Revolutionizing Textile Production: Thomas Höpfl Discusses Mahlo’s Cutting-Edge Orthopac RXVMC-20

SAAL ON THE DANUBE, Germany — July 8, 2024 — For many decades, the German machine manufacturer Mahlo GmbH + Co KG has been synonymous in the textile industry with straight fabrics and state-of-the-art straightening technologies. The market leader has now further developed its proven straightening concept and adapted it to the challenges of its customers. We are talking about the new Orthopac RXVMC-20 automatic straightening machine, and Sales Manager Thomas Höpfl is on hand to answer any questions.

Question: Thomas, thank you for taking the time to speak with us on the topic of optimizing textile production. Let’s dive right in. At the ITMA Europe last year, Mahlo has presented the prototype of its latest product development Orthopac RXVMC-20. Now the first machine is installed at a customer. Can you give us an overview of the new straightening concept?

Thomas Höpfl: Good morning, and thank you for having me. The Orthopac RXVMC-20 is our latest innovation designed specifically for processing textiles with high distortion dynamics, particularly in the knitwear sector. It’s a sophisticated system that combines control and regulation to offer maximum control over the straightening process.

Q: What makes the Orthopac RXVMC-20 stand out from conventional straightening systems?

Thomas Höpfl, Mahlo Sales Manager

Höpfl: The key differentiator is its ability to handle textiles with highly variable distortions effectively. Traditional methods struggle with the inconsistencies often found in knitted fabrics, which can be influenced by numerous factors such as the sewing together of short pieces and the type of knitted fabric. Our system uses independently controllable and adjustable straightening modules that provide a high level of precision and control, thanks to advanced scanning and evaluation electronics.

Q: Can you elaborate on how the system works?

RXVMC-20

Höpfl: Certainly. The Orthopac RXVMC-20 consists of two straightening modules, each individually controllable and driven. Distortion sensors at the infeed of the first module detect any fluctuations before they reach the straightening rollers. These rollers are then adjusted using stepless hydraulic or electric drives. A self-optimizing, AI-enhanced control algorithm ensures a highly precise and fast response to these detected distortions. Additionally, there is another distortion detection system at the outlet of the second module that catches any residual distortion, ensuring it is corrected.

Q: That sounds impressive. How does this system benefit textile companies in practical terms?

Höpfl: The most significant benefit is the ability to meet high-quality standards regarding permissible residual distortion, which is crucial in the textile industry today. This system not only improves the quality of the finished product but also reduces waste and increases efficiency. For instance, lower profits due to non-compliance with residual distortion values are now avoidable. This system ensures that companies can maintain consistent quality, thereby increasing their competitiveness in the market.

Q: Could you share an example of a company that has implemented this system and the results they have seen?

Höpfl: Of course. Tintoria Finissaggio 2000, a renowned textile finishing company, recently installed the Orthopac RXVMC-20. They specialize in a wide range of finishing treatments for various fabrics. After equipping their new stenter with our system, they saw significant improvements in quality and efficiency within just a few months. The owners, Dino Masso and Marco Bardelle, mentioned that their expectations were far exceeded by the results.

Q: That’s quite an endorsement. What was the feedback from Tintoria Finissaggio 2000 specifically?

Höpfl: They were very pleased with the precision and rapid response of the system. Dino Masso and Marco Bardelle highlighted that their high hopes for the Orthopac RXVMC-20 were more than met. They experienced a substantial enhancement in their production process, which is a testament to the system’s effectiveness and reliability.

Q: It seems like the Orthopac RXVMC-20 is set to make a significant impact in the textile industry. What are Mahlo’s plans for the future with this technology?

Höpfl: We are continuously working on innovations to further refine our systems. The success of the Orthopac RXVMC-20 has encouraged us to explore new ways to integrate AI and advanced control algorithms into our products. Our goal is to offer even more efficient and precise solutions to meet the evolving needs of the textile industry.

Q: Thank you, Thomas. It’s been great learning about the Orthopac RXVMC-20 and Mahlo’s contributions to textile manufacturing. We look forward to seeing how this technology evolves.

Höpfl: Thank you for the opportunity to share our advancements. We’re excited about the future and committed to continuing our role as a leader in textile process control systems.

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: Mahlo GmbH + Co. KG

Jeanologia Redirects The Future Of Textile Production In America From Its Miami Hub

VALENCIA, Spain — July 8, 2024 — Jeanologia, a Spanish company in eco-efficient technologies, has taken a significant step towards a sustainable revolution in the textile industry with the launch of a hub in Miami. Strategically located in the Wynwood district, this center of innovation and creativity marks a milestone in advancing sustainable garment production in America.

Looking to the future, Jeanologia anticipates that 10% of textile production will return to the United States within the next five years, while 30% will move closer to nearby markets like Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and Peru. In this context, Jeanologia’s Miami hub stands as a beacon of change, offering cutting-edge technology and sustainable solutions for environmentally conscious brands and designers.

Jeanologia’s CEO, Enrique Silla, comments, “This project not only provides technological support for on-shoring and near-shoring relocation but also becomes an inspiration center to boost the creativity of the new generation of American digital designers.” He also highlights that Miami was chosen for this operational center due to its symbolic role as a unifying point in the Americas.

A space for inspiration and innovation in digital and sustainable production

Jeanologia’s Miami hub is located in the well-known Wynwood district, a neuralgic center of art and design in the city. Here, designers and brands can firsthand experience the potential of technological solutions that enable sustainable garment finishing. Enrique Silla emphasizes, “No jeans will be produced in the region that pollutes the planet. That is our commitment.”

Among the solutions available at this hub is the innovative ATMOS process, developed with G2 technology and the patented INDRA system, which uses ozone under atmospheric conditions instead of water, chemicals, and contaminants like pumice stones, achieving natural aging of garments sustainably and efficiently. Additionally, the center operates with the closed-loop H2Zero water treatment system, which, without chemicals, treats water to leave it in optimal conditions for reuse in new washing processes for garment finishing. The Miami hub also offers a full range of digital tools for design and production, such as eDesigner software for virtual jeans creation and EIM, a powerful tool for measuring and monitoring the environmental impact of garment finishing processes efficiently and cost-effectively.

Jeanologia sets the course for sustainable fashion with its global network of innovation centers

With its presence in Miami, the company strengthens its commitment to the U.S. market, joining its other seven innovation centers strategically located in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Turkey, Brazil, India, Bangladesh, and Mexico. This new space aims not only to drive textile transformation in the region but also to democratize access to sustainable technologies and serve as a collaboration and learning platform for brands and designers committed to a greener future.

Jeanologia boasts a prominent global presence with ten subsidiaries, as well as offices and technical service centers worldwide. Currently, it exports its products to 72 countries. More than 35% of the 5 billion jeans produced annually worldwide are made using its technologies, and it has earned the trust of leading market brands such as Levi’s, Chanel, Inditex, Guess Jeans, Tommy Hilfiger, American Eagle, H&M, and Marks & Spencer, among many others.

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: Jeanologia

Christina Horsley Promoted To Vice President Of Operations At The Association For Linen Management

RICHMOND, KY — July 8, 2024 — The Association for Linen Management (ALM) is thrilled to announce the promotion of Christina Horsley to the position of Vice President of Operations. Christina has been an invaluable member of the ALM team since 2012, previously serving as Director of Education and Events. In this role, she successfully managed the Laundry & Linen College and notable events such as IMPACT, consistently delivering exceptional results.

Christina Horsley

Christina brings nearly 30 years of experience in Association Management to her new role. She has a remarkable history of building and leading teams that significantly enhance member experience and value. Throughout her tenure at ALM, particularly during the transition to new leadership, Christina has demonstrated her ability to contribute positively to her areas of responsibility while showcasing skills that extend beyond her initial scope. By adding Membership Services and Development to her duties, she has shown a profound understanding of member engagement and experience.

Sarah Brobeck, President & CEO of ALM, praised Christina’s contributions, stating, “I am amazed by the vast contributions Christina has displayed over the past 18 months. During this time, the staff transitioned from a siloed approach to their work to an integrated team collectively working toward common goals, and Christina was instrumental in this organizational shift. She’s proven her skill sets extend well beyond her current role.”

In her new capacity as Vice President of Operations, Christina will take on a more strategic role, overseeing all aspects of internal operations to ensure alignment with the strategic goals set by the Board of Directors. “This promotion is another component of the overall transition of the organization that positions us to achieve our goals while enhancing value to our members and the industry,” added Brobeck. “Christina’s history with ALM is rich in high quality results, broadening her responsibilities ensures we have the same quality results across all areas of our association.”

“As I step into this new role as Vice President of Operations, I am excited to further contribute to ALM’s mission. I am eager to continue working alongside our talented team to drive innovation and excellence in our services for our members and the industry.” Said Horsley.

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: The Association for Linen Management (ALM)

KARL MAYER North America: Successful Textile Innovation Conference Featuring High-Level Presentations, Close Exchange

OBERTSHAUSEN, Germany — July 8, 2024 — The 2nd Textiles Innovation Conference held by KARL MAYER North America proved to be a complete success. The trade event took place from June 25 to 27, 2024 at the headquarters of the KARL MAYER GROUP subsidiary in Greensboro, North Carolina. The conference boasted an impressive turnout with over 200 attendees, exhibitors, and keynote speakers. While the majority hailed from many states across the USA, the event also attracted a global audience, including participants from Italy, Canada, Mexico, and other countries.  The conference continued to build momentum as an important platform for the exchange and transfer of know-how between brands, designers, and manufacturers from the textile industry. The central theme: the importance of textiles made in the USA, their value and influence on global markets.

Mariano Amezcua, President of KARL MAYER North America

“Connecting the US-based textile supply chain to enable brands to compete and win with American-made products, this was the mission for the KARL MAYER STOLL 2024 Textile Innovation Conference. By presenting software to accelerate product development, demonstrating machine enhancements to improve productivity, and networking across all levels of manufacturing, we have been able to advance our mission,” said Mariano Amezcua, President of KARL MAYER North America.

The conference brought together leading industry brands and esteemed academic institutions to delve into the future of product development and sustainability in textiles. KM.ON, Black Swan, Meta, and Supreme shared a convergence of ideas, challenges, and groundbreaking advancements shaping the textile landscape. NC State and Kent State universities highlighted their efforts in developing local talent and enhancing research capabilities to meet industry demand for regional supply chains. Manufacturing Solutions Center, Southern Textile Association, and AFFOA (Advanced Functional Fabrics of America) explored research capabilities and technology testing to foster funding opportunities and generate ideas for the future.

 Presentations given by pioneers and trendsetters

The recipe for success also included a high-profile lecture program. The conference kicked off with a keynote speech from New Balance, a brand that empowers people through sport and craftsmanship. New Balance MADE U.S., their premium collection manufactured domestically, reflects their commitment to quality and community impact. On day two Kenny Wilsey, Sourcing Director at Dillard’s, shared his expertise to ensure adherence to quality standards and social compliance requirements for private label brands. To complete the speaker series, Allison Hicks, Lead Knit Engineer at Under Armour, inspired attendees with her innovative approach to performance footwear, apparel, and accessories.

Important topics at the conference were sustainability and digitalization: Unifi showcased high-performance fibers made from recyclable materials and pre- or post-consumer waste management initiatives. KM.ON, the digital solution company of the KARL MAYER GROUP, displayed artificial intelligence applications for quality control, supply chain optimization, and predictive maintenance for warp knitting and knitwear production.

Jessy Belle Kürig, Sales Manager at KM.ON, appreciated ​​the many networking opportunities. “I felt very happy to get the chance to present KM.ON by KARL MAYER and to discuss the use of AI in the textile industry, as well as the growing importance of digital twins. Even more I enjoyed the subsequent conversations,” says the sales professional.

The Textile Innovation Conference program was rounded out by an exhibition of selected textile supply chain partners. These business partners supplemented the information about innovation presented in the lectures and performance demonstrations of the latest STOLL flat knitting and KARL MAYER warp knitting machines.

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: KARL MAYER GROUP

ROICA™ By Asahi Kasei And TENCEL™ By Lenzing To Continue The Joint Efforts To Create A New Generation Of Circular Driven Innovations Supported By Brugnoli, Maglificio Maggia And Maglificio Ripa

MILAN — July 8, 2024 — The partnership between ROICA™ by Asahi Kasei, a pioneer in premium stretch fiber and TENCEL™ by Lenzing, a leader in wood-based cellulosic textile fibers continues in introducing a concept of sustainable and circular-driven textiles, to different applications from general apparel to indoor sportswear or lingerie. This collaboration sets new benchmarks for sustainability, performance and design in textiles, offering a step forward in circular and responsibly produced next-generation materials to provide an innovative composition with creative opportunities, new fabric design, performance and quality, as well as end of life solutions.

In occasion of next Milano Unica we will have on stage three new collections aiming to reach contemporary consumer new generation of wardrobe through this project:

  • Performance wear: Yogatime by Brugnoli – MODA IN FABRICS, HALL 2, booth C09 C11 C13 / MAREdiMODA, HALL 3, booth MdM15
  • Fashion: De Rerum Natura by Maglificio Maggia – IDEABIELLA, HALL 4, booth H05
  • Lingerie – underwear: ECO proposals by Maglificio Ripa – MODA IN FABRICS, HALL 1, booth B10

Mr. Hiroaki Shinohe, Chief Marketing Officer of ROICA Europe at Asahi Kasei on the collaboration: “With this amazing partnership we are aiming to support the circular economy, sharing the same vision and goals: providing the quality of our materials of unique touch, comfort and performance combined with a high level of sustainability that leads to a responsible environmental impact when it comes to the end of life of a material”.

Mr. Carlo Covini, Business Development Manager of textiles business, Italy and Switzerland of Lenzing, comments: “Combining TENCEL™ and ROICA™ we are moving together towards a more sustainable textile industry which definitely HAS to tend to circular approach solutions. We are proud of this partnership and keep on finding new collaborations and partners to give our fibers the opportunity to express themselves in innovative and planet conscious collections with contemporary consumers looking for them in mind”.

All started with an interesting proposal for performance wear in occasion of last Performance Days, and now also in occasion of Milano Unica, Brugnoli introduces YOGATIME, a line made by three articles featuring innovative fabrics combining TENCEL™ Modal and the degradable stretch yarn ROICA™ V550, matching the needs of each garment designed for yoga and loungewear with a conscious approach. You can see it at MODA IN FABRICS, HALL 2, booth C09 C11 C13 / MAREdiMODA, HALL 3, booth MdM15.

And now we continue this journey touching base with a brand-new item of the wardrobe: fashion. We do it with the support of Maglificio Maggia, a company specialized in the manufacturing of fabrics knitted on circular looms, that will introduce their fabric made with TENCELTM Modal and ROICA™ V550 in occasion of Milano Unica at IDEABIELLA, HALL 4, booth H05, with two articles finished by Tintoria Finissaggio 2000:

556981 : elastic Milan stitch fabric, a weaving stitch that makes it structured and tactile with a high compactness and shape capable of best expressing itself in the creation of supported garments such as jackets and overshirts, pleasant and comfortable to the touch thanks to the perfect combination of cashmere and TENCEL™ Modal fibers. It remains fluid and smooth to the hand, thus positioning itself as 55698 an excellent option for a product with a winter taste but which does not give up that freshness, due to the texture, always pleasant in contact with the skin.

511502 : simple elastic jersey with a prestigious composition that blends cashmere and TENCEL™ Modal, two fibers capable of working together to provide an excellent tactile experience, perfect product for winter t-shirts and light garments. Worthy of mention is the premium stretch component which gives the fabric a high wearing comfort and is therefore able to optimally follow muscle movements, guaranteeing a high-level experience of use and performance.

The garments are now in the making of phase thanks to the designer Emanuele Stocco and the producer Andrea De Marco.

Giovanna Maggia, stakeholder of Maggia, adds: “There is no progress without the right, needed attention and a sustainable strategy. Maglificio Maggia interprets contemporary social and environmental responsibility values by conducting business with respect to the wellbeing and health of people and the planet, acknowledging that the textile sector can play a pivotal role. That’s why we choose to partner with TENCEL™ and ROICA™, united we can multiply our power”.

And after sport and fashion, here we come with another absolute relevant item for everyday life and health: lingerie and underwear. And our master here is called Maglificio Ripa.

Maglificio Ripa has been one of the most qualified fabric producers on the international scene for over sixty years, collaborating with most major fashion houses and the best-known lingerie, swimwear and sport brands. Maglificio Ripa will be introducing this new responsible innovation at Milano Unica at MODA IN FABRICS, HALL 1, booth B10 and MAREdiMODA, HALL 3, booth MdM03.

Following innovation and the production trend linked to circularity and degradability in textiles, Maglificio Ripa presents two new articles, ECO202AX 3 and ECO 373AC 4 , in TENCEL™ Lyocell with Micro technology and ROICA™ V550. Both have a super soft hand and are desired for “fashion underwear” and base-layer applications. The jersey, with a sheer and soft feel on the skin, is characterized by a light weight and a slight transparency, while maintaining the very warm feel of TENCEL™ and the technical characteristics of ROICA™ V550. The interlock, however, with the CLEAN CUT (a fabric produced in double needle beds and with a sharp cut) feature, gives comfort even to the most structured garments.

Luca Bianco, CEO of Maglificio Ripa, comments: “In Maglificio Ripa we truly believe that this kind of partnership are able to open new horizons for productions and collections that combine the expertise of valuable companies and their concrete commitment towards a more sustainable world. We put our knowledge at the service of the common goal of creating something new, beautiful and responsible”.

This collaborative venture is going to make a further step in circular economy for the textile industry and to set a new concept of sustainable and circular driven textiles enhancing degradability and environmental sustainability. Many things have been done, many valuable partnerships have been made, but we’re just at the beginning of this exciting path towards sustainability a new generation of wardrobe in the textile industry.

1 Technical data: 130hcm, 200grm2, 260grml. Composition: 87% TENCEL™ Modal, 8% cashmere and 5% ROICA™ V550 premium sustainable stretch

2 Technical data: 115hcm, 150grm2, 175grml. Composition: 82% TENCEL™Modal, 7% cashmere, 11% ROICA™ V550

3 ECO 202AX – 85% LYC (100/1 TENCEL™ Lyocell x Micro), 15% ROICA™ V550, a 130g/mq jersey in green

4 ECO 373AX – 87% LYC (100/1 TENCEL™ Lyocell x Micro), 13% ROICA™ V550), a 175g/mq interlock in pink

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: C.L.A.S.S. Eco Hub

Sympatex To Attend Functional Fabric Fair In New York

MUNICH, Germany — July 8, 2024 — Sympatex Technologies, a global supplier of sustainable functional textiles, is excited to announce its participation in the Functional Fabric Fair at the Javits Convention Center, New York, on July 16-17, 2024. This prestigious event, where function meets fashion, is a key platform for showcasing cutting-edge innovations in outdoor, lifestyle, and activewear textiles, footwear, and accessories.

Sympatex, known for its international presence beyond Europe, will have a strong representation at the fair. Kim Scholze, Chief Sales Officer, will play a pivotal role as the moderator of expert talks, bringing valuable insights into sustainable textile solutions. Additionally, Leandra Reisner, Sales Apparel at Sympatex, will present the company’s groundbreaking fiber-to-fiber collection.

Highlights of Sympatex’s Participation:

Expert Talks:

Kim Scholze, CSO, will moderate discussions with industry leaders on sustainability and innovation in functional textiles. “Sustainability and innovation are not just goals but ongoing journeys that shape the future of textiles,” says Kim Scholze.

Fiber-to-Fiber Collection Display:

Leandra Reisner will showcase Sympatex’s innovative fiber-to-fiber laminates, including:

  • Banff F2F AS
  • Banff F2F Spring AS
  • Minzhu F2F Spring AS
  • Minzhu F2F AS
  • Minzhu F2F Sky AS
  • Tokyo F2F AS
  • Tokyo F2F Sky AS
  • Tokyo F2F Spring AS
  • Vitoria F2F AS

Sympatex’s fiber-to-fiber initiative highlights the company’s commitment to true circularity in the textile industry. Developing fiber-to-fiber laminates is a significant challenge due to the complexities involved in recycling and reprocessing materials without compromising on performance or quality. By overcoming these challenges, Sympatex has established itself as a leader in sustainable innovation. This commitment is further underscored by the company’s ongoing efforts to advance a circular economy, which is the only viable path to sustainable textile production.

To further support this mission, Sympatex will be launching the Circular Design Lab in the fall, in collaboration with Performance Days, the European counterpart of the Functional Fabric Fair. This program aims to drive forward sustainable practices in design across the industry, reinforcing the necessity and benefits of circularity.

“Our fiber-to-fiber laminates represent the pinnacle of eco-friendly design, merging performance with sustainability,” says Leanda Reisner.

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: Sympatex Technologies GmbH

Paradise Textiles And Nanollose Sign Exclusive R&D Deal

ASIA PACIFIC — July 8, 2024 — Paradise Textiles, the material science hub of Alpine Group, has signed a deal with biotechnology company, Nanollose for the exclusive supply of its sustainable Nullarbor™ fibres.

Under the non-binding term sheet for the joint venture agreement, Paradise will work closely with Nanollose, undertaking research and development (R&D) to manufacture yarns and fabrics from cutting-edge Nullarbor™ fibres. They will also supply samples to bolster customer engagement, working closely with Nanollose to promote the Nullarbor™ brand and its fibres and fabrics to prospective clients.

Paradise Textiles is the dedicated technology-first innovation hub of Alpine Group, driving cutting-edge research and innovation on sustainable materials, performance, and advanced manufacturing to reinvent the fabric of fashion.

Nullarbor™ fibres are eco-friendly, tree-free fibres produced through a microbial fermentation process that converts waste products into microbial cellulose, using minimal land, water, and energy. The microbial cellulose is then transformed into Nullarbor™ fibres using Nanollose technology, offering a viable alternative to conventional plant-derived cellulose fibres.

The partnership between Paradise and Nanollose represents the next phase in their ongoing collaboration to commercialise scalable technology to create fibres and fabrics with minimal environmental impact. Since May 2022, they have gained experience developing and presenting high-quality fabric constructions to select fashion and footwear brands.

Ashok Mahtani, co-Chairman of Alpine Group, said: “We are proud to announce the successful pilot production of next-generation fabrics utilizing Nullarbor pulp. This achievement signifies Paradise Textiles’ ongoing commitment to innovation in fabric development and collaborative partnerships. Nullarbor fibre’s unique properties and production process will enable us to offer our customers high-performance, sustainable textile solutions. We are confident that this partnership will drive significant advancements in the textile industry and help towards achieving our goal of making fashion fit for the future.”

Commenting, Nanollose Executive Chairman, Dr Wayne Best, said: “I’m delighted to see this collaboration begin to formalise in a way that establishes a framework for both companies to achieve a commercial outcome. The relationship has been growing organically for some time and we’ve been delighted with the enthusiasm Paradise Textiles has displayed for our technology and fibres. Their expertise, commitment to sustainability and innovation, and customer base is a natural fit for our Nullarbor fibre technology. It’s proven to be a strong working relationship to-date and I look forward to the joint pursuit of our commercial goals through this strategic Joint Venture agreement.”

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: Paradise Textiles / Alpine Group

Transparent From The Beginning To The End: New Traceability Projects At Milano Unica

BERGAMO, Italy — July 8, 2024 — A navy blue nylon dress, providing elegance and comfort to the wearer while simultaneously highlighting the entire Made in Italy production chain: this is the new project RadiciGroup is presenting at Milano Unica, from July 9th to 11th at the Innovation Forum (HALL 3 Booth IN24) promoted by the TexClubTec section of Sistema Moda Italia.

The dress is the result of a concrete traceability project led by RadiciGroup, involving different players in the textile sector: from the yarn producer to the fabric manufacturer to the final consumer.

A “tracer” has been inserted into the yarn, which is detectable through a special scanner and allows to map the entire garment creation process – both physically and digitally – from the origin of the fibre to the item end of life. Through a QR code printed on the label, all the “stages” defining the outfit’s journey can be seen, including the production of the fabric made by another company from Bergamo, Sitip (Hall 2 – Stand A24/26). In this way, the final consumers can learn more about the production sites of what they wear, making more conscious purchasing choices.

At the booth of another Italian textile company, Tessitura Vignetta (Hall 2 – Booth A23), visitors will be able to touch several types of fabric made with the “traced” nylon produced by RadiciGroup.

This is another concrete example of how important it is to work transparently and collaboratively in the textile supply chain. Through the traceability of textile products, the goal is to fight counterfeiting and enhance products made in Europe, in line with the principles of the Digital Product Passport under development at the European Union.

Posted: July 8, 2024

Source: RadiciGroup

Governor Ivey Champions Alabama Manufacturers On National ‘Made In The USA’ Day

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey

MONTGOMERY, Alabama — July 2, 2024 — Governor Kay Ivey praised Alabama’s robust manufacturing sector today in honor of ‘Made in the USA’ Day, highlighting its role in driving economic growth statewide through high-quality jobs and products in demand worldwide.

Governor Ivey emphasized Alabama’s status as a powerhouse in U.S. manufacturing, ranking in the top 5 states for manufacturing job concentration. The sector contributes approximately 17% of the state’s Gross Domestic Product, with an economic output exceeding $40 billion annually.

“Some of the best products found around the world are produced right here in Alabama,” said Governor Ivey. The ‘Made in Alabama’ badge has become a globally recognized symbol of unbeatable craftsmanship and unmatched quality.”

The Ivey Administration continues to prioritize initiatives that support and expand the manufacturing sector, including workforce development programs, investment in infrastructure and fostering a pro-business climate. These efforts have resulted in significant job creation and economic development across the state.

“Alabama’s manufacturers exemplify the best of American industry, and their contributions are vital contributors to our state’s economic resilience and national industries. ‘Made in the USA’ Day is celebrated every day here in Alabama because our state is a recognized leader when it comes to producing world-class products,” added Governor Ivey.

‘Made in the USA’ Day, celebrated on July 2, boosts sales of locally made products and honors the companies and individuals behind them.

With over 275,000 people employed at more than 4,000 enterprises, Alabama’s manufacturing landscape is both diverse and dynamic. The state serves as a key automotive manufacturing hub, a leader in aerospace and a top U.S. producer of steel and advanced materials.

Alabama is home to many renowned manufacturing brands and successful homegrown companies, as well as smaller producers turning out first-class consumer items.

“Alabama’s manufacturing sector has witnessed remarkable growth across numerous industries, benefiting communities and families statewide,” said Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “Manufacturers statewide are dedicated to excellence and innovative advancements that propel Alabama toward a more prosperous future.”

Moreover, manufactured goods represent a substantial portion of Alabama’s exports, totaling a record $27.4 billion in 2023, shipped to 190 countries. Last year, Alabama became the top auto-exporting state for the first time.

“Alabama is a hub for manufacturing. Thanks to Governor Ivey’s leadership and the hardworking men and women of this state, we continue breaking record after record,” said Manufacture Alabama President and CEO Jon Barganier. “Not only do our manufacturing industries positively impact Alabama through their $40 billion annual economic impact, but they provide great opportunities for our people. Through these good paying jobs, more Alabamians are able to live, work and raise a family here.”

According to the National Association of Manufacturers, average annual wages in Alabama’s manufacturing sector exceed $82,000 — significantly higher than the state average.

Posted: July 6, 2024

Source: The Office of Alabama Governor Kay Ivey

Hailin Xu Appointed New CEO Of The Saurer Group

ARBON, Switzerland — July 1, 2024 — Effective July 1, 2024, Hailin Xu will become the CEO of the Saurer Group, succeeding Dr. Uwe Rondé, who is leaving the company at his request.

Hailin Xu

Hailin Xu joined the Saurer Group in 2018 as Senior Vice President and Managing Director of the Global Open End Product Line.

Born in China and now a Swiss citizen, he brings extensive management experience and high intercultural expertise. Hailin Xu holds a degree from the Faculty of Chemical Engineering at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. He also has a Master’s degree from the China Institute of Atomic Energy and a Master’s in Business Administration from Lancaster University in the UK and the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland.

Before joining Saurer, Hailin Xu worked for the ABB Group in Switzerland from 2008 to 2018, serving as Vice President of Global Supply Chain for the Transformer Division.

“Given the drastic changes in the world and the many challenges and opportunities Saurer is facing, we are very pleased that with Hailin Xu we have been able to attract an internationally experienced manager with extensive knowledge in the strategic direction of the product and service business,” says Xueping Pan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saurer Group. “He also deeply understands Eastern and Western cultures, enabling him to promote synergies even better.”

For personal reasons, Dr Uwe Rondé has resigned from his positions as Group CEO, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, and other related positions. The Supervisory Board would like to thank Dr. Uwe Rondé for his great contribution to the company’s development during his tenure.

Posted: July 6, 2024

Source: Saurer Intelligent Technology AG

Sponsors