Haelixa And OVS Partner For Second Year To Enhance Cotton Traceability

ZÜRICH, Switzerland — September 19, 2024 — Haelixa has partnered with Italian fashion brand OVS for the second consecutive year. This collaboration aims to mark and trace cotton grown in Italy, ensuring trust throughout the supply chain.

OVS – Traceable Shirts with Haelixa

Haelixa has integrated its DNA markers into the existing operations for OVS’s cotton. The cotton is grown in Italy and marked with the DNA markers at the gin, close to the farm. The fibers are tested during the entire manufacturing process, ensuring that the cotton used in this OVS collection is ethically and sustainably sourced. This partnership is a testament to their commitment to promoting responsible and transparent practices in the fashion industry, providing customers with the assurance of the cotton’s origin.

About the project, Haelixa CEO Patrick Strumpf commented: “In tracing the journey of the Italian-grown cotton, we are supporting OVS in bringing full transparency to their supply chain. The marking increases brand trust and enables OVS to make sustainable product claims.”

Traceability has become crucial in the fashion industry, with consumers demanding more information about the products they purchase. By partnering with Haelixa, OVS continues to meet this demand and set a new standard for cotton in the industry. This alliance will benefit customers and the farmers in Italy, giving them fair recognition for their work.

Simone Colombo, Head of Corporate Sustainability, said: “In 2024, we have continued with Swiss DNA Traceability supplier Haelixa in marking and tracing our OVS Cotone Italiano for the second year. Our goal is to approach 5 percent of our cotton requirements from cultivation in Italy within a few years.”

The collaboration between Haelixa and OVS has boosted the transparency of their supply chain. With the help of traceability provided by Haelixa, OVS is working towards improving its products’ social and environmental impacts. OVS is firmly committed to sustainable and ethical practices and aspires to enhance its operations yearly. The partnership with Haelixa is a testament to their dedication to improving traceability in the fashion industry.

Posted: September 19, 2024

Source: Haelixa

SanMar Joins bluesign®, Reinforcing Its Leadership In Sustainability

ISSAQUAH, Wash. — September 18, 2024 — SanMar Corp., one of the largest suppliers of promotional products in the United States, is excited to announce it has joined bluesign® as a System Partner. This move underscores SanMar’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing and responsible chemical management, reinforcing its position as a leader in the promotional products industry.

As a bluesign System Partner, SanMar joins a global network of companies dedicated to reducing the environmental impact of textile production. By integrating bluesign standards into their supply chain, SanMar will ensure that their supply chain continues to meet the highest environmental and safety criteria, aligning with their long-term sustainability goals.

“SanMar’s decision to partner with bluesign is a testament to their dedication to sustainability and responsible manufacturing,” said Daniel Rüfenacht, CEO of bluesign technologies ag. “Their leadership in the promotional products sector makes this partnership particularly significant. We are proud to support SanMar in their journey towards a more sustainable future, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have on the industry.”

Through system partnership, SanMar is taking significant steps to enhance the sustainability of its product offerings, from material sourcing to production processes. By adopting bluesign standards, SanMar is not only contributing to environmental conservation but also continues their commitment to ensuring that its products are safe for consumers and the planet.

“The awareness and importance of sustainability is growing within our industry, and we’re excited to add bluesign to our bench,” said Emily Gigot, senior manager of Sustainability at SanMar. “We look forward to leveraging the bluesign system and their team of experts to improve our programs and to continue providing our customers with products made to the highest environmental standards.”

Posted: September 18, 2024

Source: SanMar Corporation / bluesign®

FineLine Technologies Joins DHL GoGreen Plus Program To Reduce Supply Chain Carbon Emissions

NORCROSS, Ga.  — September 18, 2024 — FineLine Technologies  a global provider of tags, labels and packaging solutions, announces its partnership with DHL Global Forwarding in the GoGreen Plus initiative. Through its participation in the DHL program, FineLine supports sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) use, reducing carbon emissions.

“Environmental sustainability is a priority for FineLine Technologies and very important to our customers,” said chairman and CEO George Hoffman. “We will be looking for additional opportunities like DHL GoGreen Plus to reduce our scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.”

FineLine Technologies recognizes that express shipping accounts for approximately 3 percent of global emissions annually. By participating in GoGreen Plus, the company actively addresses scope 3 emissions, which are indirect GHG emissions from its value chain.

Through GoGreen Plus, DHL leverages SAF to reduce carbon emissions. SAFs are produced from feedstock such as cooking oil waste, sugar cane and other organic matter. Because SAFs currently are very expensive, they typically are combined with conventional jet fuel. “Sustainable aviation fuel is an alternative fuel made from non-petroleum feedstocks that reduce emissions from air transportation,” according to the U.S. Department of Energy. “SAF can be blended at different levels with limits between 10 percent and 50 percent, depending on the feedstock and how the fuel is produced.”

FineLine’s sustainability actions also include recycling all in-house paper waste, using water-based inks and having aqueous waste hauled and recycled.

Posted: September 18, 2024

Source: FineLine Technologies

The AATCC Gray Scales Just Got Edgier

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — September 18, 2024 — The AATCC Gray Scales for Color Change and Gray Scale for Staining are the fundamental evaluation tools when assessing colorfastness of textile materials. Using AATCC EP1 and EP2, textile testing professionals use the AATCC Gray Scales to assess how fabrics that have been washed, exposed to temperature, light, and storage conditions maintain their color, and even stain onto other materials. The AATCC Gray Scales are valuable tools for textile colorfastness testing as it aids textile product developers and companies in various industries to determine whether to use a fabric for a specific application.

New and Improved Features and Benefits

The new style of AATCC Gray Scale for Color Change and AATCC Gray Scale for Staining have added features that now improve upon the durability and use of these valuable tools.

  • New reinforced edge
    • Enhances the durability of the scale
    • Prevents chipping of the color chips
    • Prevents smudging, transfer of oils from hands when handling
  • Masks with larger area view
    • Accommodate specimens and scale edge
  • Sturdier construction
    • Reduces the likelihood of scuffing, scratching of the color chips
  • Keeps same material for base and sleeve
    • Maintaining the use of vinyl for scale and sleeve material
  • More cost-effective option
    • New style reduces material waste in manufacturing

Availability of New AATCC Gray Scales

The current styles of the AATCC Gray Scales remain in stock and continue to be perfectly applicable to performing colorfastness evaluation using AATCC Evaluation Procedure 1 and Evaluation Procedure 2. The new, edgier style Gray Scales will be available once the remaining stock of the current style is sold out. Special requests for the new style Gray Scale will not be offered.

Maintenance of AATCC Gray Scales

With regular use of the AATCC Gray Scales, it is important to handle the product with care to extend the shelf life of the product. Naturally, with the use of the current AATCC Gray Scales, customers have shared the challenges of keeping the color chips of the gray scales from being scuffed, scratched, and stain-free when handled with less care. AATCC recommends using gloves, proper storage of the gray scales in its protective sleeve when not in use, and regularly replacing them on a yearly basis. The added features of the new style of AATCC Gray Scales further support customers in their use of the scales.

Posted: September 18, 2024

Source: AATCC

myTrident Launches Grand Festive OOH Campaign Across Key Indian Cities

NEW DELHI — September 18, 2024 — myTrident, a name in the premium home décor industry, has unveiled its grand festive Out-Of-Home (OOH) advertising campaign across 15+ Indian cities. The billboard series is designed to deeply connect with customers, strengthening brand presence and boosting brand value. This visually striking campaign features the first-ever mother-in-law and daughter-in-law pairing of Bollywood icons Kareena Kapoor Khan and Sharmila Tagore, promoting myTrident’s premium Bed & Bath products.

The innovative campaign is not just about placement but also about creativity. The billboards feature a 3D immersive cut-out design, making them stand out in the bustling cityscapes. This unique approach adds a dynamic element to the campaign, creating a visually compelling effect that brings the product to life and creating a lasting impression.

Neha Gupta Bector, chairperson of myTrident, expressed her excitement about the campaign, saying: “This festive season, we wanted to create something truly memorable that resonates with our audience. Our OOH campaign, featuring Kareena Kapoor Khan and Sharmila Tagore, is designed to capture the essence of our brand — a blend of luxury, comfort, style and especially family. We’ve chosen iconic locations to ensure our message reaches as many people as possible.”

The campaign has been strategically placed in key cities including Delhi NCR, Srinagar, Katra, Bhopal, Ludhiana, Jaipur, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Bathinda, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Chandigarh. The billboards have been mounted in high-traffic areas, ensuring maximum visibility and engagement. Prominent locations include South Extension and DND Flyway in Delhi, Elante Mall in Chandigarh, Ludhiana’s busiest streets, Hoshangabad Road in Bhopal, MI Road in Jaipur, and Ambarsar Mall in Amritsar, among others.

Rajneesh Bhatia, CEO of myTrident Group Corporate Ltd., added, “Our goal with this campaign is to showcase our Bed & Bath collection in a way that’s both innovative and impactful. By utilizing 3D elements and choosing strategic locations, we’ve been able to create a campaign that not only promotes our products but also enhances the visual experience of the viewers. We’re confident that this will elevate our brand visibility during the festive season.”

With this ambitious OOH campaign, myTrident aims to solidify its presence in the home textiles market and continue to deliver high-quality products that enhance everyday living.

Posted: September 18, 2024

Source: myTrident

eurolaser Celebrates 30th Anniversary With In-House Exhibition: Present The Versatility Of Laser Processing

LÜNEBURG, Germany — September 18, 2024 — The eurolaser INNOVATION DAYS were once again a great success this year. Under the motto ‘Circle of Inspiration — Pioneer, partner, technology leader’, the aim of the event was to inspire visitors to discover and try out new production methods. Therefore, the market leader for high-end laser cutting systems hosted two days full of technical innovations, professional dialogue and varied live demonstrations.

Visitors were given an insight into the complex technology

“With a total of over 300 guests from Germany and abroad, the INNOVATION DAYS 2024 was the best-attended event since its inception – fitting for our anniversary,” said Thorsten Brandt, CMO of eurolaser.

In addition to many practical examples of laser cutting applications, complete manufacturing processes from the starting material to the end product were demonstrated on site. Further, eurolaser was able to attract numerous well-known partner companies to the INNOVATION DAYS, who presented their latest developments at their own stands. Together, they offered visitors a comprehensive insight into current material and manufacturing trends.

eurolaser presented a total of nine laser systems live. These included the newly developed Twin Table System. It enables optimum cutting results and maximum precision thanks to a permanent vacuum under the material. It also guarantees that the material remains fixed during downstream process steps, for example when applying a layering material to the adhesive tape. This process was demonstrated in cooperation with tesa SE using ACXplus adhesive tapes.

eurolaser also remained true to the motto of inspiration when the new management team was introduced on stage. After 30 years of successful company management, Matthias Kluczinski, founder of the eurolaser GmbH, officially handed over the reins. Laura Capone, who has held various positions at eurolaser for more than 10 years, takes over as the new CEO of the company. There are also three new shareholders in the family business – the children of the company founder: Kim Dittmer, Nic and Tommi Lee Kluczinski.

In the evening, the anniversary came to an end in a relaxed atmosphere with a delicious BBQ, good music and lots of interesting guests.

Posted: September 18, 2024

Source: eurolaser GmbH

TrusTrace, Xoriant And Carbon Trail Join Forces To Launch A Product Claims Solution For Brands

STOCKHOLM, Sweden — September 18, 2024 — TrusTrace, a global SaaS company with a market-leading platform for product traceability and supply chain compliance in fashion and retail, today announced a strategic collaboration with platform engineering firm Xoriant and environmental impact data company Carbon Trail to deliver a comprehensive solution that supports international brands that want to implement more product marketing accountability.

“In a rapidly evolving industry in which regulations are becoming more stringent and consumer expectations are higher than ever, this partnership is a pioneering initiative; we are addressing not only today’s challenges, but we’re paving the way for a more sustainable future,” said TrusTrace CEO and Co-Founder Shameek Ghosh. “This collaboration unites TrusTrace’s deep expertise in supply chain traceability and transparency, Carbon Trail’s advanced environmental insights, and Xoriant’s robust implementation capabilities to offer an end-to-end solution that empowers fashion brands and retailers to overcome the challenges of regulatory compliance and improving impact.”

The new solution is the first-of-its-kind in the industry and leverages Xoriant’s strong data architecture, Carbon Trail’s environmental impact data, and TrusTrace’s supply chain traceability data to provide brands with the information they need to market their products with specific details on how they’re made and where.

This new technological solution coincides with the implementation of the Green Claims Code, which launched in 2021 and was updated in 2023 to factor in product-specific environmental impact and strives to ensure that claims are clear, accurate and not misleading; provide specific and clear information about materials used; use accurate product filters and avoid misleading imagery; and support claims with verifiable strategics and third party accreditation.

“Engineering excellence in sustainable business practices using new-age technologies has always been Xoriant’s cornerstone. Through this trifecta partnership, we’re delivering a joint solution with robust data architecture and real-time supply chain insights,” said Shyam Pawar, vice president of Sales at Xoriant. “This empowers fashion brands and retailers to gather accurate data for product claims while staying compliant, efficient, scalable, and supporting a greener future for the industry.”

On the data side, brands need to measure environmental impact on a product level, not only just related to carbon, but covering 16+ indicators such as water, land use, and microfibre impacts. “When you make an environmental claim on any product, the underlying data has to be comprehensive and accurate to meet requirements of LCA frameworks like PEF,” explained Carbon Trail CEO and Co-Founder Ashish Rohil. “Our capabilities pair very well with TrusTrace’s, allowing us to deliver full product transparency and compliance for fashion brands globally.”

Once environmental impact and supply chain data is aggregated, information can then be incorporated into a Digital Product Passport, a record that can tell a product’s entire value chain via QR code/digital tag that will be required for EU brands between 2026-2030. For example, a buyer can theoretically scan a product’s QR code and be taken to a unique URL link in which the environmental impact for that specific product is available to view. This can be displayed alongside traceability data — like where the product has been manufactured — in addition to other information like recyclability, microplastics, product certifications, all those elements also come into play.

“We’re thrilled to announce this joint collaboration that will truly help brands aggregate the data they need to market their products effectively and truthfully to climate-conscious consumers,” Ghosh concluded. “We invite fashion and retail brands to join us in this transformative journey!”

TrusTrace regularly partners with enterprise brands worldwide, empowering them to achieve full supply chain visibility and meet compliance standards through cutting-edge technology solutions. With a proven track record of successful program rollouts across multiple regions, TrusTrace is the trusted partner of leading fashion and retail brands, helping them transform their supply chains into transparent, compliant, and sustainable networks.

Posted: September 18, 2024

Source: TrusTrace

Fabric-Tech Company Nonwovenn Targets Doubling Of Turnover By 2028

SOMERSET, England  — September 19, 2024 — Nonwoven fabric-tech company Nonwovenn has recently achieved a major milestone of 18 years of consecutive profitable growth with the current financial year delivering a turnover of 45 million pounds with a 20-percent increase in EBITDA. The business is also now targeting an ambitious goal of growing turnover to 80 million pounds by 2028.

David Lamb, Chairman of Nonwovenn
Picture by Roger Moody / Guzelian

The 4-year growth plan comes off the back of an extensive 13 million pound business transformation program which has included significant self-funded capex investment in manufacturing, plant and equipment, an end-to-end operational efficiency program and an enhancement in R&D and innovation capability.

In addition, the executive team has been strengthened with senior appointments across finance, human resources, operations and sustainability, with the most recent appointment being industry luminary Silke Brand-Kirsch as commercial director, who will be spearheading the internationalization and growth strategy.

The focus for the next four years is to build upon the businesses leading position in niche, high value, high growth segments established in markets across the United Kingdom, Europe and North America, as well as delivering to a broader global audience. Central to the businesses value proposition will be an increased focus on innovating and delivering world class technical fabrics that are used in products that enable harm reduction across every aspect of life.

Commenting on the growth trajectory, David Lamb, chairman of Nonwovenn, said: “To have 18 out of our 21 years be profitable is something many businesses only dream about. We are incredibly proud that even in a sector that is under so much pressure, we have continuously achieved profitable and sustainable growth. It is largely thanks to the investments made in the business to improve our products, streamlining our systems, and the market leading board we have built.”

“We are looking to double our turnover in the next three to four years, with profits growing at a similar rate. We chose to create a new board to drive this growth forward and bring in the expertise needed to enable the internationalization we are aiming for. It’s a very exciting time for the business and we cannot wait to see where the next few years take us.”

Commercial director, Brand-Kirsch added: “We are really looking to expand into the North American and European markets initially, and then look to branch out even further. Our offering plugs a gap in the market, and with our leading research and development, expert board team and focus on sustainable and innovative growth we can continue to give the market exactly what they need.”

Posted: September 18, 2024

Source: Nonwovenn

Hologenix + Cadense Adaptive Footwear Introduce Infrared Technology Sock Supporting Mobility

LOS ANGELES  — September 17, 2024 — Hologenix, the company behind CELLIANT® infrared materials, has linked up with Cadense, the world’s first and only Variable Friction shoe for ground-breaking adaptive solutions. Together, the companies are pleased to debut the Cadense Energy Boost Performance sock. Made using CELLIANT’s proprietary minerals, the sock converts body heat into infrared energy to increase local circulation and cellular oxygenation.

Cadense products are specifically designed to empower those with walking difficulties. Their shoes reduce friction between the shoe and the ground to prevent the foot from catching on the floor during the swing phase of walking for those with injuries, neurological and physical conditions or age-related mobility issues. The new Boost socks powered by CELLIANT is the first time the brand has created a sock that harnesses the power of infrared technology (IR) to address the needs of their community even further.

“At Cadense, we want to support people on their mobility journey, no matter where they are at, and working with a partner like Hologenix opens up so many possibilities,” said Johannes Sauer, CEO of Cadense. “I’ve worked with the CELLIANT ingredient before and know the benefits of it firsthand, so it was a no-brainer to bring them on as a partner when we were considering expanding our offerings. I’m confident that our customers will love these socks with the CELLIANT infrared tech as much as I do.”

When embedded into socks, CELLIANT captures body heat and converts it into infrared energy, which is reflected back into the foot and lower leg. While anyone can benefit from infrared light therapy via wearing IR socks, the circulation benefits are particularly helpful for people who spend a lot of time on their feet or need extra support.

“Since starting Hologenix, our goal has always been to help people live their best, healthiest lives and this is a major consideration each and every time we decide to work with a new partner,” commented Seth Casden, founder and CEO of Hologenix. “Cadense is the embodiment of a brand that truly cares for their customers. That’s why we are proud to partner with them to serve a critical need that is often overlooked in this underserved community.”

Posted: September 17, 2024

Source: Hologenix, LLC

Nonwoven Fabric Manufacturer Shalag U.S. To Open New Facility In Virginia

RICHMOND, Va. — September 12, 2024 — Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin announced that Shalag U.S. Inc., a manufacturer of nonwoven fabric for use in manufactured products, will invest $16.6 million to open a new nonwoven manufacturing and production facility in Mecklenburg County. The investment will create 52 new jobs.

“I am gratified to see another international company select Virginia for a new U.S. facility, reinforcing the strategic advantages a Virginia location offers,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “The creation of 52 new jobs will help this region continue its economic comeback while also demonstrating the resurgence of manufacturing that is happening across Virginia.”

“We are proud to welcome Shalag US Inc., to Virginia’s corporate roster and serve as a launch point to reach its U.S. customer base,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “Virginia offers the right location, infrastructure, and skilled workforce to attract companies like Shalag, and we thank them for choosing the Commonwealth.”

“Shalag US Inc., and ownership are looking forward to adding a nonwovens line in South Hill, Virginia,” said CEO and general manager of Shalag US Rodney Clayton. “When our new line is complete and running at anticipated levels, it will increase our overall production capacity in the U.S. by 25 percent. Some factors in the purchase of the South Hill location are the strategic location, the company’s objective to reach more customers, and the ability to diversify its portfolio.”

“As Mayor, I am thrilled to welcome  Shalag  Industries to South Hill and truly thank them for their investment in our community,” said Mayor of South Hill Dean Marion. “Announcements like this are true demonstrations of the hard work and partnership of our Town Business Development office, Mecklenburg County’s Economic Development office, Virginia Growth Alliance, and Virginia Economic Development Partnership. We look forward to making Shalag Industries feel right at home here in South Hill.”

“The Board of Supervisors is excited that Shalag Industries has chosen Mecklenburg County as their new location,” said chairman of the Mecklenburg County Board of Supervisors James Jennings. “It is wonderful to have a variety of occupational opportunities coming to the area and it is always exciting when an empty building is filled with new jobs for our citizens.”

“Virginia’s Growth Alliance is grateful to see a repurposing of this building into a state-of-the-art facility that will not only breathe new life into the structure but also create numerous job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region,” said executive director of Virginia’s Growth Alliance David Denny. “Shalag Industries is a globally recognized leader in the production of nonwoven materials used across various industries — including household, medical, personal care, construction, and automotive sectors — their expansion into this region underscores their commitment to innovation and community development. We look forward to welcoming them as part of this vibrant community and region.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Shalag US Inc.’s investment in Mecklenburg County,” said Senator Tammy Mulchi. “This is a true testament to the hard work being done to grow business in the area. Adding 52 new jobs is an incredible boost for the economy and its citizens. I’m proud to stand behind this project and can’t wait to see the positive changes it will bring to our community.”

“As the Delegate who represents Mecklenburg County in the Virginia House of Delegates, I am thrilled to welcome Shalag US Inc. to Mecklenburg County,” said Delegate Tommy Wright.  “This $16.6 million investment not only strengthens our local economy, but also creates 52 new jobs, providing new opportunities for our community. The decision by Shalag US to establish their new manufacturing and production facility here is a testament to the skilled workforce and business-friendly environment we offer in Southside Virginia. I thank Governor Youngkin and all those involved for their efforts in bringing this significant investment to our region.”

Founded in Israel in 1983, Shalag performs through-air bonding and carded thermobonding, which involve the application of heated air to the surface of nonwoven fabric, and a variety of other technologies to create products that have unique properties tailored for each specific application. The company first expanded to the United States in 2010 and manufactures a wide range of nonwoven fabric for use in products including diapers, feminine hygiene, air filtration and cleaning wipes.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Mecklenburg County and Virginia’s Growth Alliance to secure the project for Virginia Governor Youngkin approved a $117,460 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Mecklenburg County with this project. The company is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. Funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

Posted: September 17, 2024

Source: Office of the Governor of Virginia

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