BELLA+CANVAS Issues First-Ever Impact Report, Establishes Baseline For Sustainability In Wholesale Apparel Manufacturing

LOS ANGELES, CA — August 19, 2025 — BELLA+CANVAS, a supplier of ethically made premium blank apparel, has released its inaugural Impact Report, outlining 2024 performance metrics and goals across its three sustainability pillars: People, Planet, and Product.

Key 2024 results:

  • FLA Accreditation and WRAP Certification across U.S. and contracted sewing facilities
  • First greenhouse gas inventory and first product lifecycle assessment
  • Renewable energy investments: 1.1 MWh rooftop solar in Maryland, 1 MWh in Nicaragua
  • EcoMax Tee: 100% recycled materials, GRS Certified
  • $500K+ in donations, 5,900volunteer hours, 43,000 t-shirt donations

The company’s governance structure, led by its Global Sustainability Executive Committee, ensures integration of sustainability into operations, with their reporting aligned with industry best practice frameworks

“Transparency, innovation, and collaboration will define the apparel leaders of tomorrow,” said Norm Hullinger, President of BELLA+CANVAS. “This report is our commitment to leading that change.”

Posted: August 19, 2025

Source: BELLA+CANVAS

UNIFI® Launches A.M.Y.® Peppermint Built-in Odor Control And Expands Circular Offerings Of REPREVE Takeback™ And ThermaLoop™ Insulation

GREENSBORO, N.C. — August 19, 2025 — Unifi, Inc., the makers of REPREVE® and one of the world’s leading innovators in recycled and synthetic yarns, today launches A.M.Y .® Peppermint, a naturally deodorizing yarn engineered for long-lasting freshness. The latest innovation within UNIFI®’s technology platform delivers built-in odor control using sustainably sourced peppermint oil, offering a botanical alternative to traditional antimicrobial treatments. UNIFI also announces the global introduction of REPREVE Takeback™ and ThermaLoop™ insulation, both made entirely from textile waste.

A.M.Y. Peppermint

A.M.Y . Peppermint provides freshness throughout the life of the product. Designed for versatility, it is ideal for applications across apparel, footwear, home textiles, and transportation. The yarn is available globally in both virgin and REPREVE® recycled polyester.

Key Features of A.M.Y. Peppermint:

  • Durable odor control sustained through 50 home launderings
  • Powered by mint-derived botanicals, including peppermint oil
  • Available globally in virgin and REPREVE® polyester yarns, with REPREVE® options fully traceable via FiberPrint® technology and certified by U-TRUST®, GRS, and SCS for recycled content

“This launch reinforces our commitment to sustainable innovation,” said Eddie Ingle, CEO of UNIFI. “A.M.Y . Peppermint gives brands a powerful tool to deliver freshness and performance through the power of nature.”

A.M.Y . Peppermint joins UNIFI’s growing anti-odor portfolio, including yarns infused with silver and zinc oxide technologies. Together, the A.M.Y . platform offers brands versatile freshness solutions to meet evolving consumer expectations for comfort and sustainability. A.M.Y . can also be combined with other performance technologies. UNIFI announces the global introduction of REPREVE Takeback™ and ThermaLoop™ insulation, both now made entirely from textile waste excluding colorants, additives, and low-melt polymers. This expansion strengthens UNIFI’s circular product portfolio and supports its goal to recycle the equivalent of 1.5 billion T-shirts’ worth of textile waste by FY2030. REPREVE Takeback circular polyester now includes white-dyeable high-performance filament, staple fiber, and solution-dyed colors. ThermaLoop insulation, previously 50% recycled, is now available in down-like fiber and fiberball, and padding to deliver performance and thermal efficiency.

UNIFI will showcase A.M.Y . Peppermint, circular REPREVE Takeback and ThermaLoop insulation, both now available made from 100% textile waste, offerings at the Northwest Materials Show (Booth #914) in Portland, Oregon, August 27-28 and Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics (Booth #H4. 1-E72 ) in Shanghai, China, September 2-4.

Posted: August 19, 2025

Source: Unifi, Inc.

Freudenberg Performance Materials To Exhibit For The First Time At CAMX 2025 In Orlando, Florida

WEINHEIM, Germany — August 19, 2025 — Freudenberg Performance Materials (Freudenberg) will be exhibiting for the first time at CAMX 2025 in Orlando, Florida, from September 9-11. This presence is a strong signal from the leading global supplier of technical textiles to support the North American composites industry with high-performance surfacing veils, flow media and spacers. Visitors can meet Freudenberg experts at booth D69 on the show floor.

Freudenberg’s glass fiber wetlaid material surfacing veil.
Source: ©Freudenberg Performance Materials

Freudenberg’s surfacing veils represent a critical innovation in the realm of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) components, setting a new standard in material performance and longevity. These veils are not merely functional; they provide a superior level of abrasion resistance and corrosion protection, ensuring that the integrity of the molded part is maintained over time. This is particularly important in applications where environmental stressors can significantly weaken materials. The ability to withstand such conditions not only enhances the product’s lifespan but also ensures reliability in critical applications.

Advanced solutions for piping, UV-resistant facade panels, and more

Freudenberg’s versatile portfolio of nonwovens includes advanced materials made from glass, PAN, and PET, among others. These high-performance materials are meticulously engineered for various applications, including anti-corrosive layers in piping and tank construction, UV-resistant facade panels, and an array of other end products that are essential in today’s market. A critical component of composite parts, surfacing veils play a vital role in enhancing product durability. Their key attributes include abrasion resistance, corrosion protection, and smooth surfaces, and they also significantly improve mechanical strength. In a world where the impact of environmental factors can compromise structural integrity, these features are particularly important.

3D polymer filaments from Enka®Solutions optimize resin infusion and foam injection molding

EnkaChannel from Freudenberg: Flow media and spacers in the manufacture of composite materials.
Source: ©Freudenberg Performance Materials

During CAMX, composite manufacturers will have the opportunity to engage with Freudenberg experts to explore ways to enhance resin infusion and foam injection molding techniques. A particular highlight is the 3D polymeric filament structures from Enka®Solutions used in flow media and spacers. This innovative technology allows manufacturers to achieve significant improvements in quality and efficiency, ensuring that their products adhere to the highest standards.

In processes such as vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) and resin transfer molding (RTM), composites utilizing Enka®Solutions flow media exhibit superior bonding and improved mechanical characteristics, which notably minimizes the likelihood of defects and wrinkling in the final products. The flow media from Enka®Solutions facilitate  quick and dependable resin distribution, ensuring complete wetting of the internal structure while maintaining the precise positioning of glass fiber reinforcement nettings and component surfaces. Enka®Solutions offers products specifically designed for efficient resin infusion and foam injection molding applications. Their distinctive 3D entangled polymer filament structures make them highly effective as flow media and spacers in the realm of composite manufacturing.

Posted: August 19, 2025

Source: Freudenberg Performance Materials (Freudenberg)

INDA Adds Kevin Conroy To Government Affairs Team

WASHINGTON, D.C. — August 19, 2025 — Today INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, announced that experienced policy expert Kevin Conroy has joined the association’s government and regulatory affairs staff as Senior Manager of Government and Regulatory Affairs.

Kevin Conroy

Conroy brings extensive experience in government, politics, and public service to his new role at INDA. He most recently served on the staff of former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, where he held multiple senior positions over the course of Hogan’s eight years in office, including Director, Chief of Staff, and Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for the State of Maryland.

“We are excited to welcome Kevin to the INDA team,” said INDA President Tony Fragnito, “his wealth of experience will expand our government and regulatory affairs impact at the state and federal levels while positioning INDA for even more proactive advocacy for the nonwovens sector.”

Conroy began his career on Capitol Hill in the office of Congressman Chris Shays before working for Congressman David Dreier and the House Rules Committee. He has managed numerous political campaigns at both the state and federal levels, building coalitions and executing successful strategies in competitive races.

“Kevin’s wealth of experience will allow us to hit the ground running on several issues important to the industry, including EPA rulemaking, state and federal PFAS and chemical regulations, and plastics,” added Wes Fisher, INDA Director of Government Affairs.

With a career spanning legislative, executive, and electoral arenas, Conroy brings a deep understanding of public policy, intergovernmental affairs, and political strategy to his new position at INDA. He will be working on the INDA team out of the greater Washington, D.C. area.

Posted: August 19, 2025

Source: INDA, The Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

The Nonwovens Institute (NWI): John Parsons And Liyun Ren Named To Executive Committee  – Industrial Advisory Board

RALEIGH, N.C.— August 15, 2025 — John Parsons, Product Development Director of PFNonwovens and Liyun Ren, Advanced Research Specialist at Solventum were elected as members of the Executive Committee of the Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) for the Nonwovens Institute (NWI) following the Institute’s Spring 2025 IAB Meeting.  John and Liyun will be replacing Joshua Weed and DeeAnn Nelson whose terms on the Executive Committee expired this year.  NWI wishes to express its appreciation to all four for their contributions to the nonwovens industry and to the Institute.

Mr. Parsons received his B. S. in Chemistry in 1990 from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, USA and his M.S. in Chemistry from the State University of New York at Oswego (SUNY Oswego) in 1994.  During this same time frame, he as a member of the United States Marine Corps rising to the rank of Sergeant and serving in Operation Desert Storm.

John began his industrial career at National Starch and Chemical Company as a Technical Service Chemist.  He later held several technical service and marketing positions with Celanese before joining First Quality Nonwovens (now PF Nonwovens) in Hazelton, Pennsylvania, USA where he has held positions of increasing responsibility before being appointed Director of Product Development in December 2024.

In his current role, Mr. Parsons has responsibility for identifying unmet needs, emerging technologies, overseeing the development and implementation of innovative solutions, and ensuring the company stays at the forefront of technological progress.  John has been actively engaged with NWI since 2014 and a member of the IAB since 2019.

“I believe in the NWI basic research vision through industry-academic collaboration and can apply my technical expertise to benefit the organization, to help support the growth of students, and the nonwovens industry,” said Parsons.

Dr. Liyun Ren earned her Masters and Doctorate degrees from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 2011 and 2014 respectively. She gained experience as Research Assistant at Rensselaer during her advanced studies.

In 2015, Dr. Ren joined the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company as a Senior Research Engineer in the field of advanced nonwoven materials. Dr. Ren led the development and commercialization of flame-retardant acoustic insulation, nanofiber based liquid filtration system, and 3D-structured air filter media during her tenure at 3M. Her work has resulted in over a dozen U.S. patent applications and multiple peer-reviewed publications covering nanomaterials, polymer composites, and scalable fiber fabrication technologies.

In 2024, 3M spun-off its Health Care businesses to form Solventum Corporation where Liyun is currently an Advanced Research Specialist and leads nonwoven R&D strategy development, focusing on next-generation nonwoven materials for healthcare, advanced biopharma filtration, and dental applications.  Liyun has been a member of the IAB since 2015.

“NWI represents a unique ecosystem where academia and industry converge to drive innovation in nonwoven technologies.,” Said Dr. Ren, “Being part of NWI has been a deeply rewarding experience.  I’m honored to join the Executive Committee and look forward to contributing strategic insights that foster impactful research and accelerate real-world applications.”

The IAB and its Executive Committee provide membership oversight, program review and policy guidance to the Institute. Members of the Executive Committee are each elected to two-year terms by the full membership of the IAB. The willingness of John, Liyun and the other eight members of the IAB and other bodies which advise NWI as well as that of their parent organizations to provide the time, energy and “sweat equity” in support of the Institute attests to the value these outstanding technical and business leaders and their companies find in NWI membership.

Bryan Haynes, Ph.D.; chairperson of the Executive Committee said, “John, Liyun, and their fellow advisors—along with their organizations—volunteer their time and expertise, demonstrating the genuine commitment and value that NWI membership inspires. For more information about becoming a member of NWI, visit our Membership page.

Based at the Centennial  Campus of North Carolina State University, NWI is a consortium of stakeholders spanning the breadth of the nonwovens value chain. Operating on an “Open Innovation” platform and covering the full Technology Readiness Level (TRL) range, NWI engages industry, government and academia to enable next-generation nonwoven solutions to mission-critical challenges.

PFNonwovens (PFN) is a leading global producer of customized nonwoven fabrics with a vision to provide materials with unrivalled levels of wellness and protection to improve people’s lives, while helping to build a more sustainable world.   PFN makes innovative high-value products for multiple key markets: Baby Care, Adult Incontinence, Fem Care, and Medical.  Its nonwoven fabric innovators create high-performance and luxurious fabrics that improve quality of life, deliver exceptional value, and a brighter future for our planet.  PFN has a dynamic workforce of over 1,100 team members. Headquartered in Prague, Czech Republic, PFNonwovens operates five production plants worldwide: two in the Czech Republic, and one each in the United States, Egypt, and South Africa.

Solventum is a global healthcare company dedicated to enabling better, smarter, safer healthcare to improve lives. Rooted in a history of diverse expertise spanning the industry — from medical surgical and dental solutions to health information systems and purification and filtration* — Solventum pioneers innovations at the intersection of health, material, and data science. Partnering closely with the brightest minds in healthcare, they ensure every solution they create melds the latest technology with compassion and empathy. They collaborate with customers and partners around the world to advance solutions that change patients’ lives for the better, while enabling healthcare professionals to perform at their best.

On February 25, 2025, Solventum entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Purification & Filtration business to Thermo Fisher Scientific, subject to closing and other adjustments. The transaction is expected to close by year end.

Posted: August 18, 2025

Source: The Nonwovens Institute (NWI)

Inspected Quality: OETI And Julia Deiger Launch New Quality Label For Regionally Produced Fashion As Part Of The TEX-DAN Project

VIENNA / SALZBURG, Austria — August 14, 2025 — OETI is partnering with Austrian designer Julia Deiger, founder of the sustainable label DeLin. INSPECTED QUALITY is a quality label from OETI for textile and leather businesses. Based on OETI’s 60 years of market experience and current standards, the label is supported by a transparent labelling guideline and independent verification processes.

The initiative is part of TEX-DAN, an EU-funded project led by the Salzburg University of Applied Sciences, which aims to develop innovative, market-ready concepts promoting circular economy models for small and medium-sized enterprises in the textile sector across the Danube region.

As an accredited and independent testing institute, OETI – Institute for Ecology, Technology and Innovation GmbH brings its extensive expertise to this project partnership. Together with designer Julia Deiger, OETI has developed the new INSPECTED QUALITY “Regionally Produced” label.

This label confirms the strong regional focus and sustainable philosophy of the DeLin brand: the entire value chain is based exclusively in Austria, using only natural, durable materials. The label enhances transparency for consumers and highlights the brand’s commitment to resource-efficient textile production.

Through this project, OETI and Julia Deiger are making a valuable contribution to promoting future-oriented, locally rooted production models within the European textile industry.

Verified Quality Builds Trust

Dr. Miriam Scheffelmeier

“The label makes these quality features visible to end consumers and enhances transparency across the textile value chain. Brands like DeLin benefit by being able to credibly communicate their commitment to sustainability and regional sourcing. With independent verification by OETI, their products gain additional trust and a unique market position,” explains Dr. Miriam Scheffelmeier, Head of Marketing & Sales at OETI.

“This cooperation means a lot to me. I believe in my brand DeLin and in regional production – a sector with great potential. A certificate like this offers a great opportunity to increase visibility and strengthen authenticity,” adds Julia Deiger.

A Model for Market Transformation

“The TEX-DAN project generates new, marketable ideas for advancing circular economy models across the Danube region. Our collaboration with Julia Deiger demonstrates how natural materials, short supply chains, and regional production – supported by a structured quality assurance system and visible label – can collectively drive transformation in the textile sector,” concludes Helene Melnitzky, Head of Department Ecology / OEKO-TEX® Products, at OETI, who is responsible for developing the INSPECTED QUALITY “Regionally Produced” label.

Posted: August 18, 2025

Source: OETI – Institute fuer Oekologie, Technik und Innovation GmbH

TEXTILCOLOR AG And Chemdyes Sdn. Bhd. Join Forces In Asia

SEVELEN, Switzerland — August 18, 2025 — We are pleased to announce the beginning of a strategic and forward-looking partnership between TEXTILCOLOR AG, Switzerland, and Chemdyes Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia.

As part of this collaboration, Chemdyes Sdn. Bhd. will take on the role of official distributor, production site, and agent for TEXTILCOLOR AG in the key markets of Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Pakistan.

This alliance brings together the innovation-driven excellence of TEXTILCOLOR AG and the strong regional expertise of Chemdyes Sdn. Bhd. The goal of this partnership is to enhance service quality, streamline product availability, and strengthen technical support for customers in these dynamic and fast-growing textile regions.

By combining Swiss precision with Southeast Asian agility, we are confident this partnership will deliver exceptional value, responsiveness, and reliability to the industry.

We look forward to a long-lasting and mutually beneficial collaboration.

Posted: August 18, 2025

Source: TEXTILCOLOR AG

Carrington Textiles Expands Military Range With ProTact By Haartz®

ADLINGTON, UK — August 18, 2025 — Global military fabrics manufacturer Carrington Textiles has partnered with Haartz® GmbH to bring the ProTact by Haartz® range of laminated fabrics to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

Following an earlier announcement of the collaboration, this partnership expands Carrington Textiles’ specialist portfolio of defence fabrics with high performance technical laminates designed for military and tactical equipment. Manufactured in Germany by Haartz® GmbH, the ProTact range is engineered to meet the demanding requirements of modern military applications, including rucksacks, load carrying systems, vests and pouches.

The range offers several technical benefits for tactical equipment manufacturers, including:

  • Laser-cut ready – clean edges, no residue
  • Reduced fraying – precision layer bonding
  • Superior flexibility – softer feel, more comfortable wear
  • CORDURA® Truelock technology – consistent colour, UV fade resistance
  • No delamination – even in extreme conditions
  • Proven field performance – engineered for reliability under pressure

The initial range includes ProTact G510.1, a 500D/1000D fabric offered in black, coyote brown and the MultiCam® camouflage pattern, and ProTact G55.1, a 500D/500D option available in black, coyote brown and ranger green.

ProTact by Haartz® has already proven itself in the field with advanced durability and protection. The addition of this range complements Carrington Textiles’ existing military fabric offering and further strengthens its position as a trusted supplier to defence forces and tactical equipment manufacturers.

Posted: August 18, 2025

Source: Carrington Textiles

Leadership Evolution At COBMEX® Reflects Long-Term Vision: Jon Edberg Appointed President And Chief Operating Officer

TORONTO, Canada — August 18, 2025 — COBMEX® Apparel Inc., a global knitwear designer and manufacturer for the uniform industry, has announced a key leadership transition that strengthens its executive structure and supports the company’s continued focus on growth, customer-driven solutions, and strategic partnerships.

Jon Edberg

Effective immediately, Jon Edberg has been appointed President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of COBMEX®, succeeding Founder and President Phil Newman, who will now assume the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

In his new role, Edberg will oversee day-to-day operations and lead initiatives aligned with COBMEX®’s long-term strategy, product development, and enhanced customer engagement. As CEO, Newman will continue to provide strategic counsel, strengthen global partnerships, and uphold the founding values that have guided COBMEX® since 1998.

Phil Newman

“This transition reflects the confidence I have in Jon and the direction we’re heading as a company,” said Newman. “COBMEX® has always been about people, our team, our partners, and the professionals who wear our garments. With Jon as President, I know our culture, relationships, and commitment to excellence will remain in good hands.”

“I’m honoured to step into this role,” said Edberg. “COBMEX® has always stood for integrity, reliability, and quality, principles that will continue to guide us. I look forward to working alongside Phil and our exceptional team as we continue to serve our partners with purpose, innovation, and passion.”

“This is a natural evolution in our leadership,” Newman added. “Jon has played a central role in our success. His deep knowledge of the uniform industry, strong relationships, and values- driven commitment make him the right person to guide COBMEX® into its next chapter.”

Edberg, who previously served as Executive Vice President, brings decades of experience in the uniform and apparel industry. He currently serves on the Executive Committee of the NAUMD (Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers & Distributors), underscoring his leadership within the industry.

During his tenure, he has played a key role in COBMEX®’s expansion across North America and internationally, while helping to optimize supply chain operations and strengthen distributor relationships.

“COBMEX® embodies more than knitwear, we stand for trust, excellence, and long-term relationships,” said Edberg. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve as President and to continue working with our incredible team and partners to elevate what we do, every day.”

This milestone reinforces COBMEX®’s commitment to consistency in leadership, values, and execution. As the company evolves, customers and partners can count on the same high standards and personalized support that have defined COBMEX® for over 25 years.

COBMEX® Apparel Inc., founded in 1998, is a global high-performance knitwear designer and manufacturer for the uniform industry. Renowned for innovation, durability, and responsible practices, COBMEX® serves public safety, transportation, hospitality, retail, and government sectors. We empower distributors and program managers with consistent, reliable uniform solutions. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, COBMEX® operates with dedicated teams in the U.S., UK, and Mexico

 

Posted: August 18, 2025

Source: COBMEX® Apparel Inc.

Trivantage® Becomes Sole Distributor Of Premium Screen Fabric: TEXTILENE® 95 Reduces Solar Glare And Heat Transfer

BURLINGTON, N.C. — August 18, 2025 — Trivantage, a trusted supplier of screen and mesh fabrics, hardware, and accessories, is now the exclusive distributor of TEXTILENE 95. Both functional and versatile, this high-performance screen fabric is designed to reduce heat transfer through windows and solar glare.

TEXTILENE offers durable and tough synthetic fabrics made of PVC-coated polyester. The material supplies privacy, excellent outward viewing, and insect screening.

“TEXTILENE 95 blocks up to 95% of harmful UV rays from the sun,” said Keith Purves, Business Development and Product Manager at Trivantage. “Not only will this reduce your home’s energy cost, but it will also provide protection to your home’s indoor furnishings.”

Made to withstand the harsh conditions of nature, this heavy-duty fabric is an excellent choice for both exterior and interior projects. It can be used for a variety of applications, from vertical roller curtains and zipper screens to fixed shade panels, gazebo or window screens, awnings, and more. Other notable features include:

  • 126-inch width, allowing for reduced seams on vertical curtains
  • Flame- and fade-resistant
  • Available in cut yardage
  • Made in the USA

TEXTILENE 95 is available in 11 colors, only through Trivantage. To learn more, visit

https://www.trivantage.com/fabric-screen-mesh-textilene

Posted: August 18, 2025

Source: Trivantage

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