Clariant Delivers Strong Growth And Improves Its Operating Margins In An Adverse Environment In 2014

MUTTENZ, Switzerland — February 18, 2015 — Clariant, a world leader in specialty chemicals, today announced 2014 full-year sales from continuing operations of CHF 6.116 billion compared to CHF 6.076 billion in full-year 2013, an increase of 5% in local currencies, mainly driven by higher volumes (+4%). In Swiss francs sales increased by 1%.

The regional sales performance in local currencies was mostly positive. Clariant posted strong growth of 18% in local currencies in Latin America despite a slow-down in growth in Brazil. Sales in Asia increased 9% in local currencies driven by strong demand from Southeast Asia and India, the latter growing 24% in local currencies. Sales in North America increased by 3% as a slower start at the beginning of the year was compensated by a recovery of industrial demand during the year. Sales in Europe decreased by 2% given a slow business environment and a reduction of exposure to lower margin products. Sales in Middle East & Africa increased by 7% in local currencies.

In an overall challenging business climate, three out of four Business Areas achieved good sales growth in local currencies in a range of 6% to 8%. Care Chemicals recorded an underlying growth of 3% given the strength in Personal Care and Crop Solutions, despite a weak de-icing business. Reported growth was 1% given the pruning of lowmargin base products business. Catalysis & Energy posted good growth fueled by all major businesses and a good change-out cycle in the Petrochemical business. The sales improvement in Natural Resources was largely based on strength in Oil Services and Mining Services. In Plastics & Coatings all businesses contributed with mid-single digit growth, with Pigments contributing most to year-on-year progression.

At 29.0%, the gross margin was slightly up from the 28.7% recorded in the previous year. A favorable volume mix development and an improved operational efficiency offset the negative currency impact. Year-on-year, sales prices were marginally higher while raw material costs were slightly lower.

The EBITDA before exceptional items from continuing operations increased by 6% in local currencies, reaching CHF 867 million, up from CHF 858 million in the previous year (+1% in Swiss francs). The corresponding EBITDA margin improved to 14.2%, compared to 14.1% for the full-year 2013.

Exceptional items decreased to CHF 60 million versus CHF 104 million in the previous year. Exceptional items included a gain from a land sale in India, impairments linked to the divestment of the ASK Participation and the planned sale of Energy Storage as well as costs for implementing a lean service organization.

The net result from continuing operations decreased to CHF 235 million compared to CHF 323 million in the previous year. This was driven by higher tax expenditures compared to a lower base in 2013 which was positively impacted by divestment linked one-time effects.

Full-year operating cash flow increased to CHF 334 million compared to CHF 301 million in 2013. As expected, a strong cash flow generation in the second half-year reversed the cash outflow recorded in the first six months of 2014.

Net debt was reduced to CHF 1.263 billion from CHF 1.500 billion recorded at year-end 2013 and therefore below the targeted CHF 1.300 billion. The gearing, reflecting net financial debt in relation to equity, improved to 46% from 54% at the end of 2013.

The solid result allows the board of directors to propose to the Annual General Meeting an increased dividend of CHF 0.40 per share compared to CHF 0.36 per share in the previous year. The distribution is proposed to be made from the capital contribution reserve that is exempt from Swiss withholding tax.

Fourth quarter 2014 – Good underlying sales growth
In the fourth quarter of 2014, Clariant increased sales to CHF 1.586 billion up from the strong fourth quarter 2013 with CHF 1.563 billion. This corresponds to a growth of 2% in local currencies, driven by price increases. Despite some portfolio pruning, volumes matched the high base of the previous year period. In Swiss francs, growth reached 1%, as currency developments still had a slight adverse impact of 1 percentage point on sales.

Care Chemicals reported 1% higher sales in local currencies. On a like-for-like basis Care Chemicals grew 6% in local currencies, reflecting strong growth in Consumer Care, predominantly in Crop Solutions and Personal Care. Catalysis & Energy sales were flat in local currencies and decreased by 3% in Swiss francs compared to the high base of the same period in 2013, which was due to a rebalancing of orders between the third and fourth quarter of 2014. Sales in the Natural Resources Business Area grew 3% in local currencies and 1% in Swiss francs in the fourth quarter 2014. Sales in Plastics & Coatings increased 4% in local currencies and 5% in Swiss francs with all three businesses, Pigments, Masterbatches, and Additives, contributing to growth in local currencies.

At the regional level, Latin America achieved double-digit growth in local currencies. Asia/Pacific and North America increased sales, whereas Europe and the Middle East & Africa were below the levels observed one year ago.

The gross margin was slightly higher year-on-year, at 28.8% compared to 28.2% in the previous-year period. This was due to improved operational efficiency and a tempering negative currency effect. The EBITDA margin before exceptional items was at 14.6%, compared to 15.0% in the fourth quarter of 2013. This decline was due to a base effect in Natural Resources, mostly attributable to a positive contribution from the ASK Joint Venture in the fourth quarter of 2013. All other Business Areas experienced flat or higher EBITDA margins compared to the same period of the previous year.

Operating cash flow amounted to CHF 321 million, compared to CHF 261 million in the fourth quarter of 2013, reflecting the usual seasonal pattern with a strong cash flow generation in the second half-year.

Outlook 2015 – Focus on Performance, Growth and Innovation
Clariant expects an ongoing challenging environment characterized by an increased volatility in commodity prices and currencies. In emerging markets, the economic environment is expected to remain favorable but at a lower level and with increased volatility. Moderate growth should continue in the United States. However, growth in Europe is expected to remain weak. The combined effect of the appreciation of the Swiss franc with the weakening of the euro will impact Clariant’s sales and profitability in absolute terms but will be fairly neutral in terms of relative margins.

In 2015 Clariant will improve its operational efficiency by implementing a lean service organization; it will further improve its marketing excellence and will continue to launch innovations that generate value for its customers.

For 2015 Clariant expects low to mid-single digit sales growth in local currencies. In light of the volatile economic conditions, Clariant currently does not anticipate achieving its mid-term EBITDA margin target in 2015. However, the company will further increase its EBITDA margin before exceptional items above full-year 2014 and increase cash flow generation.

Clariant confirms its mid-term target to achieve a position in the top tier of the specialty chemicals industry. This corresponds to an EBITDA margin before exceptional items range of 16% to 19% and a return on invested capital (ROIC) above peer group average in 2015 and beyond.

“In 2014 Clariant grew above average once more, even though the economic environment was challenging and characterized by a continued lack of growth in Europe. Clariant increased its sales particularly in attractive high-margin markets, and was again able to improve its profitability, though some parts of the progress were masked by a negative currency effect,” said CEO Hariolf Kottmann.

“In 2015, we will continue on our successful path to transform our company into a leading specialty chemical company. We will improve operational efficiency by implementing a lean service organization and continue to focus on customers and innovation. For 2015 we expect continued sales growth, further progress of our EBITDA margin and an improved cash flow, despite an increasingly volatile economic environment.”

Posted February 18, 2015

Source: Clariant
 

Burlington Partners With PurThread Technologies To Provide Embedded Antimicrobial Protection To Fabrics

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — February 18, 2015 — PurThread Technologies Inc., maker of next generation antimicrobial fibers and yarns, announces a partnership with Burlington, a global diversified provider of textile solutions across performance and specialty apparel fabrics, active wear, advanced uniform fabrics, and technical fabrics, to provide antimicrobial and anti-odor protection to the global healthcare, industrial, and apparel markets.  

“Burlington is proud to continue its advanced R&D efforts to bring leading innovations in textile technology that provide real, lasting enhancements to our customers through our partnership with PurThread,” said Jeff Peck, President of Burlington. “Following rigorous testing, PurThread’s embedded antimicrobial is found to be extremely effective and durable, and we look forward to introducing PurThread’s benefits in our Burlington® brand fabrics.”

The foundation of this partnership is PurThread’s silver-embedded yarn, which was recently shown in a study by the University of Arizona to kill 99.99 percent of salmonella and other dangerous bacteria on its surface within two hours of contact. The silver, a safe, non-nano ionic silver salt, is EPA registered, and will power Burlington products made with PurThread’s antimicrobial and anti-odor protection.

PurThread is the first to embed silver into the fiber itself before it is spun into yarn and woven into fabrics. This novel technology yields intrinsic antimicrobial benefits that don’t wash off or wear away for the life of the fabric or change the fabric’s physical characteristics.

“We are excited to develop progressive antimicrobial products with one of the most well-known and respected textile manufacturers in the world,” said Lisa Grimes, CEO of PurThread. “This partnership will bring to healthcare and consumer markets the powerful, durable benefits of PurThread’s protective yarns in Burlington’s high-quality fabrics. Everyone wins.”

Developed with manufacturers in mind, PurThread’s technologies will integrate seamlessly with Burlington’s manufacturing process.

Posted February 18, 2015

Source: PurThread
 

Madeira Launches A New Cotton-Blend Embroidery Thread

LACONIA, N.H. — February 18, 2015 — New from Madeira to the Decorated Apparel Market is an embroidery thread that offers the rugged appearance of cotton with the durability of acrylic. At 50-percent cotton and 50-percent acrylic, Madeira’s new BurmilanaCo is a cousin to its popular 50/50 wool/acrylic blend, Burmilana.  The new BurmilanaCo is a 12 weight machine embroidery thread that offers a hand-embroidered look. Available in 72 colors, it is more economical than the wool blend, is easy to run and provides a beautiful, subtle stitch out. While 65 of its colors are solid, 7 are a soft, stylish mélange of related tones.

Madeira USA president Shirley Clark explains, “When we learned of the worldwide designers and decision makers that Madeira Germany has sent this new thread to, we knew we wanted to offer it to our customers here in the U.S. It is unique, bold, easy to run, and makes a very strong statement. For those who are fashion-minded, whether keeping up with trends or setting them, I think they will be extremely interested in seeing what this new specialty thread can produce.”

With a natural, soft hand, BurmilanaCo is an excellent choice for chenille embroidery, chain stitch, fringing, decorative seams and other special effects. Due to its thicker weight, the use of a #100/16 needle is recommended, as well as slightly tightening the tension on the embroidery machine. A sheet of full suggestions for optimal use is available from Madeira USA. BurmilanaCo has been tested and cleared to be free from any harmful substances by the international Oeko-Tex organization, receiving a Class 1 rating, which clears the thread for use on baby clothes.

Posted February 18, 2015

Source: Madeira USA
 

Surtex Presents Exhibitor Webinar Series Presented by Industry Experts, Topics To Help Maximize Show Success

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — February 18, 2015 — SURTEX®, North America’s premier exposition and conference for the selling and licensing of original art and design, will present a series of pre-show webinars designed to help exhibitors maximize return on investment and prepare for the event, which is slated to run May 17-19, 2015, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.  The multi-part webinar series will address essential exhibiting success strategies including booth design and display; marketing strategies and post-show follow-up.

“Our monthly exhibitor webinars are presented by industry experts who know how to get the most out of Surtex,” said Liz Crawford, vice president and group show director. “We are delighted to present this informative series to prepare exhibitors for a strong market presence and help with follow-up strategies.”

On February 19, “Maximize Your Surtex Success,” delivering action plans from preparing art to developing a marketing plan, will be presented by Dan Nazario, owner of Creativo and Trish Rivas, Surtex exhibitor marketing manager.  On March 12, “5 Tips For Bringing Your A-Game to the Show Floor” will be delivered by Tara Reed, licensed artist and founder of artlicensinginfo.com.  On April 2, “Booth Design and Logistics Bootcamp,” addressing ideas for effective booth design and budget basics, will be presented by Robin Zietz of Robin Z Studio and Keith Colavito, Surtex operations manager.

All webinars, which are free to Surtex exhibitors, will be held at 1:00 p.m. EST. Registration is available at www.surtex.com.  Webinar recordings will be available, upon request, through michelle.daniels@emeraldexpo.com.

Posted February 18, 2015

Source: Surtex
 

Datacolor Announces CHECK 3 Portable Spectrophotometer

LAWRENCEVILLE, N.J. — February 10, 2015 — Datacolor®, a color management solutions provider, today announced the launch of the CHECK 3 portable spectrophotometer. The completely redesigned CHECK 3 builds on Datacolor’s history of providing world-class portable spectrophotometers for the formulation and quality control needs of color professionals in the paint, coatings, plastic and textile industries. The instrument delivers industry leading color measurement performance, while offering excellent correlation to Datacolor’s world-renowned 600 series of benchtop instruments.
 
CHECK 3 features a completely redesigned user-interface with a modern and easy-to-navigate color LCD display. The instrument also includes an LED illuminated viewing port, enabling users to very precisely position samples and assure accurate measurement. The change to a horizontal configuration allows measurement in height constrained areas. All of these features contribute to improve the user experience during operation.
           
With an enhanced two-way Bluetooth interface, CHECK 3 allows the user to seamlessly transfer standards and batches back and forth between the instrument and TOOLS, Datacolor’s highly-regarded color quality control software. Sample measurements can also be initiated from TOOLS when connected via Bluetooth. These features allow quick transfer of color data, enabling users to make color decisions more efficiently.
 
The high-speed USB feature gives users flexibility in how they choose to manage their data by allowing easy data export to a USB flash-drive, while also providing support for peripherals, such as wireless keyboards and bar code scanners. The ability to use these peripheral devices in conjunction with the CHECK 3 improves the user experience by allowing for simple and efficient sample naming and identification.
 
“Through our commitment to providing our customers with the highest quality color measurement tools, we made the necessary enhancements to deliver an instrument specifically tailored to meet the needs of the modern color professional,” said Cheryl Johnston, Product Marketing Manager, Portable Instruments, Datacolor. “CHECK 3 provides customers with enhanced ease-of-use and improved efficiency while delivering the same unrivaled color measurement performance they expect from Datacolor.”

Posted February 17, 2015

Source: Datacolor
 

The Rupp Report: Successful Technical Textiles (Part I)

It makes sense that technical textiles are conquering more and more new application areas and are replacing conventional fabrics. Examples of this include reinforcement materials made of textiles in concrete construction, artificial arteries used in medical technologies and textile sandwich materials in vehicle construction and sport. This list can be extended virtually endlessly.
 
Commerzbank Report
A few weeks ago, the Rupp Report “Evergreen Industrial Fabrics” took a look at the upcoming Techtextil in Frankfurt, which will take place May 4-7, 2015. The same Rupp Report also mentioned the comprehensive “Commerzbank report” from Jürgen Grebe, Corporate Sector Analyst, German Commerzbank AG. Grebe presented an outstanding report that provides comprehensive insights into the growth perspectives of the technical textiles sector. In some of the upcoming articles, the Rupp Report will highlight important trends, facts and figures of this work.
 
Despite problems in the traditional textile industry, nonwovens and industrial fabrics are still in the lead regarding profitability and growth. For example, Commerzbank says that the production of nonwovens has increased by 11 percent since 2011. For 2015, it is expected that this sector, including technical textiles, will see a moderate rise of approximately 2 percent.
 
Germany — A Leader
In this context, Germany plays a leading role in the development and production of technical textiles and nonwovens. The German sector — approximately 600 companies with a turnover of more than 6 billion euros — is regarded as the market leader in Europe. Nearly 50 percent of all German textile production is for industrial applications.
 
Technology leadership is a key factor for success, Grebe said. “The German sector is regarded — also thanks to the excellent networking with the German research sector, which is itself unique worldwide — as the global technology market leader.” To be unique is essential for a success and every producer must avoid the greatest possible degree competition with suppliers of mass-produced goods and low-quality products, which are primarily produced in Asia. According to Grebe: “The German sector is predominantly the result of a successful structural change on the part of producers of traditional textiles to become highly technical and specialist manufacturers of high-quality textile products.”
 
Particularly for nonwovens as usually lightweight products, there is no successful way to export on a large scale. However, Grebe said, the best outlook is attributed to the Asian market, headed by China, but also other countries. The export quota for German manufacturers for technical textiles in 2013 grew to 62 percent and to 58 percent for nonwovens.
 
Growing Market
Even though the global market for nonwovens and technical textiles is undergoing some cyclical fluctuations, it has been, is currently and will continue to be a growth market. Apart from the familiar megatrends such as global demographic growth, urbanization and increasing environmental protection, according to Grebe, market growth is being driven mainly by the continuous development of new areas of application and the trend for new production processes. However, a potential producer has to know what is needed to be successful in this highly competitive market.
 
Reasons Why
Grebe provided some interesting information about strengths, weaknesses and other points to be conserved to be a successful player in this ever so promising market. The major growth potential is the strongest argument for being a part of this sector. This is particularly the case in more highly developed product areas. To be competitive, one must absolutely have a global technology leadership and be highly innovative, with strong links to scientific research institutes. That’s another reason why Germany is the top player, because the country has some world-class institutes and universities dealing with textiles. Technical textiles also need a high degree of specialization, an excellent work force and a top product quality with faultlessly environmental standards.
 
Weak points, and there are some, include mainly the distinctly cyclical sector trend due to strong economic influences. It needs a high investment intensity and fixed cost burden to be successful, with comparatively high break-even levels. In other words, there is no fast money to generate as a newcomer with technical textiles.
 
Other obstacles in this challenging sector could be economic downturns in important customer sectors, and in some cases widely fluctuating raw material prices and limited raw material availability due to a growing dependence on imported high-performance fibers. This is mostly the case for Western producers. Not to underestimate is the technical progress of potential competitors; this is mainly the case in emerging countries with questionable laws against product piracy, and the migration of know-how.
 
Opportunities
However, the opportunities to be an important player in this highly commercial sector are numerous: The development of new products and production processes keeps R&D departments alive and is in many cases the entrance for young people who are interested to work in such an interesting environment. This goes in line with the opening up of new markets, particularly in emerging countries and a desired development and export of strong brands.
 
No Mass Production
Compared to classic textile products, industrial fabrics are very much tailor-made. That’s why this sector is strongly characterized by SMEs, with a large number of niche players. They must be innovative, clever and very fast. It’s always the same old story: not the big ones are swallowing up the small ones, but the fast swallowing the slow ones. Low-cost producers from countries such as China or India do not have this structure, that’s why Europe, and to a certain extend the U.S. and Japan, are still in the forefront of these markets.
 
However, it is obvious that these emerging countries in particular are also rapidly gaining in importance as sales markets for German producers of technologically sophisticated products. Though, it must be noted that more and more producers in these countries also are making huge efforts to advance into more high-tech and high-end challenging products. This was illustrated at the last Techtextil, where the number of overseas visitors had grown and, as is typical today, everybody was armed with cameras, or at least, cell phones, even if this is forbidden. This trend seems to be even more evident this year. But that’s another story. The review of this report will be continued.
 

Editor’s Note: Frankfurt-based Commerzbank AG would like to mention that “any information in this report is based on data obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but no representations or guarantees are made by Commerzbank Group with regard to the accuracy of the data. The opinions and estimates contained herein constitute our best judgment at this date and time, and are subject to change without notice.”

February 17, 2015
 
 
 

Business & Financial: 2015 Off To A Fast Start

By Robert S. Reichard, Economics Editor
The new year is beginning on an extremely encouraging note thanks to the sharp drop in energy tags and a host of other positive news. Looking at energy first, the huge decline in gasoline prices — down near $2 a gallon as of press time — will alone save the average family anywhere from $500 to $700 a year. Add in the declines in heating oil and natural gas, and that leaves households with a lot more money to spend on textiles, apparel and other consumer goods. Equally bullish are the larger increases now being reported for disposable incomes. As one economist puts it: “My gut instinct is that this is the beginning of better wage performance for a broad swath of workers.” Still, another new indication of better times ahead comes from signs that overall government spending is again making a positive contribution to the economy. On the state level, for example, the aggregate budgets of all 50 states should rise by 3.1 percent over the current year. And on the Federal level, outlays for repair and construction of roads, schools and hospitals is again on the rise. So is spending on Medicare and Social Security. Equally upbeat as far as overall growth is concerned is the fact that capital spending is beginning to look a bit more robust. Indeed, one recent survey suggests that U.S. industry — looking at both slightly higher operating rates and the need to beef up productivity — now plans to up new plant and equipment outlays this year by some 4 percent.

The Textile And Apparel Impact
All the above clearly suggests a better-than-expected outlook for our two industries. In fact, there already are indications that 2015 is going to be a good year. Thus, recently ended holiday sales — comprised of a good percentage of textile and apparel products — increased by some 4 percent, a full percentage point faster than the previous year. Supporting this finding are new apparel store numbers that show similar gains. More importantly, this upbeat industry trend is likely to continue. For one, mill and clothing maker inventories are relatively low, suggesting that any new orders quickly will be translated into new production and shipments. But even more encouraging are two new Institute of Supply Management (ISM) surveys of the nation’s top purchasing executives — surveys that widely are recognized as leading indicators of future activity. ISM’s latest monthly activity report, for example, finds mills noting both increasing sales and rising backorder logs. And the picture painted in its new annual outlook survey is equally bright, with mill revenues for overall 2015 again expected to top the previous year’s level — thus confirming TW’s recent “Textiles 2015” projections (See “Textiles 2015: More Improvement Ahead,” Textile World, January/February 2015 issue). Also buttressing this improved scenario are such other findings as expectations that, percentage wise, mill plant and equipment spending gains will top those of most other industries; textile capacity will begin to inch up after many years of decline; and, the U.S. industry’s trade deficit will shrink as imports hold relatively stable while exports continue to inch up.

More Thoughts On Imports
While on the subject of an improving trade picture, a few words might also be in order on “reshoring.” There’s already considerable anecdotal evidence that a growing number of firms are starting to bring some of their overseas sourcing back to the U.S. And it’s taking place in the textile and apparel industries as well as other industries. Witness, for example, Walmart that already has made sizeable moves to reduce its heavy reliance on foreign production. But it’s difficult to find a consensus as what all this reshoring will add up to over the next few years. The Boston Consulting Group, Boston, is quite optimistic. The company, in a recent survey of more than 250 large firms — including some in the textile and apparel sector — sees big changes ahead. One key finding: American manufacturer’s U.S. share of their production should rise an average of 7 percent by the end of the decade. On the other hand, another big consulting outfit, A.T. Kearney, see a much slower reshoring pace — though the firm hastens to add that there’s definitely an upward trend in U.S. production competitiveness. As for TW’s view: It’s basically in the middle — little to no gains in commodity-type textile products, but solid ones when it comes to both niche products and output amenable to large productivity advances. Bottom line: Imports, already leveling off, should slowly fall with total incoming volume off by about 5 percent within two to three years.

February 17, 2015

Yarn Market: Yarn Spinners Start Strong

By Jim Phillips, Yarn Market Editor

Yarn orders in 2015 have so far met expectations, continuing a run of stability that has seen the industry add capacity for the first time in decades.

“The ring-spun business remains very strong,” said one spinner. “Combed cotton ring-spun has very limited availability.  Several companies in the Western Hemisphere are growing their ring-spinning operations to take advantage of the demand.  I really don’t see that changing in the near future.  There are still not a lot of companies in the United States that produce combed-cotton ring-spun. For now, there’s just not enough combed-cotton ring-spun to go around. That’s actually created a pretty good situation for those companies producing the yarn.”

Another spinner noted:  “I see some producers in Latin America moving toward producing more cotton products.  With the price of cotton leveling off in the past few months and hovering around $0.60 per pound, I think you will see more companies returning to cotton. With cotton prices jumping all over the place the past few years, a number of customers transitioned from 100-percent cotton to blends. Now, some of those orders are moving back to all cotton.”

Cotton is expected to be in plentiful supply for the remainder of the year, which bodes well for continued growth, spinners say.  The downside is that, with an oversupply, the possibility exists that fewer acres will be planted for the next season, which could drive the price back up.

Average spot cotton quotations for the base quality of cotton (color 41, leaf 4, staple 34, mike 35-36 and 43-49, strength 27.0-28.9, uniformity 81.0-81.9) in the seven designated markets measured by the USDA averaged $0.6085 per pound for the week ended Thursday, February 12, up from $0.5956 the previous week, but down from $0.8435 reported the corresponding period a year ago.

Value-Add Products In High Demand
Products in high demand at the moment, especially in the specialty segment, are those that offer some form of value add. “The markets that we serve are continually seeking to differentiate themselves, which is extremely valuable for our R&D initiatives,” a specialty spinner said.  “Products that offer either a sustainability or a performance attribute are in demand. Texture is also a very desirable characteristic.” Another spinner agreed: “We’re not running lots of the same things these days.  It seems everybody wants something different.”

“In a commodities-based business, price always rules,” said one business analyst.  “But in a market where there are multiple choices from similarly priced competitive products, opportunities exist to separate from the pack.  Speed to market is, of course, a key factor.  And so is customer service, both before and after the order is placed.  Product quality is also a huge issue.  Few things ruin business relationships faster than a product that is not quite up to specs.  But a major intangible in business is the customer experience. How easy is it for customers to buy from you?  Is ordering simple, with clearly delineated expectations for both the manufacturer and the customer? In a commodities world, all else being equal, customers keep coming back to those companies they like to do business with.”

“We are able to keep our customers happy by having an aggressive delivery strategy,” said one Southeastern spinner.  “Our ability to get business often hinges on whether we can get product to our customers, particularly those in Central America, faster than anyone else.”

Said another:  “Our customers tell us they often have quality issues from offshore manufacturers.  Sometimes the product isn’t up to specifications.  Other times they get the wrong product entirely. Our customers know they are going to get exactly what they ordered when they buy from us.  This helps us tremendously, especially in those instances where we can’t quite match the price.”

U.S. exports remain strong, although the strength of the U.S. dollar is having some impact. “There are some countries that artificially devalue their currencies, which makes it hard for Made in USA products to compete fairly in a global marketplace,” noted one analyst. “Nevertheless, many companies still maintain an aggressive global presence.”

February 2015

Chomarat Increases Its Production Capacity In Multiaxial Glass Fiber Reinforcements

LE CHEYLARD, France — February 11, 2015 — Chomarat, one of the players in the global engineered textile sector, is expanding its Tunisian plant in Grombalia (30 mins. from Tunis) and has announced an increase in its production capacity of multiaxial glass fiber reinforcements for the wind turbine market.

Enhanced Means Of Production To Meet High Demand
These investments come in response to a new contract to supply over 10,000 tonnes to the wind turbine sector.

In 2014 Chomarat made similar improvements to its Taicang plant (near Shanghai) in China. The Group is now able to supply its multiaxial reinforcements across continents – Europe, Asia and the Americas.

“Increasing our production capacity and expanding our facilities is just the first step. We are going to pursue our development by offering a competitive range designed for the wind turbine sector and all other high-volume markets such as the transportation and marine industries,” said Raphael Pleynet, head of Chomarat’s Composites Europe business.

Growing Ambitions In Glass Reinforcements
The aim of the Group is to build on its expansion and these latest investments will strengthen Chomarat’s market offering on an international scale. “Chomarat has always been among the leading players in the design and manufacture of glass reinforcements for the construction, marine and sports & leisure sectors. Our recent investments in China and Tunisia reflect our determination to gain ground in both carbon and glass composites,” said Michel Cognet, Managing Director of Chomarat Group.

Posted February 17, 2015

Source: Chomarat
 

Burlington Introduces The Iconic Collection Of Merino Wool Fabrics

GREENSBORO, N.C. — February 10, 2015 — Burlington is pleased to introduce the Iconic Collection of highend luxurious fabrics for menswear. A collection of super fine Merino Wool fabrics, the Iconic Collection is designed in contemporary and traditional silhouettes — styled for today’s tailored gentlemen and crafted for elegant suits, blazers, and trousers.

The Spring 2016 Collection is available in both super 110s and 120s fine yarns featuring softness with a clean hand and smooth drape. The Collection is made up of Burlington “Made in Americas” fabrics manufactured in both the U.S. and Mexico. Fabric styles are available for immediate sampling.

“The Iconic Collection represents the finest fabrics, drawn from Burlington’s legacy in fine worsted wools and fashioned in new, elegant designs that embrace the style of today’s contemporary man,” says Peter Baumann, senior vice president merchandising, Burlington Menswear. “We are positioned to be the fabric supplier of choice to a broadened better and moderate men’s market, offering customers a choice of platforms and expanded fabric collections.”

Posted February 17, 2015

Source: Burlington
 

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