62nd Dornbirn GFC Global Fiber Congress Success

Dornbirn GFC 2023

DORNBIRN, Austria — September 20, 2023 — With more than 550 participants from more than 30 countries, the Dornbirn GFC 2023 was a great success. 125 presentations on the main topics of fiber innovation, recycling, circular economy, sustainability, nonwovens, technical textiles, sports and apparel were presented to the professional audience.

Organizational direction and development

The successful GFC Organisation is very lean and operational lead by Friedrich Weninger as Managing Director and operational ad well as executional driven by Sonja Spöcker.

As Friedrich Weninger gave already in the past signals to step back from his role and responsibilities the upcoming two to three years, there was the proposal made and approved by all the necessary decision- makers of the Austrian fiber institute to Start a recruitment process and look for a successor to orchestrate a soft hand-over process the upcoming years. During the search and selection process Andreas Dorner was appointed in summer 2023 by all necessary stakeholders of the Austrian fiber institute to start first as a Co- Managing Director and during the hand over process taking over lead the next two to three  years

Dornbirn GFC takes up the challenges of the textile industry

Left to right: Robert van de Kerkhof, Lenzing AG, Friedrich Weninger, Austrian Fibers Institute, Andreas Dorner, Lenzing AG

“The challenges currently facing the fiber industry require fundamental changes in the value chains. We see new strategic partnerships being formed to take advantage of new opportunities around innovation, circular economy and new business models.
The 62nd edition of the Dornbirn GFC shows once again that it is the perfect place for such new partnerships”, said Robert van de Kerkhof, chief sustainability officer of Lenzing AG and president of the Dornbirn GFC. Fritz Weninger, managing director of the Dornbirn GFC added: “That is why we are proud that leading representatives from politics, the energy sector, but also from many companies and start-ups from the entire fiber value chain will come together for three days to exchange ideas on how to accelerate our progress in greening our industry.”

To discuss the challenges of the textile industry in a controversial way, to be inspired by interesting expert presentations from international speakers, and to arrive at sustainable and scientifically based solutions together in the end – this is what the Dornbirn GFC has established itself as a networking platform for over decades.

“For us, it is the conference of the year, where hundreds of ideas for shaping a green future for our industry can become reality.” With this statement Andre Wissenberg, Oerlikon, confirmed the importance and task of the Dornbirn GFC in the textile network.

The opening morning plenary presentation by Dirk Vantyghem, Euratex, Brussels, entitled “The EU Sustainable Textiles Strategy – its impact on the global textile ecosystem” concerns another challenge for national and international producers and suppliers. The European institutions are making rapid progress in implementing the EU textile strategy in legislation. European textile companies are committed to investing in sustainability, developing new circular business models and producing high quality textile products as required by the new legislation. However, for this to happen, companies need a clear and coherent regulatory framework and a level playing field for all companies.

3rd Dornbirn GFC Innovation Days

“The Dornbirn GFC is a great opportunity for innovators to meet the decision makers in the fiber and textile industry. The congress with its focus on innovation and research offers an inspiring environment for high-quality contacts.” The statement from Bjol Frenkenberger, MIR could not be more apt. The young company was one of the participants of the 3rd Dornbirn GFC Innovation Days.

A total of 25 international innovators presented their company and innovations in a lecture in the 4th lecture hall of the Dornbirn GFC. The meeting point of the participants with the professional audience was the Foyer of the Dornbirn Kulturhaus. Forward-looking discussions took place at the respective “touchpoint” of the innovators and new contacts could be generated.

The Innovation Days will take place again at the 63rd Dornbirn GFC 2024. Registration for participation will be possible within the framework of a “Call for Papers” until the end of the year.

Dornbirn GFC Online on demand 2023

Technically it is again possible to offer an online on demand version of the Dornbirn GFC 2023. During the Dornbirn GFC, the presentations will be recorded and will be available online afterwards. The experiences of the last years have shown that this possibility is gladly accepted by the audience. However, the difference to visiting the Dornbirn GFC on site is obvious here. The online platform serves information only.

Personal contacts and the chance to expand one’s network cannot be covered by this format. The visitors of the Dornbirn GFC, who were present on site in Dornbirn, enjoy the access to the online version and can watch the presentations afterwards or catch up on missed opportunities during the Dornbirn GFC.

Dornbirn GFC Online-On-Demand from September 18 – September 30, 2023:

  • Dornbirn GFC 2023 Opening Ceremony
  • Awarding of the Paul Schlack Prize
  • Plenary lectures
  • Presentation of the 3rd Dornbirn Innovation Days participants
  • Selected lectures from industry, universities and research institutes
  • Discussion rounds with the speakers
  • Videos of the lectures
  • Download of lectures

For visitors of the Dornbirn GFC online on demand the ticket is bookable on: www.dornbirn-gfc.co

Paul Schlack Prize 2023 Award Ceremony

The Paul Schlack/Wilhelm Albrecht Prize 2023 was awarded to the following innovative dissertations:

Henriette Grellmann, convinced the jury with the title: “Technological development of textile-based actuator and sensor structures for complex deformable adaptive fiber-elastomer composites” resp. The dissertation deals with the development of textile-based actuator and sensor systems for adaptive fiber-elastomer composites.

The 2nd honorary prize was awarded to Tim Höhnemann, DITF (German Institutes for Textile and Fiber Research), Denkendorf. The dissertation entitled: ” Generation of monofilaments with defined cross- sectional shape from polymer melt – Correlation of die layout, polymer morphology and process parameters with the bending behavior” was selected by the expert jury.

The award ceremony was organized and conducted by Frédéric van Houte, CIRFS.

Young Scientist Award powered by Lenzing AG

A jury of experts from the fiber industry and Lenzing AG nominated the 2 winners of the Lenzing AG Young Scientist Award from numerous applications. On the opening day, the prize money of € 5,000 per winner was awarded at the gala evening at Messe Dornbirn.

“Comparing Modal with Recycled Modal”, is the title of the dissertation by Nina Sirén, student at Aalto University. The study compares pre-consumer modal with modal recycled using the Ioncell® process. It examines production methods and estimated resource consumption as well as mechanical properties, namely orientation, tensile strength, elongation and abrasion. Nina Sirén is looking for an internship as part of her studies.

Clara Davis impressed with the paper titled “Advanced Overcoming Bacterial Nanocellulose for New Applications. This study explores the potential of using bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) as a tree-free feedstock for regenerated cellulose fibers. By optimizing production conditions, purification methods, and dissolution/regeneration processes, the study addresses the challenges and highlights the unique properties of BNC with the goal of promoting its use as sustainable bio-based fibers in the textile industry.

Outlook into the future

The Managing Director of the Austrian Fibers Institute gives an insight into the future of the Dornbirn GFC, “The early focus on sustainability, circular economy and recycling made the Dornbirn GFC a very relevant idea and network generator for the fiber and textile industry. The holistic approach by integrating “startups” or even “cross-industry” is now bearing fruit.

Through cooperations and alliances the Dornbirn GFC is gaining more and more traction on a global level. One example is the Dornbirn GFC ASIA. Others will follow, and we see a bright future ahead. As a CEO of a major fiber manufacturer once said, “Come to Dornbirn, this is the best place to learn.”

Information on the 63rd Dornbirn GFC 2024

Call for Papers 2024:

Directly after the Dornbirn GFC, preparations for the 63rd Dornbirn GFC 2024 and the 4th Innovation Days will start. The core topic will continue to be the important area of fiber innovation. According to experience, the interest in the topics of circular economy, recycling and sustainability is unbroken in the submissions. Nonwovens and technical textiles will again play a role at the Dornbirn GFC 2024. The package of topics will be presented in the “Call for Papers” by the end of October. Presentations can then be submitted, as usual, until the end of the year.

Date of the 63rd Dornbirn GFC 2024:

The congress will take place in Dornbirn at the Kulturhaus from September 11 to 13, 2024.
2023 we especially thank the loyal sponsors for their cooperation and support.
A special thank you goes to the city of Dornbirn and the state of Vorarlberg for the good cooperation.

Posted: September 20, 2023

Source: Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress (GFC)

Members Of TMAS – The Swedish Textile Machinery Association – Will Be Attending ITMA Asia + CITME Exhibition — November 19-23 2023

TMAS secretary general Therese Premler-Andersson

STOCKHOLM, Sweden — September 20, 2023 — Key members of TMAS – the Swedish Textile Machinery Association – will be taking part in the forthcoming ITMA Asia + CITME exhibition taking place from November 19-23 2023 at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre in Shanghai, China, with back-up from TMAS representatives, local support staff and agents.

“There is no escaping the fact that China remains the Number One textile manufacturing centre worldwide,” said TMAS Secretary General Therese Premler-Andersson. “We are very optimistic about the appetite for investment now, because China’s recovery from the pandemic has been so prolonged. Despite talk of losing market share in garment production to neighbours including Vietnam and India, China has a number of advantages — a massive domestic market and a highly developed infrastructure and supply chain network. Factories in China cover every possible product needed in the garment industry — from zips to buttons, to textiles and threads. There is a wealth of domestic producers and we still see big potential for further growth.”

Weaving

In the area of weaving, for example, 93 percent of the 114,000 new looms delivered in 2022 went to Asia, according to the latest figures from the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF), with China the top destination, followed by India.

As a result, TMAS members like Vandewiele Sweden AB (Hall 3, stand D01 in Shanghai) and Eltex (Hall 3, stand A01) have a huge market to address that has been established over many decades.

Vandewiele Sweden AB benefits from all of the synergies and accumulated know-how of the market-leading Vandewiele Group, supplying weft yarn feeding and tension control units for weaving looms to the majority of weaving machine manufacturers. It also retrofits its latest technologies to working mills to enable instant benefits in terms of productivity and control.

Yarn and sewing thread monitoring

With nearly 70 years of expertise in yarn sensor technology, Eltex of Sweden AB has consistently been at the forefront of new product development. Catering to the high-tech transformation of China’s textile manufacturing industry, Eltex has rolled out a suite of intelligent solutions built on a proven robust quality framework. Its EYE and EyETM systems are capable of accurately and efficiently monitoring the movement and tension of more than 1,000 yarns simultaneously. These systems are suitable for various applications and fibre types, including warping, winding, multiaxial weaving and new material applications.

The Eltex EyE™ monitoring yarn tension on a warping creel.

In addition, Eltex sewing tension monitors, such as the ETM422, have been increasingly well-received by customers. This high-precision device can monitor the tension of sewing threads in real time, effectively improving the quality and safety of sewn products. Particularly in China’s rapidly growing automotive manufacturing sector, the ETM422 has seen widespread use to meet the industry’s escalating demands for product safety and quality.

All of these devices and systems are smart, digitalized and capable of seamless integration with higher-level factory systems, enhancing intelligent manufacturing capabilities.

Dyeing and finishing

“Digitalisation, automation and AI have become the key enablers for sustainable gains across the entire textile industry and so much has been achieved in the past few years, especially in terms of automation,” says Premler-Andersson. “One area in which TMAS members are really making a difference right now, is in replacing water and energy-intensive technologies for the dyeing and finishing processes with new digital technologies.”

The TexCoat G4 non-contact spray technology for textile finishing and remoistening, for example, will be showcased in Shanghai by Baldwin at stand C22 in Hall 5. It not only reduces water, chemicals and energy consumption, but also provides the flexibility to adapt to a customer’s requirements in terms of single and double-sided finishing applications. The TexCoat G4 can reduce water consumption by as much as 50% compared to traditional padding application processes.

“We have already seen government policies encouraging factories to reduce their water usage and waste using tax incentives and grants and we expect more to come,” Premler-Andersson observes in conclusion. “This will take time, and China’s market in particular has been geared for many years to large volume production, but Swedish machinery innovators are there to support what is an inevitable transition. We are looking forward to fruitful discussions at ITMA Asia + CITME.”

Posted: September 20, 2023

Source: TMAS – The Swedish Textile Machinery Association

Promote Decarbonization In The Fashion Industry Honored Grantees Include: Precision Development, GIZ, Made2Flow, BluWin And PwC Which Are Listed On The NGO’s New Climate Solutions Portfolio Registry

SAN FRANCISCO — September 19, 2023 — Today, nonprofit organization Apparel Impact Institute (Aii) announced its first deployment of grants from its Climate Solutions Portfolio (CSP). This registry of proven carbon reduction solutions for the fashion industry is based on effectiveness, reach, scale, and cost, and represents the first deployed capital from Aii’s catalytic Fashion Climate Fund. These grants are funded by philanthropic contributions from the Fashion Climate Fund’s lead partners including H&M Foundation, H&M Group, Lululemon, The PVH Foundation, Target and the Schmidt Family Foundation, and will provide $250 million to de-risk and accelerate proven decarbonization solutions and unlock up to $2 billion of capital, with a carbon reduction goal of 100 million metric tons by 2030.

The application was designed by the CSP Advisory Council, which is composed of industry leaders: Kurt Kipka, Aii Chief Impact Officer; Linda Greer, Scientist and Consultant; Phil Patterson, Managing Director at Colour Connections Textile Consultancy; Beth Jensen, Director, Climate+ Impact at Textile Exchange; Crispin Wong, Senior Director of Product Sustainability and Environment at Lululemon; Mallory McConnell, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility at PVH Corp.; and Abhishek Bansal, Head of Sustainability at Arvind Mills.

Aii also launched an online platform that will serve as a public, transparent resource for brands, retailers, manufacturers, industry stakeholders, and external commercial financing partners looking to accelerate decarbonization efforts. To be eligible for funding and/or inclusion in the registry, organizations are required to submit high quality, verified data or estimates that demonstrate quantifiable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions around their solutions through Aii’s rigorous, strategically developed intake application.

Climate Solutions Portfolio Grant Recipients

Precision Development’s Leaf Color Charts project uses a low-tech and low-cost methodology to reduce fertilizer application in cotton cultivation, which is the highest emission source in cotton extraction. Farmers compare the leaves of their cotton plants with the colors on the chart and are thereby able to identify the correct amount of fertilizer to apply. The grant funding will be used to deploy these charts in India with training to support their successful use.

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Through this project, GIZ will focus on a solar PV installation project in Bangladesh, implementing a comprehensive approach to driving renewable energy adoption in the country’s textile and apparel sector. This will increase factory knowledge, lower development risks, aid implementation, and de-risk renewable energy projects in a market where solar PV installation is currently less mature in its deployment. GIZ anticipates that through the granted project, it will conduct techno-feasibility assessment for 30 facilities over the next three years, help them connect with technical solution providers, and support them in procuring those services to install the Solar PV.

Made2Flow specializes in data gathering and validation through its software across supply chains in the fashion industry for the purpose of environmental impact measurement and reduction. The project aims to add to the functionality of its software the ability to provide automated and customized impact reduction recommendations for the facilities using its software Made2Flow. This will reduce the cost and need for in-person expert visits, thus drastically increasing the ability of energy efficiency to scale in the apparel sector.

BluWin is a high-impact climate solution provider with a mission to contribute to a better world and better quality of life by providing solutions which reduce the adverse effects of the fashion, textile, and footwear industries on our planet and the climate. The organization is taking the Clean by Design framework of best practices that greatly improve facility energy efficiency and rolling it out to Tier 1 and Tier 2 facilities in Bangladesh. It will use a direct-to-manufacturer approach by taking proven energy efficiency solutions to new markets. The CbD program has yet to be deployed at scale in Bangladesh, and implementing it using a direct-to-manufacture recruitment approach will develop learnings for how energy efficiency work can scale in Bangladesh and other regions.

PwC will be implementing its Cleaner Production System project across Tier 2 & Tier 3 suppliers in India and Bangladesh. The project will predominantly focus on Tier 3 facilities (standalone or integrated with Tier 2 and Tier 1), in which raw materials are turned into fibers and yarns, as this is a portion of the apparel supply chain that is relatively untapped and thus has a tremendous amount of energy efficiency improvement potential.

The learnings from this project will be used to scale energy efficiency in Tier 3.

Climate Solutions Portfolio (CSP) Software Registry

In tandem with the grantee recipient announcement, Aii has launched the Climate Solutions Portfolio online platform. Developed in response to the industry’s urgent need for standardized data to enhance decision-making and supply chain solutions, the platform will serve as a central hub for brands, retailers, industry stakeholders, and external commercial financing partners looking to accelerate decarbonization efforts. The platform includes a registry of Aii-vetted impact programs and incorporates essential reporting capabilities – such as advanced analytics and ROI insights – with the goal of increasing transparency across the industry to ensure the most successful solutions are identified, funded, and scaled.

The development of the CSP platform was funded by philanthropic contributions from Farfetch, H&M Group, Lululemon, The PVH Foundation, Ralph Lauren, and Target.

“Our aim is to provide a tool for the industry to easily identify credible opportunities for carbon reduction with science-based solutions. This platform will allow for greater industry transparency and provide accurate data and metrics, resulting in funding to support these innovations on a global level,” said Kurt Kipka, Aii chief impact officer. “Beyond connecting solutions to funding, the CSP registry will also provide a mechanism for mature companies to connect with stakeholders, regardless of grant status.”

Next Call for Partners: Data-Driven Roadmaps

While the initial submissions for Climate Solutions Portfolio grants included remarkable innovations, the process also demonstrated a lack of reliable data and industry-wide knowledge in two important solution areas: thermal energy and energy storage. Filling this research gap is essential to further identify and scale decarbonization solutions successfully.

Aii’s ongoing commitment to researching and identifying solutions has continued with a call for partners to develop data-driven roadmaps focused on these key topics. Information gathered through this process will lay the groundwork needed to accelerate the investment in — and deployment of — thermal energy and energy storage solutions.

In the latter half of 2024, Aii will be seeking potential grant recipients that focus largely on thermal energy and energy storage. Additionally, solutions providers outside these areas are encouraged to apply now to be part of the registry to gain industry exposure and ease the process of applying for funding in the future.

Posted: September 19, 2023

Source: Apparel Impact Institute (Aii)

DENIOS Introduces Drum Spill Containment Pallets For The Safe Storage Of Hazardous Substances

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — September 19, 2023 — New DENIOS drum spill containment pallets catch spills, drips, and leaks to keep work areas clean and safe, making them ideal for the safe storage of oils, coolants, acids, caustics, and other corrosive liquids. They feature completely sealed, seamless processed poly construction that is 100-percent liquid tight. An innovative design redistributes the weight onto load-bearing channels, optimizing overall capacity. Rugged construction ensures durability against impacts and shocks even, in elevated temperatures, allowing their use indoors or outdoors. Easy-to-clean durable poly materials are UV resistant; they won’t rust or corrode and are resistant to most chemicals.

Sumps have the capacity to meet EPA, OSHA, NFPC, UFC, and other regulations, and are 100-percent tested and guaranteed to be leak-free. Forklift friendly design includes forklift pockets that facilitate secure transportation and loading from all four sides using drum lifters, pallet trucks, and forklifts. Available in 2- or 4-drum capacities, they can be supplied with no grating, a galvanized grate, or poly grating. Manufactured in the USA, they are stocked in DENIOS Louisville factory for immediate shipment. DENIOS drum spill containment pallets are ideal for use wherever dangerous or hazardous materials are used or stored.

Posted: September 19, 2023

Source: DENIOS

Discover The Future Of Textile At ITM 2024 June 4-8, 2024, Istanbul Tüyap Fair And Congress Center

ISTANBUL, Turkey— September 19, 2023 — ITM Exhibitions, which is the address of the latest innovations in textile technologies adds a new one to its records thanks to the number of exhibitors and visitors every year. The new motto of ITM Exhibition, which has been pioneering innovations and shaping the sector and brands since its foundation is “Discover the Future”. ITM 2024 Exhibition, which will offer a unique exhibition experience to its exhibitors and visitors with new trade connections and world launches of the latest technologies; will offer the opportunity to discover the technologies that will shape the future of textile.

The countdown has begun for ITM 2024 Exhibition, one of the most important meeting points of the world in the field of textile machinery. When the dates show June 4-8, 2024, Istanbul Tüyap Fair and Congress Center will open its doors to host “ITM 2024 International Textile Machinery Exhibition”. Preparations are in full swing for this great organization where textile technology leaders will bring the latest products together with their visitors for the first time.

ITM 2024 Video Won Great Recognition

The ITM team focused on advertising and promotional activities in order to host thousands of visitors and sector investors from all over the world at the ITM 2024 Exhibition, which halls were almost full due to intense participation demands. In this context; ‘ITM 2024 Video’, which tells the story of the increasing success of ITM exhibitions over the years and which is eagerly awaited by the whole sector, has recently been published. The video, which was published in Turkish and English on social media accounts such as YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, was viewed by more than 30 thousand people in total and received great appreciation from the viewers.

“Discover the Future!” in the video prepared with the main theme “Discover innovations, technologies, the future…” and including clues about the ITM 2024 Exhibition, was revealed as follows:

The textile sector is among the souls of the economy with its production capacity, export volume, and contribution to employment. Many R&D centers around the world and in Turkey are breaking new ground by taking their work and innovations one step further every day. Textile technology leaders is developing technologies that consume less water and energy, are easy to use, are software and automation supported, keep up with trends and respect the environment while doing so. Industry stakeholders, especially textile manufacturers, are now curious about the answer to this question: ‘What will be the future of the textile industry, which is digitalizing, complying with sustainability principles, and signing groundbreaking innovations? This question will be answered at ITM 2024, which will host the latest innovations, technologies, artificial intelligence-supported machines, software and design excellence devices in textile machinery. That’s why the motto that best defines ITM 2024 was ‘Discover the Future’.

More than an Exhibition: ITM 2024

In the video, where the slogan “More than a exhibition…” is highlighted, you will also find tips that will help you discover the future of textiles at ITM 2024. ITM 2024 Exhibition, the address of all innovations in the world textile industry, will host a unique experience with the diversity of exhibitors, the visitor profile, and the business volume it creates. The company owners, managers, employees and sector representatives visiting ITM 2024 will have the opportunity to see the latest technological innovations for the first time and “touch the firsts”. The company owners, who will get information from experts about the technologies they will use in their factories, will develop their products and direct their investments.

Reach Your Products to Hundreds of Countries in 7 Continents

With more than 1200 exhibitors presenting hundreds of innovations and followed by tens of thousands of investors, the participants of this big meeting will go beyond their expectations and dreams. The participants who will introduce their brand new products to the whole world will get beyond the limits by reaching hundreds of countries from seven continents. The companies that will participate in the ITM 2024 Exhibition, where a billion euro business volume will be realized, will have the opportunity to be in cooperation with the pioneers of the world textile industry.

The visitors to ITM 2024, where innovations from every field of textile from weaving to knitting, yarn to digital printing, finishing to denim will be exhibited; will discover innovative, nature-protecting, pioneering technologies in digitalization for a sustainable future.

After ITM 2022, which included 102 countries, 1280 companies and 64,500 professional visitors, ITM 2024 will break records with both the number of exhibitors and visitors.

The Meeting Point of ITM: Istanbul- The World’s Most Charming and Strategic City

ITM, always the show of firsts in textile technologies, will take the stage in June 2024 in Istanbul, the world’s most strategic city that inspires cities in many fields such as trade, fashion, art and culture. The fact that Istanbul, the meeting point of Europe and Asia, is located at the center of world trade, rich accommodation facilities, ease of transportation and the visa-free requirement make ITM Exhibitions even more inviting for visitors.

The investors from both European and Middle East, North Africa, Turkic Republics and Balkan countries will be able to reach Istanbul after a 3-hour flight and visit ITM 2024 Exhibition and make business contacts. The exhibitors and visitors coming from all over the world to the ITM 2024 Exhibition will also take a cultural journey from the past to the present by visiting this ancient city.

Posted: September 19, 2023

Source: ITM Exhibitions

Durst Group Strengthens Its Strategic Focus On Sustainable Digital Printing Solutions With Acquisition Of Aleph SrL

MILAN/BRIXEN, Italy — September 19, 2023 — Durst Group, manufacturer of advanced digital printing and production solutions, has acquired Aleph SrL, a pioneer in sustainable digital solutions for textiles and interior and exterior decorations. With this strategic move, Durst Group further enhances its position in water-based and sustainable printing technologies. For Durst Group, the acquisition also serves as a bridge to Como, Italy, the center for textile design and high-quality applications.

Established in 2000 in Lurate Caccivio (Como), over the last 20 years, Aleph has transitioned from a software house and distributor of textile consumables to an independent manufacturer of innovative machines for digital water-based printing.

In 2017, Wise Equity entered Aleph’s capital with the Wisequity IV fund, alongside the three historical entrepreneurs Alessandro Manes, Roberto Manes, and Roberto Temperini, to support the progressive internationalization journey, with the goal of positioning itself in special applications in both the textile industry and adjacent sectors such as billboard printing. Today, the company generates more than 60 percent of its revenue abroad in more than 20 countries.

“We are delighted to welcome Aleph into the Durst family,” said Christoph Gamper, CEO and co-owner of Durst Group. “Their expertise in sustainable, water-based applications, their software for high-end textiles, and their creative solutions for water-based poster printing align perfectly with our vision of pushing the boundaries of digital printing technology. Together, we will strengthen our market position, expand our product portfolio, and enhance value for our global customers.”

In recent years, markets for digital printing technologies with water-based ink applications have experienced rapid growth, driven by increasing demand for environmentally friendly and customizable products. To meet this market trend, not only high-performance printing systems with eco-friendly ink systems are necessary but also extensive process knowledge and integrated software solutions, which both companies aim to combine optimally through this merger.

“Collaborating with Durst Group marks an exciting new chapter for Aleph,” said Alessandro Manes, CEO of Aleph SrL. “Our shared passion for technological innovation, the pursuit of excellence, and the commitment to true sustainability define this collaboration. Together, we have the opportunity to make significant advancements in the digital textiles, exterior, and interior decoration sectors.”

“We are very proud to have accompanied Aleph during these years of transformation from a distributor to a machinery manufacturer,” says Valentina Franceschini, senior partner at Wise Equity. “today among the leaders in sustainable innovation, Aleph has achieved significant goals in terms of organization, product range, and technological development, and we are confident that Durst represents the ideal partner to continue the growth journey.”

The strategic acquisition aims to leverage synergies between the two companies by combining Durst Group’s global presence and extensive procurement network with Aleph’s expertise in sustainable digital solutions — both machines and software — for textiles and decoration. This seamlessly aligns with Durst Group’s strategy to diversify its portfolio and meet the evolving needs of its customers across various industries.

Both Durst Group and Aleph are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for their customers, partners, and employees during the integration process.

Posted: September 19, 2023

Source: Durst Group AG

The LYCRA Co. Releases 2022 Planet Agenda Update, Reporting On Sustainability Progress Versus 2030 Goals

WILMINGTON, Del. — September 19, 2023 — The LYCRA Co., a global developer of durable, sustainable and innovative fiber and technology solutions for the apparel and personal care industries, announced today the publication of its second annual Planet Agenda Update and its abridged Global Sustainability Scorecard for fiscal year 2022. These documents report on the company’s progress toward achieving its 2030 sustainability goals announced in last year’s publication. Download them today on lycra.com/update.

Planet Agenda is the name of The LYCRA Co.’s sustainability framework that touches every aspect of its business and is built on three pillars: product sustainability, manufacturing excellence and corporate responsibility. The sustainability goals outlined in these documents are organized around these pillars and align with five of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This update tracks 2022 performance against 2030 targets.

“Planet Agenda guides our evolution as we strive to contribute to the sustainability of the apparel and personal care industries by delivering products that add value and conserve resources at all levels of the value chain,” said Steve Stewart, chief brand and innovation officer, The LYCRA Co. “We are proud of the advances we have made in pursuit of our 2030 goals. At the same time, we recognize the challenges in front of our industry are great, and we can only meet them by working together with our customers, suppliers, and third-party partners.”

Highlights of the 2022 Planet Agenda Update include news on innovative products for sustainable fashion offering durability benefits, recycled and renewable inputs; a notable reduction in greenhouse gas emissions driven in part by the company’s Maydown, Northern Ireland site converting its purchased electricity to renewable sources through Energy Attribution Certificates (EACs); and three manufacturing sites achieving third-party verified top-quartile performance in the Higg Facility Environmental Module (FEM), with two achieving the same level in the Higg Facility Social & Labor Module (FSLM).

“We see Planet Agenda as a shared endeavor with our customers and partners, united in the belief that to have a healthy business we must have a healthy planet,” said Jean Hegedus, The LYCRA Company’s director of sustainable business development. “Our heritage of working together with our customers and other third parties, along with the urgent need for collaboration throughout the value chain in order to meet the industry’s goals, inspired the theme of the 2022 Planet Agenda Update: Together, we go further.”

To download a copy of the 2022 Planet Agenda Update or 2022 Global Sustainability Scorecard, visit lycra.com/update.

Posted: September 19, 2023

Source: The LYCRA Company

A&E Unveils New Sustainable Thread Products Awarded With Gold Level C2C Certified™ Material Health Certificates

MOUNT HOLLY, NC — September 19, 2023 — Global thread maker, American & Efird (A&E) continued its advancement of sustainable practices and environmental stewardship this week with the release of two sustainable cotton thread products, each earning a Gold Level C2C Certified Material Health Certificate™. Meeting the material health requirements of the multi-attribute Cradle to Cradle Certified™ Product Standard, these new products bolster an already impressive sustainable thread line, and support increased sustainability and circularity within the textile industry.Specially processed under best manufacturing practices, A&E’s new Anecot Plus® SPC and Chroma™ SPC long staple cotton thread products are created with Cradle to Cradle compliant dyes and chemicals, providing additional eco-friendly choices to customer brand and retail partners seeking certified, sustainable thread products to directly support their respective environmental goals.

“We are pleased to continue to offer sustainable sewing thread solutions to our customers,” said Chris Alt, A&E president. “From fully recycled options as in our ECO100 thread line to our 100-percent biodegradable and organic products, we remain committed to creating responsible sewing threads. We are focused on meeting the current and future demands of our customers with new innovations, while doing right by the environment and the communities in which we operate.”

Cradle to Cradle Certified is a globally recognized measure of safer, more sustainable products made for a circular economy. Products under C2C are rated based on their overall product safety, responsibility, and ability to be reused once their useful life has ended. Achieving the Gold level C2C Certified designation signifies A&E’s unwavering dedication to minimizing its ecological footprint as the company continues efforts to be an environmentally conscious contributor to a regenerative economy.

“The Cradle to Cradle program certifies products designed for a circular economy and challenges us to re-think the way we make them,” said Jimmy Summers, chief sustainability officer, Elevate Textiles. “Products certified under C2C are rated based on their overall product safety, responsibility, and ability to be reused once their useful life has ended. The Material Health Certificate offers a solution to growing industry and consumer interest in knowing more about the chemicals used in products across their supply chains and avoiding chemicals of concern. This helps us continue on our path towards even safer product chemistries and circularity.”

A&E with Elevate Textiles has held material health certifications from Cradle to Cradle since 2021.

Posted: September 19, 2023

Source: American & Efird A&E, a portfolio company of Elevate Textiles

DOMOTEX Presents New Meeting Place For The Skilled Trades And Retailer — Everything For Floors, Walls And Ceilings

HANNOVER, Germany — September 19, 2023 — From January 11-14, 2024, DOMOTEX will once again be the meeting place for exhibitors and visitors from all over the world to exchange information on new products and the latest industry trends. Participants from the skilled trades and specialist retailers can look forward to a new hub: At the RETAILERS’ PARK in hall 19, DECOR-UNION and the MEGA Gruppe — joined by their suppliers — will be exhibiting for the first time in a central area at the heart of the world’s leading trade fair for carpets and floor coverings. The RETAILERS’ PARK invites visitors to think beyond floor coverings and imagine a coherent interior design. Paints and varnishes, wallpapers, coats that protect against UV radiation and many other innovative products are presented to create harmonious interiors.

What’s waiting in the RETAILERS’ PARK

From now on, craftsmen, sales staff and buyers from the specialist and wholesale trades as well as builders and architects will be able to obtain a comprehensive overview at DOMOTEX covering everything from floors and walls to ceilings. An open, inviting exhibition area with a central plaza and a daily happy hour make RETAILERS’ PARK the most important hub for the industry. Here visitors can establish new contacts, meet colleagues and get an overview of current topics in the industry presented in a series of lectures and live demos with practical solutions for their day-to-day business. Whether parquet or floor layers, painters or varnishers, sales specialists or professional buyers — the special display provides products and solutions for everyone. Which makes RETAILERS’ PARK unique for all visitors from the skilled trades and retail.

“We are delighted that we have been able to win DECOR-UNION and MEGA as strong partners for our new area and to fulfill our trade visitors’ long-standing wish to include the product segments “wall” and “ceiling” in our portfolio”, explains Sonia Wedell-Castellano, Global Director of DOMOTEX Events worldwide. “In conversations with potential visitors, associations and publishers, we consistently receive positive feedback. The interest in our RETAILERS’ PARK is overwhelming!”

DECOR-UNION Branchentage at DOMOTEX 2024

As part of RETAILERS’ PARK, Deutsche Messe is teaming up with DECOR-UNION and Netzwerk Boden, the European trade association for floor coverings, carpets, curtains, beds, wallpaper and paints. In addition to having its own booth at the special display, DECOR-UNION will hold the DECOR-UNION Branchentage (Industry Days) at DOMOTEX for the first time in 2024, taking its participation a step further. “Our wish was to create a new platform for decision-makers, processors and retailers who interact with products and services in the field of holistic interior design. Craftsmen and retailers often have to sell very different products – for floors, walls, ceilings and facades. Usually, these can only be found at various trade fairs. We want to change this situation with the new RETAILERS’ PARK”, reports Frank Böttner, Managing Director of DECOR-UNION.

MEGA offers a wide range of services related to refurbishment, renovation and modernization

In addition to DECOR-UNION, the MEGA Gruppe will exhibit at the new RETAILERS’ PARK. MEGA is represented at over 120 locations in Germany and has a network of over 5,600 members and more than 60,000 customers in the painting, flooring and plastering trades. The full range of products for the trade includes paints and plasters, floor and wall coverings, thermal insulation systems, machines and tools, construction technology and dry construction materials. The range includes the most important industry brands for the skilled trades and specialist retailers, as well as MEGA brand products developed specifically for the professional trades.

“Together with our industry partners, RETAILERS’ PARK has been created as a platform for exchanges between craftsmen, clients, architects and other players in the construction and real estate sector. Here we bring together a broad range of products, the latest trends and innovations in all aspects of modern interior design,” explains Ines Buchholz, Marketing Manager of the MEGA Gruppe.

DOMOTEX | Home of Flooring

DOMOTEX 2024 will take place from January 11 to 14 at the Hannover exhibition center.

Posted: September 19, 2023

Source DOMOTEX

Datacolor® Adds C.A. Kennedy As Authorized Agent In Canada

Giovanni Amicone, President of C.A. Kennedy Inc

LAWRENCEVILLE, N.J. — September 18, 2023 — Datacolor, a global provider of color management solutions, today announced a new authorized agent, C.A. Kennedy Inc., a premier distributor and solutions provider for the textile industry in Canada.

Through the partnership, C.A. Kennedy will represent Datacolor to provide Canadian textile companies with Datacolor’s innovative color measurement instruments, software, lab equipment and color certification services.

Founded in 1961, C.A. Kennedy brings over 60 years of expertise in textile machinery, testing, recycling and sustainability solutions. With an extensive customer base across Canada, C.A. Kennedy will enable Datacolor to expand its reach and better serve Canadian businesses with its trusted color management tools.

“We are thrilled about this new collaboration with C.A. Kennedy, an ideal partner given their in-depth knowledge in the Canadian textile industry,” said Suleman Madha, director of Sales & Support in the Americas at Datacolor.

“Datacolor’s high-quality color management solutions will greatly benefit our customers as they strive to improve efficiencies and get color right the first time,” said Giovanni Amicone, President of C.A. Kennedy Inc. “I look forward to a strong alliance with Datacolor with many successful years ahead.”

Posted: September 18, 2023

Source Datacolor

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