KARL MAYER GROUP Acknowledge Lots Of Visitors, Good Discussions, A Look At The Trends At Techtextil Frankfurt 2024 

OBERTSHAUSEN, Germany — May 8, 2024 — The KARL MAYER GROUP looks back on a successful Techtextil. At the industry’s trade fair in Frankfurt am Main in April, the global player once again presented itself as a competent partner to the Technical Textiles sector, with solutions for mastering the challenges of our time in the areas of Warp Knitting, Flat Knitting, Composites, Warp Preparation, Digitization and Care Solutions.

The exhibition with its strong market focus was very well received. The KARL MAYER GROUP counted around 380 registered visitors at its stand, and a further 76 customers travelled to the headquarters in Obertshausen to see the latest representatives of the tricot machine and RASCHELTRONIC® series “at work” at an in-house show. Most of the visitors came from Europe, with Germany at the top of the list of countries of origin. Some traveled from the United States, India, Turkey and the United Kingdom. Around 32 percent of the guests came to talk to the group of companies for the first time, a pleasingly high proportion of new contacts!

The number of visitors remained almost constant compared to Techtextil 2022, but the quality of the conversations had increased significantly, according to the almost unanimous feedback from the trade fair team. During the joint exchange, the implementation possibilities of ideas were discussed as well as specific machine projects and the application potential of KARL MAYER warp knitting and STOLL knitting machine products.

Many specific inquiries also came from the composites industry regarding multiaxial warp knitting machines and warp knitting machines with weft insertion.

“We have held a number of discussions, on the basis of which we see realistic opportunities for projects in the coming months,” said Hagen Lotzmann, sales manager of the Technical Textiles Business Unit.

Other key topics of discussion were KM.ON’s digital solutions, Care Solutions’ offerings and the possibilities offered by KARL MAYER warp preparation machines for generating new business or expanding capacity.

What is hot in the sector?

In addition to a showcase of innovations, Techtextil always offers the opportunity to track down trends in the industry. “You can sense a spirit of optimism. Manufacturers from fashion to automotive are on the lookout for real innovations. Brands in particular are showing a great willingness to invest in product innovations,” concluded Michael Kieren from the Business Development department at KARL MAYER.

Products with signpost qualities

Truly new means unprecedented in terms of surfaces, structures and function, especially through the integration of conductive or luminous material into the textile, new laminates, for example with an artificial leather look and feel, and 3D printing. Under TEXTILE CIRCUIT, KARL MAYER is developing innovations with conductive yarns incorporated directly on the warp knitting machine. There were many discussions about this. Traditionally, spacer fabrics also play an important role in functionalization. They are already firmly established in applications involving upholstery and ventilation, but their wide range of design options means that they also offer far-reaching potential applications. As a result, the universally applicable spacers were almost on everyone’s lips at Techtextil 2024.

The new Flex Ply technology sets standards in the flat knitting sector. At Techtextil, a series of application examples from the shoe upper, upholstery and clothing fabric sectors demonstrated the unique patterning and fabric design options that are possible thanks to this innovation. In addition, the innovative bonding of hot-melt adhesive yarns opens up interesting possibilities for functional solutions, particularly in terms of reinforcement.

Sustainable solutions

Another important topic is sustainability. In particular, the use of recycled materials and resource-saving production are in demand. The preformed knitted fabrics from STOLL machines can set standards here, especially as reinforcements for composites. They can be produced individually, according to the application and therefore without a lot of waste and from a wide variety of materials and were the focus of many discussions, both from established brands and young start-ups. Seamless knitted medical products with a compression effect offer the same benefits as well as comfort without any irritating seams. They are produced in one piece and are therefore highly efficient, also in terms of material usage. “The seamless compression technology represents an innovative and forward-looking production method that will find its way into production plants in the coming years,” said Martin Legner, STOLL head of Technical Textiles.

The composites industry is also on the lookout for sustainable solutions. Accordingly, there was great interest in the ski made of hemp tapes, which was an eye-catcher at the KARL MAYER GROUP stand and also brought many new interested parties into conversation with the company’s experts.

Textiles for defense

A new trend theme at Techtextil was defense, in line with the global situation. Exhibits in camouflage look — from uniforms, camouflage nets and tarpaulins to protection vests – accompanied visitors at every turn at Techtextil. Warp knitting is also well established in this sector. Nets, for example, are the domain of Raschel machines, especially in the agricultural sector, and spacer fabrics provide comfort as padding in helmets, rucksacks and protective equipment.

The knitting sector produces clothing and underwear components based on high-modulus fibers.

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: KARL MAYER GROUP

HeiQ Expands Application Of HeiQ Allergen Tech To Upholstery Fabric Through Collaboration With Culp

ZÜRICH, Switzerland — May 8, 2024 — HeiQ partners with Culp to apply HeiQ Allergen Tech, a 100-percent biobased* solution that reduces allergens on textiles, onto interior upholstery fabric.

HeiQ, a textile innovator, announced the extended application of HeiQ Allergen Tech to bring the benefits of this biobased textile technology to the interior upholstered furniture market, marking a unique launch into this segment.

HeiQ Allergen Tech has already been successfully adopted in bedding items like pillows, bed sheets, and mattresses by leading brands. And now Culp Upholstery Fabrics, a division of Culp, Inc. and one of the world’s leading suppliers of upholstery fabric will offer this technology to manufacturers of upholstered furniture. The collaboration aims to extend the proven benefits enjoyed by thousands of end-users in their bedrooms to all living spaces, as the two companies extend the use of HeiQ Allergen Tech beyond sleeping products.

This special collaboration will see Culp introduce HeiQ Allergen Tech enhanced interior upholstery fabrics to markets such as the Americas, among others, with Culp as the exclusive supplier.

HeiQ Allergen Tech effectively addresses the problem of allergens from dust mite matter and pet allergens in textiles with the help of active probiotics, making it ideal for applications in upholstered furniture, such as sofas, armchairs, and other upholstered furniture products, which are among the household items that are rarely or never washed. This naturally derived technology works in the background with its continuous cleaning action to reduce allergens on the treated fabric and thereby create a more comfortable living environment.

The first treated fabrics as a result of the collaboration are being revealed at the Interwoven trade show on May 7-8 in High Point, N.C., where HeiQ and Culp teams provide more details to all visitors. Attendees can get firsthand in-depth information on this revolutionary technology.

Culp Upholstery Fabrics, renowned for supplying a wide range of upholstery fabrics across the globe, delivers fashion-forward, stylish fabrics with broad appeal to the largest home furnishing retailers and manufacturers. Now, with the integration of HeiQ Allergen Tech, Culp and HeiQ are bringing innovation to homes, offices, and all living spaces with upholstered furniture.

Probiotics: the force that works with nature, not against it.

The proprietary technology of HeiQ Allergen Tech is 100-percent biobased and long-lasting. Probiotics, also known as “good bacteria”, with benefits for humans and animals, colonize the treated fabrics, leaving no space for harmful dust mite matter or pet allergens to settle in while creating the ideal conditions for better and more comfortable living spaces.

“We are excited to partner with Culp to introduce HeiQ Allergen Tech to the upholstery market,” said Mike Abbott, head of HeiQ Textiles & Flooring Business Unit. “Allergies are triggered by various allergens and are one of the most prevalent health problems in the world, estimated to affect about 40 percent of the global population, according to an article in the International Archives of Allergy and Immunology.  This partnership allows us to address a significant issue faced by consumers in their homes and living spaces by reducing allergens from dust mite matter and pets on upholstered fabric that people use every day. This collaboration further establishes HeiQ as a solutions provider to problems that impact millions of people worldwide, such as conditions triggered by dust mites and pet allergens.”

“Our collaboration with HeiQ represents an exciting innovation for Culp,” said Tammy Buckner, senior vice president of Design and Marketing for Culp Upholstery Fabrics. “With HeiQ Allergen Tech integrated into our fabrics, we are offering our customers a differentiating solution that can truly enhance the way people live and interact with their furniture and improve their everyday lives.”

*Based on third-party testing of bio-based carbon content using ASTM D6866

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: HeiQ

Zyler Virtual Try-On Wins Virtual Fitting Room Innovation Of The Year At RetailTech Breakthrough Awards 2024

LONDON — May 8, 2024 — Anthropics Technology, a provider of AI fashion try-on solutions, is proud to announce that its Zyler Virtual Try-On technology has won the “Virtual Fitting Room Innovation of the Year” award at the 2024 RetailTech Breakthrough Awards.

Zyler Virtual Try-On enables shoppers to try on clothing on the screen — without a physical product. Retailers using Zyler technology have seen an increase in browsing time and engagement as well as reduced returns. Zyler’s partners include John Lewis Fashion Rental, Moss, and Larusmiani among other fashion brands. This award honors Zyler’s innovation and contribution to the fashion retail industry.

The RetailTech Breakthrough Awards recognize top companies, technologies, and products in the retail industry. This year, thousands of nominations were received from all over the world. Anthropics Technology joins a distinguished list of winners, including UPS, Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions, Advatix, Berkshire Grey, Happy Returns, GK Software, Manhattan Associates, Panasonic Connect, and other leading companies and startups in the retail technology industry.

“We are honored to receive this prestigious award,” said Alexander Berend, CEO of Anthropics Technology. “Zyler Virtual Try-On represents our commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology to create innovative solutions that improve fashion retail experience and customer journey.”

Zyler Virtual Try-On enables customers to virtually try on clothing from any device, providing a seamless and accurate clothing try-on experience without a physical item. This innovative technology allows users to visualize how outfits will look on them, offering a personalized shopping experience that enhances customer satisfaction and reduces returns for retailers.

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: Anthropics Technology

Spinnova’s R&D Yarn Spinning Line Inaugurated In Tearfil’s Mill In Portugal

JYVÄSKYLÄ, Finland — May 8, 2024 — Spinnova’s R&D yarn spinning line has been inaugurated in Tearfil’s mill in Portugal. Spinnova and Tearfil entered into a yarn development cooperation agreement in June 2023, where the two companies share the capacity of the spinning line. The spinning line machinery was delivered by Rieter, the world’s leading supplier of yarn production systems. The R&D spinning line is used for product development and testing of SPINNOVA® fiber. The aim is to develop the fiber to be used in different applications in commercial-scale yarn production and to streamline development work with industrial partners. The spinning line is located in Tearfil’s facilities in the textile hub of Guimarães, Portugal, and Tearfil is responsible for operating the line.

“Yarn spinning is an important step in the development of SPINNOVA fiber from a novel fiber into a commercial product that is adopted in the textile value chain on an industrial scale. Our own R&D yarn spinning line gives us flexibility and speed in testing fiber batches. Our aim is to produce guidelines for the industry to apply SPINNOVA fiber in various applications, which will be created with the help of Rieter by combining the expertise of Tearfil in yarn processing”, explained Spinnova’s Chief Product and Sustainability Officer Shahriare Mahmood.

“We are excited to inaugurate Spinnova’s R&D yarn spinning line at Tearfil. This partnership with Spinnova marks a significant milestone in our commitment to sustainable innovation within the textile industry. By sharing the capacity of this cutting-edge spinning line, Tearfil and Spinnova are advancing the development and testing of SPINNOVA fiber, paving the way for its adoption on an industrial scale. Our expertise in yarn processing combined with Spinnova’s innovative fiber technology will shape the future of sustainable textiles,” said Maria de Belém Machado, CEO at Tearfil.

“Rieter is pleased to contribute with its state-of-the-art machinery to Spinnova’s product development. SPINNOVA fibre is the frontrunner in sustainable fibre innovations with the potential to become a large-scale commercial product. With its in-depth textile know-how from fibre to yarn, Rieter will continue to support Spinnova in spinning a fully innovative yarn,” commented Franziska Häfeli, head Sales and Marketing at Rieter.

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: Spinnova Plc

Arvind Appoints Susheel Kaul Managing Director & President (Textiles Cluster)

AHMEDABAD, India — May 8, 2024 — Arvind Ltd. proudly announces the appointment of Susheel Kaul as its new managing director and president – Textile Cluster, effective April 1, 2024. Kaul, who currently serves as the president and CEO of Textiles and Apparels at Arvind, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role.

Mr. Susheel Kaul, Managing Director & President (Textiles Cluster)

Commenting on his appointment, Kaul said: “I am honored and excited to take on the role of managing director & president at Arvind Ltd. It is a privilege to lead such a reputable organization with a rich legacy of excellence and innovation. I look forward to building on our successes and driving sustained growth and value creation for our stakeholders.”

As managing director and president, Kaul will continue to drive Arvind’s strategic priorities, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centricity. He will work closely with the board of directors and the executive team to further strengthen Arvind’s position as a global leader in the textile and apparel industry.

With a distinguished career spanning over 30+ years in the textile and apparel sector, Kaul has demonstrated exceptional vision, strategic acumen, and a deep understanding of the industry. His strong leadership qualities and commitment to excellence have been instrumental in driving Arvind’s growth and success in recent years.

Kaul holds a Masters of Technology degree from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, complemented by extensive professional development and executive education programs. His comprehensive knowledge of the industry landscape, coupled with his innovative approach to business challenges, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Arvind into its next phase of growth and expansion.

The Board of Directors at Arvind expresses confidence in Kaul’s ability to lead the company to new heights and extends their full support as he assumes his new responsibilities.

Posted: May 8, 2024

Source: Arvind Limited

Sonovia’s And Pure Denim Unveiling It’s First Jeans Collection With Sonovia’s Sustainable Denim Dyeing Technology

RAMAT GAN, Israel — May 2, 2024 — Sonovia’s and Pure Denim unveiling it’s first jeans collection with Sonovia’s sustainable denim dyeing technology at the Denim Premiere Vision Exhibition Milano, June 4-6, 2024.

Gigi Cassia, CEO of Pure Denim, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, in his own words: “The quality of denim dyeing using Sonovia’s technology is of commercial quality and will lead not only to a reduction in environmental pollution but also to significant cost savings in production compared to the traditional dyeing process. Sonovia’s technology will generate a revolution in the fashion industry.”

This significant milestone marks the culmination of four years of intensive R&D efforts. The initial operation took place within the denim dyeing line of renowned Italian manufacturer Pure Denim, in collaboration with the esteemed French luxury conglomerate Kering, recognized for its ownership of iconic international brands such as Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent.

Sonovia’s proprietary denim-dyeing technology, harnessing ultrasonic waves and non-toxic chemistry, stands as a paradigm shift in sustainability. Compared to conventional methods, Sonovia’s approach boasts remarkable reductions: 60 percent in CO2 emissions, 85 percent in water usage, 90 percent in machine footprint, and an impressive 100-percent reduction in toxic waste. This data has been independently verified by Made2Flow, a third-party European institute recognized for its leadership in sustainability assessments within the industry.

Sonovia utilizes ultrasonic technology to infuse indigo dye particles into yarns using its patented non-toxic chemistry, enabling the achievement of vibrant color shades with just two dye baths, a significant improvement over the traditional process that typically requires nearly twenty.

We invite you to meet us at the Denim Premiere Vision Exhibition to learn more about Sonovia’s revolution technology.

Posted: May 7, 2024

Source: Sonovia

AmorSui Expands Product Line, Revolutionizing Personal Protective Equipment

PHILADELPHIA — May 7, 2024 — Today, AmorSui, a modern personal protective equipment (PPE) brand, announces the product line expansion dedicated to protecting people and the planet. The line includes a lab coat in men’s and women’s sizes, fire-resistant clothing, including a first-of-its-kind fire-resistant hijab, and reusable isolation gowns.

Sustainability is a key focus of AmorSui’s line. AmorSui’s products are reusable and recyclable, eliminating the waste disposable PPE leaves behind. AmorSui’s line is also more inclusive, as its products fit all shapes and sizes. Most PPE is designed for the body of a European male, even though in some industries, such as healthcare, women make up 80 percent of the workforce. The products’ better fit and more sustainable materials make the wearer safer.

“For years, PPE has done little to actually protect the wearer and even less to protect the planet,” said Dr. Beau Wangtrakuldee, founder and CEO of AmorSui. “This has left those in some of the most important industries exposed. We are changing that, ensuring frontline workers are protected while doing the work they love and setting a new standard for PPE.”

Wangtrakuldee founded AmorSui after a chemical spill in the lab left her with severe burns. She was wearing proper PPE at the time, but the improper sizing and insufficient materials did little to protect her. AmorSui is on a mission to ensure that unsafe, unsustainable, and improperly fitting PPE is a thing of the past.

AmorSui’s commitment to safety, inclusivity, and sustainability is evident in the details:

  • Design: Each product is designed with the wearer in mind. The lab coat offers fluid and odor resistance, ten multi-use pockets, secure ribbed knit cuffs, a back vent for enhanced breathability and mobility, and more. Specifically, AmorSui’s women’s lab coat includes an adjustable waist drawcord for a custom fit. The isolation gowns are crafted from certified fluid-repellent fabric that is also silky soft. Additionally, they feature adjustable neck snaps and side ties to ensure the best fit for the wearer.
  • Safety: AmorSui’s proprietary textile formulations ensure durable fluid and odor resistance, meeting safety standards across a number of industries for up to 100 washes.
  • Take-Back Program: At the end of a product’s life, AmorSui’s take-back program allows customers to return the product to the company to be recycled into other products, keeping it out of the landfill.
  • Subscription Service: AmorSui’s subscription program provides professional laundering of its products so healthcare systems and other large organizations can reduce their PPE waste. Just 100 AmorSui isolation gowns can replace 10,000 disposable isolation gowns, resulting in a 3,750-pound reduction in waste and long-term cost savings.

“AmorSui’s lab coat fabric is a blend of polyester, rayon, and spandex. The isolation gown is made from polyester that is recyclable,” said Will McGinn, COO of AmorSui. “At the end of their life, our products can be shredded or turned into a pulp to produce car interiors, airplane seats, artificial joints, and tarp fabrics, among other various use cases. We believe that circularity is the future.”

From day one, AmorSui has been on a mission to design better PPE with the wearer’s interest at heart. Now, as the company has expanded its product line, AmorSui invites individuals and organizations to join the movement toward a safer and more inclusive future.

Posted: May 7, 2024

Source: AmorSui

Ultrafabrics Welcomes Amanda Bylsma To Sales Leadership Team

TARRYTOWN, N.Y. — May 7, 2024 — Ultrafabrics, a global supplier of high-performance fabric manufacturing, proudly announces the most recent addition to its sales leadership team. Amanda Bylsma has been appointed as the new sales manager for the Midwest region. She brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the team and reinforces Ultrafabrics’ commitment to excellence and innovation.

Amanda Bylsma

Bylsma joins Ultrafabrics with a strong background in sales management and contract furniture within the fabrics industry. Formerly the sales manager OEM at Camira Fabrics Ltd., Bylsma played a crucial role in driving sales growth and fostering client relationships. Her strategic approach and proven track record make her an invaluable asset to Ultrafabrics as the new Sales Manager for the Midwest region.

“As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we are excited to welcome Amanda to the Ultrafabrics family,” said Sergio Prosperino, vice president of Sales at Ultrafabrics. “Her extensive experience in contract furniture perfectly complements our commitment to innovation in this area of the market. With Amanda on board, we look forward to a future of continued success and growth.”

Bylsma’s appointment reflects Ultrafabrics’ commitment to providing innovative solutions and superior service to its clients. With a focus on leadership and expertise, Ultrafabrics continues its legacy of success and growth in all of its markets.

Posted: May 7, 2024

Source: Ultrafabrics

Ultrafabrics Welcomes Kimberly Peoples To Sales Leadership Team

TARRYTOWN, N.Y. — May 7, 2024 — Ultrafabrics, a global supplier of high-performance fabric manufacturing, proudly announces Kimberly Peoples has joined the team as sales director for the Residential Market. Peoples brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role, reinforcing Ultrafabrics’ commitment to excellence and innovation across all markets.

Kimberly Peoples, sales director Residential, Ultrafabrics

Peoples brings over a decade of experience in premium residential furnishings to the Ultrafabrics team, much of that tenure with Sunbrella. As a strategic account manager, Kimberly has demonstrated a keen focus on customer-centric growth through exceptional service and communication in the indoor and outdoor markets. Her belief in the power of collaboration aligns perfectly with Ultrafabrics’ values, making her an ideal leader for the Residential Market segment.

“As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we are thrilled to welcome Kimberly to the Ultrafabrics family,” said Sergio Prosperino, vice president of Sales at Ultrafabrics. “Her depth of knowledge and experience in the residential indoor/outdoor market perfectly complements our focus on innovation and customer satisfaction. With Kimberly on board, we look forward to expanding our impact on this market”

Peoples’ appointment reflects Ultrafabrics’ commitment to providing innovative solutions and superior service to all of its residential partners. With her leadership and expertise contributing to the team, Ultrafabrics continues its legacy of success and growth in all of its markets.

Posted: May 7, 2024

Source: Ultrafabrics

The Future Of Stretch: Introducing Under Armour’s First Product Made With High-Performing Elastane Alternative NEOLAST™

BALTIMORE — May 7, 2024 — In 1996, Under Armour proved a single shirt can change the game forever. The brand’s original performance stretch, compression technology wicked away sweat faster than anything else out there and kept athletes cool, dry and light.

Ever since, Under Armour has continued to change the game with innovative performance gear. Now, it honors its innovation heritage as it looks to the future of stretch.

On May 13, Under Armour will premiere the first product to feature its latest material innovation, a high-performing elastane alternative called NEOLAST™, on UA.com. Part of its Vanish training franchise, Vanish Pro tees made with NEOLAST fiber are built to withstand the demands of all types of athletic training and feature a classic design to help athletes stay focused during workouts.

NEOLAST fibers at work in the fabric translate to a high-powered garment with exceptional durability and fit. Announced for the first time in January 2024, the brand hopes NEOLAST will address key sustainability challenges of elastane, including recyclability and solvent-use.

With performance and sustainability improvements — the light, stretchy, breathable, and fast drying material feels good on, and athletes and consumers can feel good about wearing it.

Vanish Pro Mens Training Tee

“We took a minimalist approach to the design of this shirt, eliminating distractions for the athlete and opting for classic lines that allow the NEOLAST material to shine. The Vanish Pro tee’s durable material will not only increase its lifespan, it will offer consistent fit and stretch throughout the garment’s life. We’re proud to have developed the first apparel with this innovation and are excited about bringing more performance garments that utilize the future of stretch to athletes everywhere,” said John Hardy III, senior director, Product, Under Armour.

As a nod to the shirt that started it all, Vanish Pro NEOLAST tees invert the brand’s original compression tee’s color scheme from a white tee with a black logo, to a black tee with a white logo.

“At Under Armour, our innovation heritage inspires us to relentlessly pursue better performing gear that is better for the athlete and planet. Part of the beauty of this material innovation is the value we’ve been able to add by taking things away. The Vanish Pro is a highly durable, performance stretch tee made without elastane or solvents — and it’s just the beginning of NEOLAST’s potential. We look forward to introducing this revolutionary performance fiber across additional product lines as we work to scale it and evolve the broader industry landscape,” said Kyle Blakely, senior vice president, Innovation, Development & Testing, Under Armour.

Under Armour is committed to using its materials innovation muscle to support the apparel, footwear and accessories industry’s transition to a circular economy. The brand’s NEOLAST fiber innovation will support its goal to eliminate spandex in its products 75 percent by 2030.

NEOLAST™ is a trademark of Celanese.

Posted: May 7, 2024

Source: Under Armour, Inc.

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