Functional Fabric Fair And Future Fabrics Expo Announce Partnership For Summer 2025 New York Edition

NORWALK, Conn. — May 29, 2025 — Functional Fabric Fair powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS® is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Future Fabrics Expo (FFE). This strategic collaboration brings together two leading global platforms with a unified mission: to spotlight innovation in functional textiles, accelerate sustainable solutions and inspire progress across the textile industry.

This partnership will debut in the United States during the Summer 2025 edition of Functional Fabric Fair, held July 21–23 at the Javits Center in New York City. This year’s event will kick off with the new Day 0 Sustainability Workshop on Monday, July 21, ahead of the exhibition hall opening on July 22–23.

Future Fabrics Expo will have a dedicated space near the Functional Fabric Fair exhibition hall showcasing its Innovation Hub: a curated selection of innovative and next gen materials. In addition, FFE will contribute to the education program with a presentation during the Expert Talks series.

This collaboration marks the beginning of an ongoing international initiative. The partnership officially launches at Future Fabrics Expo, 24-25 June 2025 in London, UK, where PERFORMANCE DAYS and Functional Fabric Fair will sponsor FFE’s Innovation Hub. Later in the year, FFE will partner in curating companies and products with the Innovation Hub at Functional Fabric Fair Portland and will be featured at additional PERFORMANCE DAYS events in Munich and Shanghai, broadening the reach for all.

“Future Fabrics Expo has long been a global leader in responsible material innovation, bringing together true innovators, chemists and visionaries,” said Steve McCullough, Event Vice President. “We’re proud to provide a new platform for their work in New York and Portland. As demand for sustainable, performance-driven materials continues to rise, we’re creating stronger, more inclusive events that foster meaningful connections and drive real impact across the supply chain.”

Nina Marenzi, Founder and CEO of The Sustainable Angle and Future Fabrics Expo, added, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Functional Fabric Fair and PERFORMANCE DAYS. This partnership allows FFE to reach new audiences and expand our presence globally. It also reflects our commitment to supporting nature-positive, decarbonized supply chains through innovation. Together, we aim to make sustainable materials more accessible and actionable for fashion and textile professionals worldwide.”

Registration is free and now open for verified industry professionals, including designers, product developers, buyers, media and students in the outdoor, fashion and lifestyle sectors.

Posted: May 29, 2025

Source: Functional Fabric Fair powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS® – RX  Global

Barnet Europe Celebrates Ground-Breaking Of New European Headquarters

ESCHWEILER, Germany — May 21, 2025 — With a symbolic ground-breaking ceremony on May 21, 2025, construction officially began on the new European headquarters of global manufacturing, recycling, and trading company Barnet Europe in Eschweiler, Germany.

Upon completion in the first quarter of 2026, Barnet will operate from approximately 21,000 square meters of office, production and warehouse space. The new facility is being constructed according to DGNB Platinum standards, reflecting the highest levels of sustainability and environmental responsibility through the use of cutting-edge, eco-friendly technologies.

“With the development of our new European headquarters in Eschweiler, we are reaching an important strategic milestone for the future direction of our company,” explains Bernd Lenzen, managing director of Barnet Europe. “This sustainably designed new building will replace our existing sites in Aachen and Raeren (Belgium), significantly increasing the efficiency of our production and logistics processes while laying a strong foundation for expanding our product portfolio. The new site is designed with growth in mind and will enable us to create additional jobs. In a first phase, we will relocate operations with around 100 employees, offering them a modern, future-oriented work environment.”

BARNET is an international group headquartered in Spartanburg, S.C., employing 500 people across the United States, Europe, India, China, and South Korea. Since its founding by William Barnet in 1898, the company has evolved from a traditional trading business with a globally established network into a modern manufacturing enterprise.

Today, Barnet produces not only chopped and staple fibers but also recycled high-performance fibers and the patented antistatic yarn nega-stat®. Trading in fibers as well as industrial, textile, and technical yarns remains a core part of the company’s business. Barnet’s products are used across a broad range of industries including automotive, textiles, hygiene, medical technology, paper, acoustics, public transportation, and marine engineering.

Eschweiler’s Mayor, Nadine Leonhardt, expressed optimism for the future: “We face major challenges brought about by structural change. These must be met with the creation of secure jobs at varying levels of qualification. Eschweiler continues to be a sought-after location for industry and commerce, with ongoing development. I’m pleased that the Barnet Group is investing in Eschweiler and contributing to the local economy in a meaningful way!”

Posted: May 29, 2025

Source: Barnet Europe – W. Barnet GmbH & Co. KG

Champion Thread Accelerates Growth With The Acquisition Of Carolina Sales Thread

GASTONIA, N.C. — May 28, 2025 — Champion Thread Company (CTC) — a manufacturer and provider of industrial sewing threads, engineered yarns and other sewn products supplies — today announced its acquisition of Carolina Sales Thread Inc., a popular regional distributor of industrial sewing threads to the needle trades.

Speaking on the acquisition, Champion Thread CEO and President Matt Poovey explained: “This is a significant step in our strategic growth plan that will allow us to deliver greater value to all current and future customers. Adding Carolina Sales’ existing customer base strengthens CTC’s market position. Former Carolina Sales customers will significantly benefit from our responsive U.S.-based manufacturing, broad product range, and enhanced service capabilities. With this acquisition, CTC will be better positioned to continue its rapid pace of innovation and market share growth.”

Retiring Carolina Sales Owner David Hall added: “We are excited to have our long-time customers join forces with Champion Thread. Our shared commitment to customer service and the USA textile industry makes this a perfect fit. It will positively impact our customers and help ensure their continued success.”

Posted: May 29, 2025

Source: Champion Thread Company (CTC)

Registration Opens For 2025 SPESA Executive Conference In Chicago

RALEIGH, N.C. — May 19, 2025 — Raleigh, NC – The Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA) is excited to announce registration is open for the 2025 SPESA Executive Conference. This year’s event will take place August 27-29 at the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile.

“Every year that we host this event is a bit better than the last as we build on what our team learns as event planners and the feedback we receive from our attendees on the topics and opportunities that are most important to them,” explained SPESA President Michael McDonald. “But every year is also a little bit of an experiment as we move to a new region, new market, and new audience pool, which keeps it exciting. Even for our returning attendees, there is always something new to learn and someone new to meet at every SPESA event.” Previous iterations in recent years took place in Montréal, San Juan, Boston, and New Orleans.

Below are a few of the key reasons why Chicago is an ideal host city for SPESA’s next Executive Conference:

  • A Historic Hub for Manufacturing: Chicago has long been a powerhouse of American manufacturing, with a legacy of skilled labor, industrial innovation, and a deep-rooted supply chain infrastructure that continues to support sewn product and textile production.
  • Reemerging Fashion Capital: Chicago’s fashion ecosystem is gaining momentum, fueled by a new wave of independent designers, small-batch manufacturers, and sustainable fashion entrepreneurs — making it an exciting center for industry transformation and innovation.
  • Central Gateway for North American Trade: Chicago’s strategic central location offers direct access to major markets across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico — making it a convenient, connected, and collaborative meeting ground for soft goods professionals.
  • Cross-Sector Innovation: Chicago’s fashion and sewn product sectors intersect with booming industries such as tech, logistics, and sustainability — creating rich opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration and innovation.
  • Cultural & Design Capital: With a globally recognized arts and design scene, Chicago offers an inspiring backdrop for conversations on creativity, craftsmanship, and the future of fashion manufacturing.
  • Somewhat coincidentally, Chicago is also the home of SPESA’s newest team member: Ambar Campos. Campos has deep ties in the city’s fashion industry, serving on the board of the Chicago-based Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), and supporting Chicago Fashion Week, which is returning in 2025 after its successful debut last year.

“We have been fortunate to have fantastic local industry partners in our event host cities over the years, but having actual ‘boots on the ground’ in Chicago will be an incredible advantage to SPESA as we bring in local industry and perspectives to help attendees learn more about the production, market, and trade issues specific to the region,” adds McDonald. “It will be a busy summer for us as we build the best possible event we can for our members, their customers, and the sewn products industry. We look forward to seeing everyone in Chicago!”

The annual SPESA Executive Conference is a key education and networking event for SPESA anyone interested in learning more about the current issues, trends, and policies impacting the global sewn products industry. The two-day conference features a combination of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and industry case studies to provide an opportunity for attendees to both learn and engage. Previous topics include: workforce development; trade and tariffs; revolutionary sustainability; supply chain disruption; how to invest in reshoring and Made in U.S.A. manufacturing; advancements in textile technology; and robotics and automated technology. The conference also effectively balances educational sessions with networking activities providing an opportunity to help attendees build their networks and strengthen industry connections.

Click here to register for the 2025 SPESA Executive Conference.

Posted May 29, 2025

World Of Wipes® (WOW) International Conference 2025: Conference Program Now Available

CARY, N.C. — May 28, 2025 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, is pleased to announce the release of the full conference program for the World of Wipes® (WOW) International Conference, taking place July 21–24, 2025, at the Hilton Columbus Downtown in Columbus, Ohio.

This year’s theme, “Wipe to Win: Innovating for a Sustainable and Profitable Future,” brings together industry leaders to address pressing challenges and opportunities across the wipes value chain. Program topics will include U.S. manufacturing threats, tariff and regulatory impacts, fiber sustainability, consumer perceptions, fragrance trends, slitting advancements, plastic-free wipe innovations, sports hygiene, and flushability.

Conference Sessions Include:

  • Panel Discussion: Navigating the Headwinds: U.S. Manufacturing Threats & Challenges in 2025
  • From Forest to Flush: Sustainability and Responsibility in Fiber and Wipes
  • Trends, Tushes & TikToks: The Rise of the Modern Wipe
  • Sniff, Save, Slice: Rethinking Wipes from Fragrance to Finish
  • No Plastic, No Problem: The Next Generation of Eco-Wise Wipes
  • Swipe Right: The New Faces of Specialty Wipes
  • Panel Discussion: The Great Regulatory and Tariff Pow-WOW

Conference Highlights Include:

  • WIPES Academy – July 21-22
    Led by Heidi Beatty, CEO of Crown Abbey, this 12-session course offers comprehensive training from concept to commercialization, including selection of fabrics, formulation design, and packaging considerations.
  • Tabletop Exhibits & Lightning Talks – July 22-23
    Explore the latest innovations from leading companies. Exhibitors will deliver five-minute product spotlights, followed by networking at the evening receptions.
  • Lunch Arounds – July 22-23
    Engage with peers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in small-group lunch discussions designed to foster collaboration and connections.
  • Pre-Conference Webinars
    More details will be released soon.
  • World of Wipes Innovation Award® – July 22 and 24
    Recognizing breakthrough innovations that utilize nonwoven technologies to enhance functionality and broaden application. Finalists will present on July 22; the winner will be announced on July 24.

To view the full conference program, visit: https://worldofwipes.org/conference.php

To register, reserve a tabletop exhibit, or become a sponsor, visit www.worldofwipes.org

Posted: May 29, 2025

Source: INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

Former Quaker Fabric Corp. Executive Duncan Whitehead Dies Unexpectedly

BRISTOL, Rhode Island  — May 21, 2025 — Duncan Whitehead, 82, died unexpectedly on May 21 at the Rhode Island Hospital with his loving wife, Margaret, by his side.

Duncan Whitehead

Born on June 25, 1942, in Yorkshire, England, Whitehead was the son of John and Marie Whitehead. Whitehead and his family moved to the United States in 1983, and he had been a resident of Rhode Island since 1990. Whitehead and his wife both became American Citizens in 2000. He will be remembered for his humor, his intelligence, an incredibly wide variety of interests and a longstanding dedication to the textile industry.

He was an executive at Quaker Fabric Corp. — at one time one of the world’s largest producers of upholstery fabrics and one of the largest employers in Fall River, Mass. He began his career in 1965 at Celanese in Canada, followed by a 12 year period at Grupo Pliana in Mexico and was a co-founder of Nortex in Philadelphia and North Carolina. After the closure of Quaker in 2007 he continued to work as a consultant to a large number of domestic and international textile companies. He was recognized as one of the leading experts in textile technology and business by his peers across the industry and around the world.

Whitehead was a Chemical Engineering graduate of Edinburgh University in Scotland. He continued to pursue learning throughout his life, and besides the textile business, was interested in politics, climate change, current affairs, sailing and cooking. He traveled extensively across the world throughout his life, both on business and for personal enjoyment.

Besides his wife, to whom he was devoted for more than 65 years, he leaves behind three sons and a daughter: Jonathan of London, Nicholas of Madison, N.J., Chris of Philadelphia, and Stephanie of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, as well as 7 grandchildren. He is survived by his younger sister, Janet.

A private memorial service will be held at Blithewold in Bristol, R.I.

Posted: May 27, 2025

Source: Jonathan Whitehead

Soho Apparel Group Rallies Behind Trump’s Made-In-America Agenda, Unveils Aggressive U.S. Manufacturing Expansion

CITY OF INDUSTRY, Calif. — May 23, 2025 — Soho Apparel Group, a leading private-label apparel company and trusted supplier to major U.S. retailers including Nordstrom, Tillys, Marshalls, Ross, Burlington, TJ Maxx, and Dillard’s proudly announces its alignment with President Donald J. Trump’s agenda to revitalize American manufacturing. Since its founding in 2002, Soho has grown into a cornerstone of the apparel industry, operating from a 300,000-square-foot facility in the City of Industry, Calif.

In a strategic move to bolster domestic production and reduce dependence on foreign supply chains, Soho Apparel Group is launching an ambitious expansion plan to increase its U.S.-based manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics operations by 300 percent by 2026. This initiative will create significant job opportunities for American workers and strengthen the nation’s industrial foundation.

James Chen, founder of Soho Apparel Group, expressed his enthusiasm: “California was once a powerhouse of American manufacturing, and with President Trump’s leadership, we see a clear path to restoring that legacy. We are proud to support the President’s vision by bringing production back to the U.S., creating jobs, and contributing to the revival of the American Dream.”

Limited Time Edition Trump Swag

To celebrate this commitment, Soho Apparel Group will launch a limited-edition line of Trump-inspired merchandise, including patriotic socks and fanny packs. All proceeds will go toward supporting the Trump Presidential Library, with more details to follow on our website.

Posted: May 27, 2025

Source: Soho Apparel Group

UNIFI®, Makers Of REPREVE®, Announces The Sale Of Manufacturing Facility

GREENSBORO, N.C. — May 21, 2025 — Unifi Inc. (together with its consolidated subsidiaries, UNIFI), the maker of REPREVE® and an innovator in recycled and synthetic yarns, today announced the closing of the sale of its manufacturing facility in Madison, N.C., to a third-party buyer.

Transaction Highlights:

  • Transaction valued at $45.0 million, with $25.0 million of net proceeds used to reduce the existing term loan and $18.3 million of net proceeds used to reduce outstanding revolving loans. Accordingly, on May 20, 2025, the term loan balance was reduced to $67.0 million and the revolving loan balance was reduced to $5.6 million, thereby reducing debt principal by approximately $43.3 million.
  • With the facility closing driving higher expected utilization and more efficient operations in the Americas segment, UNIFI expects to realize over $20.0 million in estimated annualized operating cost savings once all transition and restructuring activities are completed.

“The sale of our Madison facility, and related exit of yarn manufacturing at that site, marks a significant step in transitioning our Americas business to improved profitability. As a result of this transaction, we paid down a meaningful portion of our existing debt and enhanced our overall financial position,” said Eddie Ingle, UNIFI CEO. “Beyond the improvement to the balance sheet, the relocation of the production capacity from the Madison facility to other locations in North and Central America will dramatically optimize our business and make UNIFI a leaner organization.”

Posted: May 27, 2025

Source: UNIFI, Inc.

TenCate Protective Fabrics Celebrates A Century Of Textiles In Georgia

UNION CITY, Ga. — May 22, 2025 — TenCate Protective Fabrics proudly marked a major milestone this month, celebrating 100 years of continuous textile production in Georgia. In a time when much of the textile industry has moved offshore, this centennial achievement stands as a testament to the resilience, innovation, and enduring craftsmanship rooted in Georgia.

The celebration took place at the Coweta County Fairgrounds, bringing together employees, company retirees, community leaders, and other distinguished guests to honor a legacy that stretches back over 325 years in The Netherlands.

Built on this rich Dutch heritage, TenCate Protective Fabrics has become a global leader in advanced textile solutions for protective clothing. While its history began in The Netherlands, its steadfast commitment to U.S.-based manufacturing — particularly in Georgia — has fueled the company’s success over the last century. From producing cutting-edge flame-resistant (FR) fabrics for firefighters and industrial workers to supplying the military with mission-critical FR fabric for PPE, TenCate Protective Fabrics plays a vital role in protecting the people that communities rely on around the globe.

Maria Gallahue-Worl, CEO, TenCate Protective Fabrics

“This celebration is more than a look back — it’s a powerful reminder that American textile innovation is still alive and thriving,” said Maria Gallahue-Worl, CEO, TenCate Protective Fabrics. “Our rich heritage is deeply tied to the ingenuity and dedication of our workforce around the world, including right here in Georgia.”

Guests at the event enjoyed live music, games, food, a fashion show, and an exhibition highlighting the evolution of TenCate’s Georgia operations. The display traced the company’s journey from its origins as Southern Mills Inc., founded by the Ellis family, to its modern-day Georgia-based presence: a skilled production workforce operating across four state-of-the-art facilities and a Corporate Office in Union City, Georgia.

The celebration is a testament to TenCate Protective Fabrics’ 100-year roots in Georgia and the company’s essential and unique place in US textile manufacturing.

Posted: May 27, 2025

Source: TenCate Protective Fabrics

Turkiye-Based Breathable Film Technologies Manufacturer Will Establish First American Facility In North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. — May 27, 2025 — Governor Josh Stein announced that Pelsan Tekstil A.S., a global leader in breathable film technologies for the hygiene and medical sectors, will establish its first production facility in the United States in Wayne County, creating 216 jobs. The company will make an $82.6 million investment in Goldsboro.

“North Carolina is pleased to welcome Pelsan as it opens its first facility in the United States,” said Governor Stein. “Our skilled workforce, combined with North Carolina’s convenient East Coast location, enables companies to efficiently produce and deliver high-quality products to their customers.”

Pelsan was established in 2006 as a subsidiary to the Hassan Group, which has more than 80 years of experience in nonwoven and polymer film technologies. Pelsan was the first company in Turkiye to manufacture breathable polyethylene films and today offers one of the industry’s most advanced product portfolios. The company’s project in Goldsboro establishes its first U.S. facility for manufacturing various lines of breathable films for hygiene and medical applications, enabling Pelsan to respond more efficiently to rising demand across North America.

“This expansion is a major strategic milestone for us,” said Ali Sisman, CEO of Pelsan Tekstil. “Our decision to invest in North Carolina underscores our belief in the region’s strong workforce, robust infrastructure, and its alignment with our values of innovation and collaboration. This facility represents a significant new chapter in our company’s journey. We are at a pivotal moment — at the intersection of life and innovation. This journey of transformation and progress is not just ours, but one we share with every individual seeking change, growth, and a better tomorrow.”

“We continue to see strong interest in our state from international companies looking to expand into North America,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Our business-friendly reputation and proven competitive advantages continue to attract top-tier companies like Pelsan from around the globe.”

Although wages will vary depending on the position, the average salary for the new jobs will be $48,789. The current average wage in Wayne County is $46,211.

The company’s project in North Carolina will be facilitated, in part, by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) approved by the state’s Economic Investment Committee earlier today. Over the course of the 12-year term of this grant, the project is estimated to grow the state’s economy by more than $719.5 million. Using a formula that takes into account the new tax revenues generated by the new jobs and the capital investment, the JDIG agreement authorizes the potential reimbursement to the company of up to $2,065,000, spread over 12 years. State payments only occur following performance verification by the departments of Commerce and Revenue that the company has met its incremental job creation and investment targets.

The project’s projected return on investment of public dollars is 115 per cent, meaning for every dollar of potential cost, the state receives $2.15 in state revenue. JDIG projects result in positive net tax revenue to the state treasury, even after taking into consideration the grant’s reimbursement payments to a given company.

“We welcome this vote of confidence in Wayne County, Goldsboro, and our state overall,” said Representative John Bell. “These new manufacturing jobs and the company’s significant capital investment will bring new job opportunities for our people and will boost the local economy.”

“The new jobs and the investment into Goldsboro will bring economic growth and stability to Eastern NC”, said Senator Buck Newton. “On behalf of Wayne County, we welcome Pelsan to our community and we will continue to support this company as it grows. I am looking forward to witness the benefits this project will bring.”

In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, Wayne Community College, North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region, Wayne County, the City of Goldsboro, Wayne County Development Alliance, North Carolina’s Southeast, and Duke Energy.

Posted: May 27, 2025

Source: North Carolina Office of the Governor

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