ERCA Textile Chemical Solutions is Born

GRASSOBBIO, Italy — January 17, 2024 — The news is now official: in January 2024 ERCA Textile Chemical Solutions TCS comes to life as an independent company within the ERCA Group and completely dedicated to the textile industry.

The decision to make ERCA TCS a separate company stems from the desire to focus exclusively on solutions for the textile industry and to build an agile entity oriented towards responsible research and production, while continuing to leverage a solid productive and financial background from ERCA S.p.A.

Thanks to its agile company structure and to the enhancement of its research & development area, ERCA TCS will be able to grasp with an even more readiness customer needs and transform them in an “engaging dialogue” that will lead to truly “pioneering” developments, offering even more promptly innovative chemical solutions that adhere to the principles of ethical-social, environmental, and economic responsibility.

ERCA TCS aims to be the unique and innovative point of reference for textile companies in terms of products and services specifically designed for the needs of a sector that is currently facing challenges and opportunities related to sustainability and responsible production

Fabio Locatelli, CEO of ERCA TCS and associate of ERCA Group explained: “We established ERCA TCS with the goal of making it an international benchmark for sustainable innovation, thus contributing to the reduction of the environmental impact of the textile industry without ever giving up in performance and competitiveness.”

Locatelli continued: “The commitment to the well-being of people and the responsible use of the planet’s resources have always been in ERCA DNA, but having created a company expressly dedicated to the textile industry will allow us to focus on the research and development of products specifically designed to be increasingly innovative and sustainable. In the future, we would like to make ERCA TCS a platform capable of initiating education & training, sharing these innovations in a transparent and professional way. Something so necessary at times like these when communication is very loud but often the contents and their reliability are not verifiable. In summary, ERCA TCS will allow us to respond with responsible and high-quality productions to the green challenge that textile companies must face, and will act as a multiplier factor about good practices and about downstream conveyance of the values of our Group.”

ERCA TCS bases its activity on the principles of “green chemistry” to offer the textile industry chemical solutions that make concrete the concepts of safety, performance, and circularity. Its flagship product — REVECOL® — is born from critical waste materials (used vegetable oils) and present in abundance, which through a process attentive to environmental compatibility and safety, are transformed into a line of innovative, certified, high-performance chemical auxiliaries usable by the entire textile industry. For its exceptional characteristics, REVECOL has met with immediate success in the textile industry, as demonstrated by the collaborations initiated with some of the most important companies in the sector. Now, thanks to the birth of ERCA TCS, targeted research and investments will allow for the further expansion of the range of products available for the textile industry.

ERCA Group has six plants in three macro-regions: Europe, Latin America, and Asia and produces chemical specialties and auxiliaries with an approach of responsible innovation. Its production covers several markets: textile, cosmetics, polyurethanes, concrete. It has a turnover of 150 million euros and employs 350 people worldwide, 100 of whom are in the sole Grassobbio plant.

Posted: January 18, 2024

Source: ERCA Textile Chemical Solutions

Mimaki’s First DTF Printer Achieves Milestone Sales With Over 300 Units Sold

AMSTERDAM — January 17, 2024 — Mimaki Europe, a provider of industrial inkjet printers, cutting plotters and 3D printers, can today confirm that its first DTF (Direct to Film) printer, the TxF150-75, has surpassed the milestone of 300 units sold across EMEA. With the highest sales in the UK, France, Italy, Iberia and the DACH region, this fast-paced, wide-spread adoption of the TxF150-75 not only demonstrates the quality of the printer but also the rising popularity of the DTF printing method.

Since its launch in February 2023, the Mimaki TxF150-75 has surpassed over 300 sales across EMEA

Announced at Mimaki’s Global Innovation Days in February 2023, the TxF150-75 offers a solution to common DTF issues, such as poor ink ejection and white ink clogging, through its built-in circulation system and degassed ink pack. Alongside other Mimaki core technologies, such as the nozzle check unit (NCU) and nozzle recovery system (NRS), the TxF150-75 provides an efficient printing process with minimal need for intervention, filling the gap in the market for a stable, reliable DTF solution.

Arjen Evertse, general manager sales, Mimaki Europe commented: “Hitting and then surpassing 300 orders of the TxF150 is a significant milestone. We’ve seen the impact DTF is having on the market in recent years and wanted to offer a solution that excelled in usability, reliability, and quality. The Tx150-75 provides all of these benefits, but its popularity is also due to its suitability for those introducing DTF technology to their production capabilities or those who already have an in-house business producing smaller run jobs.

Mimaki also announced the TxF300-75 in August 2023, which features all the same capabilities of the TxF150-75 but has a maximum print speed that is three times faster. We are seeing significant interest in this system as well, with already over 100 orders to date, especially among established DTF application suppliers who are printing high volumes.”

The TxF150-75 is Mimaki’s first direct to film printer, producing high-quality, vibrant prints for applications such as T-shirts and tote bags

DTF printing has had a big impact on the apparel industry due to its versatility to print on a range of materials and the quicker delivery times achievable compared to other printing processes. Mimaki’s commitment to innovation, collaboration and sustainability all contributed to ensuring this new DTF technology portfolio from Mimaki is as robust and well received as it is.

At 80cm in width, both Mimaki DTF models are 20cm wider than the industry standard. This extra 80cm width is matched by the Adkins post-press powder shaker cure system, ensuring customers have a complete DTF solution that can print larger garments with less waste and quicker production times, allowing for a more cost-effective process. With a commitment to environmental safety, Mimaki has also created its own range of water-based pigment inks (PHT50) especially for this solution. As of March 2023, these inks are OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT certified, guaranteeing safety and environmental standards are met in line with Mimaki’s sustainability pledges.

Evertse concluded, “The response to our DTF products this year has been fantastic. We are confident that adoption of these technologies will only accelerate from here, and we look forward to supporting our customers and the market as it transitions to trusted, reliable DTF solutions.”

Posted: January 18, 2024

Source: Mimaki Europe B.V.

Haelixa Bolsters Leadership Team With Strategic Appointments To Fuel Supply Chain Innovation And Accelerate Growth

Patrick Strumpf – CEO

ZÜRICH, Switzerland — January 18, 2024 — Haelixa, a provider of physical traceability solutions, is thrilled to announce the appointment of a new CEO, Patrick Strumpf, and the addition of Stefan Karlen to the board of directors. These positions mark a significant step in Haelixa’s mission to advance the growth of supply chain transparency solutions and drive positive change in the industry.

Patrick Strumpf joins Haelixa as its new CEO; he has over 20 years of experience building and scaling up businesses. Thanks to his strong entrepreneurial background, he has excelled in various manufacturing, distribution, and retail roles. Strumpf’s proven leadership, commercial acumen and strong customer focus will ensure the company keeps pushing its boundaries and attains even greater heights of success.“I am excited about the Haelixa traceability solution. It sets the highest standards and delivers outstanding advantages to brands and manufacturers who position themselves as innovation leaders, especially regarding compliance and credibility issues.”

Stefan Karlen – Board of Directors

Stefan Karlen joins Haelixa’s Board of Directors; he brings over 30 years of experience in the supply chain industry, having served as the Group CEO of Panalpina, one of the world’s leading freight forwarding and logistics companies. With his deep understanding of global supply chains and expertise in building solid teams, Karlen will provide valuable insights to Haelixa’s Board of Directors. His track record of driving innovation is instrumental in shaping the company’s strategic direction. “I am passionate about environmental responsibility and bringing positive change”, said Karlen. He added, “I identify with Haelixa’s values and am excited to leverage my skills to a company that prioritises sustainability and integrity.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Stefan Karlen and Patrick Strumpf to our team. Their extensive knowledge will propel Haelixa to new heights,” said Haelixa’s co-founder and CTO, Dr. Gediminas Mikutis. “We are confident their skills and guidance will help us and our customers achieve our mission of providing transparent and sustainable solutions.”

Stefan Karlen and Patrick Strumpf’s appointments signify a crucial milestone in Haelixa’s quest to become a worldwide benchmark in physical traceability. The company will leverage its team’s expertise to drive innovation and address supply chain transparency challenges.

Posted: January 18, 2024

Source: Haelixa

New Cutter Sharpening Service Returns Lundberg Cutters To Like New Condition For Maximum Productivity And Efficiency

NEW CARLISLE, Ohio — January 16, 2024 — AirTrim, a designer and manufacturer of trim waste and dust containment systems, introduces the AirTrim Cutter Sharpening Program (ACSP) which returns Lundberg cutters to like new condition. Sharpening worn cutter blades increases efficiency and productivity while minimizing cutting costs and downtime. Worn cutter blades may look good, but without a sharp cutting edge they can miss cuts, leading to longer trim, higher bearing load, and ultimately shutdown of the cutter, stopping production altogether.  ACSP can head off these issues before they become a problem and keep your production running at top speed. The process is straightforward, simple, and economical, and ideal for paper film and foil converting, printing, label making, direct mailing and fulfillment operations, and wherever trim waste cutters are used.

AirTrim Sharpening Service

Upon receiving cutters (without motors) along with 2-3 feet of material, AirTrim engineers will examine the cutter and advise if additional work is beneficial. They will then sharpen both the rotor and fixed blades to create a new cutting edge, reassemble the cutter with new bearings, and reset the cutter blade to cut the supplied material. The old bearings will be returned along with the cut bag sample along with the reconditioned cutting unit. AirTrim will also enroll interested parties in their reminder service for future cutter maintenance and provide a rugged, compact wooden shipping container for future trim cutter sharpening if desired.

AirTrim ACSP is a just one aspect of the full scope of services provided for trim waste cutters. Cutter Sharpening is provided with industry leading lead times and is backed by the industry’s strongest warranty. For additional information on ACSP or other AirTrim products or services visit https://airtrim.com/services/#Trim-cutter-repair.

AirTrim, Inc., is a leader in designing, building, and installing pneumatic material handling systems for United States and Canadian customers.  From a centrally located New Carlisle, OH headquarters, they develop systems for a wide range of industries, including converting, food processing, fulfillment (digital printing), labelling, non-wovens and textiles, paper and tissue mills, printing, packaging, pharmaceutical and medical, plastics, recycling, and more.   They evaluate each application individually to provide transmission and containment ideally suited for that situation.  For additional information visit www.airtrim.com

Posted: January 16, 2024

Source: AirTrim, Inc.

ASRV And Hyosung Collaborate On Activewear Brand’s New 2023 Winter Collection

SEOUL, South Korea — January 16, 2024 — Always in search of the most advanced textiles to surprise and anticipate consumer needs, California-based ASRV, a premium, technical activewear brand that pushes the bounds of performance and style, has adopted Hyosung’s CREORA® Aerosilver technology into its newly released 2023 Winter collection.

CREORA Aerosilver is a functional polyester yarn that contains silver ions built into the fiber, which inhibits the proliferation and growth of microorganisms or bacteria harmful to the human body, providing long-lasting freshness.

ASRV, a men’s-only brand recognized for incorporating unseen technology to enhance their apparel, has chosen CREORA Aerosilver as a key performance ingredient for its Winter 2023 Collection of Tech-Terry™, Nano-Mesh, and Silver-Lite™ apparel to include hoodies, cargo joggers, sweats, tees, and shirts.

“ASRV is an innovative brand that is passionate about delivering only the best apparel when it comes to design, performance, comfort, and style in the activewear space,” said Laura Nilo, Hyosung US marketing manager – West Coast Lead. “We are thrilled to have collaborated on its Winter 2023 collection and look forward to furthering our partnership. ASRV is continually innovating to bring fresh new performance aesthetics by adopting more Hyosung multi-function fibers in future seasons.”

The vast majority of ASRV’s products are developed by its manufacturing and production team in South Korea, where they take part in a longstanding cultural tradition of premium craftsmanship. South Korea also has many specialized fabric mills, where ASRV can work with the teams to develop its custom technical materials and collaborating closely with Hyosung is the reason ASRV is able to innovate such unique products while maintaining its rigorous standards.

More information about the ASRV 2023 Base Layer Collection with CREORA® Areosilver can be found online here: https://asrv.com/collections/silver-lite-2-0

Posted: January 16, 2024

Source: Hyosung

Leggett & Platt Announces Restructuring Plan To Drive Improved Performance And Profitable Growth

CARTHAGE, Mo. — January 16, 2024 — Diversified manufacturer Leggett & Platt announced that it is implementing a Restructuring Plan primarily in its Bedding Products segment and to a lesser extent, in its Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products segment. In response to evolving markets, the company is taking actions to improve manufacturing and distribution efficiency, advance its product strategy, and further support customer needs. These actions are expected to generate $40 to $50 million in EBIT benefit on an annualized run-rate basis when fully implemented in late 2025.

President and CEO Mitch Dolloff commented: “We are taking actions to create a more focused, agile organization with a portfolio of products and operating footprint aligned with the markets we serve. The bedding market has experienced unprecedented change in recent years and the competitive landscape has continued to evolve. Reshaping our Bedding Products strategy is expected to better position us for long-term success as the leading provider of bedding solutions across the value chain. In addition, optimizing our operating footprint in both Bedding Products and Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products will reduce complexity and enhance the efficiency of our business. Looking forward, we expect to advance key product growth, improve profitability, and drive enhanced value for customers and shareholders.”

Overview Of Initiatives
The major Bedding Products initiatives that are part of the Restructuring Plan include:

  • Refocusing Strategy: We are continuing to reshape our Bedding Products business to focus on innovative, higher-value content, driven by customer and end-consumer needs. We are proud of our long history of providing product solutions our customers value and see further opportunities to do so in both innersprings and specialty foam, from components to private label finished goods.
  • Optimizing Manufacturing and Distribution Footprint: We plan to consolidate certain locations across the Bedding Products segment, reducing our manufacturing and distribution footprint of 50 facilities to approximately 30 to 35 facilities. Creating a new and more efficient regional distribution network will support our ability to maintain sufficient manufacturing capacity in fewer, higher-output facilities to effectively serve our customers and better align with anticipated future market demand. These actions should allow us to integrate our specialty foam and innerspring capabilities while maintaining market- leading service and product quality levels and improving overall efficiency.

The initiatives outlined above are expected to enable profitable growth through expanded product capabilities and increased content at attractive price points, reduce costs, and create shareholder value.

In Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products we plan to consolidate a small number of production facilities in Home Furniture and Flooring Products to better align capacity with regional demand and drive operating efficiencies.

Financial Impact
In total, the initiatives are expected to reduce annual sales by approximately $100 million and generate $40 to $50 million in EBIT benefit on an annualized run-rate basis when fully implemented in late 2025, with some of the benefit starting to be realized in the second half of 2024. Additionally, we anticipate receiving approximately $60 to $80 million in net cash proceeds from the sale of real estate associated with the initiatives, with transactions largely complete by the end of 2025.

We expect to incur restructuring and restructuring-related costs of $65 to $85 million, of which approximately half are anticipated to be incurred in 2024 and the remainder in 2025. This includes $30 to $40 million in cash costs, the majority of which are anticipated to be incurred in 2024. In the first half of 2024, we anticipate $20 to $25 million of restructuring and restructuring-related costs (approximately half in cash costs).

Long-Term Financial Targets

In connection with the Restructuring Plan, we are withdrawing our previously stated Total Shareholder Return goal of 11–14% and financial targets, including revenue growth, EBIT margin, and dividend payout ratio. Revised financial targets will be issued at a future date. We are not changing our objectives of maintaining our investment grade debt ratings and our current dividend practices.

Fourth Quarter 2023 Impairment Charge

In addition, but unrelated to the Restructuring Plan, we are impairing an estimated $450 million of long-lived assets (primarily intangibles) associated with prior year acquisitions in the Bedding Products segment. Prolonged weak demand and changing market dynamics have created disruption and financial instability for some of our customers. As a result, recent efforts by certain customers to improve their financial position are expected to reduce our future sales and earnings. We are not otherwise updating guidance for, or reporting upon, our fourth quarter 2023 or full year 2023 financial results. These financial results and 2024 full year guidance will be released on February 8, 2024.

Posted: January 16, 2024

Source: Leggett & Platt Inc.

Braskem And WEAV3D Automotive Component To Showcase At The 2024 JEC World Trade Show In Paris, France, March 5-7, 2024

PHILADELPHIA — January 16, 2024 — Braskem in partnership with WEAV3D Inc., an advanced manufacturing and materials startup, today announced that their innovative automotive door component prototype was selected as one of three finalists in the Automotive and Road Transportation – Process category of the JEC Composites Innovation Awards 2024.

The combination of WEAV3D composite lattice reinforcement with Braskem PP enables lighter and less expensive thermoplastic solutions than conventional organosheet, unlocking new opportunities for the cost-effective replacement of sheet metal structures with thermoplastics throughout the vehicle.

“We continue to be very excited to offer our clients innovations and partnerships around high-performance polypropylene materials utilizing the WEAV3D lattice technology after launching this project in 2023. We are honored to be recognized as a finalist for the JEC World Innovation Awards. As the automotive industry continues to roll out new electric vehicle designs, it requires automakers to re-think the vehicle design with cutting-edge performance materials and consider more sustainable end-of-life solutions. The initial conversion process focus has been on thermoforming to leverage large parts production; however, the WEAV3D technology can also be applied to injection molding of more complex parts. With significant improvements in lightweighting, reduced costs, and higher material efficiency, combining Braskem’s PP portfolio with WEAV3D composite lattices provides a ‘win-win’ in terms of enhanced material performance and a more sustainable environmental impact, including the integration of natural fiber options,” said Amanda Zani, Technology Platform manager, Braskem.

Benefits of using WEAV3D’s Rebar for Plastics® and Braskem Polypropylene vs. conventional composite organosheet:

  • LIGHTWEIGHT – Reduces sheet blank weight by ~50 percent and final part weight by ~23 percent;
  • COST EFFECTIVE – Reduces costs by ~50 percent; and
  • EFFICIENT – Increases sheet yield from 25 to 45 percent by weight, resulting in a 62-percent reduction in trim waste

“WEAV3D and Braskem are demonstrating the significant potential of the WEAV3D lattice material with this automotive door prototype and we are thrilled to be selected a finalist by the Innovation Awards jury,” said Chris Oberste, president of WEAV3D. “Thanks to the simulation workflow developed in collaboration with Altair Engineering, we were able to optimize the lattice structure for cost and performance, while still using the original organosheet tooling and forming process equipment at the Clemson Composites Center at Clemson University.”

Winners of the JEC Composites Award 2024 will be announced during an online award ceremony on February 8, 2024, between 13:30 and 15:30 CET, accessible at www.jec-world.events. The Braskem-WEAV3D prototype part will also be on display in the JEC Innovation Planets section of JEC World, held in Paris, France from March 5-7, 2024. Visit WEAV3D’s booth 6P32e in the American Pavilion to learn more about the prototype part.

Posted: January 16, 2024

Source: BRASKEM North America

PFI Confirms: Water-Based Technology From Trans-Textil And Covestro Is Free Of Animal Components

FREILASSING / LEVERKUSEN, Germany — January 16, 2024 — High technical, ecological and ethical standards in an extremely individual product design are the basic idea of AQUAIR®, which is now supplemented by the “100% Vegan” seal. The standard of the Pirmasens Testing and Research Institute (PFI) is awarded if the product, its ingredients and the manufacturing process are verifiably vegan and not of animal origin. Compliance with the criteria is checked by the institute, confirmed by laboratory tests if necessary and monitored regularly.

“The vegan idea fits perfectly into the overall concept of AQUAIR and is a logical further development for us,” says Matthias Krings, managing director of Trans-Textil GmbH. Performance and responsible product design in all steps form the basis of the highly breathable overall system. The starting point is the synthetic layer, which can be individually designed in terms of color and grain.

Breathable, water-based AQUAIR® textile systems from Trans-Textil are based on Covestro’s aqueous INSQIN® technology and have been awarded the “100% Vegan” seal by the Pirmasens Testing and Research Institute. © Trans-Textil

“The microporous PU system is based on our aqueous and more sustainable INSQIN® technology, with which the production of coated textiles also requires up to 95 percent less water and 50 percent less energy compared to conventional production processes,” explained Dr. Torsten Pohl, head of Global Textile Coatings at Covestro. In combination with the technologies from Trans-Textil, this results in unique properties with a wearing comfort and functionalities that raise the standard of synthetics to a new level and are now also verifiably vegan according to the PFI standard.

In addition to textile substrates, the test seal also included waterproof, breathable Topaz membrane systems based on polyurethane (PU) and polyester (PES), so that there is a great deal of creative freedom in product design with regard to structure, coloring and technical properties. The PU hotmelt systems used to manufacture the multi-layer composite products, which are applied at Trans-Textil using the high-quality and durable Point-in-Point® lamination technology, have also been vegan tested. Water-repellent properties are already integrated in AQUAIR and no additives need to be added which are currently often viewed critically. All components and process steps are also tested according to Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX® for processing without harmful ingredients.

In a regional and responsibly designed supply chain, breathable synthetic products “Made in Germany” are created with AQUAIR® for the design of shoe components, leisure, sports and outdoor clothing, bags and accessories as well as for use in functional upholstery and furniture – even for small series or samples. The production as roll goods is the basis for an optimal use of material in the manufacture. If required, compatible Topaz tapes are available for seam sealing, which are also based on water-based formulation components.

Posted: January 16, 2024

Source: Trans-Textil GmbH / Covestro AG

Preparation Begins For The 63nd Dornbirn GFC Global Fiber Congress 11 – 13 September 2024, Dornbirn Austria

DORNBIRN, Austria — January 16, 2024 — The experiences, impressions and feedback from the last Dornbirn GFC form the basis for planning the next Global Fiber Congress. This will take place in its usual form from September 11 – 13, 2024, in the Kulturhaus Dornbirn, Austria. The presentation topics for the 63rd Dornbirn GFC 2024 are unusual, new and innovative. The submission deadline for technical presentations is February 15, 2024, on the newly developed registration platform: www.dornbirn-gfc.com

Call for Papers 2024

The Dornbirn GFC 2024 has set itself the goal of meeting the requirements of the fiber industry. Fast-paced developments, technical challenges and, last but not least, the extensive legal requirements are incorporated into the program design. Therefore, the Dornbirn GFC team developed an innovative categorization and division of the subject areas in cooperation with the Programme Committee members.

Presentations can be submitted in these categories:

  • Fiber Innovations;
  • Circular Economy & Recycling & Sustainability;
  • Energy Solutions; and
  • Emerging Technologies.

Fiber Innovation

The fiber innovation category continues to be the main focus of the Dornbirn GFC and includes all applications such as apparel, home textiles, automotive, technical textiles, etc. Nonwoven applications are also part of this category, as they have a high innovation potential. Presentations in the areas of natural fibers such as cotton, wool and others will enrich the holistic approach to fibers. Raw materials for man-made fiber production such as pulp and precursors for synthetic fibers expand the fiber innovation category. In summary, presentations can be submitted in the areas of biopolymers, biomaterials, new process technologies, natural fibers, surface modification, raw materials, e.g. cellulose, polyester, etc.

Circular Economy & Recycling & Sustainability

Due to the increasing awareness of climate change, the implementation of the “Green Deal” and the set goals for sustainable development, this topic has gained enormous importance over the years. The challenges facing the fiber industry are enormous. These concern the sustainability of textiles and nonwovens, new and future sorting and separation technologies and mechanical and chemical recycling.

Energy solutions

The energy factor is becoming increasingly important for the entire value chain in terms of costs and sustainability. The Dornbirn GFC 2024 focuses on energy innovations. Fibers are used in the areas of energy generation, energy storage and energy efficiency.

Up-and-coming technology

The topics of digitalization, artificial intelligence, transparency and traceability of fibers are becoming increasingly important in the value chain. New technologies, new approaches and new ways of thinking in the fiber industry find their place in this category.

4th Dornbirn GFC Innovation Days: Call for Papers 2024

The Dornbirn GFC is a great opportunity for innovators to meet the key players in the fiber and textile industry. With its focus on innovation and research, the congress offers an inspiring environment for high-quality contacts. A total of 25 innovative companies and start-ups — from the 1st – 3rd or later stage — can apply to be part of the 4th Dornbirn GFC Innovation Days.

  • Which innovative technological solutions have already established in the market?
  • Do you recognize industry trends and would you like to involve your innovation?
  • Can you make a contribution with your innovation and support the fiber and textile industry with sustainable solutions?
  • Which research activities are currently particularly promising?

If you can answer one of these questions with “yes”, then the 4th Dornbirn GFC Innovation Days is the right place for your company. Take the opportunity for the benefit of the future and become part of the Dornbirn GFC community.

This offer is on available to innovators:

  • Touch Point in the Foje of the Kulturhaus
  • Lecture of 20 minutes
  • Free conference ticket
  • Networking with international fiber producers, processors, machine builders
  • Invitation to the gala evening
  • Invitation to the speakers’ evening

The Dornbirn GFC team looks forward to receiving your application! Registration deadline: March 31, 2024
Contact and information: office@dornbirn-gfc.com, Ms. Sonja Spöcker

Posted: January 16, 2024

Source: Dornbirn GFC Global Fiber Congress

ZymoChem Secures $21 Million Series A Funding Round Led By Breakout Ventures With New Investments From Lululemon And Toyota Ventures

SAN LEANDRO, Calif. — January 16, 2024 — ZymoChem, creator of a carbon-efficient bio-manufacturing platform, closed a $21 million Series A round. The investment is led by Breakout Ventures with participation from new investors including lululemon athletica inc. and Toyota Ventures, and existing investors including GS Futures, KdT Ventures, and Cavallo Ventures. By pairing this financing with existing revenues from commercial partnerships and funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, ZymoChem will launch its first high-performance material and advance its first partnered product to commercial scale.

To help address the climate crisis, ZymoChem rethinks how everyday products, from personal hygiene items to textiles, are produced. ZymoChem redesigns manufacturing with products that do not come from fossil fuels, require carbon-intensive production, or persist for generations. Improving sustainability within manufacturing via ZymoChem’s patented technology is what interested Toyota Ventures. ZymoChem’s approach also aligns well with lululemon’s goal of improving sustainability within its product portfolio.


Harshal Chokhawalla
Harshal Chokhawala, Co-Founder and CEO

“We’re upending the materials industry,” said Harshal Chokhawala, co-founder and CEO. “Our technology delivers sustainability without compromising performance, scale, and importantly economics. This unlock already catalyzed multiple partnerships with world-leading companies and we’re thrilled to expand our impact with our key stakeholders.”

ZymoChem accelerates a real-zero economy by relieving carbon emissions in product development, use, and end of life through:

  • Platform Approach: Converting renewable feedstocks into a variety of high-performance, bio-based, biodegradable polymers.
  • Patented, Carbon-Efficient Bio-manufacturing: Creating materials with near-zero CO2 emissions via a proprietary fermentation process.
  • Superior Economics: Improving yield by up to 50% versus alternative processes, creating a dramatic cost advantage.
  • Visionary Partnerships: Promoting benefits of bio-based manufacturing by partnering with stakeholders across the value chain with drop-in solutions for their existing infrastructure.

“ZymoChem has the most compelling technology we’ve seen to scale bio-based chemicals and materials while remaining cost competitive with petroleum-derived products,” said Lindy Fishburne, managing partner at Breakout.

Posted: January 16, 2024

Source: ZymoChem

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