U.S. — Africa Trade Desk Announces Landmark Cotton Export From North Carolina To Mauritius, Signaling New Era Of Bilateral Trade

WASHINGTON — August 19, 2025 — In a powerful demonstration of how U.S. agriculture is helping to reshape global supply chains, the U.S.-Africa Trade Desk (USATD) today announced the successful export of 300 tons of premium-grade cotton from North Carolina to Mauritius. The deal marks a significant milestone in strengthening economic ties between the United States and Africa under the renewed U.S. drive to grow agricultural exports and promote reciprocal trade partnerships.

William Fanjoy, Senior Trade Advisor at USATD, with North Carolina Cotton at the Suffolk Cotton Gin in Virginia.

“This is more than a cotton shipment—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when U.S. farmers, African manufacturers, and trade facilitators work together toward shared prosperity,” said William Fanjoy, Senior Trade Advisor at USATD. “The Trump administration has placed agriculture at the heart of its foreign trade strategy. Thanks to support from the U.S. Commercial Service and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, this deal supports that vision and sets the stage for a surge in mutually beneficial commerce.”

The high-quality, ethically sourced cotton will be used by Mauritius’s thriving textile industry, renowned globally for its sophisticated knitwear and apparel exports. By sourcing directly from American producers, Mauritius enhances the integrity and traceability of its supply chains, while the U.S. cotton industry benefits from new, long-term market opportunities.

“We’re delighted Mauritius will be importing high-quality cotton from the United States for its vital textile industry,” said U.S. Ambassador to Mauritius, Henry Jardine. He added, “expanding trade increases prosperity for both our countries.”

Mauritius, ranked among the most economically open and politically stable nations in Africa, is uniquely positioned to serve as a springboard for U.S. agricultural commodities and products into the broader African market. This export deal reflects a broader strategic push to recalibrate trade dynamics by prioritizing transparency, capacity-building, and co-investment.

“This shipment represents a win for American farmers, a win for African industry, and a win for free and fair trade,” said Nezihi Aslankeser at Cotton Council International (CCI). “We are proud to support partnerships like this that align with global demand for sustainable and high-quality fiber.” CEO of Firemount Textiles Ltd, Mauritius, Mr. Soma added, “We are proud to be the first official partner in this important initiative with USATD. By incorporating premium U.S. grown cotton into our denim jeans, destined for American consumers, we are expanding our global footprint while meeting the highest quality standards, expected by the U.S. retail market.”

The U.S.-Africa Trade Desk plays a pivotal role in operationalizing this new trade diplomacy, serving as a bridge between U.S. suppliers and African buyers, while advancing infrastructure development and compliance systems that enable seamless cross-border commerce.

Posted: August 19, 2025

Source: The U.S.-Africa Trade Desk (USATD) 

SNC Kherib, Algeria, Orders Complete Spunlace Line From ANDRITZ

VIENNA, Austria — August 19, 2025 — SNC Kherib et Cie. has awarded ANDRITZ an order to supply a complete spunlace line for its plant located in Bejaia City, Algeria. The start-up is scheduled for the end of Q3 2026.

Contract signature at Kherib familly’s facility in Bejaia, Algeria. From left to right: Caterina Potenza (Sales Agent), Farid Kherib (Founder of SNC Kherib), Nicolas Canas (ANDRITZ Area Sales Manager), Smail Kherib (General Manager of SNC Kherib), Arnaud Laroche (ANDRITZ Head of Sales Spunlace) Photo: ANDRITZ

This will be the very first ANDRITZ spunlace line installed on the African continent. The line will process both viscose and polyester fibers, enabling SNC Kherib to produce high-quality spunlace roll goods for the wet wipes markets to meet the growing needs of African consumers. This project marks a significant step in the development of the spunlace industry in Africa and opens the door to new opportunities for local converters.

The project is a family investment, with each member of the Kherib family actively involved. As a pioneer in the African market, SNC Kherib is leading the way in introducing advanced spunlace technology to the region.

Farid Kherib, founder of SNC Kherib, states: “We are proud to collaborate with a global leader like ANDRITZ. This partnership highlights our commitment and passion for developing innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of the African market using state-of-the-art equipment.”

The value of the order will not be disclosed. It is included in ANDRITZ’s order intake for the first quarter of 2025.

ANDRITZ neXline spunlace line Photo: ANDRITZ

Based in the Bejaia area of Algeria, SNC Kherib is a family business dedicated to a wide range of activities including the production of nonwovens (viscose and cotton cleaning cloths, polyester wadding for mattress and pillows, etc.), PVC cling film, PP woven bags, as well as PVC doors and sandwich panels.

Posted: August 19, 2025

Source: ANDRITZ AG

Cygnet Texkimp Unveils Next Generation Prepreg Slitting Machine For Thermoset, Thermoplastic And Ceramic Tapes Following Asia Contract Win

CHESHIRE, England — August 19, 2025 — Fiber handling and converting technology specialist Cygnet Texkimp has unveiled a next-generation, production-scale Prepreg Tape Slitting Machine at its UK Innovation Centre.

The technology has been developed to support advances in automated fiber placement (AFP) and automated tape laying (ATL) applications for aerospace and other high-performance industries. Organizations can trial the slitting of continuous thermoset, thermoplastic and ceramic prepreg tapes in real-world conditions using their own materials or those produced on Cygnet Texkimp’s in-house R&D prepreg machines. The technology can slit tapes at speeds of up to 60 meters per minute, subject to the input material.

The move follows the sale of the company’s original demonstrator machine to a composite material manufacturer based in East Asia. The contract was won after a successful program of trials using the customer’s prepreg materials to produce tapes for AFP applications in the aerospace market. The machine was subsequently upgraded by Cygnet Texkimp to retro fit in-process monitoring and data capture and allow the management of key data including tape width, thickness and consistency. In this way the customer can create digital passports for the slit tapes which can then be tracked in the downstream process.

Cygnet Texkimp’s Prepreg Slitting machine is now available for trials at the company’s UK-based Innovation Centre

On-site slitting

Cygnet Texkimp’s Prepreg Tape Slitting technology is typically used by materials producers to develop tapes for the high-rate production of composite parts, including large-scale parts, using AFP and ATL. The technology allows manufacturers to integrate the slitting process into their own production environment rather than sub-contracting. Having the resources to convert prepreg onsite gives manufacturers complete control of production quality and speed and removes the need to ship or store materials, therefore enhancing efficiency and profitability. This is particularly important in the case of thermoset prepregs which have a limited shelf life and need to be stored in special conditions.

SAHM winder partnership

Cygnet Texkimp’s Prepreg Slitting machine features winding technology developed in partnership with SAHM

The new slitting machine features fiber and tape spooling banks provided by winding technology specialist SAHM, Germany, and is capable of processing intermediate materials including a polymer interleaf. SAHM’s 460XE compact and modular winders feature a low-maintenance, reliable design, capable of handling various bobbin types and winding materials with efficient product changes. The technology offers the flexibility to wind packages in a variety of formats including pineapple and cassette formations. The two companies have worked together for almost 50 years, since Cygnet Texkimp first became SAHM’s agent and reseller in the United Kingdom.

Optimizing downstream performance

With increasing emphasis on automation in composite layup, the quality of the slit tapes is a critical enabler for part performance and manufacturing reliability. Cygnet Texkimp’s machine is engineered to achieve extremely high levels of accuracy and consistency in the slitting of continuous thermoset, thermoplastic, ceramic and other materials. Its design draws on extensive understanding of material behavior to deliver very high-accuracy and uniformity slit tapes with minimal material scrappage or operational downtime.

Customer trials have highlighted the importance of slit tape accuracy in optimizing downstream performance. Sub-par quality can result in the development of so-called ‘stringers’ which occur when fibers are pulled from the edges of the tapes during processing and can lead to shutdown of the automated AFP/ATL machine, with associated production downtime and loss of material. Feedback has shown that Cygnet Texkimp’s equipment helps to improve up time in the downstream process, reduces scrap and increases speed, efficiency and equipment ROI.

Effective trial programmes

Graeme Jones, Wide Web Product Director at Cygnet Texkimp, said: “We rebuilt our slitter spooler capability back into our Innovation Centre after a particularly successful trial program resulted in the sale of our original machine.

“The technologies we have in the center are the same world-class designs we have out in the market, and this results in very reliable and realistic test programs that prove-out processes and illustrate return on investment. In this case, the machine was able to completely satisfy the customer with regards to speed and efficiency, and we were able to agree a deal for the same machine that was used in the trials and further equip it to deliver a bespoke solution.

“We’re pleased to be able to offer partners the opportunity to engage with us at an early stage in process development, to test out their concepts, explore machine parameters, assess output quality and validate performance with support from our expert team.”

Organizations interested in scheduling a trial can contact Cygnet Texkimp at  https://cygnet-texkimp.com/contact/

Posted: August 19, 2025

Source: Cygnet Texkimp

Helix Sleep Launches Partnership With Top Five Furniture Retailer, Rooms To Go

PHOENIX, Ariz. — August 19, 2025 — Helix Sleep, a direct-to-consumer mattress brand, has announced a major retail expansion through a new partnership with Rooms To Go, the nation’s number one independent furniture retailer with more than 200 locations. This strategic collaboration marks a significant milestone for Helix, bringing its award-winning mattresses to one of the largest home furnishings destinations in the country.

Helix mattresses are now available in Rooms To Go locations across the Southeastern U.S. Following a phased rollout throughout the summer, customers can now shop three of Helix’s best-selling models in-store: the Midnight Elite, Midnight Luxe with GlacioTex™ Cooling Pillow Top, and the Twilight Core.

“Rooms To Go is a top-tier retailer with an incredible reputation for delivering exceptional customer experiences,” said Jerry Lin, Co-Founder of Helix Sleep. “We’re proud to bring Helix into their carefully curated mattress assortment, where our award-winning comfort, cutting-edge materials, and traffic-driving sleep solutions will perfectly complement their mission. Together, we’re elevating the in-store mattress shopping experience and making premium, tailored sleep accessible to even more customers nationwide.”

Jon Studner, Vice President of Mattresses for Rooms To Go added: “Rooms to Go is always looking for brands and products that can enhance the lives of our guests and improve their overall shopping and sleep experience. When considering brands, we look for them to provide innovation, performance, value, and drive customers into our stores. We believe Helix can deliver on all those fronts. Helix has created an award-winning array of mattresses, and we look forward to our guests trying them in our showrooms.”

Helix is well-positioned to meet the needs of large-scale retail partners through domestic mattress assembly, in-house production of proprietary foams and coils, and an expanded national manufacturing footprint. Following its recent acquisition of Southerland, the company now operates multiple production facilities across the country, enabling efficient coast-to-coast distribution. The brand will also launch co-branded digital retargeting campaigns to help drive foot traffic to Rooms To Go locations. Coupled with a top-tier national sales and training team, Helix is equipped to deliver a seamless, high-touch retail experience at scale.

Rooms To Go is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing furniture and mattress retailers, with more than 200 locations across the Southeast. Founded in 1991, the brand has become a household name by offering stylish, affordable furniture and curated room packages designed to simplify the shopping experience. With a focus on value, quality, and convenience, Rooms To Go has earned a reputation as a trusted destination for customers looking to furnish their homes with comfort and style.

Originally launched as a DTC brand in 2015, Helix Sleep has grown into a category leader through its commitment to high-quality sleep solutions and product innovation. For more information on Helix Sleep, visit www.helixsleep.com.

Posted: August 19, 2025

Source: Helix Sleep

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

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