Equipment Finance Industry Confidence Eases In August

WASHINGTON, DC — August 20, 2026 — The Equipment Leasing & Finance Association (ELFA) today released its August 2026 Monthly Confidence Index for the Equipment Finance Industry (MCI), revealing confidence in the equipment finance market is 62.4, easing from the July index of 63.7, but within the elevated range of the past six months. The index provides a qualitative assessment from key executives in the $1.3 trillion equipment finance industry.

August 2026 Survey Results:

  • Business Conditions – When assessing the next four months, 26.1% of responding executives believe business conditions will improve, up from 22.7% in July. Those who believe business conditions will remain the same decreased to 65.2 from 72.7% the previous month. The percentage of executives who believe business conditions will worsen increased to 8.7% from 4.6% in July.
  • Capex Demand – For the next four months, 26.1% of survey respondents believe demand for leases and loans to fund capital expenditures (capex) will increase (down from 28.6% in July). Additionally, 73.9% expect demand to remain the same (up from 66.7% last month), and none believe demand will decline (down from 4.6% in July). 
  • Access to Capital – Over the next four months, 33.3% of respondents expect greater access to capital to fund equipment acquisitions, 66.7% anticipate the “same” access to capital to fund business, and none expect “less” access to capital, all unchanged from July.
  • Employment – Regarding employment over the next four months, 42.9% of executives expect to hire more employees, a decrease from 54.6% in July. Also, 52.4% foresee no change in headcount (up from 36.4% last month), and 4.8% expect to hire fewer employees (down from 9.1% in July).
  • U.S. Economy – Of the respondents, 4.8% evaluate the current U.S. economy as “excellent,” down from 15% in July; 95.2% assess it as “fair,” up from 80% last month; and none evaluate it as “poor,” down from 5% in July.
  • Economic Outlook – Over the next six months, 18.2% of respondents believe that U.S. economic conditions will “get better,” a decrease from 22.7% in July. Another 59.1% expect the U.S. economy to “stay the same,” down from 63.6% last month; and 22.7% believe economic conditions will worsen, an increase from 13.6% in July.
  • Business Development Spending – Over the next six months, 40.9% of respondents believe their company will increase spending on business development activities, 59.1% believe there will be “no change” in business development spending, and none believe there will be a decrease in spending, all unchanged from the previous month.

August 2026 MCI-EFI Survey Comments from Industry Executive Leadership:

Bank, Small Ticket

“As recent activity reporting illustrates, new business volume is increasing and portfolio performance is good. While uncertainty in the economy, rates, politics and world events continues, business volume and performance is a true indicator of the market’s view of the future and it is positive. We have experienced a strong first half of the year and expect the second half to be strong for our business at Wintrust.” David Normandin, CLFP, President and Chief Executive Officer, Wintrust Specialty Finance

Independent, Middle Ticket

“I’m pessimistic on the economy and bullish on our industry — those aren’t in conflict; they’re the same thesis viewed from two ends. Equipment doesn’t stop wearing out because the macro picture gets complicated; what changes is how it gets financed, and a rising-rate, high-inflation environment is where true leasing earns its keep. My number one concern is supply chain risk, and I don’t think our industry has priced it: lessees whose equipment sits idle waiting on a part still owe the payment, and uptime is collateral performance. We’re deploying our pre-recession playbook now, not later — discipline purchased early is cheap; purchased late, it isn’t available at any price.” Jeffry Elliott, CLFP, CEO, Elevex Capital

Independent, Small Ticket

“Two hurdles in front of the economy, that once they are behind us, will open the economy up and reduce inflation, in my opinion. Those are the Iran war and the mid-term elections.” James D. Jenks, CEO, Global Finance and Leasing Services, LLC

Posted: August 25, 2026

Source: The Equipment Leasing & Finance Association (ELFA)

Traci Anelli Joins Association For Linen Management As Vice President Of Marketing & Events

RICHMOND, Ky.  — August 20, 2026 — The Association for Linen Management (ALM) is pleased to announce that Traci Anelli has joined the organization as Vice President of Marketing & Events, bringing extensive experience in marketing, communications, brand strategy, and the commercial laundry industry.

Traci Anelli

Anelli joins ALM after serving as Director of Marketing at G.A. Braun, which became JENSEN Braun following its acquisition by JENSEN-GROUP in December 2025. During her time with the company, she gained firsthand industry experience and developed a strong understanding of the people, challenges, and opportunities shaping the commercial laundry industry.

Her broader background includes leading regional marketing for a global manufacturer in the automotive industry, as well as an early career as a television news producer. Anelli holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications with a concentration in Video Production from SUNY Fredonia and a Product Marketing Certificate from Cornell University.

In her new role, Anelli will lead ALM’s marketing and event strategies, with a focus on strengthening how the organization connects professionals across the industry with education, resources, events, and one another.

“For me, there’s a different kind of energy that comes with finding a role that just fits — the right people, the right mission, and the feeling that your experience and ideas have a place at the table,” Anelli said. “I’ve learned that the work I love most is bigger than simply marketing products or programs. It’s about bringing people together, making valuable

information and opportunities easier to access, and finding new ways to move an organization and an industry forward. I feel incredibly fortunate to be doing exactly that at ALM.”

Anelli’s arrival comes as ALM continues to expand how it serves laundry and linen professionals throughout their careers, bringing the organization’s marketing, education, events, membership, and partnership efforts into closer alignment.

“There is so much opportunity in this industry, and I’m excited about what we can build together,” Anelli added. “We already have some exciting things taking shape behind the scenes, and I can’t wait to share more about what’s next for ALM and the laundry and linen community.”

“Traci joins ALM at an important point in our growth,” said Sarah Brobeck, President & CEO of ALM. “She brings a strong combination of strategic thinking, creativity, and business acumen, along with a clear understanding of where we are headed. As we continue to strengthen the way we engage our members, grow our reach, and demonstrate the value

of ALM across the industry, Traci is exactly the kind of leader we need on our team. I’m excited about the role she will play in shaping what comes next.”

Anelli will work closely with Brobeck, ALM staff, members, and industry suppliers to grow engagement and expand awareness of ALM’s resources across the textile care industry.

Posted: August 25, 2026

Source: Association for Linen Management (ALM)

KARL MAYER: Highly Efficient Production Of Mosquito Net Fabrics

OBERTSHAUSEN, Germany — August 20, 2026 — Mosquitoes may be tiny, but they are far more dangerous than large predators. According to estimates, they are responsible for up to around one million deaths per year. Malaria alone, transmitted by these blood-sucking insects, caused approximately 597,000 deaths among around 263 million cases in 2023.

To protect people from mosquito bites, the World Health Organization (WHO) primarily recommends LLINs (Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets). These long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito nets are easy to use, highly effective, and inexpensive to manufacture. They can be produced on KARL MAYER warp knitting machines with outstanding efficiency and quality.

Mechanical and Chemical Protection

Mosquito nets are designed to serve both as a physical barrier and as a means of killing or repelling mosquitoes. At the same time, they must allow sufficient air circulation.

Standard mosquito nets made of PES multifilament meet this requirement through defined stitch densities – that is, the number of mesh openings per unit area. This ensures mechanical protection. In addition, the mesh textiles must provide defined strength characteristics to ensure that mosquitoes cannot find any openings. The WHO recommends a bursting strength of at least 505 kPa for multifilament yarns with a count of 100 denier and 220 kPa for 75 denier yarns. /1/

The nets also provide chemical protection through treatment with contact insecticides.

Manufacturing with Maximum Precision

Two-bar tricot machine TM 2

Warp knitted mosquito nets are predominantly produced on two-bar tricot machines, namely the TM 2 and HKS 2-M from KARL MAYER. When PES filament yarns are used, machine gauges of E28 or E32 are typically employed. For processing polyethylene (HDPE) monofilament yarns, E14 is the standard gauge, although slight deviations above or below this value are also common.

The two yarn materials differ in terms of construction, properties, and insecticide application. While PES fabrics are impregnated with the insecticidal agent during the finishing process, the agent is already incorporated into the HDPE granulate before filament production.

On the TM 2 and HKS 2-M, these yarns are transformed into mosquito nets with exceptional productivity and premium quality. Thanks to their outstanding precision, the machines meet the strict requirements regarding dimensional stability, uniformity of mesh openings, tear resistance, and fabric weight.

This precision is essential, as deviations from the specified net structure can ultimately put human lives at risk.

In addition to two-bar tricot machines, three-bar machines in gauge E18 are also used for certain protective applications involving multifilament yarns.

Mosquito Nets: Products with Enormous Market Potential

The global market potential for mosquito nets is enormous. In Africa alone, hundreds of millions of long-lasting insecticidal nets are distributed regularly and typically need to be replaced every three to five years. This creates recurring replacement demand.

Further growth is driven by the fact that mosquito nets are not only an essential healthcare product for billions of people but are increasingly becoming consumer and outdoor products as well. According to Market Intelo, the global mosquito net market was valued at USD 3.2 billion in 2025. By 2034, the market is expected to reach USD 5.1 billion, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8%. /2/

Posted: August 25, 2026

Source: KARL MAYER Verwaltungsgesellschaft SE

Barmag Presents Metering Pump Solutions At ASE China

REMSCHEID, Germany — August 20, 2026 — From September 15 to 17, 2026, Barmag’s Pumps Division will present its solutions for the precise delivery and metering of adhesives, sealants, and other high-viscosity media at ASE China at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. The focus of the exhibition will be on high-precision gear metering pumps that help plant managers sustainably optimize material usage, process stability, and product quality. (Booth E4235)

Precision for Adhesives and Sealants

Focus on rising raw material costs: At ASE, Barmag presents material-efficient pump technology for adhesive and sealant applications.

The demands placed on modern adhesive and sealant applications are constantly increasing. Manufacturers expect reproducible dosing results, minimal material loss, and reliable processing in increasingly demanding processes. This is precisely where Barmag’s product portfolio comes into play.

Material efficiency as a competitive advantage
At ASE China, Barmag is focusing in particular on its solutions for hot-melt adhesives, PUR systems, silicones, resins, and two-component adhesives and sealants. The pumps in the GA/GX series, in particular, enable uniform, low-pulsation delivery of these media, thereby contributing to consistently high product quality and reduced material consumption. “Rising raw material costs and increasing quality requirements make precise metering more important today than ever before. With our pumps, we help users make their processes more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective,” explains Andreas Heitzer, Key Account Manager of the Pumps Division.

In addition, with the GA series, Barmag offers metering pump solutions for shear-sensitive media where product properties must be preserved during pumping. This is particularly important for certain reactive adhesives, silicones, or filled sealants. Gentle pumping minimizes product changes and ensures uniform material application. This increases process reliability and ensures consistently high quality of the end product.

Partner for demanding metering applications

With decades of experience in metering technology, Barmag is one of the leading suppliers of high-precision gear metering pumps for industrial applications. These solutions are used worldwide in adhesive, sealant, coating, laminating, and hot-melt systems, as well as in plastics processing. At ASE China, Barmag invites trade visitors to discuss the latest developments in metering and conveying technology and to learn about customized solutions for future adhesive and sealant applications.

Posted: August 25, 2026

Source: BARMAG – A Subsidiary of the Rieter Group

Crystal International Marks 100% Renewable Electricity Coverage At Three Factories

HONG KONG — August 18, 2026 — Crystal International Group Limited (“Crystal International” or the “Group”) is expediting its renewable energy transition across global operations through a combination of onsite rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, green electricity purchases, and International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs).

Apart from onsite solar PV installation, Crystal International is leveraging I-RECs to advance renewable energy transition as a practical pathway across manufacturing markets.

These measures advance the Group’s Crystal Sustainability Vision 2030 and Net Zero 2050 ambition. To date, 3 intimate factories in Vietnam, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka achieved 100% renewable electricity coverage on a market-based greenhouse gas accounting basis.

In addition to its renewable energy portfolio with 24.6 MW of installed solar PV capacity in the operating countries, Crystal International has been actively sourcing I-RECs and off-site green electricity, to reduce carbon emissions from purchased electricity on a market-based basis. The initiative is in line with the growing customer expectations. The procurement of I-RECs reflects the Group’s practical and progressive approach to accelerating renewable electricity use across complex manufacturing supply chains.

Building on the achievement of 3 factories in Vietnam, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka attaining 100% renewable electricity coverage on a market-based greenhouse gas accounting basis in 2025, Crystal International is continually working with all factories to scale up renewable energy adoption, by purchasing green electricity and I-RECs matched with their grid electricity consumption. Since 2025, the Group has procured 85,600 MWh of I-RECs and green electricity, offsetting 45,200 tCO2e. The Group aims to maximise renewable electricity coverage by 2030.

“Transitioning to renewable electricity requires both immediate action and long-term system transformation. While we continue to invest in on-site solar PV, market-based instruments such as I-RECs and green electricity purchase enable us to support renewable electricity generation while expanding access to clean energy solutions,” said Catherine Chiu, Vice President – Corporate Quality & Sustainability at Crystal International.

Crystal International’s ongoing net zero roadmap comprises a combination of strategies focusing on renewable energy, productivity enhancement, energy efficiency and fuel switching. The Group remains committed to creating long-term value while contributing to global climate actions through continued investment in renewable energy and low-carbon manufacturing.

Posted: August 25, 2026

Source: Crystal International Group Limited

Erik Moesch Joins Direct Sales Team At Herculite Products, Inc.

EMIGSVILLE, PA — August 17, 2026 — Herculite Products is pleased to announce that Erik Moesch is joining Herculite as the new Northeastern Regional Sales Manager on the Direct Sales Team. Herculite is excited to expand its sales team to support continued strong growth in that market.

Erik Moesch

Erik will oversee the Northeast region of our Direct Sales team, partnering with customers across our engineered solutions, healthcare, agriculture, and tent and structure markets. His experience in relationship-driven sales and strategic account development will help strengthen our presence in these key industries.

Erik holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from East Stroudsburg University and has more than ten years of sales and account management experience. He currently lives in York, Pennsylvania, with his child, girlfriend, and three of their dogs. Erik grew up playing baseball and remains an avid fan to this day. When he’s not at home or watching baseball, you can find him on his local golf course.

At Herculite, we are committed to delivering the highest level of service, support, and innovation in the industry. We are confident that Erik’s energy, communication skills, and customer-focused approach will make him a valuable addition to our team and enable him to contribute meaningfully to our mission.

Posted: August 25, 2026

Source: Herculite®, Inc.

Usha Yarns Secures Growth Equity Investment From Fullerton Carbon Action Fund

CHANDIGARH, India — July 14, 2026 — Usha Yarns Limited (“Usha Yarns”), a producer of high-quality recycled yarns with advanced, well established production processes, today announced a growth equity investment from the Fullerton Carbon Action Fund (“Fullerton”), a private equity strategy managed by Fullerton Fund Management that backs established mid-market companies across Emerging Asia to accelerate decarbonization.

Founded in 1995 and operating recycling and yarn manufacturing units near Chandigarh, Usha Yarns converts post-industrial cotton and recycled PET into yarns sold under its “Puneh” brand. Pre-coloured at the recycling stage, its yarns help customers reduce downstream dyeing costs, while its chain-of-custody and sustainability credentials — validated against several global certifications and benchmarks — align with the circularity and traceability standards that global apparel brands increasingly require.

The investment will support Usha Yarns’ next stage of scale up — expanding recycled yarn capacity, deepening the traceability of its feedstock sourcing, and broadening its supply of high-quality recycled yarns to apparel and textile brands across global markets.

Recycled yarns with verified traceability are fast becoming a supply chain imperative for global apparel brands — and Usha Yarns is one of the few producers already operating at that standard.

“Over more than two decades we have built deep expertise in turning textile waste into high-quality, affordable recycled yarns,” said Anurag Gupta, Managing Director of Usha Yarns. “Fullerton understood our business from the first conversation — not just the financials, but what it actually takes to produce recycled yarn at consistent quality and scale. We look forward to building the next chapter of Usha Yarns together — taking our products to more brands across global markets, with the traceability and reliability they increasingly expect.”

“Mechanical cotton recycling at consistent, brand-grade quality is one of the hardest things to do in textiles, and Usha Yarns is among the very few that have demonstrated it, at scale. As global brands move from sustainability pledges to binding requirements, demand for recycled materials will outpace supply — and our role is to help Usha scale to meet it, adding capacity, broadening the product range and customer base, and backing the promoters with long-term capital, capabilities and networks to build an enduring, institutional-grade business,” said Akhil Jain, Partner at Fullerton Carbon Action Fund.

Posted: August 18, 2026

Source: Usha Yarns Limited

UNIFI®, Makers Of REPREVE®, Announces An Agreement To Sell Non-Strategic Real Estate In The U.S.

GREENSBORO, N.C. — August 18, 2026 — Unifi, Inc. (together with its consolidated subsidiaries, “UNIFI”), the makers of REPREVE® and one of the world’s leading innovators in recycled and synthetic yarns, today announced that it has entered into an agreement for the sale of two non-strategic real estate assets across its operating base in Yadkin County, North Carolina for approximately $60 million before fees and expenses.

The non-strategic real estate assets include approximately 120 acres of land and 500,000 square feet of warehouse space across two separate operating locations in Yadkin County, North Carolina. The transaction is expected to close in the Company’s second fiscal quarter, unless extended by the parties, subject to satisfaction of certain closing conditions as described in the associated Form 8-K filing.

“This transaction demonstrates our focus on optimizing the efficiency of our U.S. business and makes UNIFI a leaner and more profitable organization,” said Eddie Ingle, Chief Executive Officer of UNIFI, Inc. “Working with the buyer, we were able to identify portions of our real estate portfolio that would be most beneficial to a new owner while being least impactful to our ongoing operations and production capacity.

“This carve out of assets is expected to have minimal operational impact to our business and create no downtime in our daily processes. Our U.S. based operations will maintain their current production capacities and there will be no changes to how we service our customers out of UNIFI’s Yadkin County campus. Upon closing this transaction, UNIFI would retire a substantial amount of debt and significantly improve its financial flexibility.”

Posted: August 18, 2026

Source: UNIFI, Inc.

INDA Now Accepting Abstracts For The 2027 World Of Wipes® International Conference

CARY, N.C. — August 18, 2026 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, is now accepting abstracts for the 2027 World of Wipes® (WOW) International Conference, taking place June 7-10, 2027, in Indianapolis, IN.

Professionals from across the wipes supply chain are invited to submit abstracts highlighting new products, technologies, materials, market developments, research, and other insights shaping the future of the wipes industry. Abstracts are due January 22, 2027.

Prospective presenters should submit a concise abstract of one to two paragraphs describing their proposed presentation and its relevance to wipes, wipe manufacturing, or the broader wipes marketplace. Abstracts may be submitted online through the WOW website at https://www.worldofwipes.org/call-for-papers.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

  • Dry and Wet Wipes
  • End-Use Markets
  • Market Statistics and Data
  • Raw Materials and Fibers
  • Sustainability
  • Fabric Formation
  • Ingredients, Formulations, and Lotions
  • Flexible and Rigid Packaging
  • Machinery and Equipment
  • Flushability
  • Single-Use Plastics
  • Labeling and Regulations
  • Circular Economy

Presenting at WOW 2027 provides an opportunity to share expertise and innovation with an engaged audience of wipes professionals while building connections across the entire supply chain, from raw material and technology suppliers to converters, brands, and retailers. Presenters will contribute to the conversations, ideas, and developments shaping the future of the global wipes industry.

For more information or to submit an abstract, visit

https://www.worldofwipes.org/call-for-papers

Registration, exhibit, and sponsorships details for WOW 2027 will be announced in late January 2027.

Posted: August 18, 2026

Source: INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

Meridian Specialty Yarn Group, Inc. Names Keith Horn Vice President Of Manufacturing For Ranlo Plant

VALDESE, N.C. — August 17, 2026 — Meridian Specialty Yarn Group, Inc. (MSYG) today announced that Keith Horn has joined the company as Vice President of Manufacturing for its Ranlo Plant, effective July 27, 2026.

Keith Horn

Horn brings more than 30 years of experience in worsted wool spinning operations. In this role, he will lead manufacturing operations at Ranlo, with a focus on strengthening operational performance, maintaining consistent product quality, and strengthening MSYG’s position as a leading U.S. worsted spinning operation.

“We are pleased to welcome Keith to MSYG,” said Tim Manson, President. “His deep experience in long staple and worsted spinning, combined with his proven manufacturing leadership, will be an important asset as we continue to improve the capabilities and performance of our Ranlo operation.”

MSYG, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Meridian Industries, Inc. of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is one of five operating companies within the Meridian organization and operates two textile facilities in North Carolina.

The Ranlo Plant is a long staple worsted spinning operation that produces worsted counts from 1’s to 36’s in singles or plied yarns. The facility also produces hollow spindle and fancy twist bouclé yarns, primarily from synthetic fibers, as well as air jet textured yarns. Meridian Mill House, MSYG’s luxury craft business, is also housed at the Ranlo facility.

The Valdese Plant is a state-of-the-art dye house with package dye, space dye, top dye, and tow dye capabilities across all dyeable substrates.

MSYG supplies products for hosiery and apparel, home furnishings and upholstery, industrial, military, medical, craft, and other textile markets.

Posted: August 17, 2026

Source: Meridian Specialty Yarn Group, Inc. (MSYG)

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