Debrand Partners With Eastman To Deliver Circular Lanyards For The 2024 Sustainable Fashion Forum

VANCOUVER, BC — APRIL 8, 2024 — Next-life logistics solutions provider, Debrand, announced the North American debut of their circular lanyard project with global textile recycler, Eastman, at this year’s Sustainable Fashion Forum in Austin, Texas. This partnership aims to demonstrate the circular textile process for the wider apparel industry by applying intentional design of conference lanyards to enable the product’s reuse and recycling at its end-of-life. The ultimate goal is to reduce the environmental impact of conference lanyards by diverting them from landfill and protecting our planet’s resources.

“While textile recycling has been integral to our lanyard project in the past, we recognize that true progress lies in embracing the waste hierarchy,” said Lina Londono, VP of Sustainability & Solutions at Debrand. “By prioritizing reuse, we not only reduce our environmental footprint but also foster a culture of mindful consumption and innovation. Our commitment to evolving our strategy to evergreen lanyards reflects our dedication to sustainability principles and ensures that we’re continually striving for more impactful solutions.”

Debrand will be providing evergreen lanyards designed with circular principles that will be sanitized for reuse at future events. Circular lanyards that are damaged or contaminated will be recycled by Eastman. The lanyards are 100% polyester for durability and will be collected and pre-processed by Debrand at the end of the conference.

“My vision for the Sustainable Fashion Forum has always been to challenge the status quo and inspire transformative change within the industry. Debrand’s circular lanyard project with Eastman exemplifies the kind of innovative, collaborative solutions we strive to showcase,” said Brittany Sierra, Founder and CEO of the Sustainable Fashion Forum. “By reimagining the lifecycle of our conference lanyards, we’re not only reducing waste but also igniting conversations about the sustainable practices of events and demonstrating the power of collaborative action in driving meaningful change within event planning and execution. This initiative serves as a microcosm of the broader shift towards sustainability within the fashion industry, showcasing how small yet impactful changes can drive significant progress towards a more sustainable future.”

Debrand selected Eastman as a partner to demonstrate how a collaborative ecosystem within the later stages of the supply chain can drive the design, production, distribution, pre-processing and circulation of circular products available en masse. Eastman has the groundbreaking advanced recycling technology needed for this project. Through Eastman’scarbon renewal technology, they can break down hard-to-recycle plastic and textile waste to its molecular level to create new products. This technology helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil-based processes and diverts waste material from entering landfills.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with Debrand on this circular lanyard project,” said Claudia de Witte, Eastman Textiles Sustainability Leader. “Through our carbon renewal technology, we’re able to transform end-of-life textiles into new, high-quality products, such as Naia Renew fibers. This partnership underscores Eastman’s commitment to collaborating on innovative solutions that drive circularity and sustainability across the supply chain.”

About Debrand’s Circular Lanyard Project

More than 1.5 billion people participate in business events and conferences each year, with billions of dollars spent on conference merchandise that rarely considers the product’s end-of-life path. A 2020 survey finds that 60% of conference attendees prefer events that apply sustainable practices, with over 25% strongly preferring such conferences. Small changes like circular lanyards, which are produced specifically with the intent of reuse and recycling, can have lasting impacts on reducing waste.

Debrand piloted their initial circular lanyard project at Textile Exchange 2023 in London, UK, where lanyards for the event were collected and recycled into yarn that could be repurposed for future garments using European textile recycler Coleo. In this latest iteration with Eastman, the goal was to design evergreen lanyards with reuse in mind, supplemented by recycling if needed, and collaborating with regional North American partners to reduce the project’s overall footprint. These small-scale projects provide an example of scalable circular solutions for larger events, and it’s an opportunity to showcase to attendees how an item that is often overlooked can create a large impact in the sustainability space and be a point of reference when observing consumer behaviour (ie. identifying what percentage of attendees actually return the lanyards).

This year, Debrand is projected to divert at least 1,000 tons of used textiles from landfills (125% year-over-year growth) through resale, reuse, recycling and recovery channels–the weight equivalent of 12 Boeing 737 aircrafts. With a reputation for exceptional service and tech-enabled solutions, Debrand specializes in next-life logistics for the global apparel and footwear industry.

Posted: April 8, 2024

Source: Debrand

John Witkowski Appointed President & CEO Of Solesis

TELFORD, Pa. — APRIL 8, 2024 — Solesis, a custom designer, developer, and manufacturer of textile- and polymer-based healthcare solutions for the medical device and biopharmaceutical industries, is pleased to announce that John Witkowski has been appointed as the new President & CEO, effective immediately. In this role, Witkowski is responsible for developing the strategic priorities for Solesis and executing world-class business operations to support customers and drive long-term, sustainable growth.

John Witkowski has been appointed as the new President & CEO of Solesis. Photo – Business Wire

“John brings nearly 30 years of experience across the medical device and biopharmaceutical industries,” said George Aitken-Davies, Chairman of the Board of Solesis. “He is well positioned to lead Solesis in its next phase of growth and brings a strong track record of building high-quality businesses, both organically and through M&A.”

Most recently, Witkowski served as President of DSM Biomedical, the global biomaterials division of dsm-firmenich, where he led a significant period of transformational growth. He previously served in a number of executive leadership roles including President CMS of Bemis Manufacturing Company, General Manager of Nypro Healthcare (acquired by Jabil Circuits) and Vice President of Operations and Quality of Knee Creations (acquired by Zimmer Biomet).

“Joining a leader in the MedTech and Biopharma industries is exciting, especially when coupled with a period of growth like Solesis is currently experiencing,” said John Witkowski, President & CEO of Solesis. “I am looking forward to working collaboratively with the team to support our customers, ultimately helping patients lead healthier lives.”

Posted: April 8, 2024

Source: Solesis

Koenig & Bauer Durst Appoints Benjamin Bösch To New Sales Director Role

WÜRZBURG, Germany — APRIL 8, 2024 — Benjamin Bösch has been appointed to a newly created role of Sales Director for Koenig & Bauer Durst, a global market leader of single pass digital sheet-fed press systems and software systems for the folding carton and corrugated industry, in a strategic move to capitalize on growing folding carton and corrugated markets that are ripe for digital transformation.

Benjamin will be managing territories and working closely with sales departments within the Durst & Koenig & Bauer organizations. His wide remit will involve working closely with existing customers and sales teams and developing new sales strategies to add more value for Koenig & Bauer Durst in corrugated and folding carton markets.

Having originally trained at Stuttgart Media University, Benjamin began his working life in project management before moving over to sales roles 14 years ago. With more than 25 years’ experience in the printing and packaging industry, Benjamin joins Koenig & Bauer Durst from Landa where he had been regional manager for DACH.

“We welcome Benjamin with open arms into the Koenig & Bauer Durst family,” said Daniel Velema, Managing Director of Koenig & Bauer Durst. “Benjamin’s considerable experience in folding carton and corrugated markets will bring another layer of expertise as we continue to expand operations within digital printing in our core markets of corrugated and folding carton that are ripe for digital transformation. This appointment is an important strategic development as we continue to leverage the capabilities and know-how of our parent companies to offer an unrivalled portfolio of digital printing machinery that use water-based, food-safe inks that comply with all regulatory requirements.”

Keen road and mountain biker Benjamin, who is married and lives in Augsburg, said: “I am incredibly excited to be taking up this new challenge and am looking forward to meeting new colleagues and existing customers to bring value to corrugated and folding carton markets.”

The Koenig & Bauer Durst portfolio includes the CorruJET and Delta SPC 130 systems for corrugated markets, as well the jointly developed VariJET 106 press for folding carton markets.

Posted: April 8, 2024

Source: Koenig & Bauer Durst

Kraig Biocraft Laboratories Signs Landmark Agreement In Vietnam’s Silk Production Capital

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — April 8, 2024 — Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc. (“the Company” or “Kraig Labs”), announces today that it has signed a landmark agreement with the Vietnam Sericulture Association (“VSA”). As part of this agreement, the Company disclosed its production plans and schedule for the next twenty-four months to the VSA to obtain cooperation in reaching its production targets. This agreement establishes a collaborative working effort between the Company and the VSA, something the Company has been actively working towards for some time.

Under the terms of the agreement, in addition to support and advice on production logistics, the VSA has agreed to assist the Company in obtaining formal intellectual property registration of its BAM-1 hybrid silkworm strain in Vietnam.

This definitive agreement strengthens the collaboration between the Company and the VSA, building on and expanding the Memorandum of Understanding announced on January 30, 2024. This landmark agreement establishes the framework and much of the logistical support needed for the Company to achieve metric-ton levels of production.

“This agreement is the culmination of many years of work with various governmental and non-governmental agencies to demonstrate our technology and its potential,” said Company founder and CEO, Kim K. Thompson. “This new relationship with the VSA underlines our commitment to South East Asia and, we believe, significantly strengthens our position as we scale up production. With this agreement finalized, we are now working jointly with a capable partner to see that vision fulfilled.”

“We have been following developments at Kraig Labs for many years and are very happy now to be working directly with them,” said Dr. Le Quang Tu, President of the Vietnamese Sericulture Association. “We believe that Kraig’s technology will have a significant positive impact on our industry. They have applied a thoughtful, step-by-step approach. Now, we will take a step together.”

The Company’s CEO remains in Vietnam, overseeing operations directly. Kraig Labs anticipates that Thompson will provide additional announcements and updates regarding the Company’s accelerating progress over the coming weeks.

Posted: April 8, 2024

Source: Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc.

Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) Announces The Appointment Of James F. Howe To The Position of President, Motion

James F. Howe Appointed President, Motion

ATLANTA — March 21, 2024 — Genuine Parts Co., a leading global distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts, announced today that its board of directors has appointed James F. Howe to the position of president, Motion, the company’s industrial business, effective April 1, 2024. With nearly three decades of dedicated service to the company, Howe brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role.

Most recently, Howe served as the executive vice president and chief commercial and technology officer, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the corporate trajectory of Motion. His leadership in overseeing eCommerce, strategic pricing, sales excellence, corporate accounts and human resources has been instrumental in driving the company’s success.

In his new capacity, Howe will continue to report to Randy Breaux, Group president, GPC North America.

“James has an impressive history, having served in numerous executive roles during his long career at Motion,” said Paul Donahue, chairman and CEO. “His extensive experience makes him an excellent choice to lead Motion. We feel confident that under James’s leadership, our talented and experienced Motion team will continue to achieve great results.”

Posted: April 8, 2024

Source: Genuine Parts Company

Universal Fibers® Revolutionizes Interior Design With Its High Bulk | Low Weight Fiber Innovation

BRISTOL, Virginia — April 8, 2024 — Innovation has always been at the heart of Universal Fibers® operations, driving the company to continually push boundaries in the realm of interior design solutions. With more than 50 years of expertise, Universal Fibers® proudly highlights a breakthrough in fiber technology: High Bulk | Low Weight, a game-changing innovation poised to redefine the industry landscape.

Years of meticulous research and development have culminated in High Bulk | Low Weight, a proprietary finishing capability that merges technical prowess with cutting-edge technology. This innovation introduces a highly bulked fiber with voluminous coverage at significantly lower weights than the industry average, setting a new standard for luxurious texture and aesthetic appeal.

“Our commitment to innovation drives us to rethink what’s conventional and develop solutions that not only enhance design possibilities, but that also offer tangible benefits to our customers and to the environment itself,” said Steve Barrett, director of Global Product Development at Universal Fibers.

Beyond its striking visual appeal, High Bulk | Low Weight technology presents a multitude of advantages. By requiring approximately 20 percent less fiber per square meter, it delivers substantial cost savings and reduces environmental impact. Furthermore, its lower energy consumption during production translates to decreased CO2 emissions, aligning with sustainability goals. “Reduced fiber content can also translate to easier maintenance and faster cleaning, providing long-term conveniences for end-users,” Barrett said.

As Universal Fibers continues to pioneer innovation in the interior design industry, High Bulk | Low Weight technology stands as a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

Posted: April 8, 2024

Source: Universal Fibers, Inc.

The International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter (IIDA NY) Celebrates Inaugural Career Night: Students, Emerging Professionals Connect with Leading NYC-Based Architecture & Design Firms

NEW YORK — April 8, 2024 — The International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter (IIDA NY) is proud to share that 75 design students and emerging professionals participated in the chapter’s inaugural Career Night last month. Held at the Teknion Showroom in Manhattan, the event brought together esteemed principals and other professionals from leading New York City-based architecture and design firms to offer mentorship and career guidance to attendees.

The Career Night, conceived by IIDA NY’s Student Development committee, featured individual portfolio reviews, professional mock interviews, a headshot studio, fireside-style career growth-focused forum discussions and networking opportunities. “Our inaugural IIDA NY Career Night was a resounding success!” said Elisabeth Mejia, Co-Vice President of IIDA NY’s Student Development committee. “We’re delighted with the level of engagement and look forward to hosting another Career Night in 2025.”

Robin Reigi, Co-Vice President of IIDA NY’s Student Development committee, added, “This event provided students and emerging professionals with an opportunity to connect with and learn from architecture and design professionals. Networking is crucial, especially in today’s job market, and we’re so grateful for the face-to-face interactions, professional development and career exploration provided by participating firms in New York City.”

Leading architecture and design firms included AECOM, Canoa Supply, Corgan, EwingCole, Gensler, HKS, HLW, HOK Architects, IA Interiors,  MKDA, Perkins&Will, Rockwell Group, Stantec, Taller KEN, Ted Moudis Associates, TPG, Vocon and Ware Malcomb.

IIDA NY’s Student Development Committee would like to thank its sponsors for the Career Night, which included: Robin Reigi Inc., Kimball International, Vitra, Teknion, CertainTeed, and Formica®Laminate. Additionally, the chapter would like to acknowledge annual benefactors such as MillerKnoll, COR, NARBUTAS, Benhar Office Interiors and WB Wood who offered their professional expertise.

At the event, the Student Development Committee orchestrated a poignant tribute to honor Alexandria Davis, President of IIDA NY, for her invaluable support of Career Night. In honor of Alex’s late mother who was an educator, the committee provided free books to the attendees. “I was fortunate to grow up in a family that understood the value of education and the transformative impact in shaping young minds,” said Davis. “The next generation of designers deserves an opportunity to connect and learn from the top minds in the industry. We’re so grateful for this valuable resource.”

For more information about the Student Development Committee, please visit https://iidany.org/education/student-development/.

Posted: April 8, 2024

Source: The International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter

Precision Textiles Garners Attention At ISPA Expo With Launch Of Products

FARIFIELD, N.J. — April 8,2024 — Precision Textiles successfully exhibited at the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) Expo in March. The company captivated attendees by introducing four cutting-edge technologies, which garnered attention from attendees for their commitment to advancing Fire Retardant (FR) solutions to the sleep products industry.

With a focus on innovation and quality the company’s newest products stood out for their superior performance and potential to reshape the future of sleep technology.

Among the highlights of the company’s exhibition was the introduction of IQFIT Flex, a patented FR material known for its ability to better maintain mattress comfort and enhance sleep performance in mattress designs. This versatile material can be transformed into a variety of FR solution products, including traditional FR socks, open width format for laminating to mattress fabrics, or with the company’s patent pending IQFIT Glass Free NOSO Sock. The NOSO Sock garnered additional attention for its ability to streamline the assembly process, reduce costs and increase throughput by eliminating the need for traditional sewing, stapling or gluing techniques.

IQFIT Comfort also made its inaugural debut. This specially engineered FR inherent textile was designed for use by both mattress manufacturers and cut and sew cover suppliers and is perfectly positioned toward the promotional, residential and hospitality markets.

Building on its partnership with REPREVE® the company also showcased its ENDURE IFR and ADVANTAGE SB non-woven products. Every 100-yard roll of these products includes REPREVE recycled performance fiber that is made from 228 recycled water bottles. As a result, Precision Textiles will eliminate more than 20 million plastic water bottles from waste streams on an annual basis.

Attendees at the Expo were visibly impressed by the company’s pioneering use of REPREVE in its nonwoven products and its environmentally conscious implications.

The enthusiastic response from attendees reaffirmed the company’s position as an industry leader committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhance comfort, safety and sustainability in the sleep products market. Company experts engaged with attendees through interactive demonstrations and informative presentations including showcasing the company’s PRESERVING the PLANET corporate initiative and video.

“Mattress producers attend ISPA EXPO to learn about new products, gather new ideas and connect with people,” said Scott Tesser, CEO of Precision Textiles. “We saw a robust flow of traffic through our booth including a steady stream of high-caliber executives who were eager to hear about our offerings and were impressed with our products and the solutions they offer. Being lauded for our dedication to pushing the boundaries of textile engineering is rewarding for our team. It cements our reputation as a trusted innovator and pioneer in the industry.”

Posted April 8, 2024

Source: Precision Textiles

Margasa Recycling Joins Allertex of America

CORNELIUS, N.C. — April 8, 2024 — Allertex of America Ltd., a supplier of nonwoven and recycling solutions in the United States and Canada, is excited to announce that it has signed an agreement with Margasa to represent its machinery in the United States and Canada.

Margasa has more than 50 years of experience with engineering projects for textile recycling and nonwovens.

Its experience in these fields has allowed Margasa to export to more than 40 countries, reaching a position of international leadership.

From simple edge trim and fiber preparation to multi-cylinder tearing lines as well as baling systems Margasa offers solutions to cover a variety of needs.

Together, Allertex and Margasa look forward to a great future serving the industry providing solutions and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Posted April 8, 2024

Source: Allertex of America

Storm Creek Outdoor Athleisure Wear To Exceed 50 Million Plastic Bottles Upcycled By End of 2024

MINNEAPOLIS — April 4, 2024 — Storm Creek, a Minnesota company committed to giving back and producing an entire lifestyle apparel product line made from upcycled materials, is poised to hit a milestone of upcycling 50 million plastic bottles by the end of 2024. In addition, the company has expanded its Sustainability School, is planning major donations to charitable partners, and is hosting an Eco Festival on April 19.

“Every day is Earth Day and Storm Creek,” said Teresa Fudenberg, CEO and owner of Storm Creek. “We are committed to making high-quality, long-lasting sustainable athleisure wear and educating our industry about the detrimental impact of “fast fashion” and how investing in eco-friendly apparel care should be a priority.”

Storm Creek provides logo-emblazoned apparel to companies nationwide and to national parks and resorts in North America. The company also sells directly to consumers through its website and retail partners. Each item sold at Storm Creek is specially labeled to include the number of plastic bottles upcycled to make it.

“Ninety percent of S&P 500 executives cite sustainability as important and logoed items like apparel have long been a powerful tool for brand promotion and connection,” Fudenberg said. “By making sustainable choices, businesses can align their promotional strategies with values that resonate with environmentally conscious consumers reinforcing a positive brand image while contributing to a more sustainable future.”

Storm Creek, a brand founded in 2006, started a sustainable sourcing initiative in 2016 and quickly committed to converting its entire line to eco-made. In addition, the company is dedicated to giving back to nonprofits and has contributed $2 million to charitable causes. It plans to donate $5 million by 2030.

In 2021, Storm Creek launched a Sustainability School that has educated hundreds about the excessive waste in the apparel industry to date. This month, they will teach hundreds of promotional product distributors across North America in person and through online webinars. The company is also hosting a Storm Creek Sustainable Style Sweepstakes. The winner will get a $1,000 shopping spree to build an eco-made capsule wardrobe.

“The logoed merchandise business is a $26 billion industry,” Fudenberg said. Our Sustainability School educates on the importance of sustainable sourcing and eco-minded disposal of end-of-life products. The good news is that the industry as a whole currently has sustainability top of mind, and they want to ensure they are aligned with corporate end buyers’ goals for sustainability.”

On Friday, April 19, Storm Creek will host an eco festival at its Eagan headquarters. The event will feature food trucks, discounts, special bargain bin deals, mystery boxes, clothing donations, and plastic bag recycling stations. The company will also give away national park passes and Grandma’s Marathon race entry passes.

Posted: April 5, 2024

Source: Storm Creek.

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