Saucony® Launches New Gore-Tex Collection

ROCKFORD, Mich. — September 30, 2024 — Saucony, a global performance running and lifestyle brand, is launching a collection of its highly favored designs featuring advanced Gore-Tex technology on October 1, available at saucony.com/en/dual-gtx-styles and select retailers. This new collection features the Triumph 22, Kinvara 15, Grid Peak, Peregrine 14, Ride TR2 and Grid Shadow 2, each enhanced to provide superior waterproof protection and breathability.

Saucony® Launches New Gore-Tex Collection

Perfectly embodying the “One Saucony” philosophy – blending innovation, performance, and style seamlessly across all aspects of life — these models are equipped with Gore-Tex technology, ensuring they are perfectly suited for both the track and everyday wear. These styles are ideal not just for running in any weather condition, but also for staying comfortable and stylish throughout the day.

“As we transition into cooler, wetter seasons, we’ve reimagined our beloved styles with cutting-edge weather-ready technology, ensuring they maintain the design that our customers cherish,” said Joy Allen-Altimare, Saucony’s global chief marketing officer. “Integrating Gore-Tex into our footwear is a true breakthrough, offering unmatched waterproof protection and breathability. This empowers our community to perform at their peak, no matter the weather. Our commitment to innovation drives us to exceed expectations, and with these advancements, we’re proud to support an active lifestyle in any condition.”

Gore-Tex technology is renowned for its ability to provide waterproof protection while maintaining breathability, making it an essential feature for active individuals. This technology ensures that feet stay dry and comfortable, whether running in the rain, hiking through wet terrain, or simply navigating a busy day in unpredictable weather.

Product Highlights

  • Triumph 22 Gore-Tex: Known for its superior comfort and balanced platform, the Triumph 22 is built for long runs and all-day wear. With highly responsive PWRRUN PB cushioning, it provides ultimate shock absorption and energy return.
  • Grid Peak Gore-Tex: Designed for adventure, the Grid Peak is a Y2k trail in a lifestyle shoe. Offering the durability of a trail shoe with the comfort to wear all day, the Grid Peak works on both rugged terrains and city streets with durable mesh, synthetic nubuck, and unique webbing details.
  • Grid Shadow 2 Gore-Tex: A modern take on a classic, the Grid Shadow 2 offers retro style with contemporary comfort, featuring GRID cushioning technology and a reflective logo for visibility.
  • Peregrine 14 Gore-Tex: A weatherproof, all-trail specialist with a reimagined upper for debris protection, breathable waterproof shield, and versatile 5mm lug design for tough grip on various terrains.
  • Kinvara 15 GTX: For those who refuse to be stopped by rain or snow, the Kinvara 15 GTX features GORE-TEX® Invisible Fit technology to keep water out while allowing your feet to breathe. Run confidently and comfortably, no matter the weather or distance
  • Ride TR2 GTX: Designed to take you from road to trail and back again, the Ride TR2 GTX features supremely comfortable PWRRUN+ cushioning and a durable mesh upper for ultimate protection.

To see the entire collection, visit select retailers and saucony.com/en/dual-gtx-styles on October 1, 2024.

Posted: September 30, 2024

Source: Saucony

Sanctuary Announces Licensing Partnership With Li & Fung To Expand Denim Category

HONG KONG — September 30, 2024 — Li & Fung Ltd., a supply chain solutions partner for consumer brands and retailers, today announced a licensing partnership with contemporary apparel brand Sanctuary to produce and distribute a new line of women’s premium denim. The first collection will debut in February 2025 at specialty retailers and department stores, and on sanctuaryclothing.com, and will also be available for wholesale distribution nationwide.

By partnering with Li & Fung, global experts in creating market-leading collections, Sanctuary will significantly expand its denim category. The new line will honor Sanctuary’s modern lifestyle aesthetic and commitment to sustainability, while broadening the brand’s denim offerings across both core and fashion-forward styles. The collection features responsibly sourced cottons and recycled materials, and innovative, eco-friendly washes that minimize water usage and chemical waste, aligning with Sanctuary’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Customers can expect a versatile assortment of perfect fits in great washes, including long jeans in skinny, crop, straight, bootcut, slim wide, wide and barrel cuts. Denim shorts will be offered in a range of short cuts and 5” and 6.25” inseams, and the collection will also encompass A-line denim skirts, boyfriend jackets, and boxy fit jackets. Washes will range from white, light, medium, dark, and black colorways.

“We are passionate about continuing to deliver the perfect-fitting pant, building on our legacy as master pant makers and creators of the original 90s cult cargo,” said Deb Polanco, co-founder and chief creative officer at Sanctuary. “By harnessing Li & Fung’s expertise and global capabilities, we will respond to an ever-growing consumer demand for more great Sanctuary denim styles, while also remaining faithful to our brand’s DNA and mission. This spring, we cannot wait for our customers to shop the new denim collection and become obsessed with their new favorite jeans, shorts, or jacket.”

For over 25 years, Li & Fung has established a reputation as a leading private label and branded partner, trusted by top brands to create winning collections from concept to fit to delivery. Now, Li & Fung is expanding its licensing division, teaming up with a rapidly growing portfolio of national brands across varying price points and categories. Through the partnership with Sanctuary, Li & Fung will apply industry-leading expertise to diversify the brand’s denim offerings and increase access to new customers and channels for distribution.

“At Li & Fung, we are experts at translating a brand’s most celebrated attributes into authentic collections with strong sell-through. We have built deep category expertise in denim through investing in category experts in design and product development, fabric innovation, wash, and laser treatments. We plan to fully leverage these capabilities to drive this business,” said David Miller, executive vice president of Supply Chain Solutions at Li & Fung. “We have long admired Sanctuary’s dedication to craftsmanship, quality, and sustainability, and we are thrilled to channel these attributes into our new collection of premium denim. These modern, timeless pants and tops will seamlessly complement Sanctuary’s comprehensive lifestyle collection, ensuring the perfect fit and style for all occasions.”

Retailers interested in adding this exclusive denim collection to their assortments can contact brettreynolds@lifung.com for detailed information and wholesale opportunities. This collection represents an exciting opportunity to bring premium, sustainably made denim to customers seeking modern, versatile fashion.

Posted: September 30, 2024

Source: Li & Fung

Jonathan Horton Joins Direct Sales Team At Herculite Products

EMIGSVILLE, Pa. — September 30, 2024 — Herculite Products is pleased to announce that Jonathan Horton has been hired as the Western Regional manager for the Direct Sales Team. Herculite is excited to expand its sales team to support and continue the strong growth in that market.

Jonathan Horton

Horton will manage the Direct Sales team’s western region, which includes automotive, custom-engineered solutions, healthcare, agriculture, and tent and structure customers. Herculite strives to be the most responsive, supportive, and educated sales force in the industry, and Horton’s addition to the team will help the company continue to achieve that goal.

Horton is a graduate of Southern Nazarene University and comes to Herculite with nearly 10 years of experience in coated fabrics and high-performance elastomers. A collegiate golfer, Horton brings a strong history of teamwork and competitive skills to the Herculite Direct Sales Team. Horton lives in Houston, Texas, and enjoys spending quality time with family, including his 10-year-old son and seven-year-old daughter.

Posted: September 30, 2024

Source: Herculite Products Inc.

IPS Adhesives Expands MMA Adhesives Portfolio With Acquisition Of L&L Acrylate/MMA Technology

DURHAM, N.C. — September 30, 2024 — IPS Adhesives (IPSA), a leading global manufacturer of structural and surfacing products, has acquired a range of adhesives based on acrylate and methyl methacrylate (MMA) technology from L&L Products. This acquisition complements IPS Adhesives’ specialist MMA-based product offering and provides a platform that enhances its ability to deliver innovative solutions that facilitate lightweighting and the bonding of dissimilar materials.

MMA-based adhesives cure quickly at room temperature, enabling rapid bonding and reducing production times. They are high-strength, versatile, and in demand for transportation, construction, automotive, marine, and various other industrial applications that have critical technical specifications and benefit from more versatile alternatives to mechanical fasteners, welding, and other traditional bonding solutions. IPS Adhesives has been a pioneer and advocate of MMA technology.

“This acquisition accelerates our ability to create and deliver even more high-performance solutions to our customers across Europe and North America.  We’re passionate about enabling customers to bond in new ways, as demonstrated by our recent launch of a groundbreaking low-surface energy adhesive.  The combination of our technical expertise with L&L’s current MMA portfolio and pipeline products further enhances our ability to solve problems and innovate for customers,” said IPSA President Scott McDowell.

While L&L Products demonstrated significant technical success in developing advanced acrylate/MMA formulations, this transition will allow L&L to focus on the development and commercialization of unique adhesives, sealants, reinforcements, and acoustic technologies that provide innovative problem-solving solutions for the automotive and transportation markets, as well as diversifying our business to enter new markets.

“We are fortunate to have found IPSA, a company devoted to MMA technology and one that has already invested in the infrastructure needed to support it,” said Jean-Michel Hollaender, president of L&L Products Europe.

IPSA will rebrand the former L&L product numbers A-K321 and A-K322 as SCIGRIP® products. These products will continue to be available in Europe, with reduced lead times in the coming months as IPSA brings the products into their existing MMA operations.

IPSA remains committed to pushing the boundaries of adhesive technology while maintaining its agile, customer-centric approach, and looks forward to launching new products from the combined product development pipeline.

Posted: September 30, 2024

Source: IPS Adhesives (IPSA)

OUTLOOK24: Successful Conference And Exhibition With Record-Breaking Attendance

BRUSSELS, Belgium — September 30, 2024 — OUTLOOK™ 2024 took place on 24-26 September 2024 in Rome, gathering a record of 549 delegates from 212 companies and 37 countries across the nonwovens personal care, hygiene & wipes products value chain.

“OUTLOOK24 has truly exceeded all expectations. I am incredibly proud of the success of this event — from the high-quality presentations to the buzzing energy in the exhibition hall,” said Murat Dogru, general manager of EDANA. “It’s events like this that remind us why we do what we do, serving our members and foster innovation within our community. The overwhelming positive feedback I’ve received is an acknowledgment of the hard work of our team and the vibrant engagement of everyone involved.”

OUTLOOK24 Conference

The conference, structured across five key sessions, featured 26 distinguished speakers covering a diverse array of critical topics impacting not only the nonwovens industry but society at large. These topics included cutting-edge innovations and eco-design, evolving market dynamics, navigating new EU regulations, the future of absorbent hygiene products, sustainability, retail strategies, and the challenges posed by China’s influence on European commerce.

The event’s first day opened with a compelling presentation by Joachim De Vos, managing partner and Founder of Living Tomorrow & TomorrowLab. As an expert in strategic innovation and scenario planning, he shared valuable insights on guiding organizations towards future-readiness. He highlighted the emerging success factors, emphasizing how Generative AI can be leveraged to develop scenarios for the nonwovens industry, serving as a powerful roadmap for future innovation.

On the second day, James Kynge, the Europe-China correspondent for the Financial Times, delivered a keynote address, “The China Challenge,” emphasizing China’s rapid rise as a global tech superpower, noting that the country produced more than half of the world’s robots last year. He explored the far-reaching impact of this growth on European commerce, highlighting the challenges and outlined strategies for European companies.

The final day of OUTLOOK™ Jack Stratten, director of Insider Trends highlighted in his presentation, “The polarization of choice: How retailers and brands are responding to market and product saturation,” in an unprecedented market saturation that leaves 64% of consumers feeling overwhelmed by choices. He discussed how massive retail platforms drive product saturation, influencing both quality and variety and concluded that differentiation in this crowded landscape occurs by focusing on high-quality, curated selections.

Delegates shared positive feedback highlighting why OUTLOOK is the world’s premier conference for nonwovens, personal care, hygiene, and wipes products.

“I was highly impressed by the well-organized OUTLOOK conference in Rome. The high level of interaction among participants and the quality of the lectures were outstanding. This gives me confidence that the industry is well-equipped to tackle future challenges,” said Mikael Staal Axelsen CEO of Fibertex Personal Care.

“OUTLOOK presents a valuable opportunity for all industry players, offering excellent networking and providing updates on every aspect of the supply chain,” said Patricia Perdiz Fernandez, Application Development & Technical Service – LyondellBasell.

OUTLOOK24 Exhibition

As part of its commitment to fostering connections within the industry, OUTLOOK 2024 continued its tradition of offering extensive networking opportunities to its delegates. This year’s event featured a tabletop exhibition, where 20 companies had the chance to showcase their expertise over the three days.

“This event serves as a compact version of INDEX for the hygiene sector, offering the opportunity to connect with the right people. Exhibiting here not only saves us weeks of travel, but also provides a highly convenient platform to meet with participants,” said Johan Berlin, managing director – Investkonsult Sweden.

“This exhibition is fantastic, bringing together potential leads, customers, and suppliers all in one place, while providing a great opportunity to showcase our products,” said Davide Montanari, Sales Area manager IMA TMC.

The next edition of OUTLOOK will take place from September 23-25, 2025, in Budapest, Hungary at the Marriott Hotel, Budapest with rooms available at preferential EDANA rates. The registration will be open early next year! More details about the event can be found on www.edana.org

Posted: September 30, 2024

Source: EDANA

DILO Receives Award For Its Micropunch Development

EBERBACH, Germany — September 30, 2024 — At this year’s CINTE Techtextil fair in Shanghai, DILO received the innovation award for its intensive needling technology “MicroPunch.” Recent developments in energy costs, particularly for electricity and gas, and given the increasing shortage of water resources, have led to a shift in thinking over the past few years. Together with economic efficiency, the evaluation of the environmental impact of production has become increasingly important.

For DILO, this meant focusing once again on needling technology for the fine and lightweight nonwoven sector over the last years. The individual elements of the intensive needling technology were re-examined and underwent a complete revision. It became clear that the high production rates could only be achieved using the two-dimensional kinematics of the needle beam of HyperPunch or CycloPunch. The necessary high feed rates of around 50 millimeters per stroke, coupled with the highest stitching densities to achieve good abrasion resistance, led to a need of a significant increase of the number of needles and needle density — almost doubling from approximately 20,000 needles/meter/board to around 45,000 needles/meter/board. It also became obvious that ensuring a high efficiency rate in production also required the careful attention to a quick assembly of the needle boards with needle modules. A completely new approach was needed in the design and construction of the needle boards to enable rapid module exchange and achieve a very high mechanical precision.

Previously, needling technology was primarily used for a surface weight range starting at 100 grams per square meter (g/m²) up to several kilograms per square meter (m²). The expansion into the range below 100 g/m², and potentially down to 30 g/m², now completes the applicability of needling technology. The intensive needling technology “MicroPunch” opens up an economical field for a wide variety of lightweight nonwoven fabrics that can be produced by a pure mechanical processes. The product characteristics achieved, such as abrasion resistance, are comparable to those of hydroentangeld nonwovens. Needled fabrics tend to have more volume and more stretch while offering similar tensile strength values. These special quality characteristics are particularly interesting for applications in hygiene, medicine, cosmetics, and for technical products.

With this new development, the energy required to produce lightweight nonwoven fabrics has been reduced up to approximately 75 percent compared to other bonding technologies of this segment.

Posted: September 30, 2024

Source: DiloGroup

Award-Winning Haptic Measurement Device To Be Showcased At ITMA Asia + CITME 2024 In Shanghai

LEIPZIG, Germany — September 30, 2024 — The next-generation TSA Tactile Sensation Analyzer, specifically designed for the textile and nonwovens industries, offers updated features and a cloud-based database. The TSA distinguishes itself by simulating the sensory capabilities of the human hand through sound and deformation analysis, providing objective measurements of haptic parameters such as surface softness, surface smoothness, stretch, and recovery behavior. Notably, the TSA delivers these results in just 90 seconds — a significant reduction in time compared to traditional hand-panel testing methods.

TSA2

Further enhancing its capabilities, the lab instrument now measures thermal properties and includes improved methods for assessing springback behavior, as well as an integrated camera for capturing detailed sample images. These features offer unparalleled precision in analyzing textile haptic qualities. Comparative studies have demonstrated that the TSA’s results correlate up to 100% with traditional hand-panel testing conducted by touch experts, underscoring its accuracy and consistency.

The emtec TSA builds on its success in the paper industry and has been recognized for its innovative features. At the recent Techtextil North America in Raleigh, it was honored with the Innovation Award 2024 in the “New Product” category. This award underscores the TSA’s role in setting new standards for haptic measurement in the textile and nonwovens industry.

Another unique selling point of the TSA is its seamless integration into the cloud-based Virtual Haptic Library, which was developed in collaboration with Black Swan Textiles. This online database categorizes the digital TSA sample data and enables authorized personnel worldwide to access the information in real time. This innovation significantly streamlines quality assurance and control and reduces the worldwide sample shipping to verify haptic properties, resulting in a significant return on investment.

“As the desire for automated and sustainable processes continues to evolve in the textile and nonwovens industry, the need for precise and reliable haptic measurement test methods has never been greater,” says Alexander Gruener, Global Business Development Manager at emtec Electronic. “The TSA Tactile Sensation Analyzer not only meets this need, but also sets a new benchmark in haptic testing. We look forward to showcasing this advanced solution at ITMA Asia + CITME 2024 and demonstrating how the TSA can simplify quality assurance, product development and supply chain management.”

Visitors to ITMA Asia + CITME 2024 are encouraged to visit Roachelab at booth H8-A03 to explore the latest advancements in haptic quality testing, including new methods for digitization.

Posted: September 30, 2024

Source: emtec Electronic GmbH

Matter And Paradise Textiles Unveil Microfiber Filter To Combat Textile Pollution

SINGAPORE — September 30, 2024 — Britain-based climate tech company Matter and Paradise Textiles, the material science and innovation hub of the Alpine Group, has announced a groundbreaking collaborative project to bring Matter’s Regen.™ for Textile Production to market — a microfiber filter specifically designed for textile manufacturers. This pioneering technology aims to tackle the urgent issue of global microfiber pollution, setting a new standard for sustainable practices in the textile industry.

Created by Matter, Regen. for Textile Production represents a major advancement in sustainable textile manufacturing. This filter efficiently removes microfibers during textile manufacturing processes. It is powered by Matter’s patented self-cleaning filtration technology to deliver a low energy, low cost microfiber capture solution that offers effective wastewater filtration without the carbon impact.

The technology also reduces chemical use, prolongs the life of water reuse systems and significantly cuts operating costs. A single manufacturing site could save up to 3 million kilowatt-hours annually and capture over 90 tonnes of microfibers*, reducing carbon emissions over 2000 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

Sindre Østgård, Lewis E. Shuler II, Adam Root

Working in collaboration with Paradise Textiles, Regen. for Textile Production, which is currently in its R&D phase, is set for installation at Paradise Textiles’ new state-of-the-art low impact fabric mill in Egypt by Q4 2025. Once operational, it will serve as a showcase of the technology for manufacturers and brands keen to adopt the new filtration device.

This announcement builds on the launch of Matter’s successful microfiber filter for home laundry systems with BSH, under the brands Bosch and Siemens. Matter, who raised $10 million in their Series A funding round in 2023, are backed by investors including S2G Ventures, SOUNDwaves, and Regeneration.VC, the climate tech fund backed by Leonardo DiCaprio.

Unveiling Regen. for Textile Production, and its collaboration during Regeneration.VC’s Annual Meeting at New York Climate Week, Matter and Paradise explained how Regen. for Textile Production offers a revolutionary solution capable of reducing microfiber pollution across all 150,000 global textile factories, which are estimated to be responsible for 20 percent of the world’s clean water pollution.

Microfiber shedding is a major contributor to microplastic pollution, a significant concern as these tiny particles are now found in our water, air, soil and food sources. Scientific studies have revealed alarming evidence that microplastics infiltrate the human body and have been linked to serious health concerns, including respiratory issues and chronic conditions. The global textile manufacturing industry is responsible for around 120,000 tonnes of microfiber emissions per year, resulting from production, dyeing and washing, underlining the need for urgent industry change.

The collaboration between Matter and Paradise Textiles has been instrumental in advancing Matter’s industrial program for textile manufacturing. Paradise Textiles, part of the Alpine Group, an end-to-end fashion supply chain partner, recognized the game-changing potential of Matter’s technology for the textile industry and proactively approached Matter with the opportunity to collaborate. Leveraging their expertise in textiles and fiber pollution mitigation, Paradise collaborated closely with Matter to explore how this innovation could be adapted and scaled within textile manufacturing, setting the stage for this groundbreaking collaboration. Over the last 2.5 years, they have provided insights into textile processes, funded early research, and helped shape Matter’s Microfibre Assessment Program (MAP) to establish a service model and maximize fiber capture across Alpine Group’s facilities. Alpine Group, a major producer of materials and apparel, manufactures for brands including The North Face, Lululemon, American Eagle Outfitters and Puma. With over 15 facilities worldwide, Alpine represents the breadth of the apparel industry.

Adam Root, founder and CEO of Matter, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Paradise Textiles on this groundbreaking project. It will demonstrate to the fashion industry that a viable solution to this colossal problem of microplastic pollution is within reach. Having co-pioneered the Microfibre Assessment Programme (MAP), which is already benefiting the rest of the industry, it’s an exciting next step to work on this project together to cap microfiber pollution from textiles production and drive further, much needed, change towards a circular solution.”

Lewis Shuler, head of Innovation at Paradise Textiles, said: “At Paradise we are committed to collaborating with industry innovators and brands to make a material difference for the future of the fashion and textile industry. Matter’s Microfibre filter presents us with an effective way to reduce the environmental impact of the textile and apparel manufacturing process, whilst also reducing operational costs, which is a real game-changer for the industry. We look forward to continuing to drive this exciting project forward and exploring new ways to implement sustainable technologies that can transform the industry at scale.”

Posted: September 30, 2024

Source: Alpine Group

 

Randy Bartsch Elected As Chair Of TRSA Board Of Directors

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — September 26, 2024 — TRSA’s 111th Annual Conference concluded today in Colorado Springs, Colo., where its new board members were elected at its Annual Business Meeting.

Randy Bartsch, Chairman of Ecotex Healthcare Linen Service

Randy Bartsch, chairman of Ecotex Healthcare Linen Service, based in Vancouver, Canada, was elected as the 68th Chair of TRSA’s Board of Directors. Bartsch made history as the first elected leader from outside the United States. Bartsch’s major objective as the new chair of TRSA is to focus on promoting environmental sustainability and the efficacy of reusable linen and textiles.

Bartsch believes that the industry and North American economy are at an inflection point with mixed growth and consolidation, and he envisions a future with opportunities for both national and independent laundry operators. “My preference is to see a robust and diverse industry where independent operators can learn and grow,” Bartsch said.

Outgoing chair, Jim Kearns reflected on his tenure as TRSA chair, highlighting significant progress in advocacy, developing Environmental Social Governance (ESG) resources, and promulgating industry best practices Through support of TRSA’s Executive Management Institute (EMI) programs leadership development and Hygienically Clean Certification. He emphasized the rewarding journey of generating positive change in the textile services industry. “I am confident in Randy’s leadership to continue these efforts and encourage TRSA members to stay involved and support the industry’s ongoing progress,” Kearns said.

TRSA President & CEO Joseph Ricci expressed his gratitude to Kearns for his dedicated service and warmly welcomed Bartsch as the new chair. “Jim has been an exceptional leader, driving significant progress in advocacy and reinforcing industry best practices. We are deeply thankful for his contributions and the positive impact he has made for the industry and TRSA,” Ricci said. “As we welcome Randy, we are excited about the future. His commitment to sustainability, certification and education will undoubtedly steer TRSA toward continued growth and innovation. I encourage all members to support Randy as we embark on this new chapter together.”

TRSA also elected additional Officers and Directors including P.J. Dempsey, president, Dempsey Uniform & Linen Supply as vice chair and Roger Harris, president & CEO, Metro Linen as treasurer.

Additional directors elected during the conference included:

  • Scott Burke, president, Loop Linen (2nd Term )
  • Rich Kramer, president, City Uniforms and Linen
  • Ed Orzetti, CEO, ImageFirst

In addition, the TRSA Supplier Partner Council has elected Anwer Shakoor, vice president, Unitex International Inc., as the director candidate representing Soft Goods.

Bartsch added a message to members: “The TRSA Board of Directors represents the interests of the industry’s diverse membership, including our independent operators, national and international companies as well as our supplier partners. Each of us are an important part of an essential service that supplies, launders and maintains linens, uniforms and other reusable textiles and facility services for customers in every sector of the economy.  We must work together to strengthen our industry, and create a more sustainable future for our customers and the communities we serve.”

Posted: September 27, 2024

Source: TRSA

The ZDHC Foundation Welcomes Francesco Pianca As Chief Programme Officer

AMSTERDAM, Netherlands — September 27, 2024 — The ZDHC Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Francesco Pianca as its new chief programme officer, effective 1st November, 2024.

Francesco Pianca

Francesco Pianca brings over a decade of experience leading sustainability initiatives at global brands. He joins ZDHC after a 10-year tenure at Burberry, where he spearheaded the transformation of the supply chain’s sustainability and chemical management practices. Prior to that, he served in senior roles, including Corporate Sustainability, Environment, Product Safety, and Global Head of Quality Assurance at Benetton Group.

Throughout his career, Francesco has been a key driver of cleaner, safer and more sustainable practices across the fashion industry. His leadership has raised environmental standards and fostered a culture of continuous improvement within supplier networks and manufacturing sites.

Reflecting on his journey, Francesco remarked:

“The supply chain transformation we’ve driven together has been one of the proudest achievements of my career. We learned and grew together, proving we can achieve cleaner products and emissions with better chemistry. I look forward to continuing this mission at ZDHC, working alongside a community of dedicated and passionate partners that I always admired.”

Frank Michel, ZDHC’s CEO, added: “Francesco’s visionary approach and commitment to sustainable transformation will play a key role in advancing our mission. I got to know Francesco well during his service on our Board of Directors, and I enjoyed his genuine passion for our work. His experience and leadership align perfectly with ZDHC’s goal to accelerate safer chemical management globally, and we are thrilled to have him join our team.”

As Chief Programme Officer, Francesco will play a pivotal role in advancing ZDHC’s 2030 Strategy, which will focus on cleaner chemistry for resource efficiency, carbon reduction, biodiversity protection, and circularity.

Posted: September 27, 2024

Source: The ZDHC Foundation

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