Shaping The Future: Lenzing Presents Young Scientist Award To Young Talents

LENZING, Austria — March 20, 2025 — The Lenzing Group, a supplier of regenerated cellulose fibers for the textile and nonwovens industries, is presenting the Lenzing Young Scientist Award at the Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress (GFC) from September 10 to 12, 2025 for bachelor, master and doctoral students who develop innovative solutions to ecological challenges in the fiber and textile industry. The deadline for applications is June 30, 2025. The best thesis by Bachelor’s and Master’s students will receive a prize of 3,000 euros, while the best doctoral thesis will receive 5,000 euros.

For the fourth time, the Lenzing Group honors young researchers with the Lenzing Young Scientist Award for excellent research work in the fiber and textile sector. The Dornbirn-GFC, as a platform for international exchange of experience in the field of fibers, offers an ideal stage for this research competition. Bachelor’s and Master’s students can submit their scientific work under the guiding theme “Unlimited inspiration from nature: Together we research sustainable innovations based on cellulose, including regenerated cellulose fibers and films, as well as cellulose composites” and face a jury of renowned experts from the industry. The aim is to support students who inspire the industry with their research results and create a platform for networking with the textile and fiber industry.

“Lenzing has been a leader in sustainable cellulose fiber production for decades and is actively promoting the transition to a bioeconomy. Supporting young scientists and their innovations is crucial to overcoming current challenges. Every advance and every idea brings us closer to a more sustainable future,” said Gert Kroner, vice president, Global Research at Lenzing Group.

Austrian Fibers Institute as organizer of the Dornbirn GFC

For the 64th time, the Austrian Fiber Institute is organizing the Dornbirn Fiber Congress on a non-profit basis and will provide the framework for presenting the Lenzing Young Scientist Award September 10-12, 2025.

The Austrian Fiber Institute, based in Vienna, was founded in 1960 by fiber producers and the Austrian textile industry to promote the market launch of fibers and their products. The Fiber Institute also offers the opportunity to exchange information and experience about fibers and supports contact with educational institutions. The GFC focuses on an international exchange of experience in close coordination with the umbrella organization CIRFS in Brussels and deals with topics relevant to the future, such as fiber innovations, sustainability and the circular economy.

Applicants for the Lenzing Young Scientist Award have the opportunity to submit their work (theses, papers, etc.) in English until June 30, 2025 to the following e-mail address:

YSA2025@lenzing.com.

Further information can be found online at:

https://www.lenzing.com/young-scientist-award.

Posted: March 20, 2025

Source: Lenzing Aktiengesellschaft

2025 International Woolmark Prize Jury Revealed Ahead Of Final Event In Milan

NEW YORK CITY — March 20, 2025 — The International Woolmark Prize returns to Milan in April, as eight of the world’s most promising design talents participate to shape the future of fashion through innovation and sustainability at the original and most prestigious fashion award.

The 2025 International Woolmark Prize judges include:

  • Donatella Versace, Versace, chief brand ambassador from 01.04.25, chair of Judges;
  • IB Kamara, IWP2025 Guest Artistic director;
  • Law Roach, Image architect;
  • Alessandro Sartori, Artistic director, Zegna;
  • Alessandro Dell’Acqua, N21 founder and creative director;
  • Roopal Patel, senior vice president, Fashion director, Saks Fifth Avenue;
  • Sinéad Burke, educator, advocate and founder of Tilting the Lens;
  • Honey Dijon, DJ, producer and artist;
  • Danielle Goldberg, celebrity stylist and brand consultant;
  • Tim Blanks, editor-at-large, Business of Fashion; and
  • Simone Marchetti, Vanity Fair European editorial director & Vanity Fair Italia editor-in-chief.

“Supporting the next generation of fashion talent has never been more important,” said Donatella Versace. “I am so excited to host the Woolmark Prize in our home city of Milan and to meet the designers selected. I am sure they will all be winners in their own way. I am honored to be Chair of the judging panel for the 2025 Woolmark Prize alongside my fellow amazing judges. Woolmark has always been such fantastic supporters of the future of fashion.”

The 2025 International Woolmark Prize finalists competing for the prestigious award include:

  • ACT N°1, Italy;
  • Diotima, United States;
  • Duran Lantink, The Netherlands;
  • Ester Manas, Belgium;
  • LGN LOUIS GABRIEL NOUCHI, France;
  • LUAR, United States;
  • Meryll Rogge, Belgium; and
  • Standing Ground, UK/Ireland.

The Awards

The 2025 final event marks the first edition of the International Woolmark Prize in its new biennial format.

One finalist will be awarded the International Woolmark Prize and receive the increased prize fund of AU$300,000 to invest in the development of their business. All finalists will have the opportunity to be stocked at some of the world’s leading stores, via the International Woolmark Prize Retailer Network.

There will also be two industry awards presented at the final event. The Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovation has evolved to be presented to any brand or individual within the fashion industry who has pushed the boundaries of Merino wool innovation.

The Supply Chain Award will be presented to an outstanding member of the supply chain who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in advancing sustainable practices, reinforcing the supply chain’s critical role within the fashion and textile industry.

Since its inception, the International Woolmark Prize has awarded and incubated some of the most era-defining fashion designers, from Karl Lagerfeld and Yves Saint Laurent to Giorgio Armani, Donna Karan, and Ralph Lauren

Posted: March 20, 2025

Source: The Woolmark Company

Registration Opens For AATCC Committee Meetings

DURHAM, N.C. — March 19, 2025 — AATCC extends an open invitation for all interested professionals to have a seat at the table and help shape the future of textiles by registering to participate in upcoming committee meetings. These volunteer-led committees create test methods, measurements, specifications, and educational resources that enable quality, safety, sustainability, and innovation across textile supply chains worldwide.

Guidelines for textile processing, manufacturing, testing, and compliance are improved through the lending of invaluable expertise by committee members. Unique perspectives that promote innovation and establish baseline metrics are contributed by participants. Insider access to emerging technologies and trends influencing textile materials, production methods, safety testing, sustainability measures, and cutting-edge inventions on the horizon is gained through engagement with these pivotal committees.

AATCC provides platforms for students, industry experts and everyone in between to contribute their passions and insights. These platforms include open committee meetings, technical resources, networking opportunities, and more. Committee participation is free and open to all who desire to learn, as well as to lead progress. By engaging with AATCC’s diverse array of committees, volunteers can directly influence the responsible, informed, and sustainable advancement of textiles globally.

Administrative Committee Meetings

AATCC members determine the direction of the Association. Attend virtual Administrative Committee Meetings to learn or lead new projects for conferences, membership, education, and more. There is no fee to attend, and your input is welcome. The fall series includes meetings with the technical committees on statistics and editorial review. Whether you are a math nerd, a language fanatic, or just a textile fan, there’s a place for you in an AATCC committee!

Research Committee Meetings

Join AATCC members and other industry stakeholders to help develop and revise standards and testing materials used around the world. This year AATCC is hosting the Research Committee Meetings at the StateView Hotel located at 2451 Alumni Dr, Raleigh, N.C.

If travel isn’t an option, you can still join meetings remotely. Meetings are open to all — no membership or fee required. If you’re looking for leadership experience, an opportunity to boost your reputation as an expert in your field, or a way to give back to the industry, this is your chance! A complete schedule of meetings and events is posted online. Advance registration is appreciated to facilitate planning.

Get Involved

AATCC committee meetings are working meetings. They are also an opportunity to meet people from across industry and around the world. Whether the discussion focuses on defining sustainability or choosing the location for an upcoming conference, there is always something new to learn and room to share.

Posted: March 19, 2025

Source: The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC)

Finalists Announced for the 2025 FiltXPO™ Awards

CARY, N.C. — March 19, 2025 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, in partnership with International Filtration News magazine, proudly announces the finalists for the inaugural FiltXPO™ Awards. Recognizing outstanding achievements across the entire filtration value chain, the awards celebrate groundbreaking advancements that utilize nonwoven fabrics and technology.

Presented at FiltXPO™, April 29-May 1, 2025, at the Miami Beach Convention Center, Florida, these awards highlight exceptional innovations in three categories:

  • Air/Gas Filtration Media;
  • Water/Liquid Filtration Media; and
  • Filtration Equipment.

Each nominated product has demonstrated creativity, uniqueness, technical sophistication, and the potential to significantly advance filtration performance and sustainability.

Voting takes place on the International Filtration News website and the deadline to submit votes is April 18, 2025: https://www.filtnews.com/filtxpo-innovation-awards/#

Here are the Finalists:

FiltXPO Air/Gas Filtration Award

  • Hollingsworth & Vose – NanoWave® ESA
    Introducing NanoWave®ESA, an all-synthetic, 3D filter media free from PFAS. This revolutionary product enables production of highly efficient, comfortable, stretchable respiratory protection, suitable for various protective applications.
  • Lanaco – EcoStatic® ML Series Filter Media
    Lanaco’s wool-based air filtration solution utilizes advanced electrostatic technology, providing exceptional efficiency and ultra-low pressure drop, even under challenging environmental conditions. USDA-certified as 100% Biobased, EcoStatic® ensures sustainability without sacrificing performance.
  • Greentech Environmental LLC – Greentech Filters with ODOGard®
    ODOGard® technology deeply integrates odor-neutralizing polymers into nonwoven and nanofiber filters, offering an innovative, non-toxic approach to indoor air quality. ODOGard® significantly enhances filtration durability and performance.

FiltXPO Water/Liquid Filtration Award

  • Ahlstrom – BioProtect™
    Ahlstrom’s sustainable BioProtect™ material offers superior dye-catching performance for laundry applications. Manufactured from 100% naturally derived fibers and OC-Biobinder®, BioProtect™ is both biobased and home compostable, combining premium performance with environmental responsibility.
  • Periodic Products, Inc. – MetalXtract® Filter Media
    Using patented Chelok® Polymer Technology, MetalXtract® provides remarkable metal adsorption capabilities—100 to 500 times greater than traditional resins—across a wide pH range. Ideal for wastewater treatment and environmental remediation, this biodegradable solution effectively controls contamination at high flow rates.

FiltXPO Filtration Equipment Award

  • Luwa America Inc. – Multi Cell Filter (MCV)
    The space-saving MCV significantly reduces required floor space by approximately 70% compared to traditional drum filters. Its intelligent PLC-controlled design optimizes filter cleaning cycles, reduces energy usage, and substantially cuts operational costs and carbon footprint.
  • Oerlikon Neumag – hycuTEC
    Oerlikon Neumag’s innovative hycuTEC technology hydrocharges nonwoven filter media, achieving over 99.9% filtration efficiency with dramatically lower pressure loss and minimal resource consumption. Easy to integrate and retrofit, hycuTEC represents a breakthrough in high-efficiency filtration media production.
  • Filtration Advice Inc. – FA-TCO Software
    This cutting-edge software provides comprehensive Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis and predictive modeling for air filtration systems. FA-TCO enables data-driven decisions, extending filter lifespans, reducing operational costs, and enhancing overall sustainability in filtration management.

Finalists will present their innovative solutions at FiltXPO, showcasing breakthroughs that elevate quality, efficiency, and sustainability across the filtration industry.

“We’re delighted to highlight these groundbreaking innovations that promise to reshape the filtration landscape,” said Dr. Matt O’Sickey, INDA’s director of Education & Technical Affairs. “FiltXPO provides the perfect stage to recognize the industry’s most significant advances and inspire future developments.”

Winners will be announced during FiltXPO at INDA booth # 2439. The deadline to vote for your favorite innovation is April 18, 2025, via the International Filtration News website: https://www.filtnews.com/filtxpo-innovation-awards/#

To learn more about FiltXPO 2025 and register for the event, visit filtxpo.com.

Posted: March 19, 2025

Source: INDA, The Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

The National Cotton Council (NCC) Applauds The Trump Administration For Emergency Assistance

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — March 18, 2025 — The National Cotton Council (NCC) extends its gratitude to President Trump and Secretary Brooke Rollins for their swift action in providing up to $10 billion in direct economic assistance to agricultural producers through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP). This timely support is a crucial lifeline for cotton producers facing increased input costs and market uncertainties.

This critical assistance will lessen the financial burden on cotton producers and help stabilize the industry during these challenging times. NCC continues to urge Congress about the necessity of a new farm bill with a meaningful improvement in the safety net applicable for the 2025 crop.

We encourage all eligible cotton producers to take advantage of the ECAP program by submitting their applications to their local FSA county office by August 15, 2025. For more information on eligibility and application procedures, please visit fsa.usda.gov/ecap.

Posted: March 19, 2025

Source: The National Cotton Council (NCC)

NeoCon 2025 At THE MART: The Ultimate Hub For Design & Discovery

CHICAGO — March 18, 2025 — As NeoCon 2025 approaches, THE MART unveils an impressive lineup of showroom expansions, new leases, and 7th-floor exhibitors. New and notable, established and emerging, domestic and international brands are all taking part in the action across the NeoCon floors. The 56th edition of the show (June 9-11, 2025) offers design professionals an unmatched opportunity to discover cutting-edge products and resources, connect and network with industry leaders, and engage in thought-provoking, immersive activations and conferences.

Left: Smith System; Right: Viccarbe

“With so many influential and global brands expanding and new companies joining, THE MART continues to be our industry’s center of design, the ultimate hub for companies looking to elevate their market position,” said Byron Morton, vice president and co-head of Leasing. “And NeoCon is more than just an event — it’s a continuous source of energy that flows throughout the year; a driving force of innovation and business growth.”

Showroom Expansions: Growing the Design Ecosystem

Notable top-tier brands have deepened their investments in THE MART, expanding showroom footprints to better showcase growing portfolios and evolving innovations, including wall-coverings, textiles, and specialty surfaces company Wolf-Gordon (3-100); storied contemporary furniture manufacturer Davis Furniture (3-115); sustainable leather manufacturer Green Hides (1062); acoustics innovator Turf (1048) which will unveil the 20,000 square-foot Turf Design Experience Center; and B Corp and carbon neutral Spanish furniture leader Andreu World (300) which has doubled its size with a new 20,000 square-foot space.

“For over 50 years, NeoCon has provided us with a platform to share fresh ideas and build meaningful connections within the design community,” says Danny Davis, President of Davis Furniture. “Expanding into a newly renovated showroom allows us to create an inspiring space that empowers our clients to push the boundaries of design and creativity.”

Green Hides is equally enthusiastic about its enlarged presence. “THE MART has been pivotal in our growth, we’re beyond excited to expand and open a larger showroom. This new space on the 10th floor will better represent our brand and showcase our expanding capabilities,” says Keith Hill, vice president of Green Hides.

“The opening of the Turf Design Experience Center represents a major milestone for our team and stays true to Turf’s Chicago roots as a local manufacturer,” comments Rob Perri, Vice President, Brand Companies, Armstrong World Industries, parent company of Turf. “It is not only a testament to our dedication to innovation, quality, sustainability, and exceptional design but also an invitation to designers, specifiers, architects, and more to experience the limitless abilities of Turf. The expanded showroom and new offices are more than just physical space—they’re an experience of the future of Turf.”

For global furniture manufacturer Andreu World, this expansion cements the brand’s 70-year commitment to a fully circular economy. “Driving a positive impact on both people and the planet, the new space strengthens our long-standing relationship with THE MART and our sustainable business growth,” said Jesús Llinares, Andreu World CEO. “It allows us to further our mission of bringing sustainable, forward-thinking design to a broader audience, aligning perfectly with THE MART’s legacy and commitment to innovation.”

New Showrooms: Notable Newcomers

Left: HÅG; Right: Baresque

Adding to the already dynamic mix of prestigious brands, several leading companies will unveil new permanent spaces this year. Since 2024, THE MART has completed more than 175,000 square feet of leasing transactions, introducing an exciting array of captivating new brands and innovations to explore during NeoCon and year-round. Among the newcomers positioning themselves for long-term expansion within the North American market are: ergonomic seating manufacturer HÅG (1085); sustainable acoustics brand Baresque (Zintra + FUNC. + Botton + Gardiner) (394); West Elm Work (10-165); Spanish furniture manufacturer Viccarbe (10-152); architectural systems and ceilings solutions provider Arktura (10-154); and K-12 education furniture specialists Smith System (11-111).

For Baresque, the new move represents a pivotal moment. “Marking our 10th year at NeoCon, we’re thrilled to elevate our presence from a temporary booth to a permanent showroom—a testament to the Baresque Group’s enduring commitment to innovation and excellence in the commercial design industry,” stated Angus Blaiklock, executive director of Baresque. “This space allows us to deepen our connection with architects, designers, and specifiers in a way that inspires.”

Left: Arktura; Right: West Elm Work

Arktura’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Patricia Kisereu, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the transformative nature of their new showroom. “This isn’t just a showroom; it’s a vortex of possibility. We’re redefining how the industry engages with materials by creating a space to explore capability — bringing something bold, rebellious, and unlike anything seen before.”

7th Floor: New Exhibitors to Discover

NeoCon 2025 will introduce a number of new and returning companies to its 7th-floor Exhibit Hall. The floor will feature dedicated, amenity-rich spaces for immersive activations and curated experiences and companies including: design-forward European brands like Ferroluce SRL, PLYCOLLECTION, and Visplay GmbH; architectural products, flooring, and technology innovators such as Formica, Slalom, AHF Products, Behr Paint, Configura, and Cyncly; global sourcing exhibitors like Kano Global, Modernsolid Industrial, and Merryfair; and furniture and fabric specialists including Offices to Go, Ultrafabrics,  Mantra Inspired Furniture, Virco, Cane-line, Emu, Nardi, and FEEK.

Register for NeoCon 2025

Show registration is free for all attendees. To register, head here: https://neocon.com/register. Keynotes will be delivered live onsite during the show and will also be available for streaming on NeoCon.com. Programming registration for keynotes, featured presentations, CEU seminars, talks, and workshops will open on April 1, 2025. 

Posted: March 19, 2025

Source: NeoCon®

David Tingue, CEO Of Tingue, Brown & Co. Of Peachtree City, GA To Receive TRSA Maglin-Biggie Supplier Partner Lifetime Achievement Award

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — March 18, 2025 — TRSA is pleased to announce that David Tingue, CEO of Tingue, Brown & Co. of Peachtree City, Ga., will be honored with the TRSA Maglin-Biggie Supplier Partner Lifetime Achievement Award at the 112th TRSA Annual Conference taking place May 13-15 at the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas in Indian Wells, Calif. Tingue will receive the award during a special dinner on May 15 in recognition of his exceptional leadership, industry contributions, and commitment to excellence.

David Tingue

“I’m incredibly honored to receive the TRSA Supplier Partner Lifetime Achievement Award,” Tingue said. “I feel a bit overwhelmed by this honor, as it has me reflecting on the many individual mentors and influencers in my life. Above all is my father, Bill Tingue, who was a recipient of this award in 2003. Dad showed me that you can come out on top while acting like a gentleman. The names of past recipients are truly humbling — these are my idols, and they always will be. Thanks to all of them for setting such a great example.”

A stalwart of the commercial laundry industry, Tingue has been instrumental in building his company’s global presence. He has strengthened its supply chain, ensuring resilience through financial crises and pandemics so that customers were never without their necessary consumables, spare parts and local service. Under his leadership, Tingue has expanded into Hong Kong, Canada, the Caribbean and Ireland. He is also a visionary in digitizing the company’s operations, launching an e-commerce platform in 2023 that has been widely adopted by laundry operators worldwide, including more than 100 TRSA members.

Beyond his corporate leadership, Tingue has dedicated significant time and expertise to TRSA, serving on multiple committees, including Healthcare, Marketing, Strategic Management and Strategic Planning, as well as his personal favorite, the Government Relations Committee. He also served on TRSA’s Board of Directors from 2002 to 2004, is a graduate of TRSA’s Sales and Marketing Institute (SMI) and is a consistent supporter of TRSAPAC. As a constant cheerleader for TRSA programs, he has sent dozens of Tingue employees to EMI, MMI, PMI, and other TRSA-sponsored events.

A fourth-generation leader, Tingue took the helm of his family’s business in 1992 after earning an MBA from Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management. He held various management positions in the Tingue division, becoming president in 2000. In January 2007, he succeeded his father, William J. Tingue, as CEO of the parent company. Under his leadership, the business has closed 18 acquisitions, three business divestitures and six real estate deals.

David resides in Tampa, Fla., with his wife, Andrea. The next generation of the Tingue family remains active in the business, with David’s son John representing the fifth generation.

“We recently launched a new mission statement at Tingue: Fostering a benevolent culture that drives us to be the familiar, friendly and trusted solution for our laundry partners,” Tingue said. “This Lifetime Achievement Award suggests that we are on the right path. While this award marks a significant milestone, I believe there is still more to contribute. I look forward to continuing to support and advance the industry, ensuring that the next generation can build on the strong foundation we’ve all worked so hard to establish. Thank you to my friends of the TRSA.”

For more information and to register for the TRSA Annual Conference, visit www.trsa.org/annualconference.

Posted: March 19, 2025

Source: TRSA

Yeadon Fabric Domes To Invest $4.6 Million in Fayetteville, N.C., For Manufacturing Facility

RALEIGH, N.C. — March 18, 2025 — North Carolina Governor Josh Stein announced Yeadon Fabric Domes LLC, a manufacturer of air supported structures, will create 72 new jobs in Cumberland County. The company will invest $4.6 million to build a manufacturing facility in Fayetteville.

“We are delighted to welcome Yeadon Fabric Domes to Cumberland County,” said Governor Stein. “Our manufacturing leadership and textile legacy woven with our strategic location and excellent quality of life will continue to attract innovative, global companies to our great state.”

Yeadon Fabric Domes is a designer and manufacturer of climate-controlled domed structures. From professional sports to swimming pools, the company’s air-supported facilities provide large, open spaces for a variety of sporting venues and applications. Yeadon Fabric Domes have been installed in more than 30 countries for customers including several professional football teams, University of Pennsylvania and Marquette University. Headquartered in Minnesota, Yeadon will build its own 72-foot-tall domed structure in a 50,000-square-foot space production site at the Fayetteville Regional Airport, adding more manufacturing capacity and service space for its operations.

“Yeadon Domes is thrilled to be expanding our operations to Fayetteville,” said Matt Mejia, CEO of Yeadon Fabric Domes. “Throughout the process, it has become clear that Fayetteville is the perfect place to build our manufacturing facility, and to continue producing world-class air-supported domes. We’re grateful for the support of Governor Stein, and our many partners throughout North Carolina. We look forward to joining the community and expanding Yeadon’s 55-year legacy in Cumberland County.”

“North Carolina is one of the fastest growing states in the nation as it continues to be recognized as the top state to do business in America,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Yeadon Fabric Domes will benefit from a friendly business environment, a world-class workforce, and a rewarding lifestyle in Cumberland County, and we believe they will find great success here.”

While salaries for the new positions will vary, the average annual salary will be $47,734, exceeding the Cumberland County average of $47,175. These new jobs could create a potential annual payroll impact of more than $3.4 million.

A performance-based grant of $225,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help the company locate to Cumberland County. The OneNC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All OneNC grants require a matching participation from local governments and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

“We welcome Yeadon Fabric Domes and its investment to our region,” said N.C. Senator Val Applewhite. “They will greatly benefit from our transitioning military families which offer a uniquely skilled and prepared workforce that a company of this impact will need.”

“This is a great win for Cumberland County and the entire state,” said N.C. Representative Diane Wheatley. “We extend our sincere appreciation to the partnership of state and local officials and the economic development professionals that supported Yeadon Fabric Domes in making its next home in Fayetteville.”

In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Community College System, Cumberland County, the City of Fayetteville, and the Fayetteville Cumberland County Economic Development Corporation.

Posted: March 19, 2025

Source: North Carolina Office of the Governor

Driving Fashion, Innovation And Sustainability: VIATT 2025 Solidifies Its Role As ASEAN’s Premier International Textile Platform

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam — March 19, 2025 — At its second edition, the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles, and Textile Technologies (VIATT) has once again proven a vital trade platform for the global textile value chain. Taking place from February 26-28, 2025, the show concluded with resounding success, after attracting over 19,000 visits (more than 10-percent increase) from over 70 countries and regions (2024: 55 countries and regions). The fair also welcomed 463 exhibitors from 24 countries and regions, marking a nearly 13 percent growth compared to the previous year, while adding several new zones and a pavilion that offered potential for Vietnam’s development towards textile innovation and sustainability, and further integration with the global supply chain.

Serving as a catalyst to connect the local market with the global stage, the fair was once again hosted by Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT). “Among all the current industrial export products of Vietnam, the textile and garment industry accounts for 12 to 16 percent of the country’s total export turnover,” said Phan Thi Thang, deputy minister of Industry and Trade at the fair’s opening ceremony. “Facing favourable trends, along with 17 new generation free trade agreements (FTAs) Vietnam has signed that have taken effect, the country’s textile and garment industry targets export turnover of $48 billion by 2025, continuing to affirm Vietnam’s solid position in the global supply chain.”

Speaking at the fair’s close, Wilmet Shea, general manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd., remarked: “VIATT 2025 exceeded expectations with its remarkable participation from key international players, particularly through the introduction of the European Zone and India Pavilion. The show has made significant progress compared to its inaugural edition, with growth in internationality, exhibitor and visitor numbers, and fringe event offerings. These advancements further cemented VIATT’s role as a gateway to increase business in ASEAN’s dynamic textile market, providing unparalleled opportunities for fairgoers to forge global partnerships, upgrade their supply chains and explore new markets.”

New offerings underscore Vietnam’s rising potential in design, technology and sustainability

Aligned with global trends, VIATT 2025 placed a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability, reflecting the industry’s shift towards eco-conscious practices and cutting-edge technologies, and the growing demand for these in Southeast Asia. The debut Innovation and Digital Solutions Zone and Econogy Hub — the centralised zones for cutting-edge technologies and sustainable products and solutions — emerged as major highlights, underscoring the industry’s commitment to a more sustainable future, across the apparel, home, and technical sectors.

Exhibiting in Econogy Hub, Nguyen Tri Duc, Overseas Sales Department, Toyo Orimono, Japan, commented: “Econogy Hub has been an excellent platform for networking. It allows us to connect with potential clients and showcase our offerings. Over the past two days, we’ve seen a significant increase in customer interest in recycled fibers, and various eco-friendly products, with many proposing new design requirements to cater to market demands in Japan and Europe. Compared to last year, this edition has attracted a larger, more professional crowd, and the booths have been more captivating than ever.”

In addition to the numerous fabrics being showcased, more inspiration was on display at the inaugural European Zone, which showcased top-tier French fashion designs, the finest home textiles from Portugal, sustainable textiles from the UK, and more. By organizing a new display zone, the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT) highlighted the craftsmanship of several premium British fabric mills.

“Vietnam’s consumer class is growing rapidly, and there’s a very strong manufacturing sector with sustainable, ethical facilities, with huge investments in technology and quality,” explained Daniel Connolly, senior executive, UKFT. “The UK has now got a free trade agreement with Vietnam, and has recently become part of CPTPP. Lots of British textiles are being turned into finished goods here. We’re very happy to partner with VIATT, and visitors have been pleasantly surprised that we’re exhibiting at just its second edition. The UK industry is also really happy that UKFT is here because Vietnam and Southeast Asia represent such an exciting, relatively new market.”

Exhibitors’ feedback

“We have brought fashion embroidery fabrics and polyester embroidery yarns, predominantly for stylish women’s wear. Our goal is to engage with garment manufacturers, brand customers, and local agents,” said Bao Jia Cheng, representative of Shaoxing Sunsmile Textile Co Ltd., China (Apparel Fabrics & Fashion). “Southeast Asia is undoubtedly a key focal point for the future evolution of Asia-Pacific’s economy, and I regard this exhibition as a crucial avenue for penetrating the Southeast Asian market. I’ve seen a promising visitor flow and good quality customers, and notably met interested parties from Vietnam, Thailand, India, and other parts of Southeast Asia.”

“We established a factory in Vietnam at the beginning of the year, due to its more favorable market environment and more developed supply chain than other Southeast Asian nations,” said Zhang Jian, Muye Home Fashion Vietnam Co Ltd., Vietnam (Home & Contract Textiles). “At VIATT, we’ve had considerable demand from local stores and wholesalers. I believe that Vietnam has significant consumer purchasing power as our prices have been well-received here, and our booth, which promotes finished products, has attracted a significant amount of foot traffic, indicating a good number of targeted customers.”

“Utilised by most global brands with mass-produced T-shirts or underwear, our tagless line is an alternative to heat transfer labels or sewn-in labels,” said Matthew Yates, Global Tagless director, Inkcups, USA (Technical Textiles & Textile Technologies). “It saves water and trees, with no carbon emissions. This is our first time exhibiting at VIATT, we’ve been very busy and absolutely made some promising leads. Our main customers are apparel, but we’re also in medical, furniture, jeans, and such. This kind of exhibition gathering different sub-sectors increases possibilities, because visitors say they can apply tagless to products I’d never really considered.”

Drawn by VIATT’s diverse and extensive offerings, nine buyer delegations from Europe, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and the US sourced at the fair. Meanwhile, VIP buyers from renowned brands, including Adidas, Aeon, American Eagle, Club Monaco, IKEA, J Crew, Nike, MFG Sourcing, Muji, Lululemon, Welspun, and ZARA also met with exhibitors to further promote business exchange during the show.

Buyers’ experiences

“As a textile producer and retailer from Mexico, we’re primarily seeking garment suppliers,” said Eduardo Hernández Castillo, International Purchasing Manager, Avante Textil, Mexico. “I saw one of the fashion parades and for me it’s quite unique and fascinating. We also discovered innovative technologies, particularly in mélange yarns, as well as impressive advancements from Korea and Japan. We plan to return to VIATT next year to further develop our supplier network.”

“We are a home textiles company managing American clients’ orders in China,” said Dennis Macharia, Sourcing – Home Textiles China, Maaron International Procurements, China. “I’m planning to do all three days at this show, because I prefer sitting down with suppliers and having good conversations. There have been promising leads, especially Chinese suppliers who have already opened a good number of factories in Vietnam, and in India, Myanmar, and Indonesia. I have already found OEKO-TEX and BSCI certified suppliers at VIATT 2025, which are very important for our clients.”

“We focus on the markets of Vietnam, China, Korea and Europe, especially textile, handbag and footwear businesses — areas with high demand for zippers and copper metal accessories,” noted Chen Shen Hua, director, Kingly Copper, Vietnam. “Our main goal at VIATT is to find partners, learn new technologies, and expand our market presence. The fair has helped us connect with many potential partners, and open up opportunities for long-term collaborations. We look forward to returning next year to further expand our market reach or to showcase our new product lines.”

“I own Jossi, a fashion brand in Vietnam,” said Tran Thanh Tam, director, Thinh Phuc Development Co Ltd., Vietnam. “These seminars gave me more specific, in-depth knowledge in my field. They far exceeded my expectations in terms of the valuable insights into the prospects of Vietnamese textile businesses. In both domestic and international markets, there is a strong emphasis on sustainable fashion and eco-friendly materials. At the fair, I networked with domestic and international partners. For instance, I met the CEO of ECOSOI, the enterprise specializing in 100-perce t pineapple fibre.”

Beyond business interactions, VIATT 2025 offered a comprehensive fringe program designed to share trends, insights, and strategies with global industry players. Notable events included VIATT’s first-ever Interior Design Roundtable and Networking: Sustainable Interiors with Smart Textiles. The panel discussion was led by VDAS Design Association, highlighting the latest fabric, technology, and sustainability initiatives in the interiors sector. Another addition, the inaugural 2025 VCICS – Vietnam Investment Summit, aimed to unlock new business opportunities between China and Vietnam. Meanwhile, The Future of Sustainability in Vietnam’s Fashion Industry explored Vietnam’s design and sustainability, in collaboration with Redress, and including insights from leading enterprises such as ECOSOI, Passi, and sustainable phygital fashion brand KHAAR.

In total, 11 seminars took place during the fair, covering the themes of Design & Trends, Market Information & Business Strategies, Innovation/Technology & Solutions, and Econogy Talks, bringing international perspectives to educate and inspire the local market, as well as spotlighting Vietnam’s fashion and interior design landscape.

As for the highlights at the end of the value chain, two well-attended, eye-catching fashion shows from Vietnamese designer Vu Viet Ha and French designer Manix Wong, along with two fashion parades by designers from Thailand and Taiwan, also attracted the attention of global visitors. Meanwhile, three garment display zones highlighted the prevailing potential of functional and sustainable fashion, while a well-attended macramé weaving workshop enabled fairgoers to craft their own coasters.

Speakers’ insights

“Currently, the Vietnamese fashion industry is on the rise and pays a lot of attention to sustainability” said Ngoc Thu Le, Representative of Redress, Hong Kong. “During our panel discussion today, a common challenge that I noticed is educating the customers and shifting their buying behaviors. That’s why fairs like VIATT are important because they provide brands with a platform to reach out directly with customers and communicate the value of sustainable fashion.”

“My presentation was about applying AI in fabric inspection, the challenges and also the opportunities, while the panel discussion was more about sustainability,” said Professor Calvin Wong, CEO & Centre director, Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design (AiDLab), Hong Kong. “The industry is eager for innovations, particularly for AI. Our inspection system especially has attracted very strong interest as there are many textile mills and garment manufacturers in Vietnam. I’m so satisfied with the number of visitors at our booth, we have met quite a few potential business partners, and of course we plan to come back next year!”

The Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textile Technologies (VIATT) is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE). For more details on this fair, please visit or contact viatt@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com.

VIATT 2026 will be held from February 26 – 28, 2026

Other upcoming shows:

  • Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics / Yarn Expo Shenzhen
    • June 11 – 13, 2025, Shenzhen (Futian)
  • Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Autumn Edition
    • August 20 – 22, 2025, Shanghai
  • Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition / Yarn Expo Autumn
    • September 2 – 4, 2025, Shanghai
  • Cinte Techtextil China
    • September 3 – 5, 2025, Shanghai

Posted: March 19, 2025

Source: Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd

UNIFI®, Maker Of REPREVE®, Named To Fast Company’s Annual List Of The World’s Most Innovative Companies Of 2025 For Fashion And Apparel

GREENSBORO, N.C. — March 18, 2025 — UNIFI Inc., the maker of REPREVE®, is proud to have been named to Fast Company’s prestigious list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2025 in the Fashion and Apparel category. This year’s list shines a spotlight on businesses that are shaping industry and culture through their innovations to set new standards and achieve remarkable milestones in all sectors of the economy. Alongside the World’s 50 Most Innovative Companies, Fast Company recognizes 609 organizations across 58 sectors and regions.

“Being recognized as one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies is a great honor,” said Eddie Ingle, UNIFI CEO. “Polyester is the most widely used fiber in the world, and industries need a sustainable solution that can be adopted into supply chains to reduce reliance on virgin production. Our goal at UNIFI® is to use our industry leading REPREVE brand to mainstream recycled and circular products, which will help build a more sustainable future.”

UNIFI is establishing global standards in recycling technology with its innovative Textile Takeback™ process. This process produces circular polyester and insulation, ThermaLoop™, at commercial scale. Textile Takeback products are created using post-industrial and post-consumer fabric waste, allowing global brands to find new life for their waste and extend the lifecycle of these materials.

UNIFI monitors its progress using third-party, peer-reviewed LCA data and bold target setting. To date, UNIFI has recycled the equivalent of 950 million T-shirts’ worth of textile and yarn waste, placing the Company more than halfway toward its goal of recycling the equivalent of 1.5 billion T-shirts’ worth of waste by fiscal year 2030. Additionally, UNIFI aims to divert 50 billion plastic bottles from landfills by the end of 2025 and is on pace to cut GHG emissions intensity 30% by fiscal year 2030.

The World’s Most Innovative Companies stands as Fast Company’s hallmark franchise and one of its most anticipated editorial efforts of the year. To determine honorees, Fast Company’s editors and writers review companies driving progress around the world and across industries, evaluating thousands of submissions through a competitive application process. The result is a globe-spanning guide to innovation today, from early-stage startups to some of the most valuable companies in the world.

“Our list of the Most Innovative Companies offers both a comprehensive look at innovation today and a playbook for the future,” said Fast Company Editor-In-Chief Brendan Vaughan. “This year, we recognize companies that are harnessing AI in deep and meaningful ways, brands that are turning customers into superfans by over delivering for them, and challengers that are introducing bold ideas and vital competition to their industries. At a time when the world is rapidly shifting, these companies are charting the way forward.”

The full list of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies honorees can now be found at fastcompany.com. It will also be available on newsstands beginning March 25.

Fast Company will host the Most Innovative Companies Summit and Gala for honorees on June 5. The summit features a day of inspiring content, followed by a creative black-tie gala including networking, a seated dinner, and an honoree presentation.

*100% recycled materials refers to the base polymer excluding colorants and/or additive packages

Posted: March 18, 2025

Source: UNIFI, Inc.

1...168169170...2,649Page 169 of 2,649

Sponsors

Breaking News

Load more

Digital Issue

2026 Quarterly Issue II

View Latest Digital Issue

FEATURED ARTICLES

© Copyright 2017 Textile Industries Media Group, LLC.