AstroNova Introduces New Digital Printing Solutions

WEST WARWICK, R.I. — October 16, 2023 — AstroNova Inc., a global supplier of data visualization technologies, has introduced an array of new digital printer solutions under its flagship QuickLabel® and TrojanLabel® product brands.

QuickLabel QL-900: The QL-900 is a rugged desktop inkjet label printer designed for full-color labeling applications. Manufactured at the company’s newly acquired facility in Chicago using proven inkjet technology, the QL-900 enhances AstroNova’s expertise in providing the total printing solution, including supplies such as exclusive supply purchase programs, ongoing technical support, and a variety of label materials and substrates. The QL-900 provides a step up in usability and flexibility in the desktop QuickLabel range, featuring a built-in touchscreen interface, which includes a built-in job library, support for external RIP solution, and visual status of the printer locally (without needing an additional s/w utility installed on the host). The stand-alone capabilities offered through its touchscreen interface and internal job library enable users to easily manage printer setup and print operation.

TrojanLabel T2-PRO: The all-new T2-PRO is the company’s latest addition to its TrojanLabel brand of compact digital label presses targeted toward industrial and professional printing segments. It incorporates Memjet’s Duraflex technology to offer a print width of 12.75” (324 mm) with a high print resolution of 1600×1600 dpi using highly durable aqueous CMYK pigment inks. Its compact footprint (under 40” wide and 59” long) makes it an ideal roll to roll machine for any size print shop and label converters. It can print on a continuous or pre-die-cut media and handle industrial-size label rolls (330 mm wide with 600 mm OD). Setting up is quick and easy; a short media path and long-lasting printheads result in a much superior cost of ownership across all available aqueous inkjet technologies in the market. A high-capacity data pipeline supports real-time variable data printing to support serialization and customization needs.

TrojanLabel T3-PRO: The T3-PRO is a compact CMYK digital print module directed toward OEMs looking to easily integrate a print station into conveyors or transports to offer full-color digital printing solutions for envelopes, corrugated or paperboard printing segments. Using Memjet’s DuraFlex inkjet technology, it provides the capability to print as wide as 12.75” (324 mm) in full color at a top speed of 30 ips (46 m/min).

VF-280 Commercial Vacuum Feeder: The VF-280 is a high-speed commercial vacuum friction feeder designed to handle a variety of materials like bags, envelopes, heavy card stocks, corrugated cardboard, jewel cases, calendars, and sheet stocks. The VF-280, integrated with the TrojanLabel T3-OPX, offers a modular direct-to-package post-printing system that enables high-quality, full-color printing directly onto materials with ink-receptive surfaces. The T3-OPX and VF-280 combination boosts the benefits of digital CMYK printing with flexibility, accelerated time to market, and waste reduction on sustainable and popular paper-based packaging substrates.

AstroNova offers a range of digital label printers, compact presses, and direct-to-package printing equipment under its flagship product brands – QuickLabel and TrojanLabel. It also offers a variety of blank label materials through its GetLabels® brand under its total solution approach to cater to the needs of brand owners and print shops for in-house label production. The company also provides custom design and manufacturing solutions for a range of well-known envelope and label printer brands active in the printing industry.

AstroNova will be exhibiting these products alongside a broad range of digital label printers, envelope printers, and direct-to-package printing solutions at the Printing United Expo in Atlanta, Ga., October 18-20. Stop by booth B19045 for a live demonstration and more information.

Posted: October 13, 2023

Source: AstroNova

Advance Denim To Launch First Denim Collection Made With Gracell® X CIRCULOSE®

STOCKHOLM — October 13, 2023 — Gracell® x CIRCULOSE® is made with a 50-percent blend of CIRCULOSE pulp by fiber producer Grace. The Advance Denim collection is the first to use this high-CIRCULOSE content viscose fiber.

Advance Denim, Grace, and CIRCULOSE have joined forces to accelerate textile circularity within the denim industry. The collaboration marks a significant milestone as Advance Denim is the first to launch a denim collection featuring Gracell x CIRCULOSE viscose made with a 50-percent blend of CIRCULOSE pulp. Premiering at Kingpins Amsterdam next week, this achievement is made possible through Grace’s exceptional determination to commercialize viscose with a higher CIRCULOSE blend and Advance Denim’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of more sustainable denim manufacturing.

CIRCULOSE is the branded dissolving pulp created by Renewcell. The pulp, made of 100-percent recycled textiles, is the feedstock for MMCF and can be blended with wood pulp at the fiber production phase. Gracell is a high-tenacity viscose produced by Yibin Grace, a Canopy green shirt viscose producer.

Two fabrics have been constructed from an innovative blend of cotton, Gracell x CIRCULOSE viscose. The first style is a 10.4 oz super soft comfort stretch with a mixture of cotton, recycled cotton, Gracell x CIRCULOSE, Ecovero, and spandex. The second style is a 9.4 oz performance stretch with cotton, Gracell x CIRCULOSE, recycled cotton, T400, and LYCRA®.

This collaboration builds off Grace’s recent announcement at Intertextile Shanghai that they successfully trialed viscose staple fiber made with a 50-percent blend of CIRCULOSE pulp. Grace has previously collaborated with Renewcell to adopt Next Generation MMCF solutions through the production of recycled cellulose filament yarn made with a 30-percent blend of CIRCULOSE recycled pulp.

Advance Denim’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond this capsule collection, as they have a rich history of championing sustainable practices in the denim industry. Their commitment is reflected in their strategic plan to use over 90 percent of “green” fibers in its product line by 2023 and were the first denim mill in China to obtain GOTS certification. “Green” fibers are defined as being produced under certification standards, including GOTS, Organic Cotton Standard, BCI, or GRS. Furthermore, their dedication to eco-innovation and responsible manufacturing is evident through their efforts to conserve water, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste.

“We value the pace at which this partnership came together as it is evident both Advance Denim and Grace are upholding their commitments to sustainability and that they recognize the urgency for action,” stated Patrik Lundström, CEO of Renewcell.

Amy Wang, general manager of Advance Denim, commented, “Advance Denim is excited to continue its ongoing commitment to sustainable innovation by partnering with Grace to bring this groundbreaking new fiber to the market.”

As vanguards in accelerating textile circularity, Advance Denim, Grace, and CIRCULOSE® are at the forefront of their partnership and will continue to develop solutions to help make fashion circular.

Advance Denim’s capsule collection will be showcased at Kingpins Amsterdam (booth Blue 30) on October 18 and 19, 2023, as well as CIRCULOSE® by Renewcell in special projects (booth Green -G).

Posted: October 13, 2023

Source: Renewcell

Garment Manufacture Pro Sports (Vietnam) Joins The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) As Corporate Member

ZURICH — October 13, 2023 — Pro-Sports is a garment manufacturer located in northern Vietnam that specializes in both woven and knit products with 6,000 employees working in four factories and with a Growth road map for the coming years.

Pro-Sports is dedicated to providing their customers with high-quality, ethically manufactured products at a competitive price. Their primary focus is on producing performance, active, sports, and casual wear that is designed with the utmost care, longevity, and value in mind. Pro-Sports has gained credibility and partnered with a number of global apparel brands from Europe, the United States, Canada, and Asia.

Christian Schindler, director general of ITMF, noted that: “ITMF is proud to welcome Pro Sports as the newest Corporate Member as this further strengthens ITMF’s role as a platform for the global textile value chain from fiber to garment producers. By joining ITMF Pro Sports is providing the ITMF membership with an additional perspective from Vietnam which will be mutually beneficial for everyone.”

Ms. Babita, marketing & sales director of Pro Sports, stated: “Pro Sports is delighted to become a Corporate Member of ITMF as this offers the company an international forum that is providing not only relevant publications but also a unique international network. Both are important to better understand the dynamics of the global textile industry and to connect with partners from the entire value chain to constantly adapt to an ever-changing business environment. Pro Sports is valuing both the tangible and non-tangible benefits ITMF is providing to its members. Connecting with other companies from different industry segments from different countries in a non-competitive environment is important to build trustful networks.”

Posted: October 13, 2023

Source: The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF)

Cotton: A 70-Year Global Journey

By Ehsan Soltani

Cotton is a soft, fluffy staple fiber that grows in a boll or protective sheath around the seeds of the cotton plant. The plant is a shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, and its use for fabric dates back to prehistoric times.

Cotton production accounts for 2.5 percent of the world’s arable land. Until the 1980s, cotton was the dominant fiber, accounting for about half of all textile fiber consumption. However, since the 1980s, consumption of chemical fibers (mainly polyester) has overtaken cotton, and the share of cotton in the total consumption of textile fibers decreased to 24 percent in 2020.

Despite the decline in its market share, cotton remains an important fiber in the global textile industry. It is a versatile fiber that can be used to create a wide range of products, from delicate garments to durable workwear. Cotton is also a sustainable fiber, as it can be grown and processed with minimal environmental impact.

Global cotton production has nearly tripled since the 1950s, reaching a record 25.7 million  metric tons (Mt) in 2021-22. The top four producers, India, China, the United States, and Brazil, accounted for 71 percent of global output, while the next four major producers, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, and Australia, produced 13.1 percent.

India’s cotton production has surpassed China’s since 2015-16. India’s cotton production more than doubled between the 1970s and 1990s, and then increased by 146 percent between the 1990s and 2010s. India is the second-largest consumer and third-largest exporter of cotton in the world, exporting 816 Mt of cotton in 2021-22.

China’s cotton production doubled between the 1970s and 1990s, reaching a peak of 8,070 Mt in 2007-08. However, production declined in the 2010s, falling to 5,730 Mt in 2021-22. China is the world’s largest consumer and importer of cotton, with consumption of 8,200 Mt and imports of 2,520 Mt in 2021-22.

India and China’s share of global cotton production rose from approximately 22 percent in the 1940s-1960s to 36 percent in the 1980s-1990s, and then to 45 percent and 48 percent in the 2000s and 2010s, respectively. The removal of textile and clothing export quotas by the World Trade Organization in 2005 is widely credited with driving this growth.

The United States was once the world’s leading producer of cotton, but China surpassed it in 1982-83. U.S. cotton production increased steadily from 2.7 Mt in the 1940s–1980s to 3.7 Mt and 4 Mt in the 1990s and 2000s, respectively, reaching an all-time high of 5.1 Mt in 2004-05. U.S. cotton exports have exceeded domestic consumption since 2001-02, and the U.S. has been the world’s largest cotton exporter for many years.

Brazil’s cotton production surged by 270 percent between the 1990s and 2010s, reaching 3 Mt in 2019-20. About 60 percent of Brazilian cotton was exported in 2021-22. Cotton production in African countries, including Mali (340 Mt), Benin (332 Mt), Burkina Faso (265 Mt), Côte d’Ivoire (240 Mt), Cameroon (156 Mt), Tanzania (141 Mt), and Sudan (131 Mt), has grown in the past two decades to reach 1,605 Mt in 2021-22.


Editor’s Note: Ehsan Soltani is with West Lebanon, N.H.-based Econovis LLC


October 12, 2023

The Woolmark Co. Calls Time On Misleading Product Names With New Filter By Fabric Initiatitve

TW Special Report

How many times have you been misled by terms like “silky,” “mesh” and “fleece”?

A recent YouGov study shows you are not alone. These ambiguous terms confuse consumers, making it difficult to identify the fibers in the fabric, especially when man-made materials are used to mimic natural fibers in clothing.

The Woolmark Co. has launched the Filter by Fabric initative to end this confusion, urging all fashion brands, retailers, publishers and content creators to commit to clear, honest product names that accurately communicate fabric composition. The campaign also encourages consumers to “Filter by Fabric” when shopping, focusing on the fabric’s impact and empowering them to make more informed and sustainably-conscious decisions.
A recent independent YouGov study reveals 77 percent of people believe clothing brands and retailers should clearly disclose fabric composition. However, this vital information is often hidden, misrepresented or undisclosed.

The same study found that 60 percent  of respondents would find sustainable choices easier if stores included fabric in the product name or allowed customers to filter by fabric.

A Simple Solution

By focusing on fabric consideration as a vital aspect of consumer purchases, Filter by Fabric accelerates the fashion industry’s movement toward transparency and sustainability.
John Roberts, managing director of The Woolmark Co., explained: “We need to clearly communicate the composition of fossil fuel-derived fabrics to prevent consumer deception. This simple, lasting action could initiate a significant transformation in the industry, encouraging transparency, responsibility, and mindful consumerism. Educating consumers is crucial for them to understand the importance of the information on apparel labels, similar to how they interpret food nutrition labels or appliance energy ratings.”

A Call for Real Change

Fashion brands, publishers, content creators and retailers can pledge their commitment at filterbyfabric.com, and consumers can sign the same pledge to demand accurate product labeling.

1. Citizens: Urge Retailers to Include a Filter by Fabric Option
By signing this pledge, you send a powerful message to the fashion industry to adopt truthful product descriptions and a Filter by Fabric option. This action equips shoppers with essential information, promoting transparency and accountability in the fashion industry.

2. Fashion Industry: Allow Customers to Filter by Fabric
We invite the fashion industry to collaborate in this united effort for more informed consumer choices. Pledging your commitment to better fabric composition communication in product names showcases your dedication to responsible business practices. This move not only gains consumer trust but could also significantly reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

The Woolmark Co. is thrilled to announce the following organizations who have already pledged their support for the campaign:

  • Benetton;
  • Cubus;
  • Reformation;
  • Saul Nash;
  • Lagos Space Program;
  • Teatum Jones;
  • Dagsmejan;
  • Maggie Marilyn;
  • Haydenshapes;
  • Albus Lumen;
  • Plastic Soup Foundation; and
  • Variant 3D.

October 12, 2023

Interview With Bee&Sons Founder Deborah Bee; Brand Launching 100-Percent Recycled Cashmere Cardigan Collection

Bee&Sons has unveiled its first boyfriend cardigan collection, designed for anyone and everyone who feels like snuggling up in 100-percent recycled cashmere.  

TW Special Report

Bee & Sons has introduced boyfriend cardigans in a four-part collection debut with two cardigans: Oskar, featuring an exclamation mark and Joey, featuring a questionmark. Although designed for men — specifically Bee’s four sons — the collection has already been seized by women — the girlfriends — as the ultimate boyfriend cardi. Following a philosophy for not creating waste, Bee&Sons’ new collection is created in small batches with a pre-order availability, with a wait time of up to two weeks. Bee&Sons uses the very best Italian yarns magicked out of textile waste in Prato. The collection is knitted in the United Kingdom by the best quality knitters.

TW: When establishing your brand, what was the first step that you took to begin making it sustainable? 

Bee: Choosing the right yarn. I wanted 100-percent recycled yarn but during lockdown I was restricted to 100-percent natural. As soon as i could get hold of recycled cashmere, I focused on that. However recycled yarn is notoriously difficult to knit because it’s recycled and we had to test it to make sure it was genuinely sustainable and wasn’t just going to pill and fall apart after three wears. There’s no point to using a yarn that isn’t long-lasting.

TW: What challenges did you encounter to minimize your environmental footprint? 

Bee: Wow — so many! You have to rethink everything. If you run out of boxes, you can’t just pop to WHSmith [bookstore]. You need to think about EVERYTHING before you do it. You can’t use foil or the wrong sort of sticky tape or bleached paper, for example. You have a to check your suppliers are sustainable,  that the knitters have the right working environment and that they aren’t [throwing] out their waste in the [trashcan]. Getting buy in from your supply chain also is hard. You must really believe in what you are saying otherwise suppliers just think you are a bit mad. I’ve had people say to me, “why don’t you just use this acrylic yarn? It looks the same and it’s so much cheaper.” You have to stick to your guns.

TW: How do you sustainably source your materials?

Bee: I do tons of research. Also, I get advice from my knitters. And there are sustainable forums that have lists of good suppliers.

TW: What dyes do you use? 

Bee: Recycled yarn requires no dyeing.

TW: Can you share some of the ethical production standards of the factory that you work with? 

The factory is working towards some certifications. I know what they do with their waste — they give it to me — and i know as much as i can know about their standards as I’m there all the time. I’m treated like one of the family.  I think some of the certifications are complicated and expensive so i trust my gut right now. Also, I am not sure that certifications stand up to much scrutiny.

TW: What are your sustainable goals for the future?

Bee: I’d love to start making my own yarn in the UK so i am not importing yarn from Italy. As it stands, the recycled cashmere i use is the very best you can buy. Super high quality so it will last and be loved a long time.

October 12, 2023

Accelerating Circularity Launches The Reality Zone And Hosts Circularity Live Event With Bank & Vogue And Beyond Retro

CAMPBELL HALL, N.Y. — October 12, 2023 — Accelerating Circularity’s mission is to catalyze circular new supply chains and business models to turn used textiles into mainstream raw materials. Accelerating Circularity will be hosting a workshop at the Textile Exchange conference in London to share what can technically be done with mechanically recycled cotton. The workshop is called the “Reality Zone,” highlighting commercially available mechanically recycled cotton fibers, fabrics, and garments. The goal is to increase the utilization of these products. The workshop is October 27 at 9:30 and a database will be launched publicly at this event.

In partnership with Bank and Vogue and Beyond Retro, Accelerating Circularity is hosting a unique “Circularity Live” immersive event to allow attendees to touch and feel garments from the circular economy. The garments featured will be made of mechanically recycled cotton from the ACP network and will be curated with Beyond Retro vintage styling on October 26th at 6:30pm at the Beyond Retro store in Coal Drops Yard, London.

“Our goal is to use these events to reinforce what can be done here and now with mechanically recycled cotton to make an impact to reduce textile waste going to landfills,” shared Karla Magruder, founder, and president of Accelerating Circularity. “By adopting and incorporating higher volumes of recycled cotton into the production process, we can move toward more circular supply chains. Partnering with Bank & Vogue and Beyond Retro as they demonstrate a commitment to sustainable fashion and to building a closed-loop economy.”

To register and RSVP for the Reality Zone Workshop please follow the link: https://na.eventscloud.com/ereg/index.php?eventid=768834&

Posted: October 12, 2023

Source: Accelerating Circularity

OETI — Institute For Ecology, Technology And Innovation — Empowers India’s Textile And Leather Industry With ZDHC Training For Sustainable Chemical Management

Vignesh Amalraj, country manager, OETI India

VIENNA, Austria — (October 12, 2023) — OETI, a Member of TESTEX Group, is an official ZDHC Approved Solution Provider under the ZDHC Roadmap to Zero Programme. Expanding beyond its existing role as a ZDHC Approved MRSL Certification Body for OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT around the globe, OETI now offers comprehensive ZDHC training services in India.

ZDHC

The ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) Roadmap to Zero Programme drives sustainable chemical management in the global textile, apparel, leather, and footwear sectors. OETI’s ZDHC training services empower brands, manufacturers, and other ZDHC stakeholders to master sustainable chemical management, adopting ZDHC guidelines, platforms, and solutions.

OETI India launches ‘ZDHC CMS Framework Training for Suppliers’

This program delivers a comprehensive understanding of chemical management systems (CMS) and their practical implementation within the textile and leather industries. Targeting various organizational departments, including management, chemical teams, procurement, compliance, and sustainability, this training fosters collaboration within the departments regarding sustainable chemical management.

Vignesh Amalraj, OETI’s country manager for India, explained: ‘We aim to showcase the synergy among these departments, ensuring the successful alignment with ZDHC, as demanded by brands and consumers.’

Training across India

OETI India is hosting training sessions in Tirupur, Delhi, Bangalore, and Ahmedabad in the coming months:

  • ZDHC CMS TIG (Chemical Management System, Technical Industry Guide) Training: Tirupur, Tamil Nadu, from 11 December to 14 December 2023.
  • ZDHC CMS Framework Training for Brands and Retailers: Delhi, 21 and 22 December 2023.
  • Dates for Bangalore and Ahmedabad: to be announced.

OETI also provides tailored training for specific facilities or clusters based on the requirements and emphasis on their key processes.

Markus Lang, OETI’s Global Head of Marketing and Sales, asserts: ‘We have every reason to believe in the great success of this exciting new service.’

Posted: October 12, 2023

Source: OETI – Institut fuer Oekologie, Technik und Innovation GmbH

ITME Africa 2023 Ushering A New Era Of Self-Reliance, Socio-Economic Advancement Through Textile Technology & Engineering In Africa

MUMBAI — (October 12, 2023) — India ITME Society, organizer ITME Africa & Middle East 2023 hosted a Preview & Curtain Raiser program on October 11, 2023 at the brand-new facility ITME Center, Nariman Point, Mumbai. This networking presentation was to showcase a glimpse of the upcoming international exhibition ITME Africa & M.E 2023 from November 30 to December 2, 2023, in Nairobi, Kenya.  This is the second event of the series hosted for global audience; The first event was hosted in Nairobi, Kenya on 3rd October in the presence of Senior Kenyan Govt. Officials & Embassy participation.

(left to right): Ms. Seema Srivastava, Executive Director, India ITME Society; Mr. Ketan Sanghvi, Chairman, India ITME Society; Mr. Pramod Khosla, Chairman & Managing Director, Khosla Profil Pvt. Ltd.; Mr. Updeep Singh, Textile Industry Expert; Mr. Balvinder Singh Sawhney, Asst. Secretary General, FICCI; Mr. S Senthil Kumar, Hon’ Treasurer, India ITME Society

The highlights & topics at this Mumbai edition’s Curtain Raiser & Preview covered by eminent Dignitaries & Speakers, included Strength of Indian Textile & How Africa can collaborate with India to lead the Textile Industry by Industry expert & experienced Textile professionalMr. Updeep Singh. Africa a land of Opportunities for India & how Exhibition can be a gateway for bilateral trade for the Textile Industry promotion by Mr. Balvinder Singh Sawhney, Asst. Secretary General, FICCI, Views on Technical Textiles & the future by Mr. Pramod Khosla, Chairman & Managing Director, Khosla Profil Pvt. Ltd. Increase in business Engagement between India and Africa since 2020 in Textile Segment by Mr. Avinash Mayekar, Managing Director, Suvin.

ITME Africa & Middle East 2023 promises to offer an unique and valuable experience for all participants. Whether it is to gain insights, network with industry leaders, Business interactions or Joint Ventures, this event will provide  ample networking opportunities, and direct connect with professionals and peers.

Apart from the 3-day Exhibition, ITME Africa & Middle shall also host multiple concurrent programs such as panel discussions and interactive sessions on Technical & Financial topics that will enhance knowledge and skills. These interactive & focused sessions by renowned Speakers & Industry stalwarts shall bring best opportunity to listen, interact & learn from experts doing groundbreaking work in the textile & textile engineering industry:

Investment & Technology Joint Venture :

  • Kenya as a business destination Gateway to Middle East, EU & US Markets.
  • Africa- The Next Big Destination for Textile Manufacturing.

Financial Solutions for Investments & Technology upgradation :

  • Funding for; Investment & Sourcing capital goods from India
  • Start-ups, Entrepreneurs in Textile Segment
  • Domestic Financial Schemes for Kenyan Textile Industry
  • Kenya – A Success story Textile Business & Investment.

Technical & Technological Seminar

  • Good Practices of cultivating quality cotton fibre | Importance of Physical properties of cotton in textile industry by Cotton Expert.
  • Technological advancement for cotton ginning & high production by Ginning Expert.
  • Ideas & Best Practices for spinning profits in Textile Industry by Spinning Specialist.

Panel Discussion

Textile Technology empowering complete textile value chain of African continent & M.E.

(Participating Countries – India, Italy, China, Switzerland)

Many Government organization & Associations from Kenya have joined hands with India ITME Society to host this Textile Technology & Engineering event to bring prosperity to the whole of African Continent & explore potential of Kenya as a new business destination along with other 23 exhibiting countries – Austria, Benin, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Germany, Ghana, Italy, Jordan, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Togo, Turkey, Tunisia, Uganda, Unites States of America & Zambia apart from India

Addressing the media, Ketan Sanghvi, chairman, India ITME Society, said: “ITME Africa & Middle East 2023 is an important milestone in enhancing bilateral trade relations and promoting industrial cooperation between Kenya and India. This partnership aims to leverage the business potential of both the countries and build on the innovation, economic growth and sustainability goals of their respective textile technology and engineering industries. With as many as 23 countries taking part in the India ITME Society exhibition in Kenya, Africa is sure to derive the immense benefits of investing in future partnerships and building successful business ventures in the entire African region.”

In the press conference Updeep Singh, Textile Industry Expert “India possesses a robust textile engineering foundation and boasts the world’s second-largest textile industry, featuring manufacturing facilities. With this being the focus, the efforts of the ITME society by hosting their quadrennial event ITME Africa & Middle East 2023 in Nairobi Kenya will attract more attention towards the Kenyan textile industry and also showcase the business potential of the country, globally. This will increase visibility and business inquiries and widen opportunities for India’s exports in Textiles and Machinery businesses leveraging an untapped customer base of the African continent.” He also added “Now, with the addition of the African Union in the G20 Summit conducted in New Delhi, the trade volumes with India is expected to rise in the Continent and Textile machinery companies should capitalize on this.”

Pramod Khosla, Chairman & Managing Director, Khosla Profil Pvt. Ltd. brought attention to the fact that there is tremendous scope in infrastructure development in most of African Countries which can be a great opportunity for Geo textile and also for many other Technical Textiles segment such as Indutech, Packtech, Buildtech Protech etc. “India ITME society has taken the right steps to promote trade relations between India and Africa that will help the textile industry and allied ventures by generating demand and boosting production in the African Continent.

Balvinder Singh Sawhney, Asst. Secretary General, FICCI emphasised that exhibition provides less riskier & cost competitive platform to explore new ventures & new shows especially for Small Medium Businesses. His three ‘‘E’s” mantra to industry is “Explore & Expand with Exhibition”.

Posted: October 12, 2023

Source: India ITME Society

Under Armour Appoints Gap Inc. Veteran, Shawn Curran As New Chief Supply Chain Officer

Shawn Curran

BALTIMORE — (October 12, 2023) — Under Armour announced that following a comprehensive search and interview process, retail industry veteran Shawn Curran will join Under Armour as chief supply chain officer, reporting to President and CEO, Stephanie Linnartz.

Curran has spent his 30+ year career at Gap Inc., where he most recently served as Old Navy’s COO, where he oversaw over 44,000 associates across 1,200+ stores and managed end-to-end operations, inventory management and sourcing. Throughout his time at Gap Inc., Curran held several roles across the Gap portfolio of companies, including serving as COO and head of Global Supply Chain across all seven Gap Inc. brands.

At Under Armour, Curran will oversee end-to-end planning & go-to-market, product sourcing, manufacturing & quality, global vendor base management, distribution & logistics, global customs & trade, warehousing and sustainability.

Under Armour President and CEO, Stephanie Linnartz, said: “We are so excited to welcome Shawn to Under Armour as our new Chief Supply Chain Officer. With over three decades of experience, Shawn is a retail industry powerhouse who comes to Under Armour at this critical time with the breadth and depth of experience that we need to optimize the backbone of our business, the supply chain, to ensure that our consumers get the right products, at the right price, at the right time.”

Commenting on his appointment, Curran said: “It is an honor to be part of Under Armour, an iconic brand born out of a passion and maniacal focus on making innovative products that empower people to achieve their goals.  I am excited to collaborate with the talented Under Armour team to enhance our supply chain ensuring our consumers get the very best experience and highest quality products.”

Curran will join Under Armour on October 16, 2023.

Posted: October 12, 2023

Source: Under Armour

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