PROPOSTE 2026 Returns For Its 33rd Edition

COMO, Italy— May 4, 2026 — The 33rd edition of Proposte opens tomorrow, May 5, at Villa Erba, Lake Como. With 87 exhibitors from around the world, the fair confirms its role as a key international event for furnishing textiles, showcasing new products, innovations and trends from direct producers of furnishing and curtain fabrics, trimmings and wallcoverings.

This year’s theme, Heritage Forward, expresses a shared vision: to enhance the sector’s manufacturing heritage while projecting it towards future challenges, including technological innovation, sustainability and international market expansion. This approach is also reflected in an increasingly contemporary and engaging exhibition format.

Alongside the excellence of the exhibitors’ offering, Proposte 2026 further enhances the visitor experience with redesigned spaces, refined hospitality and prestigious collaborations with the design world.

Inspirational interiors by Cristina Celestino Studio

Welcoming, inspiring, connecting: Proposte has always based its success on the quality of relationships. This vision is also reflected in a growing focus on exhibition spaces, conceived as places for interaction and storytelling. In this context, the fair has partnered with architect Cristina Celestino, who has reimagined the common areas of the Villa Erba congress centre, originally designed by Mario Bellini.

Interpreting the Heritage Forward theme, the project transforms transitional areas into spaces to be experienced—dedicated not only to relaxation, but also to meeting and exchange. At its core is the enhancement of the wing ‘Ala Regina’, now fully integrated into the exhibition route. The corridor, transformed into an evocative showcase of textile language created in collaboration with selected exhibitors, leads to the new Lounge Esedra.

The lounge’s semicircular architecture, with large windows opening onto the gardens, conveys the lightness and elegance of the setting. Fabrics become theatrical backdrops framing contemporary design pieces, including the iconic Gala sofas by Saba and Claretta table lamps by Contardi Lighting. The space becomes a modern lounge for relaxing, conversing, browsing international magazines and enjoying a refined break.

“For Proposte, I envisioned spaces that restore centrality to the experience of encounter, through a language that engages with the architectural identity of Villa Erba and the textile tradition, reinterpreted with a contemporary sensibility,” comments Cristina Celestino.

A Made in Italy welcome: food and design

The 2026 edition expands the visitor experience by integrating design, decoration and hospitality culture, offering a comprehensive expression of Made in Italy.

Also designed by Cristina Celestino’s studio, the two bars in the Lario and Cernobbio wings have been redesigned with a more informal yet sophisticated approach, while an open-air café allows visitors to enjoy the lake landscape surrounded by furnishings by Roda, Meridiani and Crema Outdoor.

Open throughout the fair is also the ancient Villa, the historic residence of the Erba family and former summer retreat of film director Luchino Visconti. Its richly frescoed rooms host a high-end gourmet restaurant, offering a unique opportunity to dine in an exceptional setting.

INTERNI.PROPOSTE AWARD 2026

In collaboration with main media partner INTERNI, the INTERNI.PROPOSTE AWARD 2026 debuts this year. The award highlights some of the most interesting applications of fabrics presented at recent editions of Proposte, recognising the value of collaboration between furniture companies and textile manufacturers.

The awards will be assigned across three categories— Fine Outdoor, Inspired by Nature and Precious Touch—by a jury of leading figures from the worlds of design and publishing:

Gilda Bojardi, Editor-in-chief of INTERNI; Marco Parravicini, President of Proposte; Gabriele Chiave, Creative director and founder of Controvento; Francesca Lanzavecchia, Creative director and founder of Lanzavecchia + Wai; Claudio Saverino, architect and founder of Vudafieri Saverino Partners, Alessandro Enriquez, fashion designer and creative director of Alessandro Enriquez; Paolo Bleve, publisher of IFDM. Winners will be announced on the evening of 5 May during the traditional opening cocktail.

The exhibitors

Proposte 2026 features 87 exhibitors (+11% compared to 2025), including 37 Italian and 50 international companies (specifically 16 Belgian, 8 British, 6 Spanish, 6 Turkish, 4 Indian, 2 French, 2 German and one of each country: Austrian, Swiss, American, Moroccan, Finnish and Lithuanian). Together they represent high-quality production of furnishing fabrics (61%), curtain fabrics (32%), wallcoverings (6.5%) and trimmings (0.5%), with a total turnover of approximately €1.3 billion.

The offering includes jacquard and dobby-woven fabrics for upholstered furniture and curtains, velvets, embroideries and printed textiles, as well as solutions for contract applications and wallcoverings. 49% of companies offer flame-retardant fabrics and 64% produce outdoor textiles, confirming a growing market.

A commitment beyond the fair

Proposte actively supports the preservation of textile heritage beyond the duration and boundaries of the event. In collaboration with the Fondazione del Tessile Italiano and the Federazione Tessilivari e del Cappello, it contributed to the restoration of the historic upholstery in the Sala Bevilacqua at the Museo Bagatti Valsecchi, dating back to the late 19th century. The work was carried out by the Fondazione Lisio Textile Restoration Laboratory in Florence between June 2025 and February 2026.

Collaboration with ITA

Thanks to the renewed support of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the ITA – Italian Trade Agency, a delegation of international buyers and journalists from 23 countries will attend the fair, fostering and promoting international business relations and confirming the sector’s ability to meet global demand for high-quality products.

Marco Parravicini, President of Proposte

“Proposte is undergoing a natural process of evolution, reflecting the changes within the sector and the evolving needs of the market. The initiatives introduced this year represent a concrete first step in this direction—an ongoing path aimed at making the fair increasingly open, dynamic and capable of generating value. Our commitment is to create opportunities for the entire supply chain, fostering dialogue between companies, designers, architects and the publishing world, while amplifying awareness of a highly specialised sector. A heritage of expertise and culture that we believe must be supported and preserved.”

Massimo Mosiello, Director of Proposte

“Since 1993, Proposte has been a key fixture in the international calendar for professionals in the furnishing textiles sector. Year after year, we witness the evolution of an industry whose excellence we are committed to representing. Proposte is not only about business, but also about textile culture—something we are determined to preserve and promote.”

PROPOSTE 2026 returns for its 33rd edition Villa Erba, Cernobbio (COMO), ITALY May 5-7, 2026

Posted: May 4, 2026

Source: Proposte

Universal Fibers® Appoints Jay Brown As President

BRISTOL, VA — May 4, 2026 — Universal Fibers has announced the appointment of Jay Brown as President, effective May 1, 2026.  Bringing more than 35 years of leadership experience across the flooring, fiber and building materials industries, Brown joins the business at a pivotal time as it continues to advance innovation and strengthen its global commercial presence.

Jay Brown

A highly respected industry leader, Brown has held several senior roles throughout his career, including President and Chief Operating Officer at Bentley Mills and Vice President of Supply Chain at Interface.  Most recently, he served as Executive Vice President at Happy Floors, where he focused on driving strategic growth and strengthening customer relationships.

Known for his ability to build high-performing teams and deliver sustained growth, Brown brings a strong track record in operational excellence, product innovation and customer focus.

In his new role, Brown will lead Universal Fibers’ global operations, working across its manufacturing facilities in the United States, Europe and Asia, while continuing to expand the company’s position within the flooring sector.

“I’ve long admired Universal Fibers, not only as a leader in the industry, but as a partner, says Brown. Having experienced the business from a customer perspective, I’ve seen first-hand the strength of their innovation, quality, sustainability focus, and technical expertise, and I’m thrilled to be part of a company that continues to pioneer responsible fiber technology for the flooring sector.  I look forward to working with the team to build on their strong foundation and drive future growth.”

“Jay brings a wealth of industry knowledge and a proven ability to lead organizations through periods of growth, says Jonathan Craig, CEO of Universal Fiber Systems.  His operational expertise and strategic mindset will be instrumental as we continue to evolve our global business.  We are delighted to welcome him to Universal Fibers and look forward to the impact he will make.”

Heidi Davidson, General Manager at Universal Fibers, added, “I’m looking forward to working closely with Jay as he joins the business.  From a plant and operations perspective, it’s an exciting time for the team, and I’m eager to support the commercial initiatives he will bring, ensuring we continue to deliver the performance, quality and consistency our customers expect.”

Brown’s appointment reflects Universal Fibers’ continued commitment to innovation, performance, sustainability, and customer partnership, as the company builds on its position as a leader in advanced fiber solutions for the global flooring market.

Posted: May 4, 2026

Source: Universal Fibers, Inc., a business unit within Universal Fiber Systems, LLC.

Polartec® Unveils Pioneering Approach To Simplifying Color Within Outdoor Apparel

SPARTANBURG, S.C.— April 30, 2026 — Polartec®, a Milliken & Company brand and the creator of synthetic fleece, introduces Standard Issue, a unified pre-dyed option now available in black on the company’s best-selling Fleece fabric platform. The technology will be progressively rolled out across the entire Polartec® portfolio and expanded in its color availability based on market demand. Developed to address an industry-wide problem, Standard Issue offers brands a simplified approach to producing one of the most widely used colors in outdoor apparel.

Every year, top brands independently order thousands of rolls of fleece fabric in nearly identical shades of black. Yet because each variation requires its own dye batch, minimum order quantity and production setup, custom dyeing adds unnecessary time and complexity without necessarily delivering meaningful differentiation.

With Standard Issue, Polartec® is helping streamline production and reduce resource impact. And because the pre-dyed fabrics can be seamlessly integrated into product development, the initiative also helps simplify sourcing decisions and accelerate timelines without compromising the durability, performance, and reliability outdoor brands expect from Polartec® fabrics. More importantly, the new standard is designed to complement, not replace, the multiple customization options Polartec® already offers its partners.

“Sometimes the biggest opportunities for progress come from questioning the most familiar parts of our industry,” said Ramesh Kesh, Senior Vice President at Milliken & Company and Business Leader for Polartec. “Standard Issue invites the industry to consider a shared alternative to producing countless variations of a visually identical color like Black. It’s a solution whose practical benefits for our partners include simplified development in addition to smarter and more efficient production practices across the global supply chain.”

“This initiative highlights Polartec’s long-standing tradition of solving real-world challenges through material innovation,” added Karen Beattie, Director of Product Management at Polartec. “By providing brands with a consistent, ready-to-use color option, we are helping design teams move from concept to production more efficiently without sacrificing the technical performance their products rely on.”

Polartec® Standard Issue will be progressively rolled out across the entire Polartec® portfolio and expanded in its color availability based on market demand, offering companies a concrete path to streamlining their apparel production while ensuring full flexibility in design and product differentiation.

Posted: May 3, 2026

Source: Polartec®, a Milliken & Company Brand

Hyosung TNC To Be A Principal Sponsor Of 2026 Global Fashion Summit

SOEUL, South Korea— April 30, 2026 — Hyosung TNC, a complete sustainable textile solution provider and largest manufacturer of elastane by market share, is proud to be a Principal Sponsor of 2026 Global Fashion Summit taking place 5–7 May 2026 in Copenhagen, Denmark, where it will share developments with the production of its innovative BIO Elastane at the company’s new fully integrated bio-based production system in Vietnam.

Presented by Global Fashion Agenda, the Summit convenes leaders from across the fashion value chain to drive collective action on the industry’s most pressing priorities. Under the theme ‘Building Resilient Futures’, the 2026 edition reflects a pivotal moment for fashion as supply chains evolve and regulatory and cultural expectations shift. It calls on leaders to strengthen their capacity to adapt and to help shape systems that are collaborative, responsive, and prepared for long term progress.

“At a moment when the industry is moving from commitments to action, Hyosung TNC offers something beyond a material; a scalable, system designed to make bio-based the new baseline, not the exception,” said Simon Whitmarsh-Knight, Hyosung TNC Marketing and Sustainability Director – Textiles. “We are excited to share how our Bio Elastane can be the solution to brands’ bio transition, powered by sugarcane at the 2026 Global Fashion Summit.”

Hyosung Bio Elastane – Your bio transition, powered by sugarcane

Fashion has long relied on fossil-based materials to deliver the performance consumers expect. Changing that requires more than intention, it requires infrastructure.

Hyosung TNC is building that infrastructure. As the world’s largest elastane manufacturer by market share, the company has committed $1 billion to establishing the first fully integrated bio-based production system of its kind: from sugarcane to Hyosung TNC’s Bio-BDO, Bio-PTMG, and ultimately Bio Elastane, all within a single, connected value chain.

Sugarcane marks a new chapter in bio-based material innovation. As the industry pushes further into renewable feedstocks, sugarcane represents where that journey is heading, a crop with established large-scale agricultural systems and strong carbon reduction potential. Hyosung TNC’s sugarcane feedstock is verified through the VIVE platform.

For brands, this translates to something rare in sustainable sourcing, a bio-based elastane that performs without compromise. Hyosung Bio Elastane delivers the same durability, stretch, and recovery demanded by activewear, sportswear, and compression applications while supporting meaningful reductions in carbon footprint.

As principal sponsor of Global Fashion Summit, Hyosung TNC will be involved in roundtable and panel discussions along with having a stand in the DR Concert Hall.

Additionally, the company will be featured in the Fashion Redressed II Series, produced for Hyosung TNC by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions and presented by Global Fashion Agenda at the Global Fashion Summit.

Fashion Redressed II

Building on the global success of the first series, Fashion Redressed II is the second iteration of the branded content series, presented by the Global Fashion Agenda and produced for GFA by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions, exploring how the fashion industry is being reimagined from the inside out. The series follows the innovators, workers and entrepreneurs across the globe asking what it would take to do things differently.

From factory floors in Bangladesh and Honduras to a ceramicist’s studio in North London and a sugarcane field in Brazil, these stories reveal a changing industry and the people within it who are, in myriad ways, trying to realise that change. Through intimate, hopeful films, Fashion Redressed II invites audiences to meet the people who are trying to find exciting and unexpected solutions to some of the industries greatest challenges.

“We are delighted to be a part Fashion Redressed II Series produced for Hyosung TNC by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions and presented by Global Fashion Agenda,” said Whitmarsh-Knight. The series spans the globe and meets the people at the heart of a fashion world we don’t often see. With stories ranging from bio-based material innovations and improving working conditions for garment workers, to fashion supply chain risks and the work it takes to keep brand heritage and tradition alive.”

The official video can be viewed at www.fashionredressed.com

Posted: May 3, 2026

Source: Hyosung TNC

CPM|CROWN Expands Offering With Full Line Of Conveyor Solutions

BLAINE, MN — April 30, 2026 — CPM|Crown today announced the expansion of its industry-leading equipment and service offering to include a full portfolio of conveyor solutions, strengthening CPM|Crown’s ability to deliver integrated, end-to-end systems, and providing oilseed processors with a single, trusted partner for system design, equipment and lifecycle support.

With the addition of conveyor systems, CPM|Crown now delivers a true one-stop solution for crush, proteins and specialty facilities.

Purpose-built for the demanding environments of oilseed processing, the new conveyor portfolio includes a full range of robust solutions designed to support every stage of material handling:

  • Chain drag conveyors — including vapor-tight drag conveyors for solvent-handling environments and horizontal loop conveyors for continuous material flow
  • Bucket elevators — belt and chain configurations for efficient, high-capacity vertical transport
  • Screw conveyors — including plug, tubular and U-Trough designs for controlled conveying, feeding and discharge
  • Belt conveyors — from single and triple roller systems to air-supported designs for long-distance, high-capacity transport

“For more than 75 years, CPM|Crown has been at the forefront of designing and engineering oilseed processing facilities,” said Kris Knudson, President. “Expanding into conveyor systems is a natural evolution of our business, allowing us to deliver even greater value to our customers.”

By sourcing equipment from a single provider, customers can reduce complexity, improve coordination and achieve cost efficiencies across their projects. CPM|Crown’s integrated approach ensures processers benefit from the highest quality engineering standards and best-in-class delivery performance, with systems designed for long-term reliability and serviceability to help minimize downtime over the life of the equipment.

One call. End-to-end support.

In addition to equipment, CPM|Crown supports oilseed producers through Lifecycle360™, a comprehensive, single-source support program. From pre-engineering through long-term operation, Lifecycle360 connects customers to a global service network and strategic parts inventory to help minimize downtime and keep operations running at peak performance.

“With CPM|Crown, customers gain more than equipment,” said Knudson. “They gain a partner that’s fully committed to their long-term success.”

For more information, visit OneCPM.com

Posted: May 3, 2026

Source: CPM Holdings, Inc.

UK Defense Textile Collaboration formed between Pincroft Dyeing & Printing and Toray Textiles Europe Ltd.

ADLINGTON, UK — April 30, 2026 — As the UK Government looks to secure a resilient domestic supply chain, Pincroft Dyeing & Printing and Toray Textiles Europe Ltd have responded to the need for printed woven technical textiles for the UK defence sector. Both companies are established suppliers to NATO military programmes and are now well positioned to support UK defence requirements.

Pincroft’s new Rotascreen TG by Austrian manufacturer Zimmer, with 12 printheads and a magnet system to ensure greater precision, faster reorders and uniform coverage.
Photo — Pincroft Dyeing & Printing

Strategically located in the Northwest of England, Pincroft operates one of Europe’s largest fully integrated textile processing, printing and finishing facilities. Exporting to more than 80 countries and with an annual production capacity exceeding 50 million metres, the company has built a strong reputation in military printing and flame retardant finishing. Armed forces around the world already wear uniforms made with fabrics processed at Pincroft.

Toray Textiles Europe Ltd is a leading technical textile manufacturer specialising in the weaving, dyeing and finishing of synthetic fibre textiles across defence, medical and industrial applications. A recent investment of more than £15 million in advanced looms and process machinery has further strengthened its capability to support future demand.

Paul Farrell, Group Sales Director at Pincroft, said: “Leveraging our combined expertise and innovation, alongside our UK-based operations and supply chains, Pincroft and Toray are well placed to support the shared goals of strengthening national security, driving economic growth and improving sustainability.”

Paul Daynes, Sales Manager at Toray Textiles Europe Ltd, added: “Pincroft and Toray operate at a scale capable of delivering national programmes while manufacturing a high-quality UK product. This collaboration supports employment across the manufacturing sector and helps build a resilient domestic supply chain for our armed forces.”

Both businesses were honoured to receive a visit from HRH The Princess Royal as President of the UK Fashion & Textile Association in 2025 which underscored the significant investment they have both made in their respective weaving, dyeing, finishing and printing capabilities, as well as increasing capacity at both sites.

Adam Mansell, CEO of the UK Fashion and Textile Association has welcomed this new defence textiles collaboration and said: “The UK already sells to major forces across the world, from the Netherlands, Germany and France, across to Australia and New Zealand, so why not the UK? The UK MOD and other UK procurement agencies need to be incentivised, or required, to source more of their products from reliable UK sources and see the bigger UK industrial picture.”

Posted: May 3, 2026

Source: Pincroft

BioMADE Announces $21.4 Million Invested In 14 Projects To Develop The U.S. Bioindustrial Manufacturing Industry And Advance National Security Priorities

MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL / MN/EMERYVILLE, CA.— April 29, 2026 — BioMADE announced 14 cutting-edge new projects that will support the growth and development of the U.S. bioindustrial manufacturing industry. These projects will support the manufacture of innovative bio-based products like a lithium biosorbent for biomining; plastics for 3D printing; proteins for wound healing and chemical defense; biosensors for disease detection; and more. They will leverage state-of-the-art methodologies like machine learning, AI, and advanced new sensors and purification systems. Projects will also support the development of the needed biomanufacturing workforce through projects that are easing the transition for veterans into civilian careers, launching community college programs, and developing hands-on apprenticeship programs.

“Global competition for bioindustrial manufacturing is at a critical tipping point, with many countries around the world investing heavily in biotechnology innovation and commercialization. If the U.S. is to remain competitive, we must do the same,” said Douglas Friedman, Chief Executive Officer at BioMADE. “We appreciate U.S. Department of War and the National Science Foundation’s continued support for domestic biomanufacturing and their steadfast commitment to establishing the U.S. as a global leader in the 21st century bioeconomy through BioMADE.”

These projects represent a shared investment of over $21 million across 23 different member organizations that are located across the country – from the coasts to the heartland – highlighting the breadth and depth of the rapidly growing U.S. bioeconomy.

“BioMADE’s newest projects showcase the dual importance of bioindustrial manufacturing and its benefits to both the commercial and defense sectors,” said Stephen Recchia, Program Manager for the Department of War Manufacturing Innovation Institutes. “Bioindustrial manufacturing has the power to secure domestic supply chains for essential chemicals and materials, enhance national security by reducing reliance on foreign inputs, and enable point-of-need manufacturing for warfighters.”

For the first time, some of these projects are funded through a partnership with the National Science Foundation, which will support initial efforts from the basic research through proof-of-concept, with BioMADE supporting technology maturation, risk reduction, and scale-up aspects of each integrated project.

“Fundamental biological and biomanufacturing research supported by NSF has led to advances in health, food, fuels and chemicals,” said Susan Marqusee, NSF Assistant Director for Biological Sciences. “These new projects build on NSF’s long-term investment and help us to further economic growth in industrial biotechnology — a sector that contributes over $200 billion to the U.S. economy.”

“By connecting academic researchers with BioMADE’s industry members, this public-private collaboration will help realize the potential of fundamental science and engineering research for food, health, chemicals and materials,” said Don Millard, head of the NSF Directorate for Engineering. “This partnership will allow researchers to investigate new ideas for biomanufacturing, test and improve new methods at scale, and ultimately make biotechnology advances widely available.”

“We’re grateful to the National Science Foundation for their partnership and investment in these projects,” said Melanie Tomczak, Chief Technology Officer and Head of Programs at BioMADE. “BioMADE has always represented the power of collaboration, bringing together public, private, and government partners to enact change for the U.S. biomanufacturing industry. These projects are no different, and I look forward to seeing the wide-reaching effects that our members will have through this work.”

Bioindustrial manufacturing uses biological systems to convert agricultural feedstocks and waste streams to high-value chemicals, materials, textiles, fuels and lubricants, bioplastics, composites, and other products for consumer and defense needs. Because bioindustrial manufacturing typically uses feedstocks such as corn, soy, and sugar beets, American farmers will benefit from the new markets created by BioMADE technologies, and rural communities will benefit from the manufacturing jobs creating the associated products.

As the U.S. competes for global leadership in this growing industry, these new projects will move the need by scaling up production of needed products, improving processes that span the industry, and building the needed workforce.

Technology and Innovation Projects

6 projects | $4.6 million DoW funds | $2.2 million NSF funds | $4.8 million non-federal cost share

Federal funding from the U.S. Department of War and the U.S. National Science Foundation

  • Optimizing Lithium Release and Recovery for Cost-Effective Biomining Processes – This project will develop and validate a scalable microbial process for extracting lithium from produced water, a lithium-rich industrial byproduct generated during oil and gas production.
    Member: AlkaLi Labs
  • Driving Cost Reduction in Biomanufacturing Biomaterials from Methane: Engineering Novel Strains to Increase Downstream Processing Efficiency – By increasing the efficiency of downstream processing, this project will reduce costs and improve overall process economics to produce PHA from methane gas for use in films, fibers, and 3D printing.
    Member team: Mango Materials, University of California, Davis
  • Development of Genomic Language Models to Predict Optimal Genomes for Commercial Protein Production – This project will create a first-of-its-kind predictive AI model that will accelerate strain optimization for the production of resilient and cost-effective proteins capable of wound healing, advanced nutrition, chemical defense, or other defense-relevant compounds.
    Member team: Triplebar, University of California, Berkeley
  • In-Fermenter Cell Datastreams: Wireless Networks of Free-Floating Microbial-Electronic Sensors – Using a network of in-bioreactor free-floating sensors, this project will generate a new type of datastream from industrial bioreactors to enable predictive artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) for fermentation optimization.
    Member team: Boston University, Capra Biosciences
  • Cell Cultured Chocolate – Through novel bioreactors, improved vessel and media sterilization methods, and in-line biomass sensors, this project will lower the production costs of high-quality chocolate products by using cacao plant cell culture.
    Member team: University of California – Davis, California Cultured
  • Low-Cost Nanobody-Based Growth Factor Replacements – This project will develop scalable, low-cost manufacturing methods for next-generation media additives that could enable distributed production and deployment for diagnostics and countermeasures in response to new disease outbreaks warfighters may be experiencing around the world, as well as protecting everyday Americans.
    Member team: Roke Biotechnologies, Duke University

Education and Workforce Development Projects

6 projects | $4.4 million federal funds | $5.2 million non-federal cost share

Federal funding from the U.S. Department of War

  • How To Grow (Almost) Anything: A National Network for Enabling and Scaling EWD in Biomanufacturing – This project will train the next generation of bioindustrial manufacturing talent by creating and implementing a custom curriculum that will include hands-on lab modules, weekly lectures, and individual and network-wide final projects that reflect current and emerging needs in the bioindustrial manufacturing sector.
    Member: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  • Apprenticeship Framework for Pilot-Scale Bioindustrial Manufacturing Operator Training – By developing an apprenticeship training program for biomanufacturing operators in a pilot plant environment, this work will result in trained apprentices and a blueprint to translate the apprenticeship program to other facilities across the U.S.
    Member team: Manus, University of Georgia
  • DESIGN of a Biomanufacturing EWD Prototype to Support the Growth of South Dakota’s Bioeconomy – This pilot-scale biomanufacturing education and workforce development training program will create course content for people at all levels interested in a career in biomanufacturing, including veterans re-entering the civilian workforce.
    Member team: Dakota BioWorx, South Dakota Biotech
  • NC BioMISSION – After partnering with industry to build a robust curriculum, this project will launch an undergraduate certificate program, provide a capstone industry experience, and integrate data analytics, data science, and machine learning for biomanufacturing.
    Member: University of North Carolina, Greensboro
  • SPRINT: Scalable Protein Research for INnovative Training – This project will expand, implement, and publicly share a scalable biomanufacturing training model to prepare thousands of undergraduate students for careers in the bioindustrial manufacturing economy.
    Member team: University of California – Davis, MiraCosta College, Modesto Junior College
  • Strengthening the Life Science Talent Pipeline: Life Science Career Fellowship Personalized Cohort – By working with multiple community colleges in Los Angeles and the Bay Area, this project will provide comprehensive career preparation through personalized industry mentorship, professional development workshops, networking opportunities, and company tours.
    Member team: Biocom Institute

Safety and Security Projects

2 projects | $131,000 federal funds | $131,000 non-federal cost share

Federal funding from the U.S. Department of War

  • Development of Biopesticide Life Cycle Analysis Resources – Researchers will create a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment and Life Cycle Inventory Data Gap Framework for a representative biopesticide that will include critical data and tools to understand and reduce detrimental impacts throughout the bioproduct life cycle—from raw material sourcing to production and end use.
    Member team: Boundless Impact Research & Analytics, Invasive Species Corporation
  • Resilient Domestic Feedstocks for the U.S. Precision Fermentation Industry – This project will improve domestic bioindustrial manufacturing outcomes and increase its competitiveness through enhanced Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) of feedstocks.
    Member: Checkerspot

Posted: May 3, 2026

Source: BioMADE

INDA Remembers Former President Rory Holmes With Gratitude And Affection

Former INDA President, Rory Holmes

CARY, N.C.— April 29, 2026 — INDA is remembering with deep appreciation its former president, Rory Holmes, who passed away on April 24 at the age of 79.

Holmes led INDA from 2004 until his retirement in 2013, capping a four-decade career in the nonwovens and engineered fabrics industry. Before joining INDA, he held leadership roles across operations, research, technology, sales, and marketing at Johnson & Johnson, Chicopee/PGI Nonwovens, and the Nonwovens Cooperative Research Center (now known as The Nonwovens Institute).

Rory will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments, but for the way he connected with people. He was known as someone who would readily lend a hand, offer guidance, and bring a sense of warmth and humor to every interaction.

“Although I did not have the privilege of knowing Rory personally, his impact is still very much felt today,” said INDA President & CEO Tony Fragnito. “I continue to hear from members and colleagues who speak highly of his leadership, his generosity, and the lasting mark he left on INDA and the industry. He clearly meant a great deal to many people, and he left his mark on the industry through his deep commitment to leadership and his lasting impact on INDA.”

Holmes was honored with the INDA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013 in recognition of his many technical and industry contributions. During his tenure, he helped shape INDA’s future by launching new events, expanding corporate membership, growing revenue, and enhancing the association’s services, research, and communications.

Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Holmes earned a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Outside of his professional life, he was an avid golfer, fisherman, and sportsman, and a trusted mentor and friend to many.

Posted: May 3, 2026

Source: INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

Experience Trützschler’s Fiber Processing Technologies At ITM 2026

MÖNCHENGLADBACH, Germany— April 29, 2026 — From June 9 to 13, the Trützschler Group will present its latest machinery, service expertise and digital solutions at ITM 2026 in Istanbul, Türkiye. Visitors are invited to explore innovations across Spinning, Card Clothing, and Nonwovens at Hall 7, Booth 714A at the Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center. Experience modern fiber processing with Trützschler and visit our booth!

Trützschler Spinning

T-CAN is Trützschler’s automation solution designed to transform can transport
in spinning preparation.

Trützschler Spinning will focus on technologies that enable highly efficient, stable, and resource-saving spinning preparation, with a strong emphasis on automation and direct spinning. At the heart of our booth, visitors will experience Trützschler’s latest automation highlight: T-CAN – a smart system that intelligently combines self-driving cans with AGV technology and an intuitive software interface. In this way, T-CAN significantly reduces manual handling. The result is lower operational costs, minimized downtime, as well as consistent and reliable material allocation. Developed in response to rising labor costs and increasing labor shortages in the global textile industry, T-CAN represents a key step towards more automated, efficient, and future-ready spinning mills.

A further highlight is the combination of the next-generation card TC 30i and the integrated draw frame IDF 3, which together form a perfect match for direct spinning. The TC 30i achieves up to 40% higher productivity, while maintaining or even improving yarn quality. Its intelligent feature T-GO enables extremely precise carding gap settings far beyond what is achievable manually. The only proven automatic gap optimizer has successfully demonstrated its value in several thousand customer operations worldwide. The IDF 3 provides a shortened spinning preparation process for rotor and airjet applications without compromising on quality. It is highly valued for its user-friendly operation. A new can changing system increases card efficiency by up to 3%, while advanced measuring devices support more homogeneous slivers and improved yarn quality.

The powerful combination of TC 30i and IDF 3 delivers high productivity, stable yarn parameters, and efficient processing of blends with high short fiber content or recycled materials.

Experts will also be available to discuss Trützschler’s latest advancement in combing technology: the TCO 21XL. This innovation increases productivity by about 50% because it operates twelve heads instead of a typical eight head setup, while delivering the same excellent sliver quality and, at the same time, requiring less energy per head. Equipped with the COUNT CONTROL function, the TCO 21XL further enhances quality assurance in the combing process. The result is a permanently constant sliver count for first-class yarn quality.

Beyond machinery, service and digital solutions will complete our presence at the fair. With local service and technology support teams, local spare parts and wire stocks and Trützschler repair stations, customers can rely on fast assistance and minimized downtime in Türkiye and globally. Our service team will present possibilities to upgrade existing machinery and the latest service tools. In addition, visitors can explore

MyMill, Trützschler’s cloud‑based platform for monitoring and optimizing spinning mill operations. MyMill is one of several digital services available via the My Trützschler platform, which serves as the central digital access point for Trützschler customers. My Trützschler bundles all digital services in one place and provides seamless access to applications such as MyMill, Training and Spare Parts Shop, offering valuable insights and support across the entire Trützschler ecosystem.

Trützschler Card Clothing

At ITM 2026, Trützschler Card Clothing (TCC) will unveil a new flat top, designed for spinning mills that aim for reliability and long-term performance in modern spinning preparation. Engineered for robustness and durability, this innovation is designed to support consistent performance over an extended service life. Fully recyclable and seamlessly compatible with Trützschler’s intelligent carding systems, the new flat top reflects TCC’s commitment to durability, efficiency, and sustainable design in card clothing.

Trützschler Nonwovens

With the T-SUPREMA needle-punching concept, successfully implemented with Texnology, Trützschler Nonwovens targets producers of technical nonwovens with flexible, proven solutions for geotextiles, filter media and other durable applications. The concept is complemented by the new NC-Xe card, a fit-for-purpose and cost-efficient solution that meets strong demand from cost-conscious investors while delivering proven Trützschler product and process quality.

Another focus is Trützschler Nonwovens’ proven carding technology for supersoft air-through bonded (ATB) hygiene nonwovens. With special designs, tailored configurations and dedicated component executions, the NC-X card reliably processes the finest bicomponent microfibers down to 0.4 denier. This enables the formation of highly voluminous, uniform and exceptionally soft webs, ideally suited for high-quality diaper backsheet and topsheet applications.

Globally proven Carded/Pulp and Wet‑Laid/Spunlace line solutions for the production of lightweight nonwovens for disposable wipes and moist toilet tissue complete the Trützschler Nonwovens portfolio.

Connect with us in Istanbul!

Whether it’s advanced spinning preparation with T-CAN, TC 30i, IDF 3 and TCO 21XL, a powerful new

card clothing innovation, or future-oriented nonwoven technologies – ITM 2026 brings all of our key innovations together. Our experts are looking forward to welcoming you at Hall 7, Booth 714A. Together, we take your fiber processing performance to the next level – boosting productivity, efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Posted: May 3, 2026

Source: Trützschler Group SE

ECCO Introduces First Shoe Featuring Innovative Protein-Based Fibre

JYVÄSKYLÄ, Finland — April 29, 2026 — ECCO, in partnership with Spinnova, announces the launch of the limited edition ECCO BIOM® 720, a first-of-its-kind shoe utilising an often overlooked leather by-product, transformed into a protein-based fibre. The fibres are produced using patented technology that advances material innovation while reducing waste and supporting full resource use across the leather and textile industry.

ECCO Spinnova BIOM720

ECCO and Spinnova began their collaboration in 2020 through a joint venture exploring how leather by-product raw materials could be utilised as textile fibres. Using the unique technology, by‑products that are typically discarded, burned for energy or composted during leather production, are instead transformed into durable fibres, giving residual materials an entirely new function and lifespan. Unlike traditional recycling methods that downcycle leather into lower‑value applications, this process preserves the natural integrity of the leather fibre, enabling performance suitable for textile manufacturing.

The technology is based on mechanical refining rather than chemical dissolving. Wet blue shavings – thin layers removed to achieve consistent leather thickness – are processed into continuous textile fibre filaments that can be cut into textile‑grade fibres. The resulting material has tensile strength comparable to wool and elongation at break roughly twice that of cotton, combining durability and flexibility. This enables versatile use across woven and knitted textile structures, while supporting more efficient manufacturing with reduced production waste.

The launch demonstrates how innovation can transform an undervalued by‑product into a valuable new resource. By upcycling leather offcuts into premium textile fibres, ECCO and Spinnova have developed a circular solution that preserves material integrity, reduces waste, and creates new possibilities for footwear and textile applications. With the protein-based fibre now debuting in ECCO footwear, this milestone marks the transition from long‑term development to real‑world application.

“This launch is a meaningful moment for us, as it represents the culmination of over five years of close development work with ECCO. Together, we have shown that leather by-product can be transformed into a high‑quality textile fibre with commercial relevance, and it is rewarding to now see this innovation become part of a finished product”, says Janne Poranen, Chief Executive Officer of Spinnova Plc.

“Working closely with Spinnova, we’ve explored how new approaches to materials can unlock value from existing resources. By combining our expertise with their pioneering technology, we’re pushing how footwear can be made”, comments Thomas Gøgsig, Chief Executive Officer of ECCO.

Posted: May 3, 2026

Source: SPINNOVA PLC

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