Tenowo Lincolnton To Expand Operations, Add 26 Jobs

Tenowo Lincolnton Inc. — a Lincolnton, N.C.-based manufacturer of functional and decorative
nonwovens for automotive, industrial and apparel applications — will invest $7.2 million over the
next three years to expand its operations, and increase its workforce from 67 currently to 93.

Established in 1992 under the name HOF Textiles, Tenowo Lincolnton is a wholly owned
subsidiary of Germany-based Tenowo GmbH, a division of Hoftex Group AG. The company plans to add
fiber supply and power coating lines to meet increased demand for its products.

“Tenowo is excited and eager to move forward with expansion plans for our Lincoln County
facility,” said Lothar Hackler, Ph.D., president, Tenowo Lincolnton. “The expansion will allow
Tenowo to double the capacity for high engineered nonwoven products for the North American
automotive industry. The support from Lincoln County and the State of North Carolina were critical
to the company’s final decision to expand the Lincolnton plant. This has been a very successful
location for our company and we look forward to an even brighter future for our employees and our
company.”

The company has received a $50,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund to assist it with
the expansion.

January 8, 2013

3A Throwing Acquires Ames Textile’s Synthetic Yarns Division

Canada-based 3A Throwing, a provider of twisting, doubling, cabling, winding and autoclaving
services, has acquired Lowell, Mass.-based Ames Textile Corp.’s Synthetic Yarns Division in
Christiansburg, Va.

The acquisition includes a 77,000-square-foot (ft2) manufacturing plant, machinery, inventory
and other assets. According to 3A Throwing, the plant will continue operating and producing the
current Ames product line, with further expansion and product diversification planned. The facility
— which offers climate controlled conditions and is equipped with modern two-for-one twisters —
twists a range of 30- to 600-denier yarns including polyester, nylon, polypropylene and carbon
fibers. The yarns produced are used for woven labels, seat belts and other specialty end-uses
including woven, knitted, braided and other products.

Founded in 1865, Ames Textile is one of the oldest U.S. textile manufacturers to remain in
continuous operation. The company’s Game Time Fabrics Inc. division in North Andover, Mass.,
manufactures fabrics for athletic uniforms; and its Adden Furniture Inc. division, with
manufacturing facilities in Hildebran, N.C., manufactures casegoods and seating for healthcare,
residence hall, military and other applications.

3A Throwing, established in 1987, is housed in a 178,000-ft2 facility and operates 11,000
two-for-one twisting spindles as well as other equipment.

January 8, 2013

Americhem Acquires Polymer Composites Manufacturer Infinity Compounding LLC

CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio — January 7, 2013 — Americhem Inc., a global provider of custom color and
additive solutions, has announced the formal acquisition of Infinity Compounding, LLC, a supplier
of specialty filled and reinforced engineering thermoplastic compounds located in Swedesboro, N.J.
The acquisition, mutually beneficial to both companies, was effective as of December 28, 2012.

“Our partnership with Infinity Compounding makes sense on a number of levels,” said Rick
Juve, CEO of Americhem, of the acquisition. “We’re both about providing highly reliable,
technology-based solutions for our customers. This move broadens the technology base, opens new
markets and expands geographical reach for both organizations, which we believe will be of
additional benefit to our customers.”

Infinity Compounding specializes in highly engineered thermoplastic compounds, serving a
variety of industries including medical, electrical/electronics, business machines, the disk drive
industry, consumer products, industrial and aerospace/military. Infinity Compounding will be an
Americhem Group Company and continue to operate independently at the direction of its existing
management team from its headquarters in New Jersey.

“As part of Americhem, Infinity Compounding will be able to offer new products and
technologies to our customers including best-in-class color capabilities,” said Carlos Carreno,
president of Infinity Compounding. “We are also excited about Americhem’s global manufacturing and
marketing reach, in particular China, which is already a growing market for Infinity. We look
forward to building upon our business model which emphasizes technology, quality and unrivaled
customer service.”

Tim Carroll, vice president of sales and marketing for Infinity added, “Through our
affiliation with Americhem, Infinity Compounding will have access to new technical capabilities,
particularly in color technology, along with global marketing and manufacturing sites,
strengthening our ability to provide high-performance compounds to our customers. Likewise,
Americhem sees the acquisition as an opportunity to further its capabilities offered to existing
and future customers across the various industries it serves.” For more information about the
acquisition, contact Scott Blanchard at sblanchard@americhem.com or Tim Carroll at
tcarroll@infinitycompounding.com.

Posted on January 8, 2013

Source: Americhem Inc.

ILC Dover Acquires Grayling Industries

FREDERICA, Del. — January 8, 2013 — ILC Dover, designer and manufacturer of space suits for NASA
and a wide range of government and industrial engineered fabric and film products, announced today
it has acquired Grayling Industries, a leading producer of advanced industrial packaging products
and environmental safety products.  As the maker of Guardian™ protective packaging for food,
chemical, and pharmaceutical dry powder and liquid applications, Grayling works with its industrial
clients to deliver custom fit liners and other solutions to enhance transportation and processing
efficiency.   It also manufactures the leading brands for the asbestos abatement and
remediation industry worldwide including Avail™ glove bags, D-Con™ decontamination enclosures, and
Control™ chemicals.

The addition of Grayling’s extensive line of advanced packaging solutions will strengthen
ILC’s market-leading position in the global pharmaceutical powder containment market while ILC’s
extensive engineering, testing, and materials development competencies will allow Grayling to
develop new and exciting solutions for its industrial packaging and asbestos abatement customers.

“During the acquisition and due diligence process it was very rewarding and encouraging to
see how aligned Grayling and ILC Dover are in focusing on the present and emerging needs of their
customers. Grayling has a history of exceeding the expectations of their customers and this is in
line with how ILC operates,” said William Wallach, CEO of ILC Dover.

Ben Greene, Marketing Manager for Grayling, stated, “I’m very excited about the added
capabilities ILC Dover will bring to the Grayling organization.  Their expertise in materials
and system level designs coupled with a relentless focus on reliability will be a real asset to
Grayling and our customers.”

ILC Dover LP is a portfolio company of Behrman Capital, a private equity investment firm
based in New York and San Francisco.  Grayling Industries will operate as a wholly owned
subsidiary of ILC Dover.



Posted on January 8, 2013

Source: ILC Dover

Outlast Technologies Launches New Brand Identity

BOULDER, Colo. — January 3, 2013 — Outlast Technologies, leader in proactive heat management, is
rolling out its new brand identity in the New Year. The change is reflective of the company’s
progression over the past 22 years that further solidifies its position in the marketplace as a
symbol of comfort and leader in phase change materials (PCMs) and true temperature regulation. The
new brand identity includes a refreshed Outlast® logo that will be displayed throughout marketing
and communication materials.

“Outlast has come a long way in over two decades of offering a proactive heat and moisture
management solution to various products including bedding, apparel and footwear,” said Heather
Manuel, director of sales and marketing, Outlast North America. “The new brand identity is a
natural progression of the success this company has experienced, as we continuously work to bring
more products to market with our technology so consumers can have increased exposure to the
proactive comfort that it provides.”

The previous logo was modified to ensure brand recognition, and reflect the deep confidence
and trust built over many years. Outlast will be working with existing partners and licensees to
update their marketing assets in line with the new Outlast brand identity.

“It is essential for us to respond to the needs of our partners and continue supporting them
in driving demanding for their products,” said Manuel. “Our goal is to provide partners with the
necessary tools including marketing kits, hangtags/labels, demonstration materials and PR support
to help them communicate the benefits of our PCMs in their products. This way consumers understand
the true value-add of purchasing a product with Outlast® technology.”

How Outlast® Technology Works

Outlast® technology was originally developed for NASA to protect astronauts from temperature
fluctuations in space. It is a proactive moisture management solution that controls moisture before
it begins, for increased comfort. It continuously absorbs excess body heat and releases it to
manage moisture, continuously adapt to thermal changes, as well as reduce overheating, chilling and
perspiration. This differentiates from passive technologies, such as wicking or quick-drying, that
provide benefits only after the body has started to overheat and sweat.

Posted on January 4, 2013

Source: Outlast Technologies

Thai Acrylic Fibre And SANITIZED AG Form Alliance For Co-branding

The Netherlands — January 2, 2013 — Thai Acrylic Fibre Co. Ltd (TAF) and SANITIZED AG announce the
signing of a co-branding agreement and licensing program for Amicor™ fibers. Presented under the
slogan “Breathe easily and relax”, Amicor will unveil its new Biocidals Product Directive (BPD)
compliant fibers and yarns at Heimtextil 2013 in Frankfurt, January 9-12, 2013.

The new alliance covers the co-branding of future product developments using Amicor fibers
and yarns and the Sanitized® hygiene function.

The Amicor anti-bacterial and anti-fungal intelligent fiber – integrated technology was
developed by Courtaulds/Acordis (UK) in 1998. The technology is specifically designed to
incorporate the functional antimicrobial additive into the core of the fiber. The additive is added
to the fiber polymer before it is spun, containing it within the unique fiber structure rather than
acting as a surface coating. When Amicor fiber is used at the recommended blend level it ensures
durable and effective protection of the entire fabric.

Under the new agreement, the world leading Sanitized antimicrobial hygiene function is
built-in to all Amicor fibers. This enables users of Amicor fibers and yarns to achieve the
protection, comfort and freshness associated with the Sanitized Quality Seal for a wide range of
fabrics and garments. Applications include mattresses and bedding, carpets and soft furnishings,
hospital and healthcare uniforms, innerwear and sportswear, socks, towels and wipes.

As a non-topical application, there is minimal loss of the hygiene function additive to the
environment during manufacture, during yarn and fabric processing, dyeing and finishing and in
final consumer use and laundering. In addition to BPD compliance, Amicor fibers feature OEKO-TEX
Class 1 certification.

“Innovation has always been the trademark of the Amicor brand, as has our strong emphasis on
human and environmental safety”, comments Ambrish Maheshwari, CEO of the Acrylic Fibres Business of
Aditya Birla Group. “This shared philosophy with Sanitized, a brand at the forefront of
antimicrobial protection, made the creation of an alliance a logical progression for both
companies. We are looking forward to working together on new product developments in the future.”

“Both SANITIZED AG and Thai Acrylic Fibre believe this alliance will strengthen our
respective product offering in addition to opening up new markets,” adds Urs Stalder, CEO of
SANITIZED AG. “From a geographical perspective, each company offers market opportunities through
their strong and complimentary market presence.”

For more information on Amicor visit Hall 8 Booth G35 or access the profile on
www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com.

Posted on January 2, 2013

Source: Sanitized AG

Cotlook Estimates; Lower Production And Higher Consumption Do Little To Reduce Surplus

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — December 20, 2012 — Adjustments to Cotton Outlook’s world supply and demand
estimates during the past month imply a surplus of 3,617,000 tonnes at the end of the 2012/13
season, compared to 3,683,000 indicated a month ago.

The global production forecast has been lowered by 28,000 tonnes, owing principally to
reductions from the US and some smaller producers, which more than offset higher figures for the
African Franc Zone. Global consumption has been revised upwards by 38,000. This change is
attributed to Brazil and the Indian subcontinent.



Posted on December 20, 2012

Source: Cotlook Ltd.

U.S.-Colombia FTC Concludes First Meeting

The first meeting of the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Commission (FTC) took place in Washington on Nov.
19, 2012. Deputy U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Miriam Sapiro hosted the meeting, and Vice
Minister of Trade Gabriel Duque Mildenberg led the Colombian delegation.

The FTC oversees the implementation of the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (TPA),
which went into force May 15, 2012. According to USTR Ambassador Ron Kirk, the agreement is already
accruing benefits to both sides. For example, U.S. exports to Colombia from May to September 2012
reportedly were 20-percent higher than they were in the same period in 2011.

“All indications are that the Agreement is off to a successful start. The hard work of both
our teams to prepare for entry into force appears to have paid off, as our respective exporters
have begun to take advantage of the new opportunities the Agreement provides,” Kirk said. “Our
statistics show a significant increase in trade in both directions — a classic win-win. In
addition, the FTC meeting provides a public signal of the continuing importance both our
governments attach to realizing the full potential of one of our closest trade relationships in the
Hemisphere.”

The U.S. and Colombian delegations have decided to consider accelerating the agreement’s
tariff provisions and to set time frames to implement the dispute settlement mechanism and update
the rules of origin. Other actions have included monitoring fulfillment of commitments whose
deadlines occurred after the TPA entered into force; as well as reviewing the work of the Technical
Barriers to Trade, Agriculture, and Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures committees.

In addition, there were discussions surrounding the continuing efforts of the two governments
vis-à-vis implementation of the Colombian Action Plan Related to Labor Rights.



November/December 2012

Tandus Acquired By Tarkett Group

Floor covering designer and manufacturer Tandus Flooring Inc., Dalton, Ga., has been acquired by
sustainable flooring and sports surfaces manufacturer Tarkett Group, France, for an undisclosed
price.

Tandus’s roots go back to 1803. In 1969, it became the first carpet maker in North America to
produce modular carpet. In 1994, it became the first company in the industry to provide a
closed-loop recycling program. It also has earned numerous design awards. With annual revenues
totaling $340 million, the company currently has some 1,400 employees, five manufacturing sites in
the United States and Canada and one in China; and serves commercial markets in North America and
Asia.

Tandus is now a stand-alone entity within Tarkett’s North American division, with its own
manufacturing and business operations as well as distribution channels. Tandus President Glen
Hussmann remains in charge of the business and foresees expansion opportunities for the carpet
manufacturer.

“Tarkett is a true global company with sizeable exposure in high growth developing
countries,” Hussmann said. “This can provide Tandus a solid base for international expansion.”

Tarkett reported 2011 revenues totaling 2.1 billion euros and approximately 9,200 workers in
100 countries, including in 32 manufacturing sites. The company is co-owned by the Deconinck family
and private equity funds affiliated with Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. LP. The acquisition of
Tandus enables Tarkett’s expansion into North American and Asia Pacific commercial carpet markets.



November/December 2012

Agru America To Expand Two Facilities, Add 126 Jobs

Georgetown, S.C.-based geosynthetics producer Agru America Inc. is investing $39.1 million to
expand its operations in Georgetown, S.C., and Andrews, S.C., and add 126 jobs in the process.

The company will invest $19.2 million to add 40,000 square feet (ft2) to its Georgetown
manufacturing facility to accommodate at least three new machines and to add a 130,000-ft2 asphalt
storage yard. The investment also includes the addition of 49 employees.

Agru America will invest $19.9 million to upgrade and expand its Andrews manufacturing
facility to accommodate additional production equipment and add 77 new jobs. The company acquired
the facility in January and added production of needlepunched, nonwoven textiles for environmental,
industrial, automotive, bedding and furniture products.

“We are pleased with the opportunity to move forward with these expansions,” said Robert
Johnson, president, Agru America. “We have seen demand for our products increase and adding
capacity at both facilities will help us meet our manufacturing goals.”

Agru America claims to be the only U.S. manufacturer to use the flat die extrusion
calendering process to produce structured geomembranes for the global civil/environmental market.
The company reports the process enables production of a textured liner that offers a consistent
core thickness and high puncture, tear and elongation values. Its geosynthetics products include
Smooth, Micro Spike®, Super Gripnet® and Drain Liner™ in both linear low-density polyethylene and
high-density polyethylene.

Agru America is owned by Agru Kunststofftechnik GmbH, an Austria-based producer of plastic
products for piping systems other applications.

December 18, 2012

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