EDANA OUTLOOK™ 2025: The Chain Bridge

BRUSSELS — September 9, 2025 — Before Széchenyi’s Chain Bridge opened in 1849, there were two cities on the Danube: Buda and Pest. For much of the year, the great river was a barrier that kept people, businesses, and ideas apart. The bridge changed everything. It physically connected the two sides to create something new and stronger: Budapest.

EDANA’s OUTLOOK™ conference serves the same purpose. It connects not two, but multiple sides of the industry, bringing together professionals across the absorbent hygiene and wipes sectors.

With more than 400 participants already confirmed from 173 companies, the event is set to be a unique platform for networking and business development. Alongside 18 exhibitors — with only two exhibition spaces still available — delegates will also benefit from 23 dedicated meeting rooms, creating the perfect setting for more private and focused discussions with clients and suppliers.

This year’s OUTLOOK program brings together 20 international speakers, two evening cocktail receptions, and plenty of opportunities to connect with peers from across the sector.

The agenda features three keynote addresses: Ambassador Ivo H. Daalder will reflect on shifting global alliances and their impact on international business; McKinsey & Company will present the latest insights into grocery retail trends and consumer behaviour; and Roover Consulting will explore how artificial intelligence can be applied to innovation and product development.

Alongside these highlights, the conference will cover market developments, sustainability, financing opportunities, and consumer dynamics in absorbent hygiene products and wipes.

Only two weeks to go! This is the final call for professionals who want to be in the room where the future of absorbent hygiene products and wipes is shaped. One trip, three days, and the opportunity to meet the entire industry in a single place, saving countless future business trips!

Learn more about the program

Secure one of the final spots and register

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: EDANA

 

ITMA 2027 Hannover, Germany — Stand Space Application Now Open

BRUSSELS — September 9, 2025 — Stand space application is now open for ITMA 2027. The seven-day exhibition will be held at Messegelaende Hannover, Germany, from September 16 to 22, 2027. Featuring the theme “Co-creating the Future of Textiles,” the exhibition is expected to bring together global leaders and innovators to shape the industry’s future

Following the success of ITMA 2023 in Milan, leading textile and garment machinery manufacturers are invited to secure their presence early at the industry’s most influential platform to launch their technologies, forge partnerships and grow their businesses worldwide.

Alex Zucchi, president of CEMATEX, owner of ITMA, said: “In 2027, ITMA returns to Hanover after 36 years. More than a platform for the promotion of innovative technologies, it is a turning point in the textile industry. As we evolve from Industry 4.0 to 5.0, we’re not just automating, we’re humanizing technology. Together, we’ll accelerate the shift towards a circular economy – one that is built on collaboration, innovation and regeneration.”

Dr. Janpeter Horn, chairperson of VDMA Textile Machinery Association, said: “We expect to have a strong presence of VDMA companies as our members are excited that ITMA will be staged in Germany after a long break. Supported by Hanover’s best-in-class exhibition infrastructure, ITMA 2027 will be an excellent platform for them to launch their latest innovations, focusing on efficiency, automation, digitalization and sustainability.”

The exhibition is expected to gross 200,000 square metres and draw over 1,500 exhibitors. Well known as the Olympics of textile machinery exhibitions, the upcoming edition prepares the industry to meet new challenges and opportunities amidst tighter sustainability regulations and rapidly evolving technological developments. To apply for space, visit www.itma.com.

The European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers – CEMATEX grants

ITMA 2027 will feature 20 product sectors, encompassing the entire textile and garment manufacturing value chain. One of the sectors is Research and Innovation. Research and educational institutions applying to exhibit in this sector will be able to leverage a CEMATEX grant to defray 50 percent of their participation costs.

CEMATEX will also be providing a grant to fully subsidize the participation of up to 20 young companies with innovative products and services for the textile industry. Launched in 2023, 15 companies were selected to participate in the Start-Up Valley.

One of the exhibitors, TreeToTextile — a Swedish-based cellulose fiber producer — was delighted with the outcome of their participation. Ida Alnemo, head of Application & Sustainability, enthused: “ITMA has been a great platform for future collaboration needed to scale breakthrough innovations like ours, to make a positive change in the textile industry in offering better fibers to all.”

Information on the two grants can be found on the exhibition website.

More information on ITMA 2027 is also available at the upcoming ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 exhibition which will be held at Singapore Expo from October 28-31, 2025. Visit stand H5- D304 to learn more about the exhibition, venue, accommodation options and Hanover city from the ITMA Services team and partners.

The last ITMA exhibition was held in Milan in 2023. It featured the participation of 1,709 exhibitors from 47 countries, and visitorship of more than 111,000 from 143 countries.

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: The European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers (CEMATEX) / ITMA Services

INX International Ink Co. Strengthens Status As A Great Place To Work

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. — September 9, 2025 — INX International Ink Co. continues to score high marks with its employees. In a survey conducted by the Great Place to Work® organization, INX has earned recertification after employee satisfaction ratings reached an all-time high in the past three years.

With 78 percent of employees confirming INX has a vibrant workplace culture, it represents a seven point increase from last year and far exceeds the 57 percent average of typical United States companies. Bryce Kristo, INX President and CEO, believes the yearly improvements are attributed to the outstanding culture employees and management have built together.

Bryce Kristo

“This certification is more than a milestone. It’s a reflection of the trust, collaboration, and care that defines our workplace,” said Kristo, who has worked at INX since 1991. “This recognition is based entirely on our employees’ feedback, and this year’s results are our strongest to date.”

Kristo cited several categories he was especially proud of. Eighty six percent of the employees who responded agreed they have the resources and equipment to do their job, and can take time off when needed. Seventy two percent acknowledged feeling good about the ways INX contributes to the community, which is a nine point increase compared to last year.

The survey prepared by the Great Place to Work organization, one of the world’s foremost authorities on workplace culture, asked employees to respond to 60 statements on a 1-5 scale. According to Heather Seville, Vice President of HR and Risk Manager, INX’s score improved in 57 of the categories this year.

“We scored especially high in regards to treating employees fairly, being a physically safe place to work, making them feel welcome when they join the company, and the areas Bryce Kristo mentioned,” she said. “Our results this year highlight the dedication shown by leaders,  supervisors, and individual team members throughout the organization. By prioritizing listening, support, and connection, these shared efforts have made a meaningful impact of how employees experience our workplace.”

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: INX International Ink Co.

NRF: Imports Declining Following Summer Surge Ahead Of Tariffs

WASHINGTON — September 9, 2025 — Following a near-record peak this summer, import cargo volume at the nation’s major container ports is expected to steadily decline for the remainder of the year amid rising tariffs, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“We have seen the implementation of reciprocal tariffs across the globe, with a number of key trading partners being subjected to tariffs higher than the earlier 10 percent tariffs,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “We also continue to see more and more sectoral tariffs impacting a wider scope of products. Retailers have stocked up as much as they can ahead of tariff increases, but the uncertainty of U.S. trade policy is making it impossible to make the long-term plans that are critical to future business success. These tariffs and disruptions to the supply chain are adding costs that will ultimately lead to higher prices for American consumers.”

While “reciprocal” tariffs on a number of countries took effect in early August, a federal appeals court later ruled against President Donald Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose the tariffs, but left them in place while the ruling is under appeal to the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, Trump delayed an increase in tariffs on China by 90 days to Nov. 10 so trade negotiations could continue. Trump also announced an additional 25 percent tariff on India that took effect near the end of August, bringing the additional tariff rate to 50 percent.

“Tariffs have had a significant impact on trade,” Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said. “The trade outlook for the final months of the year is not optimistic.”

U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 2.36 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units — one 20-foot container or its equivalent — in July, although numbers for New York/New Jersey, Port Everglades and Miami were estimated because they have not yet reported their data. That was up 20.1 percent from June as retailers brought in merchandise ahead of tariffs set to take effect in August, and up 1.8 percent year over year. It would be the second-busiest month on record, topped only by 2.4 million TEU in May 2022.

Ports have not yet reported numbers for August, but Global Port Tracker projected the month at 2.28 million TEU, down 1.7 percent year over year but higher than that 2.2 million TEU expected before the postponement of China tariffs and the new tariff on India.

September is forecast at 2.12 million TEU, down 6.8 percent year over year; October at 1.95 million TEU, down 13.2 percent, and November at 1.74 million TEU, down 19.7 percent. December is forecast at 1.7 million TEU, down 20.1 percent year over year for the slowest month since 1.62 million TEU in March 2023.

While the falling monthly totals are related to tariffs, the year-over-year percentage declines are both because of this year’s early peak season and because imports in late 2024 were elevated by concerns about port strikes.

The first half of 2025 totaled 12.53 million TEU, up 3.6 percent year over year. The full year is forecast at 24.7 million TEU, down 3.4 percent from 25.5 million TEU in 2024.

January 2026 is forecast at 1.8 million TEU, down 19.1 percent year over year.

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: The National Retail Federation (NRF)

AMSilk Secures 52 Million Euro Strategic Financing To Accelerate Commercial Growth

NEURIED, Germany — September 9, 2025 — AMSilk GmbH, a frontrunner in advanced biomaterials made from silk-based proteins, today announced it has successfully secured 52 million euro financing led by existing investor ATHOS (AT Newtec), along with strong participation from fellow existing investors MIG Capital and Novo Holdings. The financing combines 30 million euros in equity, and 22 million euros in convertible bonds. This reflects strong investor confidence and long-term commitment in AMSilk’s technology and market potential.

The proceeds will be used to build further commercial traction and support AMSilk’s next phase of industrial scale-up, enabling the Company to meet growing global demand for its silk-based protein materials.

AMSilk has concluded several multi-year production agreements, establishing a long-term basis for industrial output and supply reliability. Dedicated production facilities, specifically configured for the manufacturing of AMSilk’s proprietary silk-based protein materials, have been installed at the Company’s key industrial partners. This enables AMSilk to produce at scale with consistent quality and reliability across its product portfolio.

Ralph Fraundorfer, Chief Financial Officer of AMSilk, commented: “We are grateful to our shareholders for their continued support — especially in today’s challenging funding environment. The investment demonstrates confidence in our clear path-to-market, scalable technology and strong partner network. As we move to industrial-scale production, we are focused on establishing robust processes and resilient supply chains — providing clear commercial proof of our ability to deliver on our industrial commitments and scale our innovative biomaterials for global markets.”

Dr. Wolfgang Colberg, Chairman of AMSilk’s Advisory Board stated: “At AMSilk, we are very excited about the enthusiasm of our customers for our products and the high demand we are seeing. With the committed funding from our investors, we can now work with our partners to massively scale-up production. This is a significant step towards establishing a completely new industry in Europe and around the world for high-performance biotech materials that can be used in countless applications.”

Daniel Kolb, Investment Manager at ATHOS KG, added: “AMSilk’s transition to full-scale production signals strong commercial validation. The Company’s ability to manufacture biofabricated materials at multi-ton volumes confirms its industrial viability and readiness to meet growing market demand. At ATHOS, we invest in companies that combine deep technological innovation with clear commercial potential, and AMSilk exemplifies this philosophy.”

AMSilk’s innovative silk-based protein technology creates novel, sustainable biomaterials by reprogramming microorganisms to produce silk-based proteins which can be processed into a variety of forms, including powders, hydrogels, fibers, and coatings. These 100-percent protein-based, fully biodegradable, and microplastic-free biomaterials are used to produce a new class of fibers for textile applications in the fashion and automotive industry and serve as functional ingredients in the consumer care sector. Moreover, there is a wealth of additional potential applications across various industries that can be realized using this technology.

Following the successful extension of its Series C financing in 2023, AMSilk has continued to strengthen its commercial footprint through strategic partnerships with leading global brands in the fashion, automotive, and consumer care sectors. A key pillar of this progress is AMSilk’s collaboration with renowned industrial partners such as Evonik and Ajinomoto, which manufacture its silk-based proteins at scale. These partnerships play a critical role in enabling AMSilk’s transition toward full industrialization and global market readiness.

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: AMSilk GmbH

Hologenix Brings Company’s First DTC Product To International Market, Exhibiting At Health Optimization Summit

LOS ANGELES — September 9, 2025 — Hologenix, the pioneer in infrared textile innovation and the company behind CELLIANT®, will be attending the Health Optimisation Summit in London on September 13 and 14. Seth Casden, CEO and co-founder of Hologenix, will be in attendance at The Summit to showcase the company’s new Infrared Dream Pillow Powered by CELLIANT, which marks its international debut, and to meet with potential partners.

The Infrared Dream Pillow uses CELLIANT’s proprietary infrared (IR) technology to promote thermoregulation, improve local circulation, and increase cellular oxygenation, to help you wake up feeling more rested, restored, and energized. CELLIANT has been an innovator in the infrared technology space for decades, but the Infrared Dream Pillow is the first time the team has launched its in-house product. The pillow debuted in May and was met with resounding enthusiasm, which has led Hologenix to expand into the United Kingdom (UK) market.

Seth Casden

“When I first started CELLIANT, my intention was always to help as many people live their healthiest and happiest lives,” said Seth Casden, CEO and co-founder of Hologenix. “Infrared has such incredible benefits, and one day, I hope it’s a part of everyone’s routine.

“We’re always expanding our offerings and identifying new partners — the Dream Pillow is our latest product to bring IR technology to consumers. We’re thrilled to be attending the Health Optimization Summit in London this fall and hope to meet other like-minded companies and retailers, as well as attendees who want to learn more about the power of infrared.”

Many well-respected brands have incorporated CELLIANT into their product lines, and the company looks forward to exploring new opportunities at the show. Hologenix has worked seamlessly with European companies like BLACKROLL, Centa-Star, Decathlon and DAGi, and knows the international market well.

Posted: September 9, 2025

Source: Hologenix, LLC

INDA Announces Finalists For The 2025 RISE® Innovation Award: RISE® Technology Conference Set For October 14–15 In Raleigh, N.C.

CARY, N.C. — September 8, 2025 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, is pleased to announce the three finalists for the 2025 RISE® Innovation Award. A highlight of the RISE® (Research, Innovation & Science for Engineered Fabrics) Technology Conference, this award recognizes groundbreaking nonwoven-based innovations with the potential to advance the industry.

The 2025 RISE Technology Conference will take place October 14–15 at the McKimmon Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, N.C.

Technology scouts, product developers, and business leaders from across the nonwovens value chain will gather to discover the latest research, connect with thought leaders, and see first-hand the technologies competing for the award.

The three finalists will present their groundbreaking technologies to conference participants on Tuesday afternoon, October 14. The winner of the 2025 RISE® Innovation Award will be announced on Wednesday afternoon, October 15.

Meet the 2025 Award Finalists

EsterCycle by EsterCycle
Hospitals and laboratories generate enormous amounts of PPE nonwoven plastic waste, most of which is incinerated. Polyethylene terephthalate is used extensively in nonwovens, and there is significant interest in using biobased polyesters such as polylactic acid and polyhydroxyalkanoates to reduce the footprint of these essential materials. EsterCycle is a low cost and emissions chemical recycling technology that can handle biohazard contamination and break down mixed polyester nonwovens for circulation back into the supply chain.

Kelsun® fiber by Keel Labs
Kelsun fiber, developed by Keel Labs, is the world’s first high-performance seaweed-based fiber. Plastic-free and tree-free; the combined properties of Kelsun allow it to outperform all other fibers without shedding harmful microplastics. This breakthrough material brings extreme softness, high absorptivity, inherent flame resistant and antimicrobial properties, in addition to unmatched biodegradability. Engineered to integrate into existing nonwoven manufacturing, Kelsun fiber delivers a revolutionary material that combines performance with sustainability for next-generation consumer and industrial products.

Fentanyl Detection by Rockline Industries
Rockline Industries has developed a revolutionary fentanyl detection wipe that rapidly changes color from orangish to deep red upon contact with miniscule levels of fentanyl, enabling first responders, law enforcement, and others to identify the presence of toxic opioids safely. The wipe contains a novel formula with color indicators and a specific starch bound to viscose fibers, ensuring the reaction occurs on the wipe itself. Tested successfully with pharmaceutical and street-grade fentanyl and other dangerous opioids at various U.S. labs and police departments. The single-use sachet offers a convenient presumptive test with broad applications including military, airports, schools, and penitentiaries, with ongoing patent filings and potential for detecting other dangerous opioids.

The RISE® Innovation Award recognizes innovation in areas that use nonwovens or engineered fabrics in a way that is technically sophisticated, creative, unique, and feasible, and that demonstrates potential to positively impact the nonwovens industry.

2024 RISE® Innovation Award Winner

The 2024 RISE Innovation Award winner was PlantPanelX by Hempitecture Inc. PlantPanel X is a rigid continuous insulation material used in exterior above-ground applications. With an R Value of R3.25 per inch, PlantPanel adds to thermal and acoustic comfort and performance. Engineered with a density to resist compression and deflection, PlantPanel is used in split-insulation wall and roof assemblies with either a rain screen cladding or roofing material, depending on the application. With 100-percent biobased and recycled content, PlantPanel is a sustainable, low carbon continuous insulation solution that’s easy to install and safe to handle.

For more information or to register for the RISE Technology Conference 2025, visit www.riseconf.net

Posted: September 8, 2025

Source: INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

Enhance Sustainability With emtec’s Tactile Sensation Analyzer At The Amsterdam Textile Show 2025

LEIPZIG, Germany — September 4, 2025 — Traditionally, assessing fabric hand feel and wearing comfort has been highly subjective, making collaboration along the textile supply chain difficult. The TSA changes this by delivering objective, reproducible data on key parameters such as surface softness, surface smoothness, compressibility, stretch, friction, and thermal behavior. This enables manufacturers, mills, and brands to establish a common language for fabric quality, ensuring consistency and reliability.

By digitizing tactile data and linking it to the cloud-based Virtual Haptic Library, the TSA helps textile developers:

  • Save time and costs in R&D by reducing sample shipping, iterations, and approval delays – cutting development cycles from up to 20 weeks to as little as two.
  • Improve efficiency across sourcing and production workflows through digital comparison instead of costly lab dip submittals.
  • Boost sustainability by minimizing sample waste and reducing transport-related emissions.
  • Ensure quality consistency by detecting subtle variations between fabric batches that are otherwise nearly impossible to recognize by touch.

The system also integrates seamlessly with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), and quality management systems, supporting the textile industry’s shift towards digitization, automation, and data-driven decision-making. “Turning subjective impressions into objective data is a critical competitive advantage,” says Alexander Gruener. “With the TSA and our Virtual Haptic Library, we provide a scalable solution that accelerates development, improves communication, and supports sustainability goals across the global textile supply chain.”

Visitors to the Amsterdam Textile Show 2025 will have the opportunity to experience live demonstrations of the TSA in Hall 11 at booth no. W103 and learn how emtec Electronic is shaping the future of digital fabric evaluation.

Posted: September 8, 2025

Source: emtec Electronic GmbH

AMMA Calls On Congress To Strengthen U.S. Medical Manufacturing And Secure Critical Supply Chains

WASHINGTON — September 4, 2025 — The American Medical Manufacturers Association (AMMA) has urged Congress to take decisive action to restore American leadership in critical medical manufacturing. As the nation celebrates new investments in medical, biotech, and pharma production, key vulnerabilities persist, especially for U.S. makers of personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical supplies facing unfair global competition.

“Inaction is no longer an option,” said AMMA Executive Director Eric Axel. “America cannot protect its healthcare workers or citizens without a resilient, homegrown manufacturing base for critical supplies. Congress holds one important lever to revitalizing a critical industry.”

AMMA President Dan Izhakyl added, “The challenge to domestic manufacturers is clear. Without durable, bipartisan support from Congress, we risk losing jobs and America’s preparedness, resilience, and national security.”

AMMA released its four immediate priorities to strengthen U.S. medical manufacturing:

  • Expand Access to Capital for U.S. Manufacturers — The Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act would double the loan limits in SBA’s popular 7(a) and 504 loan programs from $5 million to $10 million. Raising these caps will give small and mid-sized manufacturers, particularly in critical health sectors, the resources needed to modernize facilities, scale domestic production, and compete globally.
  • Bolster Medical Investments — The FY26 HHS appropriations include over $3.2B for the Biomedical Advanced Research & Development Authority (BARDA) and ASPR procurement. This funding includes $10M targeted at advanced manufacturing and industrial base expansion. We must ensure this funding survives conference negotiations and is protected from cuts.
  • Strengthen the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) — The SNS provisions incentivize manufacturers to build capacity inside the U.S. by supporting construction and renovation. Just as important, restrictions on procurement from foreign adversaries reflect the reality that national security is not just about supplies, but also who controls those supply chains.
  • Maintain “Buy American” Across Federal Investments — Provisions in the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Bill that reinforce Buy American standards should be carried through final passage. When taxpayer dollars are spent, they should support American workers, innovation, and resilience, not subsidize overseas competitors.

AMMA called on Congress to advance these priorities through committee hearings, markups, and final conference. Congress must deliver the policies, certainty, and investment signals America’s innovators and workers need to build a safer, stronger, and more secure medical future.

Posted: September 8, 2025

Source: The American Medical Manufacturers Association (AMMA)

Ready For Low-Carbon PET Fibers: Indorama Ventures’ Certified Supply Chain Enables Bio-Based Textiles At Scale

BANGKOK, Thailand — September 5, 2025 — Indorama Ventures Public Co. Ltd., a global sustainable chemical company, is accelerating the textile industry’s transition to lower-carbon materials with its scalable, high-performance bio-based PET fibers and yarns under the deja™ Bio portfolio.

At the upcoming Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress on September 10-12, Claire Mattelet, Global Sustainability Program Head for Indorama Ventures’ Fibers Business, will share the company’s experience in developing a fully certified, low-carbon supply chain at scale.

Her presentation will explore several challenges, such as:

  • Securing reliable sources of renewable feedstocks to produce bio-based PTA and MEG inhouse or sourcing bio-based chemicals such as bio-based MEG from trusted partners
  • Converting feedstock into PET chips, yarns, and fibers
  • And navigating complex certification requirements

As a result, Indorama Ventures is now able to offer customers and brand owners an integrated, fully certified supply chain through mass balance at scale.

Using a mass-balance approach means that renewable feedstocks, such as used cooking oil, are blended with fossil-based raw materials in existing production systems.

The renewable content is then allocated to final products using certified methods like ISCC+, ensuring traceability throughout the value chain and compliance with chain-of-custody requirements.

By leveraging existing infrastructure, coupled with R&D capabilities and proven technologies, Indorama Ventures enables rapid market deployment of bio-based PET fibers and yarns that are chemically identical to their fossil counterparts. This ensures customer processes remain the same, performance metrics such as durability, dyeability, and strength are equal to virgin solutions, and brand owners and converters can speed up qualification lead times and immediately reduce scope 3 emissions to seamlessly upgrade their existing product lines.

Indorama Ventures invites brand owners, manufacturers, and industry partners to explore the deja Bio portfolio and join the movement toward a lower-carbon textile industry.

The technology is proven, the supply chain is built.

Posted: September 8, 2025

Source: Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited

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