A stable, reactive, and cost-effective ruthenium catalyst for sustainable hydrogen production through proton exchange membrane water electrolysis has been developed by researchers
TW Special Report
Sustainable electrolysis for green hydrogen production is challenging, primarily due to the absence of efficient, low-cost, and stable catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction in acidic solutions. A team of researchers has now developed a ruthenium catalyst by doping it with zinc, resulting in enhanced stability and reactivity compared to its commercial version. The proposed strategy can revolutionize hydrogen production by paving the way for next generation electrocatalysts that contribute to clean energy technologies.
Electrolysis is a process that uses electricity to create hydrogen and oxygen molecules from water. The use of proton exchange membrane (PEM) and renewable energy for water electrolysis is widely regarded as a sustainable method for hydrogen production. However, a challenge in advancing PEM water electrolysis technology is the lack of efficient, low-cost, and stable catalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in acidic solutions during PEM water electrolysis. While iridium-based catalysts are a potential solution, metallic iridium is rare and expensive in nature. Alternately, oxides of ruthenium (RuO2) offer a more affordable and reactive option, but they also suffer from stability issues. Therefore, researchers are exploring ways to improve the stability of the RuO2 structure to develop promising OER catalysts for the successful implementation of the hydrogen production technology.
Now, at study to be published in Volume 88 of the Journal of Energy Chemistry in January 2024, a group of researchers, led by Professor Haeseong Jang from the Department of Advanced Materials Engineering at Chung-Ang University, has developed a promising OER catalyst. Denoted as SA Zn-RuO2, the catalyst comprises of RuO2 stabilized by single atoms of zinc. Elaborating about their study, Professor Jang said: “We were motivated by the need to find efficient and cost-effective alternative electrocatalysts for OER in PEM water electrolysis. Based on our study, we propose a dual-engineering strategy, involving single atom Zn doping and the introduction of oxygen vacancies, to balance high catalytic activity with stability during acidic OER.”
The researchers synthesized SA Zn-RuO2 by heating an organic framework with ruthenium (Ru) and zinc atoms, forming a structure with oxygen vacancies (missing oxygen atoms that positively alter the properties) and Zn-O-Ru linkages. These linkages stabilize the catalyst in two ways — one, by strengthening the Ru-O bonds, and second, by providing electrons from zinc atoms to protect ruthenium from overoxidation during the OER process. Furthermore, the improved electronic environment around the ruthenium atoms lowers the energies needed for molecules to stick to the surface, thus lowering the energy barrier for the reaction.
The resulting catalyst was more stable, with no apparent fall in reactivity, and significantly outperformed commercial RuO2. Moreover, it required less extra energy (low overpotential of 213 mV compared to 270 mV for commercial RuO2) and remained functional for a longer period (43 hours compared to 7.4 hours for commercial RuO2).
Due to its improved stability and features, the newly proposed SA Zn-RuO2 catalyst has the potential to influence the development of cost-effective, active, and acid-resistant electrocatalysts for OER. This, in turn, could help in reducing costs and enhancing the production of green hydrogen, aiding in a shift toward cleaner energy sources and advancements in sustainable technologies.
“We believe that this shift can revolutionize industries, transportation, and energy infrastructure, and contribute to the efforts aimed at combating climate change and fostering a more resilient and environmentally conscious future. This is because accessible green hydrogen can have a transformative impact on societies by mitigating environmental impacts, creating jobs, and ensuring energy security through diversified and sustainable energy solutions,” envisions Professor Jang.
In summary, the highly reactive and catalytically stable RuO2 catalyst for the acidic OER has increased durability and favorable characteristics, and holds immense potential for guiding the design of robust and active non-iridium-based OER electrocatalysts for practical applications!
Reference
Title of original paper: Tuning electronic structure of RuO2 by single atom Zn and oxygen vacancies to boost oxygen evolution reaction in acidic medium
GASTONIA, N.C. — January 31, 2024 — Champion Thread Company, a provider of industrial sewing threads, engineered yarns, and other trim & findings, is celebrating its 45 Years of Service to the Textile and Sewn Products Industries.
“For 45 years, we have demonstrated unwavering commitment to excellence and dedication to our customers,” said CTC President Matt Poovey.
Thanks to a loyal and fast-growing customer base, CTC has expanded from its roots as a small thread distributor into a developer, manufacturer, and marketer of a wide range of products and solutions that are sold on four continents.
Some major CTC milestones include:
1979 – Founded by current CEO Bob Poovey
1999 – Moved/expanded corporate office
2007 – Strategic thread manufacturer acquisition
2009 – Started engineered yarn business
2011 – Opened state-of-the-art flexible mfg facility
2014 – Expanded and opened current HQ location
2016 – Matt Poovey promoted to President
2018 – Opened new warehouse/distribution facility
2019 – Celebrated 40 years of industry service
2020 – Jim Lee promoted to Vice President of Sales
2021 – Launched Renu™ line of 100% recycled thread
2023 – Opened new South Carolina dyehouse
2024 – Celebrating 45 years in business
“Since our founding, we have remained family-owned and operated, and take pride in offering the highest quality goods, competitive prices, and unmatched industry expertise,” Poovey said. “Champion Thread’s longevity in the market can be attributed to our ability to adapt and innovate, while always staying true to our core values. Our understanding of the industry has allowed us to consistently deliver superior products that meet the ever-evolving needs of our customers.”
MILAN — January 31, 2024 — Ermenegildo Zegna N.V. (Zegna Group), owner of the ZEGNA and Thom Browne brands and exclusive licensee for the Tom Ford Fashion business, today announced preliminary unaudited revenues of 1.9 billion euros for the full year 2023, up 27.6 percent year-over-year and up 29.7 percent year-over-year on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 19.3 percent. Revenues for the fourth quarter of 2023 were 570 million euros, up 40.1 percent year-over-year and up 42.9 percent year-over-year on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 19.6 percent.
Ermenegildo “Gildo” Zegna, Chairman and CEO of the Zegna Group, said: “I am very proud of the Group’s success over the past year, which is demonstrated by our strong and continued revenues growth. The significant increase in our revenues in 2023, and especially from our network of directly operated stores, is a clear indication that demand for our brands remains healthy, and that we are successfully executing our strategy to increase their desirability and solidify their position as leaders in the luxury market. The continuing improvement in the ZEGNA brand productivity, in particular, is a testament to the strength of our execution, supported by our successful merchandising and CRM. Our integrated supply chain benefits all three of our brands and drives ZEGNA’s leadership in Made-to-Measure and product customization. We are focused on further enhancing our Made-to-Measure and personalization offering with the introduction and ongoing rollout of ZEGNA X, which is empowering our style advisors to further serve our customers using the latest technology.”
Ermenegildo Zegna, Chairman and CEO of Ermenegildo Zegna Group , at the Group’s headquarters, in Milan, Italy, Wednesday, July, 12, 2023. – Francesca Volpi for Financial Times
“While we have seen broad-based strength, I am particularly pleased by the continued growth in EMEA and the very positive performance in the US, which was driven by strong double-digit ZEGNA sales via the retail channel. These strengths, coupled with the rebound in the Greater China Region, are testaments to the soundness of our long-term strategy. Our performance across all our key geographies reflects the plans we set out at our second Capital Markets Day at the NYSE in December 2023 and charts a path forward to reach our medium- term goals even in an environment that remains challenging, with the invaluable contributions of our management team and all our employees across the Group and its brands.”
Recent Highlights
ZEGNA Renews Eyewear Partnership with Marcolin — On January 30, 2024, ZEGNA announced the renewal of its licensing agreement with Marcolin to produce of ZEGNA-branded eyewear, which will now continue through the end of 2030. The renewal continues the strong partnership built between the companies since it was launched in 2015.
ZEGNA 2024 Milan Men’s Fashion Week Show — On January 15, 2024, ZEGNA transformed a large industrial space into an “Oasi of Cashmere” for its Fall 2024 Men’s fashion show in Milan. The presentation showcased new designs from artistic director Alessandro Sartori for the brand’s Oasi Cashmere collection, focusing on elements that can be combined in many ways to reflect each customer’s sense of style. The collection was incredibly well received and praised for the way in which it brought high-quality raw materials to life.
ZEGNA Begins Direct Operations of its Business in Korea — Pursuant to the agreement announced on October 24, 2023 between ZEGNA and its South Korean franchise partner, as of January 1, 2024, the Group began directly operating the ZEGNA Business in South Korea. This involved the conversion of the 16 ZEGNA stores in the region to direct-to-consumer points of sale.
ZEGNA Signs New License Agreement for Fragrances and Cosmetics — On November 6, 2023, ZEGNA announced a long-term license agreement with Give Back Beauty for the creation, production, marketing and distribution of fragrances and cosmetics products under the ZEGNA brand worldwide.
Upcoming TOM FORD FASHION and Thom Browne Fashion Shows — Thom Browne’s FW24 Fashion Show in set to take place in New York on February 14, 2024, and the TOM FORD FASHION FW24 Fashion Show will take place in Milan on February 22, 2024.
Review of Preliminary Unaudited Revenues for the Full Year 2023 and the Fourth Quarter of 2023
For the full year 2023, Zegna Group generated revenues of €1,905 million, an increase of 27.6% year-over-year. On a constant currency basis, revenues grew by 29.7% year-over-year, with an organic growth rate of 19.3%. In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Group generated revenues of €570 million, an increase of 40.1% year-over-year. On a constant currency basis, revenues grew by 42.9%, with an organic growth rate of 19.6% for the period. Revenues growth in the fourth quarter of 2023 accelerated from the 20.8% year-over-year growth reported in the third quarter of 2023 (on a constant currency basis, revenues growth was 25.0% in the third quarter, with an organic growth rate of 11.3% for the same period).
Revenues by Segment
Zegna Segment4: For the full year 2023, revenues for the Zegna segment amounted to €1,322 million, up 12.4% year-over-year and 13.8% year-over-year on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 19.5%. Revenues for the fourth quarter of 2023 were €385 million, up 15.2% year-over-year and up 17.0% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 18.2%. The ZEGNA brand’s strong direct-to-consumer (“DTC”) strategy continued to drive revenues for the segment, more than offsetting lower wholesale revenues that resulted from the planned change to a new drop-based merchandising strategy, whereby some Spring/Summer 2024 deliveries were purposely shifted from 4Q 2023 to 1Q 2024.
Thom Browne Segment: For the full year 2023, revenues for the Thom Browne segment amounted to €380 million, up 14.9% year-over- year and up 18.3% year-over-year on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 17.8% for the year. Revenues for the fourth quarter came in at €99 million, up 30.2% year-over-year and 35.0% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 24.6%. The fourth quarter growth reflected the expansion in the brand’s direct-to-consumer channel, as well as strong wholesale deliveries compared to the low base of 4Q 2022, which was due to a different timing of shipments during the course of 2022, when compared to 2023.
Tom Ford Fashion Segment4: Revenues for the Tom Ford Fashion segment since its consolidation on April 29, 2023, came in at €236 million, of which €97 million was recognized in the fourth quarter of the year, reflecting strong performance during the holiday season.
Inter segment eliminations grew from -€15 million in FY 2022 to -€33 million in FY 2023 mainly as a result of the acquisition of TFI since Tom Ford products revenues, previously recorded in Third Party Brands, are recorded as intercompany starting from April 29, 2023.
Revenues by Product Line
Zegna-Branded Products: For the full year 2023, revenues for Zegna-branded products were €1,109 million, up 20.1% year-over-year and up 22.3% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 22.3%. Revenues for 4Q 2023 were €326 million, up 18.8% year-over-year and up 20.9% on a constant currency and organic growth basis. In 2023, luxury leisurewear revenues grew at a faster rate than the brand’s average and now constitute approximately 50% of Zegna-branded product revenues. Footwear also outperformed the brand’s average growth rate and now make up 13% of product line revenues, while formalwear and MTM also continued to see dynamic growth. The growth in Zegna-branded products reflects the desirability of the brand and the strong appeal of luxury leisurewear and shoes supports the Group’s strategy to meet changing consumer needs, while maintaining focus on quality.
Thom Browne: For the full year 2023, revenues for the Thom Browne product line were €378 million, up 14.7% year-over-year and up 18.0% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 17.5%. Revenues for 4Q 2023 came in at €98 million, up 29.9% year- over-year and up 34.8% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 24.3%. The strong growth came on the back of the brand’s DTC expansion strategy, as well as from the focus on womenswear, which continues to grow at a faster pace and reached 30% of the total Thom Browne’s revenues in FY 2023.
Tom Ford Fashion: For the full year 2023, revenues for the Tom Ford Fashion product line, calculated as of its consolidation on April 29, 2023, came in at €236 million. Revenues for 4Q 2023 came in at €97 million.
Textile: For the full year 2023, revenues for the Group’s Textile product line amounted to €151 million, up 10.4% year-over-year and up 9.4% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 9.5%. 4Q 2023 revenues were €42 million, up 13.1% year-over-year and up 12.0% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 12.1%. The double-digit growth in Textile revenues was supported in particular by Lanificio Zegna.
Third-Party Brands: For the full year 2023, revenues for the Third-Party Brands product line were €25 million, down 74.1% year-over- year and down 74.2% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of -17.4%. 4Q 2023 revenues came in at €5 million, down 70.6% year-over-year and down 69.9% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of -33.5%. The revenues of the Third- Party Brands product line was impacted by the end of the distribution licensing agreement for Tom Ford International5.
Revenues by Channel
Direct-to-Consumer (DTC): DTC revenues for the full year 2023 amounted to €1,265 million, up 37.8% year-over-year and up 42.1% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 24.5%. DTC revenues made up 66.4% of Group revenues in FY 2023, up from 61.5% in FY 2022. Of that, €945 million came in from Zegna-branded products, up 22.4% year-over-year and up 25.4% on a constant currency basis and organic growth. This reflects strong double-digit growth across all markets thanks to significant productivity gains in all the quarters of the year, and the contribution of 14 net DTC openings to reach a total of 253 DTC monobrand stores as of December 31, 2023. Revenues from Thom Browne DTC amounted to €183 million, up 25.9% year-over-year and up 34.1% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 19.7%, reflecting, among other factors, the shift of the South Korean business from wholesale to DTC and an additional six net new openings to reach a total of 86 DTC monobrand stores as of December 31, 2023. Tom Ford Fashion contributed €136 million in DTC revenues since its consolidation on April 29, 2023.
For 4Q 2023, DTC revenues amounted to €400 million, up a significant 46.3% year-over-year and up 50.6% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 24.3%. This represented an acceleration from the third quarter organic growth rate of 12.9%, mainly driven by the ZEGNA brand. Zegna-branded products contributed €284 million in DTC revenues in 4Q 2023, up 23.4% year-over-year and up 26.3% on a constant currency and organic growth basis (compared with 14.0% in 3Q 2023), sustained by strong double-digit same store sales growth in most geographies, including a nearly 40% increase in the Greater China Region. DTC revenues for Thom Browne in 4Q 2023 came in at €57 million, up 33.0% year-over-year and up 41.4% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 13.3%. For 4Q 2023, Tom Ford Fashion DTC revenues were €58 million.
Wholesale: Wholesale revenues for the full year 2023 amounted to €635 million, up 11.3% year-over-year and up 10.7% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 9.6%. Of that, €164 million came in from Zegna-branded products, where wholesale revenues were up 8.4% year-over-year and up 7.0% on a constant currency and organic growth basis. Thom Browne wholesale revenues reflected the conversion of the South Korean points of sales from wholesale to DTC on July 1, 2023, and came in at €195 million for the year, up 5.8% year-over-year and up 6.0% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 15.7%. Since its consolidation on April 29, 2023, Tom Ford Fashion wholesale revenues were €99 million. Third-Party Brands and Textile contributed €176 million, down 24.8% year-over-year and down 25.5% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 5.8%.
For 4Q 2023, Group wholesale revenues came in at €169 million, up 27.6% year-over-year and up 27.5% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 8.9%. Zegna-branded products wholesale revenues for 4Q 2023 amounted to €42 million, down 5.5% year-over- year and down 6.5% on a constant currency and organic growth basis. The drop was mainly attributable to the conversion from wholesale into retail of the Saks Fifth Avenue New York location, and to the planned shift to a drop-based merchandising strategy, whereby a portion of planned Spring/Summer 2024 deliveries were purposely shifted from 4Q 2023 to 1Q 2024. Thom Browne wholesale revenues for 4Q 2023 came in at €41 million, up 25.8% year-over-year and up 26.5% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 39.7%. Thom Browne’s wholesale revenues reflected the low base of 4Q 2022, which was due to a different timing of shipments during the course of 2022, when compared to 2023, while being also affected by the South Korean business being moved from wholesale to retail after its internalization. Tom Ford Fashion wholesale revenues for the quarter came in at €38 million. Third-Party Brands and Textile contributed €48 million in 4Q 2023, down 14.2% year-over-year and down 14.3% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 4.1%.
Revenues by Geography
Revenues for both the full year and the fourth quarter of 2023 were strong across all key geographies, with double-digit growth across all regions compared to 2022. The most significant growth was reported in North America, which saw revenues grow by 41.6% year-over-year for the full year and 60.1% year-over-year for the fourth quarter, also supported by the consolidation of Tom Ford Fashion.
For the full year 2023, revenues in EMEA amounted to €659 million, up 26.6% year-over-year and up 27.7% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 18.8%. 4Q 2023 revenues in EMEA came in at €184 million, up 30.9% year-over-year and up 32.7% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 14.2% supported by the strong growth of the Zegna-branded products in the DTC channel slightly offset by more muted wholesale reflecting the already mentioned new merchandising strategy. Activity in Europe remained dynamic throughout the year reflecting strong activity for both domestic and foreign consumers. The UAE continued to outperform the rest of the region, recording revenues for the full year 2023 and 4Q 2023 of €69 million and €24 million, respectively, up 35.0% year-over-year for the full year and 22.4% year-over-year for the quarter. Growth on a constant currency basis was 38.2% and 26.7%, and organic growth was 30.9% and 20.2%, respectively for the full year and the fourth quarter 2023.
For the full year 2023, revenues in North America came in at €417 million, up 41.6% year-over-year and up 40.4% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 11.4%. Revenues from the U.S. were €385 million, up 42.3% year-over-year and up 40.9% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 10.4%. North America revenues for 4Q 2023 were €132 million, up 60.1% year- over-year and up 60.9% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 3.2%. Of that, the U.S. contributed €125 million, up 63.4% year-over-year and up 64.4% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 4.4%. The organic growth rate was in the high-teens for Zegna-branded products DTC, partly offset by lower wholesale in 4Q 2023, as a result of the impact of the aforementioned shift in wholesale deliveries, and the conversion from wholesale into retail of the Saks Fifth Avenue store in New York. Despite a volatile consumers backdrop, the significant growth in the U.S. – where spending on ZEGNA is almost double pre-pandemic levels – speaks to the success of the ZEGNA One Brand strategy and execution. It is also due to the resilience of the Group’s ultra-luxury offering and the continuing and growing desirability of our brands.
For the full year 2023, revenues in APAC were €788 million, up 22.2% year-over-year and up 27.3% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 23.7%. Of that, €596 million came from the Greater China Region, up 20.5% year-over-year and up 25.7% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 24.2%. Japan also showed significant growth, with revenues of €85 million, up 29.9% year-over-year and up 39.8% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 28.3%. In the fourth quarter, APAC revenues were €241 million, up 39.0% year-over-year and up 44.3% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 32.0%. 4Q 2023 revenues from the Greater China Region amounted to €176 million, up 35.0% year-over-year and up 39.3% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 36.1%, thanks to the ZEGNA One Brand strategy execution and also as a result of the adverse impact of Covid-19-related restrictions in 4Q 2022. 4Q 2023 revenues from Japan came in at €26 million, up 27.0% year-over-year and up 39.6% on a constant currency basis, with an organic growth rate of 20.7%.
For the full year 2023, revenues in Latin America were €38 million, up 25.6% year-over-year and up 16.2% on a constant currency and organic growth basis. 4Q 2023 revenues came in at €13 million, up 29.6% year-over-year and up 20.9% on a constant currency and organic growth basis.
Outlook
At its second Capital Markets Day, held on December 5, 2023, in New York City, the Group announced its updated financial goals for the medium term. Within this time frame, the Group is aiming to deliver over 10% compounded annual revenues growth and an Adjusted EBIT CAGR of around 20%, compared to FY 2023. This is expected to generate significant cash surplus even while taking into consideration higher, targeted investments in marketing and capital expenditure to enhance brand desirability and drive growth. The Group’s medium- term targets assume no major future worsening of the global geopolitical, health, macroeconomic and financial markets situation, and no other unforeseen events.
DECATUR, Ala. — January 29, 2024 — Toray Composite Materials America Inc., a manufacturer of advanced composites, celebrates the commissioning of the upgraded carbon fiber production line in its Decatur, Ala., facility. The $15 million upgrade doubles the production capacity of the TORAYCA™ T1100 carbon fiber and adds critical redundancy to support the rising demand for defense applications. Toray’s T1100 carbon fiber is vital to several United States Department of Defense (DoD) weapons systems and the Future Vertical Lift (FVL) program.
Congressman Dale Strong of the Fifth Congressional District of Alabama delivered the event’s opening remarks and highlighted Toray’s contributions to national defense. “I am thrilled to see Toray’s commitment to investments in Decatur and North Alabama. Toray provides high performance carbon fibers which are critical to our defense industrial base and national security. I want to thank them for their investment in Alabama and wish them continued success,” said Congressman Strong.
Major General Tom O’Connor, commanding general of the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, participated as the featured guest in a policy discussion led by former Commander of the Army Material Command, retired General Paul Kern. The discussion focused on the importance of a strong domestic industrial base following the January 11, 2024 release of the Department of Defense’s inaugural National Defense Industrial Strategy (NDIS).
Other esteemed guests included a cross-section of local and federal government, industry, and academia.
Toray has already begun production utilizing this new capability and are in the process of qualifying the new line with a number of customers. “Our team in Decatur worked tirelessly to advance the commissioning of our upgraded carbon fiber production line to support the strong demand from the defense industry. As the DoD prioritizes developing a resilient supply chain as part of the NDIS, Toray’s focus is to ensure that we are doing our part to produce and increase material availability for various defense programs,” said Dennis Frett, President of Toray Composite Materials America.
Toray is the largest carbon fiber and prepreg producer in the United States. The Decatur Plant has operation lines from precursor to carbon fiber and is one of three Toray manufacturing facilities. The company has other locations in Tacoma, Washington, and Spartanburg, South Carolina, producing precursor, carbon fiber, and prepreg. Toray’s comprehensive portfolio of carbon fiber composite materials supports customers in aerospace and defense, industrial, and automotive industries.
SAN FRANCISCO — January 29, 2024 — Levi Strauss & Co. announced that Michelle Gass has assumed the role of president and CEO, as previously disclosed in December. Gass follows Chip Bergh, who served as the company’s president and CEO for the previous 12.5 years. Gass brings extensive retail and omnichannel experience to LS&Co.’s top job and is expected to drive a strategic vision focused on accelerating international growth, positioning the Levi’s® brand as a head-to-toe denim lifestyle apparel business and transitioning LS&Co.’s operating model to a direct-to-consumer (DTC)-first organization.
Today, Gass announced that LS&Co. is expanding its executive leadership team with two immediate appointments, emphasizing the company’s dedication to pivoting fully to a DTC-first, brand-led business model. Levi’s Chief Marketing Officer Kenny Mitchell and newly promoted Chief Merchandising Officer Dawn Vitale will join the executive leadership team, which, under Gass’ leadership, is responsible for setting the company’s overall direction and overseeing all major strategic, financial and operational decisions. In addition, Gass announced the company’s plans to hire a president and chief commercial officer who will join the executive leadership team and be responsible for shaping our global commercial strategy and accelerating growth and profitability for the Levi’s® brand. These changes reflect Gass’ commitment to prioritizing growth and a consumer-centric approach throughout LS&Co.
“I’m thrilled and honored to guide Levi Strauss & Co. into its next era of growth. LS&Co. is a destination for the very best talent because of its history, its products and its values, and this past year I’ve had the unique opportunity to immerse myself in the business and meet so many members of our exceptional teams around the world. I cannot wait to see what we achieve together,” Gass said. “The addition of Kenny Mitchell and Dawn Vitale, as well as our new CEO of Beyond Yoga, Nancy Green, brings decades more of proven retail and consumer obsession to an already strong executive leadership team. I’m confident we have the right executive team and company strategies to accelerate our pivot to become a high-performing, DTC-first company.”
Kenny Mitchell, Levi’s chief marketing officer: Mitchell brings more than 20 years of global brand-building experience to the Levi’s® brand. He joined LS&Co. in 2023 from Snap, parent company of Snapchat, where he served since 2019 as chief marketing officer and led the growth of the platform’s global community, advertising base and developer partners.
Dawn Vitale, chief merchandising officer: Vitale is an accomplished senior merchandising executive with more than 20 years of experience in apparel category development and market expansion across international wholesale and retail channels. Prior to joining LS&Co. in 2018, she served as vice president of Tommy Jeans and head of merchandising for Calvin Klein jeans at PVH Corp., where she helped to introduce the brands to new consumers and build market share.
ROSEVILLE, Minn. — January 30, 2024 — Despite the threat of high winds, severe thunderstorms and dangerous tornadoes causing some delays with tent installations, Tent Expo 2024 kicked off on January 9 in Daytona, Fla. Over 550 attendees and exhibitors came from as far away as China, Poland and even the United Arab Emirates.
“It was an incredible gathering of tent professionals,” said Nick Deninno, vice chairman of the Tent Rental Division (TRD) Steering Committee and owner of B&R Innovations. “Facing challenging weather while setting up the Tent Expo was tough, especially losing a day of setup. However, after the storm, everyone came together. Manufactures and even attendees pitched in, helping not only their own groups but also competitors. This cooperative spirit truly embodies the essence of ATA.”
On Tuesday evening, the “NextGen/OG” Happy Hour successfully brought together both newer entrants (NextGen) and long-time innovators (OG) in the tent industry. The two groups initially had their own social events and then regrouped to share stories, advice and lots of laughs late into the night.
On both Wednesday and Thursday, the TRD educational seminars provided engaging insights into the latest industry developments, complemented by hands-on training sessions like the Mobile Elevating Work Platform certification and TRD Boot Camp: Training for the tent professional. A noteworthy initiative this year was the collaboration between the TRD and the Common Ground Alliance (“811-Call before you dig”), introducing the “Call before you stake” campaign. This campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of having underground utilities located and marked before installation begins to protect tent crews from serious injury and financial liability.
Wednesday featured the annual Wodetzki Luncheon, where Michael Tharpe, a retired 45-year veteran of the equipment and party rental industry, and Kathy Schaefer, IFM, who is the CEO of Glawe Tent & Awning, were honored with the Bruce W. Wodetzki Award, which is the tent rental industry’s most prestigious honor. The award is named for the founding member and first Chairman of TRD and recognizes professionals who continue his legacy of impacting the growth, direction and success of the tent rental industry. (To read more about this award and this year’s recipients, Visit https://intentsmag.com/2024/01/15/2024-wodetzki/)
The welcome reception on Wednesday night was graciously hosted by InTENTional Systems beneath the company’s striking black and clear top structure. Attendees were treated to delicious hors d’oeuvres and cocktails and seats around numerous campfires to watch the Soap Box Derby qualifying runs. Despite this being the first year of the derby, which was generously sponsored by Elevated Flooring Systems, 16 different teams built and raced their cars for a trophy and, more importantly, bragging rights.
On Thursday there was another full day of education sessions as well as the always popular “Tour of the tents,” followed by the evening’s Party on the Pad hosted by Fred’s Tents and Canopies. Fred’s elevated the experience with its massive black and clear glass garden tent and a lively Jimmy Buffet-themed party that also served as the backdrop for the highly competitive Soapbox Derby Finals.
The results of the derby were as follows:
First place: Event Quip
Second place: “Team Tentske” a.k.a. L&A Tent Rentals Inc.
Third place: “Tent Mafia” a.k.a. Tara and Pat Moughan, Losberger DeBoer; Tommy Wilson, All Occasions Event Rental; George Mahaffey, Sunbelt Temporary Structures; Keith Eismann, Keder Solutions and Phil Heidt, CORT Party Rental
Best in show: “Rolling Thunder” a.k.a. Block & Roll
Going the distance: Event Quip
Better luck next time: Fred’s Tents
“Although the weather for the 2024 TRD Tent Expo at the legendary Daytona International Speedway was a challenge, the show went on to meet and exceed high expectations for this biennial tent and related products showcase,” says TRD Chairman Steve Belliveau of Anchor Industries. “The educational, networking and entertainment opportunities were all very well received, particularly the first of its kind at a tent show-TRD’s own and original Soap Box Derby, which became an instant and huge success.”
Be sure to mark your calendars for January 7-9, 2025, when the TRD Tent Conference will take place in Louisville, Ky. Don’t want to wait that long to receive industry-focused training and education? Check out the next TRD Boot Camp event scheduled for March 6-7, 2024, at Chattanooga Tent & Event Solutions in Chattanooga, Tenn.
Save the date for Tent Conference 2025
Mark your calendar now. The 2025 Tent Conference will be January 7–9 in Louisiville, Ky.
Posted: January 30, 2024
Source: Advanced Textiles Association (ATA)/The Tent Rental Division (TRD)
JYVÄSKYLÄ, Finland — January 30, 2024 The ramp-up of Woodspin’s first factory is progressing. As announced in August, the raw material provider Suzano has been working on the eucalyptus-based micro fibrillated cellulose (MFC) raw material specifications, and now, recent tests have been successful.
“We are pleased that Suzano has passed some important milestones related to the MFC raw material development. Spinnova continues to finalize the fibre and textile material development work so that fibre deliveries from Woodspin to customers, made from Suzano MFC, can begin in the coming months,” explained Spinnova’s CEO Tuomas Oijala.
Spinnova and Suzano continue to work together to improve the efficiency of the production process, and the operating expense and capital expenditure usage of both Suzano’s raw material process and Spinnova’s process, so that Woodspin can move to commercial scale production in future plants.
As announced earlier, the production volumes of Woodspin’s first factory are expected to be limited in the short term as the factory is currently primarily being used for testing MFC batches and optimizing the entire production process. The market opportunity and ambition level with Suzano to scale Woodspin’s production capacity with future plants remains unchanged.
BRADFORD, England — January 30, 2024 — In celebration of its 140th anniversary, Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC) has announced the launch of the Maurice Tordoff Bursary scheme to financially support organisations operating in the dyeing and finishing industry. Applications are now open to coloration professionals who wish to apply for funding through their employer.
The scheme — which will be available to companies globally — will provide 100-percent funded, discretionary bursaries to cover the £12,000 fees to eligible applicants in support of the SDC’s degree-comparable course in Textile Coloration Science and Technology. On completion those taking the course receive the ASDC qualification (Associateship of the Society of Dyers and Colourists) and globally recognized professional status recognition, Chartered Colourist (CCol) – an accreditation recognized all over the world and acts as a ‘stamp of approval’ that establishes graduates in the international community of dyers and colorists.
Established in 1992 in memory of the late Dr. Maurice Tordoff, former chief executive and general secretary of the SDC, the fund exists to provide financial support to students undertaking part-time education in color science and technology.
Up to three of the bursaries will be available each year from 2024-2026. Funding is available to employees within the coloration industry worldwide who are high achievers and performers, working in companies that are not able to fund employee education.
Andrew Filarowski
Andrew Filarowski, technical director of the SDC said: “The society is committed to supporting the coloration industry, especially in these challenging times. We feel that now is the time to plan for the future, and therefore we want to work with employers on upskilling their staff and supporting their future training needs.”
Filarowski continued: “The revised ASDC course, which was piloted in 2017, reflects the modern era that we live in and includes content on the latest technology and trends – allowing our students to progress and provide untold value to their employers.”
Applications will be considered by the SDC’s Bursary Committee, meeting once per year to review and discuss Maurice Tordoff Bursary applications and providing a final outcome decision by July 31 of the intended start year for prospective candidates.
Dr Graham Clayton
Commenting on the newly launched scheme, Dr. Graham Clayton, CEO of the SDC, said: “As the only organization in the world able to offer Chartered Colourist Status (CCol), we’re aware of our responsibility in assisting the sector to innovate and advance. The SDC is proud to be offering such a valuable education annually to three exceptional professionals in memory of Maurice Tordoff, particularly in our 140th year.”
Applications are now open to coloration professionals who wish to apply for funding through their employer, the deadline is 31 May 2024 for the October 2024 intake.
To find out more about the Maurice Tordoff bursary, eligibility criteria and how to apply, please visit https://sdc.org.uk/maurice-tordoff-asdc-bursary-fund/.
OBERTSHAUSEN, Germany — January 30, 2024 — In the ever-evolving world of fashion, staying ahead of the curve and ensuring customers’ creations are unique and trendsetting can be a challenge. Fortunately, technology has come to the rescue, enabling designers to push the boundaries of their creativity. One such game-changing tool in the realm of knitwear is CREATE DESIGN by KM.ON and STOLL, a cutting-edge 2D software for knitwear development that provides data such as DXF shapes, textures and maps that can be used for simulation in any external 3D software.
Advantages of the creative process right from the start
The foundation for any knitwear development can be either the structure or the shape. CREATE DESIGN offers the unique flexibility to choose between the structure and the shape as your foundation, thereby allowing to tailor knitwear designs and explore a wide range of possibilities.
CREATE DESIGN goes beyond standard shape design, taking knitting parameters into consideration. It seamlessly converts centimeters into stitches (meshes), and these conversions are dynamically updated if you change your stitch density. This knitwear-centric approach allows for precise and realistic designs.
Nex generation stitch development
When it comes to Stitch Development, CREATE DESIGN takes the spotlight. The major benefit lies in the software’s ability to provide a real-time preview of how the knitwear structure will look. This allows the customer to see his design come to life as he creates it, ensuring that every stitch is in its right place. In addition to the structure preview in real time, there are other useful features.
Versatile Tools for Structure Creation
CREATE DESIGN offers a wide array of tools at disposal to create intricate and unique knitwear structures. Whether crafting delicate textures or complex patterns are in mind, the software provides the flexibility to explore various design elements, helping you unleash your creativity.
Transforming Images into Jacquard or Intarsia Designs
One of the standout advantages of CREATE DESIGN is the ability to import images and seamlessly transform them into captivating jacquard or intarsia designs. This feature enables you to infuse your knitwear creations with personalized images and patterns, setting your designs apart from the rest.
Stitch and Yarn Simulation
One other remarkable aspect of CREATE DESIGN is its ability to simulate stitches and yarn, enhancing the visualization of your designs. The software facilitates digital yarn creation based on optical parameters, giving you a realistic representation of how your design will look in the final product. Then the customer can export these simulations as textures or maps, making it easier than ever to integrate your designs into 3D software for a lifelike rendering.
Export into 3D
Creating your knitwear designs in CREATE DESIGN is just the beginning. The software enables you to seamlessly export your designs into popular 3D software programs, taking your creations to a whole new dimension.
By integrating your designs into the 3D realm, you can visualize your knitwear in a lifelike environment, bringing your vision to life with stunning realism.
The advantages at a glance
CREATE DESIGN isn’t just a software; it’s an innovative solution for the knitwear industry, and it comes with a multitude of benefits:
Save Time through Fast Digital Design Development: This software significantly speeds up the design development process, allowing the customer to create stunning knitwear designs with greater efficiency.
Reduction of Physical Samples: By providing detailed simulations and design previews, CREATE DESIGN helps the customer reduce the need for physical samples, saving costs, labor, and time.
More Sustainable: Less reliance on physical samples means less waste in production, making the design process more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Improved Communication: The software enhances communication between designers and technicians, ensuring that the designers’ visions are accurately translated into final products.
“CREATE DESIGN can offer a basis for communication with suppliers thanks to the ability to create designs digitally. It offers the possibility to create many variations of shapes, structures, yarns and colours through a realistic stitch simulation. In this way, the software can support the design process and minimize the number of physical samples,” says KM.ON Product Owner Sophie Neff.
Who Can Use the Software?
A large number of users can benefit from the comprehensive advantages offered by CREATE DESIGN.
Fashion Brands Using 3D Software: Fashion brands using 3D software can seamlessly integrate CREATE DESIGN into their workflow to enhance their knitwear offerings.
Self-Employed Knitwear and 3D Designers: Independent designers can leverage the software to unleash their creativity and bring their unique knitwear creations to life.
Knitwear Manufacturers with a Design Department: Manufacturers can streamline their design process, reduce costs, and produce high-quality knitwear with the help of CREATE DESIGN.
Universities with a Textile or Fashion Degree: Educational institutions can use CREATE DESIGN to train the next generation of fashion and textile designers, providing them with cutting-edge tools to excel in the industry.
In a rapidly changing world, embracing technology like CREATE DESIGN is essential for those who want to remain innovative and competitive in the knitwear market.
If you would like to find out more about CREATE DESIGN, you are welcome to request a free, non-binding demo via email at info@kmon.net.
PARIS — January 30, 2024 — TextileGenesis, a Lectra Group company, has announced the launch of two new consortia bringing together players in the footwear and leather industries. TextileGenesis, which has already developed a pioneering solution to ensure the traceability of textile materials, aims to extend its contribution to the emergence of more responsible and sustainable supply chains.
The footwear and leather industries need to improve the traceability of the materials they use.
Nowadays, the supply chains and production systems of the footwear and leather industries are globalized, fragmented and highly complex. They are increasingly facing regulatory and compliance challenges of establishing better traceability of the materials used.
As Amit Gautam, founder and CEO of TextileGenesis, explained: “The number of unique components required to make a single pair of shoes could range from 10 to 50+ parts while leather has an extremely fragmented and opaque upstream supply chain, this exposes these industries to major social and environmental risks. At a time when governments are tightening regulations on traceability and forcing brands to be more transparent, it is imperative that the players in the footwear and leather ecosystems unite to collectively meet these challenges”.
In the fashion sector, TextileGenesis has distinguished itself by giving manufacturers and brands using sustainable textiles access to a reliable, secure and totally digital traceability of the material. Its pioneering traceability mechanism relies on advanced digital-token based traceability technology, digitizing every kilogram of fiber at the point of origin, and a network of material certification partners, as recently illustrated by the launch of eTrackit in partnership with Textile Exchange, and announcement of a memorandum of understanding with the International Cotton Association (ICA).
The TextileGenesis SaaS platform ensures complete traceability of sustainable textiles, guaranteeing their authenticity and provenance at every stage of the supply chain, from fiber to retail. For conventional textiles, the platform also includes a new module that combines a declarative mode with tests on random samples carried out by certified forensic or tracer-testing organizations. The origin and quantities of materials used are identified by tracing the supply chain, from the finished product to the intermediaries involved in its production.
Building on the advances it has made in the fashion industry, the TextileGenesis team is now looking to broaden its scope to help the leather and footwear industries meet the traceability challenges of these two key sectors of the fashion industry.
Greater transparency in the footwear and leather ecosystems
The common objective of the two consortia initiated by TextileGenesis is to encourage the sharing of the information needed to improve the tracking of materials throughout the supply chains of the footwear and leather ecosystems, guaranteeing ethical and sustainable practices. By tracing every component of footwear and leather production, these industries can drive positive change and strengthen the confidence of their consumers and all their stakeholders.
The collaboration of the different stakeholders around a shared traceability platform paves the way for a future where consumers can make informed decisions, where brands can deliver on their commitments, and where both industries can thrive in the long term.
Textile Genesis has brought together a number of key players from fiber producers, material standard organizations, and industry associations such as Lenzing, Coats, Fashion for Food, and the Forest Stewardship Council®. The consortium works in close collaboration with seven leading global fashion brands.
“While, to date, the traceability of the leather value chain remains a complex challenge for the fashion industry, it is essential to ensure that the leather originates from sources free of deforestation. Additionally, with this set to be addressed by the upcoming EUDR legislation, TextileGenesis’ initiative to unite various actors in the supply chain to tackle these complexities comes at an opportune time.” says Katrin Ley, Managing Director, Fashion for Good.
Amit Gautam concludes: “We hope that these initiatives will lead to significant advances in the footwear and leather industries. We are determined to promote greater traceability in the apparel sector and are delighted to be able to contribute, with the creation of these consortiums, to the collective work of all the players in order to move together towards more sustainable production methods”.
A stable, reactive, and cost-effective ruthenium catalyst for sustainable hydrogen production through proton exchange membrane water electrolysis has been developed by researchers
