PLASTICS Economic Analysis: August Jobs Report Shows Mixed Signals For U.S. Manufacturing And Plastics Sector

WASHINGTON, D.C. — September 9, 2025 — The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has released a new economic analysis examining the August 2025 U.S. jobs report and its implications for the manufacturing sector, with particular focus on plastics and rubber products manufacturing. Written by PLASTICS Chief Economist Dr. Perc Pineda, the analysis highlights both areas of concern and signals of resilience in labor market data.

Perc Pineda, Chief Economist, PLASTICS

“Although total manufacturing employment declined by 12,000 in August, the manufacturing unemployment rate ticked down to 3.8% from 4.2% in July,” writes Dr. Pineda. “Despite this monthly improvement, however, the rate has been trending upward since January. As of July 2025, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated 437,000 job openings in manufacturing—a continued positive sign for the sector.”

To read the full analysis on the PLASTICS: https://www.plasticsindustry.org/blog/august-jobs-report-mixed-signals-for-manufacturing/

Posted: September 10, 2025

Source: The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS)

ReHubs To Unveil Strategy And Tactical Action Plan To Industrialize Textile Circularity By 2032

BRUSSELS — September 10, 2025 — Europe’s circular economy in textiles and apparel is facing a daunting challenge. Increasing volumes of discarded textiles, fragile collection systems, and the flood of ultra-fast fashion are intensifying a crisis of overproduction, waste, and lost value. Despite advances in recycling technology, very few textiles today are recycled back into new textiles, with most waste still downcycled, incinerated, or exported.

The industry is stuck in a supply-demand deadlock as recyclers struggle to scale without brand commitments, and brands are hesitant to commit without reliable, cost- competitive supply. ReHubs will break this deadlock and create the market conditions and coordinated action needed for textile-to-textile recycling at scale.

This September, ReHubs will unveil its new strategy, a comprehensive action plan to scale textile-to-textile recycling and drive the adoption of recycled fibres across Europe. Developed through more than 100 interviews and surveys with both ReHubs’ community and wider industry stakeholders, the strategy sets out an industry-wide roadmap and a portfolio of projects designed to break the supply-demand deadlock that has long stalled progress on circular textiles.

“This is a defining decade for Europe’s textile industry,” said Alain Poincheval, Chairman of ReHubs. “Circularity is no longer just a vision, it is an urgent infrastructure challenge. With ReHubs’ new strategy, we will lead the industry with the clarity, coordination, and collective strength needed to turn waste into value, resilience, and competitive advantage.”

At the core of the new strategy are two strategic pillars:

  • End-to-End Supply Chain Management – Streamlining fragmented collection, sorting, recycling, and manufacturing processes to deliver reliable volumes of recycled fibres at a transparent cost and quality.
  • Financing Orchestration – Mobilising and de-risking the €5–6 billion in public- private investment needed to scale infrastructure, supported by brand commitments, private investments and public funding.

Supporting these pillars are six strategic levers that will accelerate progress, from industry standards harmonisation and research to policy advocacy, finance and investment mobilisation, and brand coalition building. Together, these levers will create the conditions for establishing reliable feedstock supply, clear standards, stronger collaboration, and growing confidence in recycled textiles as a quality, scalable solution.

By convening and aligning stakeholders across the value chain, ReHubs aims to:

  • Recycle 2.5 million tons of textile waste by 2032, representing around 35-40% of Europe’s yearly textile waste.
  • Unlock €5–6 billion in investments and create up to 10,000 new jobs across Europe.
  • Position Europe as a global leader in circular textiles through scalable, demand- driven recycling solutions.

“The textile industry faces an urgent need for systemic change,” said Robert van de Kerkhof, CEO of ReHubs. “ReHubs’ new strategy is designed to move from isolated initiatives to coordinated industry-wide implementation and ecosystem transformation. By combining stakeholder collaboration with direct action on infrastructure, finance, and policy, we can scale textile-to-textile recycling and turn Europe’s waste challenge into an opportunity.”

The ReHubs’ new Strategy will be unveiled on the 22nd September 2025, supported by its community of over 30 Partners, ranging from collectors and recyclers to brands, PROs, technology providers and investors.

ReHubs will also share insights from the new strategy at the Dornbirn Global Fibre Congress and Circular Textile Days, inviting the wider industry to engage and contribute to building a truly circular textile ecosystem in Europe.

Posted: September 10, 2025

Source: ReHubs

Registration Now Open For Functional Fabric Fair Portland Fall 2025

NORWALK, Conn. — September 9, 2025 — The fall edition of Functional Fabric Fair powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS® has officially opened registration for its upcoming show, beginning with the Day 0 Sustainability Workshop on November 11, followed by two days of exhibit hall and Expert Talks educational programming on November 12 and 13.

“Functional Fabric Fair continues to grow each year as the essential sourcing and education platform for the performance and outdoor textile industry,” said Steve McCullough, Event Vice President. “This fall, attendees will experience more exhibitors, more innovation, and more opportunities to connect with leaders driving the future of sustainable textiles. With the addition of the Future Fabrics Expo Innovation Hub, expanded education, and our new focus on textile-to-textile recycling, Portland will be our most impactful edition yet.”
Key Program Highlights:

Day 0 Sustainability Workshop Returns

Curated and facilitated by Jill Dumain of Fractal CSOs, Todd Copeland of Copeland Consultancy LLC, and Kevin Myette of bluesign technologies, the full-day workshop will bring together industry leaders and sustainability practitioners for new sessions shaped by attendee feedback, including:

  • Pragmatic approaches to foundational topics;
  • Latest field developments and updates;
  • Real-world case studies;
  • Roundtable discussions and interactive activities; and
  • New Focus Topic: Textile-to-Textile Recycling.

The 2025 edition will spotlight Textile-to-Textile (T2T) Recycling – The Role of Recyclers. With regulations such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) making circularity essential, T2T is emerging as a solution that preserves material quality to create new garments from old ones. Europe is leading progress with upcoming textile collection mandates and innovations in sorting, digital passports, and recycling systems.

Future Fabrics Expo Innovation Hub Makes Portland Debut

Another first for Portland, the Future Fabrics Expo (FFE) will bring its curated presentation of next-generation materials to Functional Fabric Fair, further enhancing sourcing opportunities for attendees.

Exhibit Hall & Features

The exhibit hall will feature 300+ sustainable-certified suppliers showcasing functional fabrics, finishes, trims, accessories, and innovations for the Fall/Winter 2026/2027 seasons. In addition to curated sourcing opportunities, attendees will have access to:

  • Daily Expert Talks educational sessions;
  • Interactive discovery areas including: the Trend Forum, Bodywear Collective, Innovation;
  • Hub, Wool Forum, Future Fabrics Expo Innovation Hub, and the all-new Cotton Forum;
  • Live demonstrations;
  • Networking destinations such as the Sustainability and Media lounges; and
  • Happy hours and social gatherings.

Registration

Functional Fabric Fair is a trade-only event, free for verified designers, product developers, purchasing agents, material managers, and students in the outdoor, performance, and lifestyle apparel sectors. The Day 0 Sustainability Workshop requires separate registration with limited seating.

Discounted hotel rates are available at select partner properties near the Oregon Convention Center.

For full show information and updates on all 2025 editions, visit: www.functionalfabricfair.com.

Posted September 9, 2025

Source: Functional Fabric Fair

Polycorp Acquires Burke Industries From Mannington Mills To Expand Into New Markets And Strengthen Manufacturing Capabilities

SAN JOSE, Calif. — September 9, 2025 — Polycorp, a manufacturer of engineered elastomer solutions and a portfolio company of Arsenal Capital Partners, announced today that it has acquired Burke Industries Inc., a supplier of custom elastomeric products, from Mannington Mills Inc.

This acquisition represents an important milestone in Polycorp’s growth journey, expanding its manufacturing footprint and employee base, adding significant complimentary manufacturing capacity to drive growth, and strengthening robust capabilities across R&D and rubber mixing and compounding. It also expands Polycorp’s presence in high growth industrial and infrastructure adjacencies, including aerospace and defense. With this acquisition, Polycorp is well positioned to deliver a broader solution portfolio, shorter lead times, and enhanced technical expertise to its customers.

Polycorp is committed to investing in Burke to fuel long-term growth and innovation, while maintaining the company’s proud legacy of customer service and delivering mission critical elastomeric solutions. Planned investments will expand capacity, accelerate business growth, and ensure continuity for Burke’s dedicated employees, trusted supplier partners, and loyal customers.

Based in San Jose, Calif., Burke will continue to operate on a business-as-usual basis with the same commitment to quality and customer service that has defined the business for decades. The workforce at Burke remains a vital part of the company’s future. Polycorp is committed to supporting the talented people who drive Burke forward, ensuring the company’s legacy of excellence endures well into the future. Mannington Mills will continue to manufacture Burke Rubber flooring products at its facilities in Eustis, Fla., and Calhoun, Ga., without interruption.

Andrew Thompson, CEO of Polycorp, said, “This is an exciting milestone for Polycorp. By adding Burke’s technical expertise and new market applications, we are expanding the range of solutions we can deliver to our customers. The incremental manufacturing presence also positions us to respond more quickly and effectively to customer needs while building a strong foundation for innovation and long-term growth.”

“For everyone at Burke, this is both a proud moment and an exciting new chapter. Polycorp’s investment ensures that we can continue doing what we do best — delivering reliable products and service — while creating new opportunities for our employees and partners,” said Kevin Sroka, general manager of Burke. “Our team has built this company on craftsmanship, dedication, and trust, and we are confident that those values will only be strengthened by our partnership with Polycorp.”

Macquarie Capital served as the financial advisor and Duane Morris LLP served as legal counsel to Mannington Mills. Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff LLP served as legal counsel to Polycorp.

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: Polycorp

Canadian Innovator SRTX Names Retail Pioneer Sophie Boulanger CEO

MONTREAL — September 4, 2025 — SRTX, the Canadian materials innovator behind Sheertex®, today announced the appointment of Sophie Boulanger as CEO. Boulanger, one of Canada’s most influential entrepreneurs in the retail sector, brings more than two decades of leadership experience in strategy, operational performance, and value creation across retail and consumer goods.

Sophie Boulanger

Boulanger co-founded and led BonLook, a trailblazing direct-to-consumer eyewear brand that transformed the Canadian optical industry through a hybrid digital-physical model and modern frame collections celebrating diversity. Under her leadership from 2011 to 2022, BonLook scaled rapidly to a national presence, opening 40 stores in four years, employing more than 400 people, and ultimately achieving a successful strategic acquisition by FYidoctors in 2021.

With a proven track record of scaling brands and driving transformative growth, Boulanger is well-positioned to lead SRTX as it accelerates its strategy to expand globally, strengthen its wholesale and private-label partnerships, and deliver long-term value through sustainable innovation.

“SRTX has built one of the most innovative materials companies of our time, with Sheertex redefining durability in fashion and apparel,” said Sophie Boulanger, CEO of SRTX. “I am honored to join the company at such a pivotal stage and look forward to working with our talented team and world-class investors to expand our reach, scale our operations, and continue shaping the future of sustainable textiles. I also want to recognize Katherine Homuth, whose vision and entrepreneurial drive built the foundation for SRTX’s success. I am excited to carry that legacy forward.”

SRTX Lead Investors BDC Capital, Export Development Canada, H&M Group, and Investissement Québec stated: “We are excited to welcome Sophie Boulanger as CEO. With her entrepreneurial mindset, operational expertise, and vision for consumer-centric growth, she is very well positioned to lead SRTX into its next chapter. Sophie Boulanger brings an excellent track record in scaling brands, creating shareholder value, and building strong teams. We are confident she will accelerate SRTX’s mission to transform the apparel industry.”

The SRTX Board and team thank Timothy Leyne, who has served as Interim CEO over the past months for his leadership and contributions during this pivotal stage of the company’s growth. This leadership change comes on the heels of SRTX’s recent $40 million fundraising round, led by its largest shareholders: BDC Capital, Export Development Canada, H&M Group, and Investissement Québec. The funding will support the company’s strategy to scale its Montreal-based operations. In 2023, SRTX expanded into a 300,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility in Pointe-Claire (Montreal), a highly automated, vertically integrated plant. This facility is unique in the apparel industry and enables SRTX to continuously reduce unit costs while scaling production of its market-leading Sheertex tights.

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: SRTX Inc.

Milliken & Company Acquires Assets Of Highland Industries, Inc. In Cheraw, South Carolina

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — September 4, 2025 — Global diversified manufacturer Milliken & Company has acquired the assets of Highland Industries Inc. in Cheraw, S.C. The transaction strengthens Milliken’s domestic operations and position in technical textiles.

“This acquisition bolsters the capabilities of Milliken’s technical textiles business to benefit our customers,” said Halsey Cook, president and CEO of Milliken. “We remain committed to the U.S. textile industry and grounded in our belief that precision manufacturing of innovative, high-performance materials is crucial for industrial resilience.”

The Highland facility will become a hub for Milliken’s technical textile weaving and knitting capabilities in the region.

“In addition to reinforcing current operations, acquiring Highland adds new offerings to the technical textiles portfolio,” said Allen Jacoby, executive vice president, and president of Milliken’s technical textiles business. “Highland provides important assets to help us better serve our customers and opens the door to new growth opportunities.”

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: Milliken & Company

EDANA OUTLOOK™ 2025: The Chain Bridge

BRUSSELS — September 9, 2025 — Before Széchenyi’s Chain Bridge opened in 1849, there were two cities on the Danube: Buda and Pest. For much of the year, the great river was a barrier that kept people, businesses, and ideas apart. The bridge changed everything. It physically connected the two sides to create something new and stronger: Budapest.

EDANA’s OUTLOOK™ conference serves the same purpose. It connects not two, but multiple sides of the industry, bringing together professionals across the absorbent hygiene and wipes sectors.

With more than 400 participants already confirmed from 173 companies, the event is set to be a unique platform for networking and business development. Alongside 18 exhibitors — with only two exhibition spaces still available — delegates will also benefit from 23 dedicated meeting rooms, creating the perfect setting for more private and focused discussions with clients and suppliers.

This year’s OUTLOOK program brings together 20 international speakers, two evening cocktail receptions, and plenty of opportunities to connect with peers from across the sector.

The agenda features three keynote addresses: Ambassador Ivo H. Daalder will reflect on shifting global alliances and their impact on international business; McKinsey & Company will present the latest insights into grocery retail trends and consumer behaviour; and Roover Consulting will explore how artificial intelligence can be applied to innovation and product development.

Alongside these highlights, the conference will cover market developments, sustainability, financing opportunities, and consumer dynamics in absorbent hygiene products and wipes.

Only two weeks to go! This is the final call for professionals who want to be in the room where the future of absorbent hygiene products and wipes is shaped. One trip, three days, and the opportunity to meet the entire industry in a single place, saving countless future business trips!

Learn more about the program

Secure one of the final spots and register

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: EDANA

 

ITMA 2027 Hannover, Germany — Stand Space Application Now Open

BRUSSELS — September 9, 2025 — Stand space application is now open for ITMA 2027. The seven-day exhibition will be held at Messegelaende Hannover, Germany, from September 16 to 22, 2027. Featuring the theme “Co-creating the Future of Textiles,” the exhibition is expected to bring together global leaders and innovators to shape the industry’s future

Following the success of ITMA 2023 in Milan, leading textile and garment machinery manufacturers are invited to secure their presence early at the industry’s most influential platform to launch their technologies, forge partnerships and grow their businesses worldwide.

Alex Zucchi, president of CEMATEX, owner of ITMA, said: “In 2027, ITMA returns to Hanover after 36 years. More than a platform for the promotion of innovative technologies, it is a turning point in the textile industry. As we evolve from Industry 4.0 to 5.0, we’re not just automating, we’re humanizing technology. Together, we’ll accelerate the shift towards a circular economy – one that is built on collaboration, innovation and regeneration.”

Dr. Janpeter Horn, chairperson of VDMA Textile Machinery Association, said: “We expect to have a strong presence of VDMA companies as our members are excited that ITMA will be staged in Germany after a long break. Supported by Hanover’s best-in-class exhibition infrastructure, ITMA 2027 will be an excellent platform for them to launch their latest innovations, focusing on efficiency, automation, digitalization and sustainability.”

The exhibition is expected to gross 200,000 square metres and draw over 1,500 exhibitors. Well known as the Olympics of textile machinery exhibitions, the upcoming edition prepares the industry to meet new challenges and opportunities amidst tighter sustainability regulations and rapidly evolving technological developments. To apply for space, visit www.itma.com.

The European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers – CEMATEX grants

ITMA 2027 will feature 20 product sectors, encompassing the entire textile and garment manufacturing value chain. One of the sectors is Research and Innovation. Research and educational institutions applying to exhibit in this sector will be able to leverage a CEMATEX grant to defray 50 percent of their participation costs.

CEMATEX will also be providing a grant to fully subsidize the participation of up to 20 young companies with innovative products and services for the textile industry. Launched in 2023, 15 companies were selected to participate in the Start-Up Valley.

One of the exhibitors, TreeToTextile — a Swedish-based cellulose fiber producer — was delighted with the outcome of their participation. Ida Alnemo, head of Application & Sustainability, enthused: “ITMA has been a great platform for future collaboration needed to scale breakthrough innovations like ours, to make a positive change in the textile industry in offering better fibers to all.”

Information on the two grants can be found on the exhibition website.

More information on ITMA 2027 is also available at the upcoming ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 exhibition which will be held at Singapore Expo from October 28-31, 2025. Visit stand H5- D304 to learn more about the exhibition, venue, accommodation options and Hanover city from the ITMA Services team and partners.

The last ITMA exhibition was held in Milan in 2023. It featured the participation of 1,709 exhibitors from 47 countries, and visitorship of more than 111,000 from 143 countries.

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: The European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers (CEMATEX) / ITMA Services

INX International Ink Co. Strengthens Status As A Great Place To Work

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. — September 9, 2025 — INX International Ink Co. continues to score high marks with its employees. In a survey conducted by the Great Place to Work® organization, INX has earned recertification after employee satisfaction ratings reached an all-time high in the past three years.

With 78 percent of employees confirming INX has a vibrant workplace culture, it represents a seven point increase from last year and far exceeds the 57 percent average of typical United States companies. Bryce Kristo, INX President and CEO, believes the yearly improvements are attributed to the outstanding culture employees and management have built together.

Bryce Kristo

“This certification is more than a milestone. It’s a reflection of the trust, collaboration, and care that defines our workplace,” said Kristo, who has worked at INX since 1991. “This recognition is based entirely on our employees’ feedback, and this year’s results are our strongest to date.”

Kristo cited several categories he was especially proud of. Eighty six percent of the employees who responded agreed they have the resources and equipment to do their job, and can take time off when needed. Seventy two percent acknowledged feeling good about the ways INX contributes to the community, which is a nine point increase compared to last year.

The survey prepared by the Great Place to Work organization, one of the world’s foremost authorities on workplace culture, asked employees to respond to 60 statements on a 1-5 scale. According to Heather Seville, Vice President of HR and Risk Manager, INX’s score improved in 57 of the categories this year.

“We scored especially high in regards to treating employees fairly, being a physically safe place to work, making them feel welcome when they join the company, and the areas Bryce Kristo mentioned,” she said. “Our results this year highlight the dedication shown by leaders,  supervisors, and individual team members throughout the organization. By prioritizing listening, support, and connection, these shared efforts have made a meaningful impact of how employees experience our workplace.”

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: INX International Ink Co.

NRF: Imports Declining Following Summer Surge Ahead Of Tariffs

WASHINGTON — September 9, 2025 — Following a near-record peak this summer, import cargo volume at the nation’s major container ports is expected to steadily decline for the remainder of the year amid rising tariffs, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“We have seen the implementation of reciprocal tariffs across the globe, with a number of key trading partners being subjected to tariffs higher than the earlier 10 percent tariffs,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “We also continue to see more and more sectoral tariffs impacting a wider scope of products. Retailers have stocked up as much as they can ahead of tariff increases, but the uncertainty of U.S. trade policy is making it impossible to make the long-term plans that are critical to future business success. These tariffs and disruptions to the supply chain are adding costs that will ultimately lead to higher prices for American consumers.”

While “reciprocal” tariffs on a number of countries took effect in early August, a federal appeals court later ruled against President Donald Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose the tariffs, but left them in place while the ruling is under appeal to the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, Trump delayed an increase in tariffs on China by 90 days to Nov. 10 so trade negotiations could continue. Trump also announced an additional 25 percent tariff on India that took effect near the end of August, bringing the additional tariff rate to 50 percent.

“Tariffs have had a significant impact on trade,” Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said. “The trade outlook for the final months of the year is not optimistic.”

U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 2.36 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units — one 20-foot container or its equivalent — in July, although numbers for New York/New Jersey, Port Everglades and Miami were estimated because they have not yet reported their data. That was up 20.1 percent from June as retailers brought in merchandise ahead of tariffs set to take effect in August, and up 1.8 percent year over year. It would be the second-busiest month on record, topped only by 2.4 million TEU in May 2022.

Ports have not yet reported numbers for August, but Global Port Tracker projected the month at 2.28 million TEU, down 1.7 percent year over year but higher than that 2.2 million TEU expected before the postponement of China tariffs and the new tariff on India.

September is forecast at 2.12 million TEU, down 6.8 percent year over year; October at 1.95 million TEU, down 13.2 percent, and November at 1.74 million TEU, down 19.7 percent. December is forecast at 1.7 million TEU, down 20.1 percent year over year for the slowest month since 1.62 million TEU in March 2023.

While the falling monthly totals are related to tariffs, the year-over-year percentage declines are both because of this year’s early peak season and because imports in late 2024 were elevated by concerns about port strikes.

The first half of 2025 totaled 12.53 million TEU, up 3.6 percent year over year. The full year is forecast at 24.7 million TEU, down 3.4 percent from 25.5 million TEU in 2024.

January 2026 is forecast at 1.8 million TEU, down 19.1 percent year over year.

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: The National Retail Federation (NRF)

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