Next Level Intelligent Automation: Otto Group Enhances Robotic Coordination With NVIDIA AI

HAMBURG, Germany / NEWYORK — January 9, 2026 — The Otto Group announced a collaboration with NVIDIA, the world leader in accelerated computing, to improve supply chain operations through intelligent robotics. This initiative will scale the network-wide deployment of a “Robotic Coordination Layer”, powered by NVIDIA Omniverse libraries, and Isaac Sim, across a multitude of Otto Group’s 120 logistics locations.

Otto Group & NVIDIA Drive Future of Logistics Robot “Spot” in Otto Group Logistic Center Loehne, Germany
(c) Otto Group

It represents a comprehensive approach to train robots in a simulation environment for intelligent robotic automation, setting a new industry benchmark for improved efficiency of logistics operations, scalability and integration, positioning Otto Group as a first European mover in retail.

The “Robotic Coordination Layer” is crucial for seamlessly integrating and coordinating diverse robotic systems with existing and new partners. This initiative follows significant recent investments in logistics and robotics, underscoring the Otto Group’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance operations and shape the future of logistics. The Hermes Fulfilment logistics center in Loehne, Germany, will serve as the first full-scale operational site and blueprint for further roll-outs, with IT services specialist Reply having created the digital twin. Following this, Otto Group One.O will develop the layer’s core, including its integration interfaces, and will assume governance of the solution.

Central to this strategic collaboration is the “Robotic Coordination Layer” – an intelligent virtual navigation and communication system designed for all robots in the Otto Group’s logistics centers. NVIDIA AI infrastructure, together with NVIDIA Omniverse libraries and NVIDIA Isaac for AI Robotics, provides the foundational infrastructure for digitizing and optimizing supply chain operations.

This powerful software is available as a single, ready-to-run solution from the Google Cloud Marketplace, all powered by Google’s high-performance infrastructure. By creating physics-based digital twins of Otto Group’s existing distribution and fulfillment centers, the Otto Group can simulate, train and deploy different kinds of robots including autonomous mobile and stationary robots significantly faster. This ensures seamless collaboration among robots across the supply chain, aiming to enhance customer experience, optimize peak management, and boost overall efficiency.

“More than three years ago we embarked on a journey to deploy AI and robotics in the field of logistics. Our experiences to date have shown the huge potential for improving efficiency and service,” says Kay Schiebur, Member of the Executive Board, Services, Otto Group. “With NVIDIA and Reply, we are now ready to take intelligent automation to the next level. This partnership will provide the fundamental structure – a truly innovative way for our robots to communicate – allowing us to quickly scale up robotic solutions in our complex operations, strengthening our leadership in responsible business, especially here in Europe. We are always striving to improve our performance and ensure our future viability.”

“Physical AI is redefining what’s possible in supply chain, transforming warehouses from static facilities into dynamic, responsive systems that can adapt in real-time,” says Azita Martin, Vice President and General Manager Retail & Consumer Products and Goods at NVIDIA. “Leveraging NVIDIA RTX Pro 6000 and NVIDIA Omniverse on GCP, together with Isaac Sim, Otto Group is training a fleet of robots using physics-based simulation, creating a scalable blueprint for the future of logistics, where fleets of robots and intelligent systems collaborate seamlessly to boost efficiency and drive agility.”

Virtual real-time coordination of all robots powered by NVIDIA Omniverse, Isaac Sim and RTX Pro 6000 GPUS on GCP

The “Robotic Coordination Layer” connects robot fleets in the real warehouse to a digital twin – an exact virtual representation of the logistics centers. This digital twin displays the real-time locations and movements of all robots, enabling seamless, interactive control and management of operations. Developed by Reply, an AI and robotic specialist and a global service delivery partner of NVIDIA, this solution uses reality-capture techniques and advanced post-processing from sensors and cameras mounted on Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot as it moves through the warehouse. Once established, the digital twin enables virtual reconfiguration of warehouse areas for process optimization and dynamic simulations to support peak management. For example, different volume scenarios can be simulated to determine optimal robot and personnel requirements.

Concurrently, the “Robotic Coordination Layer” integrates with robotic fleet management tools and the Warehouse Management System (WMS) to coordinate and communicate with various robotic fleets, all visualized and managed within the digital twin. This real-time system ensures smooth ramp-up, flexible configuration, and empowers users with different roles and permissions to collaboratively access, actively manage, and optimize robotic workflows. The vision is a smart, remotely operable warehouse environment that adapts quickly to changing needs.

“Creating a digital twin is more than just mapping a space – it’s about enabling intelligent orchestration at scale,” says Kai Uwe Ernst, Executive Partner at Reply. “By combining NVIDIA’s cutting-edge technologies with our expertise in AI and robotics, we’re laying the foundation for a new standard in robotic coordination. This system will allow different robotic fleets to communicate and collaborate seamlessly, unlocking new levels of efficiency and adaptability in logistics operations.”

The initiative offers several key benefits, including:

– Optimized Teamwork for Robots: Different types of robots will collaborate more effectively, sharing tasks and resources for smoother operations.

– Quickly Adding New Robot fleets: The system will facilitate faster integration of new robotic solutions, allowing for quick adaptation to changing demands.

– Safe Virtual Testing: New operational methods can be tested in a virtual environment, ensuring readiness before implementation in real-world settings, thereby saving time and preventing disruptions.

– Simple Robot Management: Teams will have a clear, easy-to-understand overview of all robot activities, simplifying management processes.

Network-wide roll-out and the fully digitized warehouse of the future

The “Robotic Coordination Layer” is initially being implemented at Hermes Fulfilment’s logistics center in Loehne, Germany. Loehne will serve as the blueprint and first full-scale operational site for this innovative solution, with plans for the system to be subsequently rolled out network-wide. The initial development phase involves a significant investment in the double-digit million Euro range, demonstrating Otto Group’s dedication to leading the way in technological advancements in retail.

The long-term vision for the coordination layer is to fully digitize the entire warehouse ecosystem, a goal fundamentally enabled by the digital twin created using NVIDIA AI infrastructure. It will act as the central operating system, seamlessly connecting, managing, and operating a broad spectrum of assets – from robotic fleets and conventional automation technology like sorters, to integrated sensors for functions such as pallet size detection and gate control.

The strategic initiative with NVIDIA represents a cornerstone of the Otto Group’s long-term plan to seize new opportunities through the use of cutting-edge technologies. As the largest online retailer of European origin, the company’s track record demonstrates a commitment to leveraging technology to enhance global supply chain, ensuring faster and more reliable deliveries for customers while creating modern, innovative workplaces for employees.

Posted: January 11, 2026

Source: Otto Group

NRF: Import Cargo Volume Expected To Remain Down Year-Over-Year Until Spring

WASHINGTON — January 9, 2026 — Import volume at the nation’s major container ports is forecast to see its first month-over-month gain in six months during January but is expected to remain down year over year until spring, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“There should be a brief bump in imports this month ahead of Lunar New Year factory shutdowns in Asia, but we’re otherwise headed into the post-holiday shipping lull that comes each year,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “Retailers had a busy holiday season and are assessing what’s ahead in 2026 so they can keep supply chains running smoothly to ensure consumers can find the products they want at prices they can afford. Retailers are hoping for more stability and certainty, especially regarding tariffs and trade policy, in 2026 to help ensure better supply chain operations to meet consumer needs.”

Following “chronic uncertainty” from increased U.S. tariffs in 2025, the impact on cargo imports in 2026 is likely to still be affected by trade policy, Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said.

“As 2026 begins, we see a world increasingly focused on protecting domestic industries and addressing perceived trade imbalances,” Hackett said. “This approach has raised questions about the future of free trade and international economic cooperation.”

U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 2.02 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units — one 20-foot container or its equivalent — in November, the latest month for which final data is available. That was down 2.3% from October and down 6.5% year over year.

Ports have not yet reported numbers for December, but Global Port Tracker projected the month at 1.99 million TEU, down 6.6% year over year. November and December are traditionally slow, but the year-over-year declines are partly because imports in late 2024 were elevated by concerns over port strikes. In addition, many retailers imported cargo earlier than usual in 2025 to avoid tariffs.

The first half of 2025 totaled 12.53 million TEU, up 3.7% year over year. The full year is forecast at 25.4 million TEU, down 0.4% from 25.5 million TEU in 2024.

With volume forecast at 2.11 million TEU, January is expected to see the first month-over-month increase since last July as retailers bring in merchandise prior to February’s Lunar New Year holiday in Asia but would still be down 5.3% year over year. February is forecast at 1.94 million TEU, down 4.6% year over year; March at 1.88 million TEU, down 12.4%, and April at 2.03 million TEU, down 8.1%. May is forecast at 2.07 million TEU, up 6.2% for the first year-over-year gain since last August.

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

Posted: January 11, 2026

Source: The National Retail Federation (NRF)

AATCC Announces Coloration Conference Speakers And Program

DURHAM, N.C. — January 7, 2026 — Join industry leaders, innovators, and researchers for the AATCC Coloration Conference, February 24–25, 2026, at the StateView Hotel in Raleigh, North Carolina. This event will bring together professionals from across the textile and color industries to explore the latest trends, technologies, and innovations shaping the future of coloration.

The program will highlight sustainable practices, digital transformation, and advancements in dyeing technology—from lab design and color communication to natural dyes and waterless coloration systems. Attendees will gain valuable insights into modern production methods, material innovations, and testing techniques driving performance and sustainability in today’s textile supply chain.

The conference is geared towards professionals in textile coloration, product development, R&D, testing, quality control, and sustainability, including brand, mill, and supplier representatives.

Attendees can expect to:

  • Stay ahead of technological and market trends
  • Network with peers and experts in textile coloration
  • Gain hands-on insights through lab tours and technical sessions
  • Be inspired by innovative leaders shaping the future of color

Conference Presentations

  • Color Theory – Martin Bide, Professor Emeritus, University of Rhode Island
  • The Modern Dye Laboratory: Digital Integration, Small-Batch Capability, and Shade Precision– Jessica Brooks, WL Gore & Associates, Inc.
  • LEDs and Their Challenges– Mark Graham, Graham Technical Services
  • Digital Standards & Color Communication in the LED/UV Era– Ryan Stanley, X-Rite
  • Color Matching & Control– Tim Williams, Color Solutions International; Doug Bynum, natific; Chris Hipps, Archroma
  • Natural Fibers & Efficiency Analytics– Hasan Shahari, FIBRE52
  • Preparation of Synthetic Fibers : Best Practices– Brian Furr, Archroma.
  • Enzymatic Degradation of Cotton-based Textiles for Fiber Separation and Recycling– Sonja Salmon, North Carolina State University
  • Color Without Compromise: Biobased Dyes and the Future of Sustainable Dyeing– Michele Schmidt, North Carolina State University
  • New Color Application Technologies– Jennifer Thompson, COLOURized
  • AATCC Test Methods– Gregg Woodcock, AATCC Executive Director
  • Advancements and Challenges in Sustainable Salt-free Reactive Dyeing of Cellulose– Thomas Braun, Livinguard
  • Precision Spray Dyeing, the future is here– Rick Stanford, BW Converting Inc.
  • Sustainable Color Application– Speaker TBA
  • Innovations in Waterless Dyeing– Swapneshu Baser, Deven Supercritical
  • Advancement in Colorfastness Testing Equipment– Speaker TBA
  • Panel Discussions
  • Recent Updates from the Wilson College of Textiles– David Hinks, Dean, NC State University Wilson College of Textiles
  • National Science Foundation Engine– Melissa Sharp, NC State University
  • North Carolina State University Wilson College of Textiles Lab Tours
    • Analytical service lab
    • Digital design lab
    • TPACC
    • Dyeing & finishing pilot labs

February 24 – Dinner Speaker

Success & Failure – Dereck Whittenburg

Dereck Whittenburg is a dynamic motivational speaker, former collegiate basketball standout and coach, and a proven leader whose message of resilience, transformation, and purpose has inspired audiences across the country. He is also the author of Shot Heard Around the World.

Early Registration

Register today to connect with leading industry professionals and academic experts at this must-attend event. AATCC members enjoy discounted registration. Be sure to register by February 10, 2026, to take advantage of early rates.

Posted: January 8, 2026

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

Mahlo GmbH + Co. KG Names Steefan Moll CEO

SAAL ON THE DANUBE, Germany — January 8, 2026 — Starting January 1, 2026, Stefan Moll will take over the management of Mahlo GmbH + Co. KG, the world’s leading provider of measurement and control technology for web-shaped materials.

With this move, Mahlo is focusing on the long-term safeguarding of its market position and technological leadership. The current CEO, Rainer Mestermann, will leave the company after 14 years as part of a planned succession arrangement.

Stefan Moll

“Stefan Moll is an excellent choice as the new CEO for our traditional company,” says Mahlo owner Ralph Greenwood-Mahlo. “We look forward to his expertise, fresh ideas, and perspectives.”

Moll brings extensive experience in managing global machinery and plant engineering companies. In addition to international corporations, the new CEO is also familiar with the structures and characteristics of larger medium-sized family businesses. “Family businesses think long-term, act sustainably, and place great value on close, trusting cooperation,” explains the new CEO regarding his decision to join Mahlo. Most recently, he served as Technical Managing Director at the Kiefel Group, a system supplier for leading plastic, thermoforming, and welding technologies based in Freilassing, where he was responsible for technical innovations, the digital strategy, and one of the globally operating divisions.

Focus on Innovation and Strategic Development

The graduate engineer describes himself as an innovation enthusiast and driver—qualities that are particularly valuable during the current transformation phase. “We are currently in a decisive phase of strategic alignment,” says Moll. He defines his goals as “making Mahlo a profitable and future-proof company and inspiring employees, customers, and owners with the right strategy.”

Owner Family Acknowledges Former CEO’s Commitment

The new CEO Stefan Moll (middle) with owners Aura (right) and Ralph Greenwood-Mahlo

Stefan Moll succeeds Rainer Mestermann, who led the machinery manufacturer for nearly 15 years. “We thank Rainer Mestermann for his great dedication and contribution to the success of our company and wish him all the best for the future,” emphasize Greenwood-Mahlo and his wife Aura Greenwood-Mahlo, also owner and advisory board member at the company.

With this change at the top, Mahlo is setting the course for sustainable growth and technological advancement. Stefan Moll will continue the chosen innovation path together with the management team and further strengthen the international market position of this traditional company.

Posted: January 8, 2026

Source: Mahlo GmbH + Co. KG

Barmag’s New Texturing Machine: eFK EvoSmart Sets New Standards In Efficiency And Productivity

REMSCHEID, Germany — January 8, 2026 — Since its premiere at ITMA Asia + CITME 2025, the eFK EvoSmart texturing machine has achieved impressive market success.

The innovative technology is winning over yarn manufacturers worldwide who are committed to energy-efficient and economical production processes. A total of 84 machines has already been sold – including in China, Turkey, and Indonesia – a clear sign of the industry’s confidence in this forward-looking solution.

eFK EvoSmart sets new standards in efficiency and productivity

“Energy efficiency and top quality are key factors for successful yarn production,” explains Dr. Wolfgang Ernst, Head of Sales at Barmag. “With the eFK EvoSmart, we are setting new standards in this area: intelligent technologies and significantly reduced maintenance requirements enable our customers to achieve future-proof production that takes quality and cost-effectiveness to a new level,” he continues.

eFK EvoSmart – Efficiency and quality

Smart Godets – the new technology of single-inverter-controlled godets optimizes the operating point of each godet, thereby significantly improving energy consumption.

The market response to the eFK EvoSmart clearly shows how great the interest of yarn producers is in energy-optimized and maintenance-friendly solutions. The combination of the innovative EvoHeater heating technology and the single-inverter-controlled Smart Godets is particularly impressive: it enables a significant reduction in energy consumption – with potential savings of 25% per kilogram of yarn.

The eFK EvoSmart’s new EvoHeater technology with patented heater design guarantees the highest yarn quality with up to 45% energy savings, which has a direct impact on operating costs.

With its innovative EvoHeater design, which simplifies the previously time-consuming task of heater cleaning and, despite the heater being closed, makes handling much easier for operating personnel and doubles maintenance intervals, the eFK EvoSmart sets new standards. The result: up to 50% less maintenance, higher plant availability, and increased productivity – a clear competitive advantage. Whether in weaving, knitting, or finishing, the consistent performance of the eFK EvoSmart ensures smooth processes and the best results in further processing.

“With the eFK EvoSmart, we offer our customers a solution that sustainably reduces their operating costs while meeting future efficiency requirements with consistently high yarn quality,” summarizes Wolfgang Ernst.

Posted: January 8, 2026

Source: Barmag

CFDA And Ralph Lauren Announce Two New Grant Programs To Strengthen American Fashion Manufacturing

NEW YORK — January 7, 2026 — The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) today announced two new initiatives designed to strengthen American fashion manufacturing, drive innovation, support workforce development, and promote economic growth in key apparel-producing regions across the country.

The CFDA x NY Forward Grant Fund, developed with funding from both the New York State Department of State and Ralph Lauren Corporation (Ralph Lauren), will provide partially matching grants to designers and manufacturers based in New York City’s Garment District. The U.S. Fashion Manufacturing Fund, created with Ralph Lauren as founding partner, will support apparel manufacturers nationwide. Both programs aim to help companies to modernize equipment, expand services, and train workers – building the capacity and resilience of American fashion manufacturing.

These programs build on the success of the CFDA’s Fashion Manufacturing Initiative (FMI), launched in 2013 in affiliation with the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), Andrew Rosen, and with the long-term support of Ralph Lauren, among others. To date, Ralph Lauren has contributed $2 million as FMI’s Premier Underwriter, enabling grants to 54 factories and positively impacting more than 2,000 jobs.

“Strengthening American manufacturing to ensure designers have local partners has long been at the core of CFDA’s mission,” said Steven Kolb, CEO and President of the CFDA. “We are proud to extend our decade-plus work with Ralph Lauren Corporation and expand to a national level while also continuing our local NYC investments alongside our first-ever partnership with the New York State Department of State.”

Together, these new grant programs mark a landmark commitment: sustaining New York’s Garment District while bolstering U.S. manufacturing nationwide — ensuring that American fashion continues to lead globally through innovation, craftsmanship and community.

“Our expanded partnership with the CFDA reflects Ralph Lauren’s enduring commitment to advancing innovation and supporting American fashion,” said Katie Ioanilli, Chief Global Impact & Communications Officer, Ralph Lauren Corporation. “This is not only an investment in our industry — it’s an investment in a vital part of American culture that we share with the world.”

The CFDA x NY Forward Grant Fund

The CFDA x NY Forward Grant Fund, created in partnership with the New York State Department of State, is dedicated to sustaining the New York City Garment District, the historic heart of American fashion production.

The program will provide grants to New York City Garment District-based fashion manufacturers as well as designers producing in-house. Two rounds of funding will be distributed, one in 2026 and another in 2027, empowering businesses to invest in innovation, expand production capacity, and preserve local jobs, contributing to the revitalization of this commercial hub. In each round, one manufacturer recipient will also receive the Ralph Lauren Manufacturing Award, providing the full grant amount in recognition of the most innovative approach to advancing their business.

The U.S. Fashion Manufacturing Fund

The U.S. Fashion Manufacturing Fund, supported by Ralph Lauren as Founding Partner, will run from 2027 through 2029 and will extend grant funding for innovation and workforce development beyond New York to key regions across the country, including California, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Florida and others.

The program will provide partially matching grants to manufacturers investing in advanced machinery, software, and workforce training, covering 80 percent of each grant award, with recipients contributing the remaining 20 percent.

The Council of Fashion Designers of America, Inc. (CFDA)

The Council of Fashion Designers of America, Inc. (CFDA) is a not-for-profit trade association founded in 1962 with a membership of more than 360 of America’s foremost womenswear, menswear, jewelry, and accessory designers. Pillars include Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion through the IMPACT initiative, as well as Sustainability in Fashion.

The organization provides its Members with timely and relevant thought-leadership and business development support. Emerging designers and students are supported through professional development programming and numerous grant and scholarship opportunities. In addition to hosting the annual CFDA Fashion Awards, the organization owns the Fashion Calendar and is the organizer of the Official New York Fashion Week Schedule.

The CFDA Foundation, Inc. is a separate, not-for-profit organized to mobilize the membership to raise funds for charitable causes and engage in civic initiatives. For more information: www.cfda.com

Posted: January 7, 2026

Source: Ralph Lauren Corporation

Children’s Apparel Brand Hanna Andersson Appoints Kacey Sharrett As Chief Digital Officer

PORTLAND, Ore. — January 5, 2026 — Hanna Andersson, the premium children’s apparel brand known for its iconic family-matching pajamas and long-lasting quality, today announced that Kacey Sharrett will join the Company as Chief Digital Officer. In this role, Sharrett will oversee Hanna’s digital ecosystem and customer experience, leading strategies that strengthen acquisition, engagement, and loyalty as the brand continues to advance its digital capabilities.

Kacey Sharrett

Sharrett brings nearly two decades of leadership experience across digital, direct-to-consumer, ecommerce, performance marketing, and omnichannel strategy. Most recently, she served as Head of Direct to Consumer at GoPro, where she led global ecommerce and performance marketing initiatives, driving digital growth and customer-centric experiences across international markets.

Previously, Sharrett was Vice President of eCommerce and Digital Operations at Barnes & Noble, Inc., where she guided digital retail strategy and omnichannel execution during a period of transformation and reinvestment. Earlier in her career, she spent 15 years in leadership roles with Toys “R” Us and Babies “R” Us, developing deep operational and digital expertise.

“Kacey brings a powerful combination of strategic vision, digital depth, and operational leadership,” shared Aimée Lapic, Chief Executive Officer of Hanna Andersson. “Her experience modernizing digital capabilities, developing high-performing teams, and driving performance marketing at scale will be invaluable as we continue advancing Hanna’s own digital foundation and unlocking new ways for customers to experience our brand.”

“I’m excited to join Hanna Andersson at such a pivotal moment in the brand’s journey,” shared Sharrett. “Hanna has a rare combination of deep heritage, loyal customers, and a clear point of view – and I’m looking forward to helping strengthen the operations, processes, and partnerships that support that promise as the business continues to scale.”

Posted: January 7, 2026

Source: Hanna Andersson

Next Level Apparel Membership In U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol Strengthens Transparency And Verified Cotton Sourcing

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — January 6, 2026 — Today, the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol announced that Next Level Apparel, a family-founded leader in supplying premium blank apparel, has joined its program as the newest brand and retailer member.

This membership underscores Next Level Apparel’s unwavering dedication to responsible sourcing and supply chain transparency, further strengthening its commitment to delivering high-quality, ethically produced garments.

Through the program, Next Level Apparel’s cotton sourcing is evaluated against measurable indicators such as soil health, water use, nutrient management, and greenhouse gas emissions. A digitally enabled tracking system provides verified visibility across the supply chain, giving the company insight into cotton sourcing from fiber to finished apparel.

“Responsible sourcing has always been central to Next Level Apparel’s business,” said Brett Bjorkman, CEO at Next Level Apparel. ” By participating in the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol, we can independently verify the sustainability of the cotton we source and ensure our products reflect our commitment to transparency and continuous improvement.”

The Trust Protocol is the voluntary field-level sustainability program and traceability platform for U.S. Cotton. The program drives continuous improvement across key sustainability indicators such as land use, soil health, water management, greenhouse gas emissions, and energy use. The Trust Protocol also provides independently verified data and unmatched transparency through its supply chain, supporting brands and retailers in their journey toward more sustainable sourcing.

“We welcome Next Level Apparel to the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol, which will help further strengthen our collective commitment to transparent and sustainable sourcing,” said Gary Adams, President of the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. “Their proactive stance on responsible sourcing, particularly their focus on U.S. Cotton and supply chain integrity, aligns closely with our mission. This membership will equip Next Level Apparel with the data-driven insights needed to help meet the increasing global demand for sustainably produced cotton in high-performance apparel.”

Next Level Apparel integrates this membership alongside other ethical and operational programs, including Oritain, the Fair Labor Association, and TrusTrace, while thoughtfully designing and producing apparel built to last. This layered approach ensures that every product is made with accountability, operational transparency, and attention to measurable outcomes to uphold high environmental and social standards.

The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol

The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol is the voluntary sustainability program for U.S. cotton growers and a traceability platform for all U.S. Cotton. It brings quantifiable and verifiable goals and measurements to the issue of responsible cotton production and drives continuous improvement in six key sustainability areas: land use efficiency, water use efficiency, energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, soil conservation, and soil carbon. The Trust Protocol underpins and verifies sustainability progress through sophisticated data collection and independent third-party verification.

Posted: January 7, 2026

Source: Next Level Apparel

NONWOVENN Acquired By CorpAcq

BRIDGWATER, England — January 7, 2026 — Nonwovenn, one of the world’s leading nonwoven fabric-tech companies, has been acquired by CorpAcq, the Altrincham-based business acquisitions compounder backed by TDR Capital.

The acquisition also marks the successful exit of BGF, the UK and Ireland’s most active growth capital investor.

Founded in 2003 by the current Chairman David Lamb, Nonwovenn manufactures and supplies bespoke technical fabrics for niche markets.  The company has a strong focus on harm reduction with its product range including materials for protective clothing and wound treatment. Following an initial multi-million-pound investment in 2016, BGF has supported the business through a period of significant growth.

The company has increased its annual turnover from £19m in 2016 to £46 million in 2025 and has continued its strong growth into 2026. The business has now celebrated 19 consecutive years of profit and is a significant exporter of goods.  It is a major employer in Somerset and recently invested a further £1.5 million in research and development to enhance its CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear) protective solutions.

David Lamb, Chairman of Nonwovenn, said: “We’re proud to have delivered such consistent growth and strong profitability over two decades, whilst remaining committed to maintaining the highest quality and customer satisfaction across our product lines. Partnering with BGF has been instrumental in maximising our potential – enabling us to strengthen innovation, diversify product lines and expand internationally. We’re excited to build on these strong foundations in our next phase of growth as part of CorpAcq.”

This exit was led for BGF by Paul Oldham and supported by Louis Hall from BGF’s Bristol team, with Alantra providing CF advice to the Nonwovenn shareholders.

Paul Oldham, BGF, said: “Nonwovenn has gone from strength to strength since our initial investment in 2016, reflected in the outstanding returns delivered for BGF. This impressive management team has built a loyal customer base by providing consistently high levels of service and product development. Our nine-year partnership with the business has been hugely enjoyable and successful and I look forward to seeing how the team builds on their success with the backing of CorpAcq.”

Stuart Kissen, Head of Acquisitions at CorpAcq, added: “Nonwovenn is an outstanding business with a leading market position, strong growth prospects and a highly experienced management team. We see significant opportunity in the fabric technology space and are looking forward to establishing a long-term partnership with David and his team as Nonwovenn enters the next stage of its development.”

Posted: January 7, 2026

Source: Nonwovenn

KARL MAYER: Warp Knit Trends In Home Textiles For The Coming Interior Design Season

OBERTSHAUSEN, Germany — January 7, 2026 — Knitted fabrics are the all-rounders among home textiles. They can be designed in many different ways and are used in mattresses, blankets and pillows as well as in terry towelling, curtains and upholstery fabrics to create trendy designs, constantly new products and good business.

Stay cool – with silk-like blankets at bargain prices

The latest innovations include super-soft blankets with the high-quality look and feel of silk at the price of conventional mid-range counterparts and which are recommended for hot summer nights. The Q-max of these blankets is 0.24 W/cm². This parameter indicates how quickly a fabric dissipates heat from the skin when in contact with the body. In practice, a value above 0.2 W/cm² clearly indicates a cool feel. *

The cosy bedding is also breathable and easy to care for: it is simple to wash, dries quickly and does not crease.

The extraordinary blanket is based on a carefully designed warp knitted fabric. The textile for the cover around a filling layer consists of bright polyamide and elastane. It was produced on an HKS 2-SE in gauge E 36 using a suitable lapping and has an extremely dense, smooth surface. The compact structure emphasises the gentle sheen of the polyamide and gives it a cool feel. The elastane material ensures suppleness through stretch.

In addition to performance, this solution is also economical. The original bedding can be produced highly efficiently on the HKS 2-SE– a high-speed machine specialized in the production of elastic articles. Thanks to KARL MAYER’s expertise, the machine can be adapted to the requirements for the production of blankets in standard sizes.

Corduroy reinvented: from classic stripes to turtle velvet

Warp knitted corduroy innovations are particularly exciting for home textile manufacturers. The distinctive ribbed structures are making a comeback – not only in fashion, but also in cushions, blankets and furniture covers. They are created by the interplay of threading and equal-length underlaps, which are cut and brushed after warp knitting.

This allows classic striped corduroy to be produced, as well as variants with different rib widths – through different threadings and underlap lengths – or faux fur effects for cosy blankets – through particularly long underlaps. The design of the underlap areas also offers scope for creativity, for example for corduroy patterns in turtle velvet style. For this design, reminiscent of a turtle shell, the underlaps are formed into square segments and arranged offset from each other along the sides.

The HKS 3-M is particularly suitable for the flexible and efficient production of these corduroy articles. This high-performance warp knitting machine is one of the most flexible in the KARL MAYER product portfolio. It also produces velour and cuddly blankets, terry toweling and cleaning articles, as well as textiles for automotive interiors, sports and outerwear, mosquito nets, shoe fabrics and coating carriers.

New curtain collection: Stripes with speed

A new curtain collection from KARL MAYER with fancy stripe patterns demonstrates the potential of Warp Knits for window decoration. The articles of the series were produced on a TM WEFT in gauge E 24 and feature striped segments of varying widths and densities. The variation is made possible by the choice of weft repeat and stitch density. The use of effect yarns provides even more design flexibility.

The production of the curtains is unbeatably efficient. Following an upgrade in 2024, the weft-insertion warp knitting machine is 20% faster than the previous version – a performance that is prompting many weavers to rethink their approach in order to reduce machine and personnel requirements.

Do you have any questions about the possibilities of warp knitting in the home textiles sector? Take advantage of your visit to Heimtextil in Frankfurt am Main to make a detour to KARL MAYER in Obertshausen, just a 20-minute drive from the exhibition centre.

Here, experienced specialists are available for discussions and selected best-selling machines are on hand for performance demonstrations. On display are an HKS 2-SE PLUS with extended pattern options, an HKS 3-M EL PLUS for net-like articles – including square marquisette and shoe fabrics – and a TM 3 as a flexible all-rounder with an optimised price-performance ratio.

Appointments can be made via this link:

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=wN-xQvoWVUme0yq53uw9Hp6EVE41oPtGtA5BADYEQ1BUOVA0S0dHTFRHVTlMSjFTN1NXNlFETzdJUS4u

Or by email to: Jonas.Richter@karlmayer.com

*https://textilemj.com/what-is-q-max-cooling-blankets-manufacturer-mj-textile/

Posted: January 7, 2026

Source: KARL MAYER

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