KM Fabrics Writes Its Next Chapter By Investing In A New West Greenville Mill

GREENVILLE, S.C. — May 8, 2024 — After 45 years at 2 Waco Street in West Greenville, KM Fabrics, a maker of fine woven velvets for drapery, upholstery, wrapped panels and specialty applications, is relocating. KM will move to its new home a few miles away, at 105 Wood Street, by late 2025. The 15-acre property, including a 200,000 square-foot building, will house manufacturing and corporate headquarters.

“Weaving and dyeing velvet fabrics is extremely difficult and requires specialized knowledge,” said Paul Tantillo, KM president & CEO. “We’ve created a skilled and diversified workforce with decades of experience and it was important for us to keep our team intact. Staying in West Greenville promotes revitalization in our community and allows us to scale. We will be moving our team of over 100 employees and also plan on hiring additional staff across the board.”

The new facility will feature additional equipment and a streamlined layout, operating on one level instead of two, for better safety, quality control, and efficiency. Tantillo noted the new location will be more comfortable, private, and secure, promoting an outstanding work environment. Seeking to avoid production disruptions, staff will be working in both the current and new mills until the move is complete.

“We love being in Greenville and this is why KM Fabrics is writing its next chapter here,” Tantillo said. “We’re investing in sustainable manufacturing to ensure our operations remain within regulatory guidelines. At the same time, we’re increasing our capacity to maintain our high production standards for our core clients in the theater business as well as new opportunities in other markets.

Marsh Bell Construction Co. will handle on-site construction and renovation, working with GPN Architecture and Isomer Project Group on engineering. Chris Schweighart of Aline Capital brokered the sale, with Park National Bank in Spartanburg providing financing.

Posted May 9, 2024

Source: KM Fabrics

Michelman Fiber Sizing Line Added To IACMI – The Composites Institute Collaboration Facility

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — May 8, 2024 — IACMI – The Composites Institute, in partnership with Michelman, a global manufacturer of advanced materials, is pleased to announce the addition of a state-of-the-art fiber sizing line to the IACMI Collaboration Facility in Knoxville, Tenn. The 70-foot, modular system is designed to apply a variety of “fiber sizings,” a very thin chemical coating that serves multiple benefits in manufacturing. This process is an essential step in making composites lighter, stronger, and more versatile.

This unique equipment helps provide a faster path from research to commercialization, according to IACMI’s Chief Technology Officer Dr. Uday Vaidya, who serves as the University of Tennessee – Oak Ridge National Laboratory (UT-ORNL) Governor’s Chair in Advanced Composites Manufacturing.

The new Michelman fiber sizing line helps provide a faster path from research to commercialization for IACMI members, according to IACMI’s Chief Technology Officer Dr. Uday Vaidya

“I am both grateful and excited to have this line commissioned to benefit multiple stakeholders in the composites ecosystem we’ve built between IACMI, ORNL, UT, and industry,” Vaidya said. “We’re not only researching and developing sustainable composites innovations. With the Michelman line, stakeholders can customize their constituent materials for a tailored fiber-matrix interface, which is key to the properties / performance of the composite.”

Ohio-based Michelman manufactures chemical solutions for agricultural and architectural coatings, digital printing, packaging, and advanced composites for automotive and aerospace. Michelman’s equipment enables hands-on training for next-generation engineers and is the culmination of many years of collaboration with IACMI.

“As a leading global supplier of sizing and surface treatments, Michelman is proud to support this collaboration between industry, government, and academia,” said Steve Bassetti, a director of Global Marketing at Michelman. “With our purpose of Innovating a Sustainable Future, we are eager to invest in the success of the future workforce. By enabling students to apply classroom knowledge to real world applications, we hope to accelerate students’ learning curves and fuel their passion to join the workforce within the composites industry. Who knows, perhaps some of these students will lead the way in developing the next generation of sustainable composites!”

A fiber sizing is a thin coating of a custom chemical formulation applied to the fiber to serve several functions. Benefits of sizings include protecting fibers from breaking during manufacturing and tailoring the properties of the surface to maximize the interfacial properties between the fiber and the polymer matrix, while also allowing the fiber format to be used or consumed in the multiple types of composite manufacturing processes.

Initial work is underway developing sizing solutions for standard and wide tow carbon fiber, but there are far more fibers and reinforcements to explore. “For example, we’re still scratching the surface on what we can do with natural fibers like hemp, flax, and coir to name a few,” Vaidya said. “Sky’s the limit for innovations in sizing development.”

This sizing line was custom-built by Izumi International Inc. out of South Carolina. The line has unique features. The modularity of its design allows it to be used for fiber feed, fiber spread measurement, fiber damage assessment, conditioning in-line ovens/heaters, tension guides, wet baths, and a range of other custom features. One of its key benefits for stakeholders is being able to offer high-value applications by differentiating fibers and resin offerings based on custom sizing. Potential customers or industries benefiting from this line are broad, ranging from material suppliers, OEMS, Tiers, parts manufacturers and small companies. The line is also ideal for continuous R&D for emerging chemistries, such as bio-based polymers and other feedstocks that provide more sustainable options.

Vaidya noted that sizing solutions for the aerospace market have typically focused on carbon fiber that’s compatible with thermoset epoxy and polyurethane resins. Now with more focus on sustainability and making composites more recyclable, there’s a lot of interest in fiber sizing options that are compatible with thermoplastic resins. Developing options for a broader family of fibers and resins can provide custom solutions for infrastructure, marine, wind, aerospace, defense, sporting, and healthcare sectors.

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: IACMI – The Composites Institute

The Third Tashkent International Investment Forum Showcases Uzbekistan’s Investment Potential After $26.6 Billion In Agreements Successfully Signed

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan — May 8, 2024 — The Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan is delighted to share the strong results of the third Tashkent International Investment Forum that took place May 2-3, 2024.

This year, The Forum was attended by a record number of participants: more than 2,500 from 93 countries around the world. Within the framework of the Forum, agreements were signed totaling $26.5 billion, which is 141.8 percent higher than the results of last years’ Forum ($11 billion).

Agreements were signed in various sectors: from renewable energy and digital technologies to textiles and agriculture, among others.

The largest agreement was signed with ACWA Power (Saudi Arabia) and involves the construction of wind power plants capable of generating power to around 4.5 million houses in Uzbekistan per year. This project is worth $4.85 billion.

Moreover, agreements were signed on the implementation of the following investment projects:

  • “Data Volt” (Saudi Arabia): construction of urban infrastructure in “New Tashkent” with total project amount of $1 billion, as well as a data center amounting $3 billion.
  • “Amea Power” (UAE): wind power station project with a capacity of 1000 MW in the Republic of Karakalpakstan, totaling $1.1 billion.
  • “Saudi Tabrid” (Saudi Arabia): heating system modernization projects in Nukus, Fergana, and Kuvasay totaling $750 million.
  • “Nil Shugar” (Egypt): sugar beet cultivation and production project in the Jizzakh region totaling $500 million.
  • “Shanghai Knud International” (China): textile and sewing production in Namangan region totaling $205 million.
  • “Wilmar International” (Singapore): food production project in Tashkent region totaling $200 million.

In addition, agreements were reached at the Forum with a number of major global companies, such as “Orascom Investment” (Egypt), “Sayar” (USA), “Goldwind”, “Sinoma” (China), “Sam Yapi” (Turkiye), “Pasha Development” (Azerbaijan) “Lasselsberger” (Austria) and “Petrosat Chexelsoton” (Iran)

Also, as a result of the Forum, an agreement was signed with the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) for the implementation of the “Trade Connect Central Asia+” (TCCA+) program, aimed at significantly increasing the volumes and shifting the structure of trade between the countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan. The ITFC’s mandate for the implementation of this program amounts to $2.5 billion. The project’s ultimate objective is to increase the share of regional exports of non-mining and non-oil-and-gas products among the six countries of the region to 23 percent within 5 years.

Following the Forum’s results, the Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan, Laziz Kudratov, remarked: “In three years of holding The Forum, this year’s event has been the most successful — and the level of discussion as well as the quantity and value of signed agreements showcase this. Also, most importantly, the opening speech of the President of Uzbekistan, which began the Forum, confirmed to existing investors in the country the wisdom of their decision, and served to persuade potential investors of the compelling attractiveness of the New Uzbekistan: the big country with big opportunities. We are open to cooperation and look forward to welcoming investors — for whom we are creating a positive environment in which they can create value for their businesses and for the people of Uzbekistan”.

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: The Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Possenia + bluesign — First Swiss Cycling Brand To Launch bluesign® Product

ARZIER-LE MUIDS, Switzerland — May 8, 2024 — Possenia, a trailblazing newcomer in the cycling industry, proudly announces a groundbreaking achievement: it is Switzerland’s first cycling brand to introduce the bluesign® PRODUCT label, marking an important milestone in sustainable cycling apparel in Europe. These environmentally conscious, premium cycling essentials are now available on Digitec Galaxus as well as directly through Possenia’s own website.

As a brand committed to premium quality, innovation and sustainability, Possenia has risen above traditional industry barriers to obtain bluesign PRODUCT certification for a large proportion of its product range, aiming to bring the remaining portion into its bluesign PRODUCT ranges by 2025. This milestone underscores Possenia’s unwavering dedication to revolutionizing the cycling industry with environmentally responsible practices and options.

“At Possenia, we are driven by a passion for sustainability and a desire to push the boundaries of what’s possible,” said Possenia CEO and co-founder, Melissa Vostriakova. “Being the first Swiss cycling brand to offer bluesign PRODUCTs is a testament to our commitment to creating a happier, more sustainable future for all.”

The bluesign PRODUCT label represents the gold standard in responsible production, ensuring that every aspect of manufacturing meets strict chemical, environmental and worker safety criteria. By partnering with bluesign technologies, Possenia ensures that its products are made with the utmost care for both the planet and its inhabitants.

Possenia stands out not just for its innovative ethos and ethical manufacturing, but also for the exceptional quality and accessibility of its products. Their bluesign PRODUCT range of cycling essentials, epitomizes this commitment, offering conscientious cyclists a compelling choice. Crafted from fabrics trusted to be put on the shoulders of grand tour winners, these garments combine premium performance with ethical integrity, catering to individuals who demand excellence in both their gear and their principles.

“Our vision is to create responsible cycling wear that is accessible to all to drive a shift towards a more sustainable cycling industry. Sustainability must absolutely not only be prohibitively priced if we as a society truly want to pave the way for a better future. Sustainability must become both the default option and be affordable rather than just another luxury option on the market for those who can afford it,” said Michael Kenyon, executive member of Possenia’s Board of Directors.

Possenia’s cycling range incorporates almost exclusively bluesign APPROVED recycled and commercially biodegradable fabrics as well as bluesign® APPROVED trims and finishes. A critical component of Possenia’s approach, in collaboration with bluesign® Technologies is strict chemical management, a cornerstone of impact reduction.

CEO of bluesign Technologies, Daniel Rufenacht, said: “many sport enthusiasts, like cyclists, spend a great deal of their lives outdoors and have a deep connection to their environment. Possenia understands this and has aligned its key values with what’s really important for us as a society: the long-term health of our planet. When it comes to chemical management, we know that chemicals represent more than 20 percent of industrial water pollution and around 25 percent of chemicals used globally are attributed to the textile industry. It’s one of the most critical levers in sustainability.”

The availability of Possenia’s bluesign PRODUCT styles on Galaxus signifies a significant step forward in making sustainable, premium cycling apparel accessible to wider reaches of the Swiss market. From on-the-bike wear such as jerseys and cycling shorts to off-the-bike wear such as hoodies and t-shirts, each item in the Possenia lineup reflects the brand’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Possenia wants to inspire cyclists worldwide to perform at their best, ride with confidence, and all the while minimize their environmental footprint.

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: Possenia / Bluesign® Technologies

The National Retail Federation (NRF): Monthly Import Cargo To Reach 2 Million TEU Through Early Fall

WASHINGTON — May 8, 2024 — Monthly inbound cargo volume at the nation’s major container ports should consistently be above 2 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units through this summer and into early fall, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“We haven’t seen numbers this high for this many months in almost two years,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “Regardless of what headlines about the economy might say, consumers are shopping and retailers are making sure they have merchandise on hand to meet demand. The supply chain has adjusted to recent disruptions and retailers will work to keep the flow of goods moving smoothly as the back-to-school and holiday seasons approach.”

“Even with a shift in spending from goods to services, U.S. consumers continue to spend on goods,” Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said, noting a recent downturn in containerized products like furniture, clothing and electronics. “We are still seeing a strong volume of goods flowing into ports despite global geopolitical turmoil, high interest rates and a slowdown in economic growth. There has been a surge of container imports on all three coasts, with the strongest being the Gulf, followed by the Pacific and the East Coast. The issue now is whether this surge will continue or level off.”

U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 1.93 million TEU – one 20-foot container or its equivalent – in March, the latest month for which final numbers are available. That was down 1.4 percent from February but up 18.7 percent from March 2023, when Asian exports were slow after Lunar New Year shutdowns.

Ports have not yet reported April’s numbers, but Global Port Tracker projected the month at 1.96 million TEU, up 10 percent year-over-year. May is forecast at 2.06 million TEU, up 6.8 percent year-over-year to tie last October for the highest level since 2.26 million TEU in August 2022. June is forecast at 2.03 million TEU, up 10.7 percent from the same month last year; July at 2.02 million TEU, up 5.5 percent; August at 2.1 million TEU, up 7.1 percent, and September at 2.04 million TEU, up 0.5 percent.

Monthly volume has reached the 2 million TEU mark only twice since a 19-month streak that ended in October 2022.

The first half of 2024 is expected to total 11.9 million TEU, up 13 percent from the same period last year. Imports during 2023 totaled 22.3 million TEU, down 12.8 percent from 2022.

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

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

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: The National Retail Federation (NRF)

KARL MAYER GROUP Acknowledge Lots Of Visitors, Good Discussions, A Look At The Trends At Techtextil Frankfurt 2024 

OBERTSHAUSEN, Germany — May 8, 2024 — The KARL MAYER GROUP looks back on a successful Techtextil. At the industry’s trade fair in Frankfurt am Main in April, the global player once again presented itself as a competent partner to the Technical Textiles sector, with solutions for mastering the challenges of our time in the areas of Warp Knitting, Flat Knitting, Composites, Warp Preparation, Digitization and Care Solutions.

The exhibition with its strong market focus was very well received. The KARL MAYER GROUP counted around 380 registered visitors at its stand, and a further 76 customers travelled to the headquarters in Obertshausen to see the latest representatives of the tricot machine and RASCHELTRONIC® series “at work” at an in-house show. Most of the visitors came from Europe, with Germany at the top of the list of countries of origin. Some traveled from the United States, India, Turkey and the United Kingdom. Around 32 percent of the guests came to talk to the group of companies for the first time, a pleasingly high proportion of new contacts!

The number of visitors remained almost constant compared to Techtextil 2022, but the quality of the conversations had increased significantly, according to the almost unanimous feedback from the trade fair team. During the joint exchange, the implementation possibilities of ideas were discussed as well as specific machine projects and the application potential of KARL MAYER warp knitting and STOLL knitting machine products.

Many specific inquiries also came from the composites industry regarding multiaxial warp knitting machines and warp knitting machines with weft insertion.

“We have held a number of discussions, on the basis of which we see realistic opportunities for projects in the coming months,” said Hagen Lotzmann, sales manager of the Technical Textiles Business Unit.

Other key topics of discussion were KM.ON’s digital solutions, Care Solutions’ offerings and the possibilities offered by KARL MAYER warp preparation machines for generating new business or expanding capacity.

What is hot in the sector?

In addition to a showcase of innovations, Techtextil always offers the opportunity to track down trends in the industry. “You can sense a spirit of optimism. Manufacturers from fashion to automotive are on the lookout for real innovations. Brands in particular are showing a great willingness to invest in product innovations,” concluded Michael Kieren from the Business Development department at KARL MAYER.

Products with signpost qualities

Truly new means unprecedented in terms of surfaces, structures and function, especially through the integration of conductive or luminous material into the textile, new laminates, for example with an artificial leather look and feel, and 3D printing. Under TEXTILE CIRCUIT, KARL MAYER is developing innovations with conductive yarns incorporated directly on the warp knitting machine. There were many discussions about this. Traditionally, spacer fabrics also play an important role in functionalization. They are already firmly established in applications involving upholstery and ventilation, but their wide range of design options means that they also offer far-reaching potential applications. As a result, the universally applicable spacers were almost on everyone’s lips at Techtextil 2024.

The new Flex Ply technology sets standards in the flat knitting sector. At Techtextil, a series of application examples from the shoe upper, upholstery and clothing fabric sectors demonstrated the unique patterning and fabric design options that are possible thanks to this innovation. In addition, the innovative bonding of hot-melt adhesive yarns opens up interesting possibilities for functional solutions, particularly in terms of reinforcement.

Sustainable solutions

Another important topic is sustainability. In particular, the use of recycled materials and resource-saving production are in demand. The preformed knitted fabrics from STOLL machines can set standards here, especially as reinforcements for composites. They can be produced individually, according to the application and therefore without a lot of waste and from a wide variety of materials and were the focus of many discussions, both from established brands and young start-ups. Seamless knitted medical products with a compression effect offer the same benefits as well as comfort without any irritating seams. They are produced in one piece and are therefore highly efficient, also in terms of material usage. “The seamless compression technology represents an innovative and forward-looking production method that will find its way into production plants in the coming years,” said Martin Legner, STOLL head of Technical Textiles.

The composites industry is also on the lookout for sustainable solutions. Accordingly, there was great interest in the ski made of hemp tapes, which was an eye-catcher at the KARL MAYER GROUP stand and also brought many new interested parties into conversation with the company’s experts.

Textiles for defense

A new trend theme at Techtextil was defense, in line with the global situation. Exhibits in camouflage look — from uniforms, camouflage nets and tarpaulins to protection vests – accompanied visitors at every turn at Techtextil. Warp knitting is also well established in this sector. Nets, for example, are the domain of Raschel machines, especially in the agricultural sector, and spacer fabrics provide comfort as padding in helmets, rucksacks and protective equipment.

The knitting sector produces clothing and underwear components based on high-modulus fibers.

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: KARL MAYER GROUP

HeiQ Expands Application Of HeiQ Allergen Tech To Upholstery Fabric Through Collaboration With Culp

ZÜRICH, Switzerland — May 8, 2024 — HeiQ partners with Culp to apply HeiQ Allergen Tech, a 100-percent biobased* solution that reduces allergens on textiles, onto interior upholstery fabric.

HeiQ, a textile innovator, announced the extended application of HeiQ Allergen Tech to bring the benefits of this biobased textile technology to the interior upholstered furniture market, marking a unique launch into this segment.

HeiQ Allergen Tech has already been successfully adopted in bedding items like pillows, bed sheets, and mattresses by leading brands. And now Culp Upholstery Fabrics, a division of Culp, Inc. and one of the world’s leading suppliers of upholstery fabric will offer this technology to manufacturers of upholstered furniture. The collaboration aims to extend the proven benefits enjoyed by thousands of end-users in their bedrooms to all living spaces, as the two companies extend the use of HeiQ Allergen Tech beyond sleeping products.

This special collaboration will see Culp introduce HeiQ Allergen Tech enhanced interior upholstery fabrics to markets such as the Americas, among others, with Culp as the exclusive supplier.

HeiQ Allergen Tech effectively addresses the problem of allergens from dust mite matter and pet allergens in textiles with the help of active probiotics, making it ideal for applications in upholstered furniture, such as sofas, armchairs, and other upholstered furniture products, which are among the household items that are rarely or never washed. This naturally derived technology works in the background with its continuous cleaning action to reduce allergens on the treated fabric and thereby create a more comfortable living environment.

The first treated fabrics as a result of the collaboration are being revealed at the Interwoven trade show on May 7-8 in High Point, N.C., where HeiQ and Culp teams provide more details to all visitors. Attendees can get firsthand in-depth information on this revolutionary technology.

Culp Upholstery Fabrics, renowned for supplying a wide range of upholstery fabrics across the globe, delivers fashion-forward, stylish fabrics with broad appeal to the largest home furnishing retailers and manufacturers. Now, with the integration of HeiQ Allergen Tech, Culp and HeiQ are bringing innovation to homes, offices, and all living spaces with upholstered furniture.

Probiotics: the force that works with nature, not against it.

The proprietary technology of HeiQ Allergen Tech is 100-percent biobased and long-lasting. Probiotics, also known as “good bacteria”, with benefits for humans and animals, colonize the treated fabrics, leaving no space for harmful dust mite matter or pet allergens to settle in while creating the ideal conditions for better and more comfortable living spaces.

“We are excited to partner with Culp to introduce HeiQ Allergen Tech to the upholstery market,” said Mike Abbott, head of HeiQ Textiles & Flooring Business Unit. “Allergies are triggered by various allergens and are one of the most prevalent health problems in the world, estimated to affect about 40 percent of the global population, according to an article in the International Archives of Allergy and Immunology.  This partnership allows us to address a significant issue faced by consumers in their homes and living spaces by reducing allergens from dust mite matter and pets on upholstered fabric that people use every day. This collaboration further establishes HeiQ as a solutions provider to problems that impact millions of people worldwide, such as conditions triggered by dust mites and pet allergens.”

“Our collaboration with HeiQ represents an exciting innovation for Culp,” said Tammy Buckner, senior vice president of Design and Marketing for Culp Upholstery Fabrics. “With HeiQ Allergen Tech integrated into our fabrics, we are offering our customers a differentiating solution that can truly enhance the way people live and interact with their furniture and improve their everyday lives.”

*Based on third-party testing of bio-based carbon content using ASTM D6866

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: HeiQ

Zyler Virtual Try-On Wins Virtual Fitting Room Innovation Of The Year At RetailTech Breakthrough Awards 2024

LONDON — May 8, 2024 — Anthropics Technology, a provider of AI fashion try-on solutions, is proud to announce that its Zyler Virtual Try-On technology has won the “Virtual Fitting Room Innovation of the Year” award at the 2024 RetailTech Breakthrough Awards.

Zyler Virtual Try-On enables shoppers to try on clothing on the screen — without a physical product. Retailers using Zyler technology have seen an increase in browsing time and engagement as well as reduced returns. Zyler’s partners include John Lewis Fashion Rental, Moss, and Larusmiani among other fashion brands. This award honors Zyler’s innovation and contribution to the fashion retail industry.

The RetailTech Breakthrough Awards recognize top companies, technologies, and products in the retail industry. This year, thousands of nominations were received from all over the world. Anthropics Technology joins a distinguished list of winners, including UPS, Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions, Advatix, Berkshire Grey, Happy Returns, GK Software, Manhattan Associates, Panasonic Connect, and other leading companies and startups in the retail technology industry.

“We are honored to receive this prestigious award,” said Alexander Berend, CEO of Anthropics Technology. “Zyler Virtual Try-On represents our commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology to create innovative solutions that improve fashion retail experience and customer journey.”

Zyler Virtual Try-On enables customers to virtually try on clothing from any device, providing a seamless and accurate clothing try-on experience without a physical item. This innovative technology allows users to visualize how outfits will look on them, offering a personalized shopping experience that enhances customer satisfaction and reduces returns for retailers.

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: Anthropics Technology

Spinnova’s R&D Yarn Spinning Line Inaugurated In Tearfil’s Mill In Portugal

JYVÄSKYLÄ, Finland — May 8, 2024 — Spinnova’s R&D yarn spinning line has been inaugurated in Tearfil’s mill in Portugal. Spinnova and Tearfil entered into a yarn development cooperation agreement in June 2023, where the two companies share the capacity of the spinning line. The spinning line machinery was delivered by Rieter, the world’s leading supplier of yarn production systems. The R&D spinning line is used for product development and testing of SPINNOVA® fiber. The aim is to develop the fiber to be used in different applications in commercial-scale yarn production and to streamline development work with industrial partners. The spinning line is located in Tearfil’s facilities in the textile hub of Guimarães, Portugal, and Tearfil is responsible for operating the line.

“Yarn spinning is an important step in the development of SPINNOVA fiber from a novel fiber into a commercial product that is adopted in the textile value chain on an industrial scale. Our own R&D yarn spinning line gives us flexibility and speed in testing fiber batches. Our aim is to produce guidelines for the industry to apply SPINNOVA fiber in various applications, which will be created with the help of Rieter by combining the expertise of Tearfil in yarn processing”, explained Spinnova’s Chief Product and Sustainability Officer Shahriare Mahmood.

“We are excited to inaugurate Spinnova’s R&D yarn spinning line at Tearfil. This partnership with Spinnova marks a significant milestone in our commitment to sustainable innovation within the textile industry. By sharing the capacity of this cutting-edge spinning line, Tearfil and Spinnova are advancing the development and testing of SPINNOVA fiber, paving the way for its adoption on an industrial scale. Our expertise in yarn processing combined with Spinnova’s innovative fiber technology will shape the future of sustainable textiles,” said Maria de Belém Machado, CEO at Tearfil.

“Rieter is pleased to contribute with its state-of-the-art machinery to Spinnova’s product development. SPINNOVA fibre is the frontrunner in sustainable fibre innovations with the potential to become a large-scale commercial product. With its in-depth textile know-how from fibre to yarn, Rieter will continue to support Spinnova in spinning a fully innovative yarn,” commented Franziska Häfeli, head Sales and Marketing at Rieter.

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: Spinnova Plc

Arvind Appoints Susheel Kaul Managing Director & President (Textiles Cluster)

AHMEDABAD, India — May 8, 2024 — Arvind Ltd. proudly announces the appointment of Susheel Kaul as its new managing director and president – Textile Cluster, effective April 1, 2024. Kaul, who currently serves as the president and CEO of Textiles and Apparels at Arvind, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role.

Mr. Susheel Kaul, Managing Director & President (Textiles Cluster)

Commenting on his appointment, Kaul said: “I am honored and excited to take on the role of managing director & president at Arvind Ltd. It is a privilege to lead such a reputable organization with a rich legacy of excellence and innovation. I look forward to building on our successes and driving sustained growth and value creation for our stakeholders.”

As managing director and president, Kaul will continue to drive Arvind’s strategic priorities, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centricity. He will work closely with the board of directors and the executive team to further strengthen Arvind’s position as a global leader in the textile and apparel industry.

With a distinguished career spanning over 30+ years in the textile and apparel sector, Kaul has demonstrated exceptional vision, strategic acumen, and a deep understanding of the industry. His strong leadership qualities and commitment to excellence have been instrumental in driving Arvind’s growth and success in recent years.

Kaul holds a Masters of Technology degree from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, complemented by extensive professional development and executive education programs. His comprehensive knowledge of the industry landscape, coupled with his innovative approach to business challenges, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Arvind into its next phase of growth and expansion.

The Board of Directors at Arvind expresses confidence in Kaul’s ability to lead the company to new heights and extends their full support as he assumes his new responsibilities.

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: Arvind Limited

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