition to the Jones Family of Companies is William Jones, who joins the team as Business Development Manager. A graduate of Texas Christian University’s Neeley School of Business, he studied Supply Chain Management and has worked in management consulting. Specializing in middle market clients, he developed a deep understanding of what makes small- to mid-size businesses successful.

“As a fourth-generation family member, I am honored to join the lineage of those who have come before me in building and shaping our family business,” said William.

Recently, William earned his MBA from Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management, where he concentrated on strategy. Through this experience, he refined his ability to navigate complex business challenges. He is excited to return to Jones and contribute to its continued success.

“I am committed to upholding the values and traditions of our family business while also bringing fresh insights and innovative solutions to the table.”

Wells Smith Joins Cades

Wells Smith

Cades Engineering & Mechanical Consulting Solutions, one of the Jones Family of Companies, recently welcomed Wells Smith to the team as Regional Sales Manager, based out of Memphis, TN.

Wells is a native of West Tennessee, having grown up in Jackson, TN, and earned a degree in business finance from Birmingham Southern College. As the Regional Sales Manager, he will oversee connecting clients with a wide variety of industrial consulting services, from risk management to production line installation. His clients will range from local Tennessee and Mid-South enterprises to textile manufacturers nationwide.

“I’m excited to join the Jones family, a company that values each employee while also keeping each customer’s needs first and foremost,” said Wells. “My approach brings a passion for building meaningful relationships and helping others succeed. My vision for Cades is to establish the company as the go-to for industrial and manufacturing maintenance needs.”

Wells’ clients will range from local Tennessee and Mid-South enterprises to textile manufacturers nationwide.

Leo Franzinetti Returns to Jones

Leo Franzinetti

Additionally, Jones is pleased to welcome Genova, Italy native Leo Franzinetti to the team as Senior Business Analyst. Leo was previously part of the Jones team and left to pursue higher education. He earned a degree in applied mathematics/computer science from Virginia Military Institute and a master’s degree in data analytics from George Mason University and now returns to the Jones team.

“I found a passion for mathematics and how to apply it through the use of programming languages and tools such as Microsoft Excel,” Leo said. “As Senior Business Analyst, part of my regular duties involve working alongside the business staff to support their IT needs and help assess the impact of project changes on business operations.”

In addition, Leo helps develop automated reporting and forecasting tools to enhance communication and data efficiency, as well as staying current with industry standards, trends, and best practices through the industry and other professional networks.

Blake Barrett Joins Jones

Blake Barrett

Last but certainly not least, Jones is excited to welcome Blake Barrett to the team as a Financial Analyst. Originally from Greenville, IN, Blake began his academic journey at Lincoln Trail College in Illinois, where he earned his associate’s degree. He then transferred to Union University in Jackson, TN, where he completed his bachelor’s degree in accountancy. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in accountancy.

“I am excited to bring my skills and knowledge to the Jones Family of Companies full-time and contribute to the ongoing success of this remarkable organization,” Blake said. “I look forward to leveraging my background in accountancy to help strengthen and support our financial operations.”

A Bright Future Ahead

As Jones continues to modernize and prioritize a solid business foundation for the future, adding younger employees to the team is cause for celebration.

“I’m delighted to have young blood coming aboard,” said Ralph Jones, III, CEO and Chairman of the Board. “Their enthusiasm and fresh ideas are important and underscore my dedication to keeping Jones Family of Companies at the top of our industry for generations to come.”

Posted: July 5, 2024

Source: Jones Family of Companies

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