Call For Proposals: Fashion, Textiles And Technology Partnership With British Council 

LONDON — January 4, 2023 — Following a successful pilot program in 2022, applications for the next round of New Landscapes: Catalyst Research & Development Grant Scheme are now open.

The pilot program was launched in October 2021 as a collaboration between UAL Fashion, Textiles and Technology Institute (UAL FTTI), British Council and five Official Development Assistance (ODA) countries to promote the cultural, social and environmental values of a sustainable global fashion and textiles sector.

The New Landscapes: Fashion, Textiles and Technology Catalyst R&D Grant Scheme, circa £120,000 in total, will provide five collaborative grants of up to £6,000 cash and up to £15,000 in-kind support to proposals that:

  • Grow global networks to enable development of practice, experimentation and testing of sustainable design and production solutions that inspire positive environmental change.
  • Support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to exchange methods of designing and producing in a more sustainable and socially engaged way.
  • Support young designers to become advocates for sustainable, ethical and socially engaged fashion, textiles and related technologies.

Download the information booklet here: https://www.arts.ac.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0038/377669/NL_Funding-Call-Info-Booklet-3.pdf

Key eligibility information

  • The call is open to all designers, design entrepreneurs, and SMEs from UK and Official Development Assistance (ODA) countries – see the full list of ODA countries. https://www.oecd.org/dac/financing-sustainable-development/development-finance-standards/DAC-List-ODA-Recipients-for-reporting-2021-flows.pdf
  • Applications must be a partnership between at least 1 UK applicant and a maximum of 2 co-applicants, based in 1 or more ODA country.
  • The lead applicant must be based in the UK and have been in business for at least 3 years.
  • Applicants must provide   evidence of true collaboration, knowledge exchange and mutual benefit for all partners (including ODA countries) in their application.
  • Applicants must demonstrate the ability to deliver the project activity between April 2023 to August 2023. Successful applicants will also host a public event presenting their findings in 2022.

The deadline for proposal submissions is Monday 6th February 2023 at 23:59. Interviews will be held on week commencing 27th February 2023.

Posted: January 4, 2023

Source: University of the Arts London (UAL) 

TÜV Rheinland Signs Agreement To Acquire Part Of ABB’s Energy Industries Division

COLOGNE, Germany — January 4, 2023 — TÜV Rheinland has signed an agreement to acquire ABB’s UK technical engineering consultancy, part of ABB’s Energy Industries division. TÜV Rheinland will integrate this part into its Industrial Services & Cybersecurity business in the United Kingdom. The transaction is expected to close in Q2 2023.

ABB’s UK technical engineering consultancy including a network of subcontractors and associates has around 160 people operating from two main sites in the northeast and the northwest of England. A specialist team of technical experts helps global energy customers improve process safety, equipment and asset integrity as well as technical design for new and existing industrial plants.

The combined business will create a scalable, broad-based technical engineering provider delivering a full-service offer to the high hazard industries, supporting customers in the energy transition and energy security.

“We look forward to creating growth, stability and opportunity at a time where we are seeing increased demand for sustainability, decarbonization and business continuity,” said Gareth Book, managing director TÜV Rheinland UK. “ABB’s UK technical engineering consultancy will complement the existing risk, safety and integrity management services provided by TÜV Rheinland. Our aim is to build upon the long-standing customer relationships and trust that ABB and TÜV Rheinland have established in the UK over the last two decades.”

“Our technical engineering consultancy business is highly recognized for the value it brings to customers, and has significant opportunity for growth, enabled by strong industry tailwinds as we navigate the energy transition,” said Troy Stewart, head of ABB Energy Industries UK. “This divestment follows a two-year strategic review of our portfolio and aims to accelerate the continued growth of the business. TÜV Rheinland is an excellent new home for the technical engineering consultancy business, where it can realize its exciting growth opportunity and create customer value.”

Posted: January 4, 2023

Source: TÜV Rheinland

Jones Family of Companies Welcomes New CFO and Announces Two New Roles

(left to right): Scott Butler, Ralph Jones and John French

HUMBOLDT, Tenn. — January 4, 2023 — The Jones Family of Companies is pleased to announce strategic leadership changes as it improves its operations in the nonwoven manufacturing industry.

The board of directors officially elected Ralph Jones III, formerly the executive chairman, to assume the role of chairman and CEO; Scott Butler has been promoted to president, leading the management team for Jones manufacturing and distribution operations; and John French, CFO, joins the senior leadership team with key initiatives to strengthen the Jones mission to be people-oriented, service-minded, and quality-driven.

French is a native of West Tennessee, having graduated from McKenzie High School and earning his undergraduate degree from UT Martin and his MBA from Tennessee Tech. He has 15 years of experience in leadership roles in the manufacturing and textile industries. He has worked in companies with annual revenues ranging from $20 million to $500 million, leading finance teams focusing on cash management and profitability analysis.

“I am excited to get started at Jones,” French shared. “Jones is an industry leader for a reason, and it is an honor to bring my experience to the next phase of growth in this company.”

Jones begins its 87th year as a developer of sustainable plant fiber-based products in the floor care, bedding, furniture, and cold chain packaging insulation markets. In the new year, Jones is adapting to the changing yarn market by transitioning to a broad-line distribution model with curtailment of operations in the last spinning facility located in Humboldt. The Jones line of mop yarn products will continue to focus on quality, dependable performance, and value.

According to Andrew Dailey, senior vice president of Sales & Business Development, “This transition will extend Jones’s longtime commitment to the floorcare market and offer renewed superior service with sustained stocking inventory.”

Scott Butler, president and fourth-generation Jones associate, commented, “We are fortunate to have committed associates transferring to our nonwoven operations, strengthening our team in Humboldt to position us for growth.”

Ralph Jones added, “For over 86 years, Jones has served the mop industry. We remain committed to serving it for many more years to come! We also have a tremendous opportunity to further establish ourselves as a textile industry leader, especially as sustainability becomes a larger priority for businesses. We are already at the forefront of that movement and look forward to where the future will take us.”

Posted: January 4, 2023

Source: Jones Family of Companies

Standard Fiber Partners With Noble Biomaterials To Bring IONIC+® Mineral Antimicrobial Technology To Home Textiles Market

BURLINGAME, Calif. — January 4, 2023 — In its ongoing objective of bringing advanced performance technologies to enhance better sleep and a healthy home environment, Standard Fiber, one of the world’s largest suppliers to the home textile market, and Noble Biomaterials, a global leader in antimicrobial solutions for soft surface applications, have formed an exclusive partnership to bring IONIC+® mineral antimicrobial to the home textile market.

IONIC+ is the broadest spectrum of antimicrobial technology that protects against the growth of microbes on soft surface materials. The active ingredient in IONIC+ is silver, which is permanently bound within polymer fibers and will not wash out. When applied properly, positively charged silver ions are attracted to negatively charged odor-causing bacteria. The ions attracted to the bacteria’s DNA disrupt its respiration, cell division and replication process.

Because IONIC+ technology is self-cleaning of microbes on fabric, fewer washes are needed, thus conserving energy, water, and natural resources. IONIC+ antimicrobial technology is EPA registered, BPR compliant and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Certified.

“Standard Fiber is consistently seeking out innovative performance technologies outside of the home textiles market to develop advanced sleep and home goods products for our customers in anticipation of consumer needs,” said Chad Altbaier, Standard Fiber CCO. “Known for being the leader in permanent antimicrobial solutions across the apparel, military and healthcare industries, we are delighted to partner with Noble Biomaterials and its IONIC+ mineral antimicrobial technology to develop new home textile products that incorporate Standard Fiber’s core Elements of Sleep™: wellness, protection, design, comfort and sustainability.”

“Ionic is the perfect technology to meet Standard Fiber’s home textile objectives,” said Ian Pund, Noble Biomaterials’ executive vice president. “Our goal is to allow our partners to innovate and create new product that change markets. Apparel brands have long taken advantage of Ionic+ and we’re excited to see how Standard Fiber leads home textiles.”

The scope of the Standard Fiber and IONIC+ mineral antimicrobial technology exclusive partnership includes mattress textiles, pads, toppers, and encasements; basic bedding and towels for consumer and institutional markets, as well as DTC furniture brands across North America.

Posted: January 4, 2023

Source: Standard Fiber

Sonobond Ultrasonics President Retires

WEST CHESTER, Pa. — January 3, 2023 — Janet Devine, president of Sonobond Ultrasonics Inc. announced today that she will retire effective January 3, 2023.

The year 2022 began with her decision to retire as president of Sonobond at the end of the year. General Manager Manning Smith IV will be taking over as president, and Devine has happily agreed to continue in a technical advisory position for one or two days a week during a transition period.

Earlier this year Devine announced that Sonobond had become a part of Inductotherm Group’s Welding Division. Although Sonobond has been a wholly owned subsidiary of Inductotherm Group’s parent company for over 30 years, the company now has greater access to advanced power supply technologies through the Welding Group’s global service contacts and expanded supply chain resources.

Devine stated: “I leave Sonobond Ultrasonics after starting as a junior member of the team that invented ultrasonic metal welding, as well as participating in the many other ultrasonic innovations the company has achieved. These include being part of the company’s successful development of ultrasonic welding equipment for the non-ferrous metals industry, and the growing market for EV vehicles. It has been an interesting journey!

“I am confident Sonobond’s success will continue under Manning Smith’s and Inductotherm Group’s expert technical and management capabilities.” Ms. Devine also extends her sincere thanks to everyone who has made her career incredibly enjoyable and filled with significant achievements.

Posted January 3, 2023

Source: Sonobond Ultrasonics

Devan Launches Purissimo® NTL, A Biobased, Biodegradable Allergen Control Technology

RONSE, Begium — January 3, 2023 — Devan Chemicals will launch Purissimo® NTL, a biobased and readily biodegradable allergen control technology, at the upcoming Heimtextil trade show in Frankfurt, January 10-13, 2023. It is based on the well-known probiotic encapsulation technology and aims to improve the lives of people who suffer from allergies. It can be applied to textiles during the finishing stage of the textile manufacturing process.

Worldwide, the prevalence of allergic diseases has continued to rise in the industrialized world for more than 50 years, according to the World Health Organisation. Allergies have an impact on the quality of life and are associated with other medical conditions. Devan is now launching Purissimo NTL, a natural allergen control technology that cleans up pet dander, pollen and house dust mite allergens in textiles throughout the home. The technology is based on encapsulated probiotics, which are natural microorganisms similar in kind to those you can find in yogurt, cheese and other probiotic food.

Devan has many years of experience with probiotics. The company introduced probiotics in textiles already in 2010.

Purissimo NTL is based on Devan’s already well-established probiotics, incorporated into a new microcapsule shell. The shell is based on a natural crosslinked biobased polymer, which results in microcapsules that are up to 97-percent biobased and readily biodegradable (OECD 301B).

Firstly, dormant probiotic bacteria (spores) are encapsulated. The microcapsule product is then integrated into textiles. Friction opens the capsules and releases the spores. The spores absorb humidity, self-activate and start to multiply. The probiotic bacteria start to consume the allergens that cause allergic reactions and asthma. Due to lower allergen concentration, individuals with respiratory allergies such as house dust mite matter, pet allergens and pollen allergens will have milder to no symptoms and hence a better well-being feeling.

Purissimo NTL can be used on a wide range of textiles such as mattresses, pillows, bedcovers, blankets but also upholstered furniture, carpets, curtains and public transportation and pet items, such as bedding. It is Oeko-tex® compliant, has a long-lasting effect and a wash durability up to 30 washes is achievable.

Posted January 3, 2023

Source: Devan

AATCC Approves Constitution Changes

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — January 3, 2023 — At 101 years old, the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) is making big changes. Amendments to the AATCC Constitution were approved by the membership on December 23, 2022 and took effect immediately. The amendments were presented in three groups: member categories, Board composition, and procedure. Related Bylaws changes were also approved by the AATCC Board of Directors.

Member Categories
“Senior” and “Associate” member categories are now combined under the new designation “Individual.” When AATCC was founded in 1921, credentials as a chemist or colorist were considered critical to election as a member. At least 5 years of related experience was required to be considered for Senior membership and voting status. Today, the Association serves a much larger segment of the textile industry and acknowledges the value of input from newcomers as well as established veterans. The Associate category was phased out of use a few years ago but the recent Constitution changes formally remove the experience requirement. All Individual members are entitled to vote in AATCC elections and to join research committees as voting members. Other rights previously reserved to Senior members include the ability to nominate award recipients and to receive certain awards. Student members of AATCC may not vote but may choose to forego the student discount and register as an Individual member for voting privileges. In addition to creating a more inclusive environment, several members commented that elimination of the Senior designation was a good step in modernizing the language of the Association. The designation was repeatedly mistaken for an indication of age rather than experience. Young professionals had little interest in earning the title “Senior!”

Board Composition
The AATCC Board of Directors was reorganized and reduced in size. Regional representatives were eliminated, primarily because the regional system no longer fully represented the membership. Vast portions of the US, and all other countries except India, were outside of designated regions. Members living in these areas were not represented on the Board. Interest Group At-Large representatives were also eliminated while Interest Group Chairs remain part of the Board. The C6 Membership Committee Chair is now a voting member of the board and charged with representing the interests of members from all parts of the world. Local sections and student chapters will continue to submit annual or semi-annual reports to ensure no one is overlooked.

Procedure
A third category of amendments was related to editorial and minor procedural issues. Most significantly, the election process was updated to allow for electronic voting in place of paper ballots cast at a meeting.

Looking Ahead
The recent Constitution and Bylaws changes were originally proposed by the Membership Committee in the interest of a more modern, inclusive AATCC. Amendments were reviewed by the C9 Constitution and Bylaws Committee and approved by the AATCC Board of Directors before going to the full membership. Amendments to the AATCC Constitution require at least two-thirds approval of at least 25% of the voting membership. Each group of changes was voted separately and members had the option to abstain on any or all items. Of those not abstaining, more than 90% approved each set of Amendments. The greatest number of objections was to the replacement of Senior and Associate member designations. The Membership Committee will review all comments submitted.

All amendments officially took effect immediately upon closing of the ballot though there will be some transition time as staff update online and print materials to reflect the new member designations and Board composition. All members are strongly encouraged to select a voting Interest Group and to attend Membership or other meetings to share their thoughts on the future of AATCC. Members are also welcome to contact any member of the AATCC staff or Board. The next round of meetings will be April 13-14 and 17-18. Register soon to attend online. May research committees will meet in person at the AATCC Technical Center.

Posted January 3, 2023

Source: AATCC

British Dyer And Printer Pincroft, Makes Strategic Move For Business Growth

ADLINGTON, England — January 3, 2023 — Pincroft — a commission textile dyer, printer and finisher — has announced the strategic appointment of Louise Sheridan as the company’s new Business Development manager, as part of the business’ growth plan for the coming years.

With an extensive career in textiles spanning almost 20 years, Louise’s experience includes nonwovens, contract upholstery and technical textiles with her last role at Waxman Fibres focusing on the technical and business development of flame retardant and antistatic fibres for personal protective equipment covering the United Kingdom and mainland Europe.

“I am very excited to Join the Pincroft team where with my experience of the industry I aim to maximize sales and new business development for all aspects of commission services, including pretreatment, dyeing, printing and finishing of textiles,” Sheridan said.

“With Pincroft being a world leader in camouflage printing with a wealth of expert talent, my immediate focus will be on sharing this expertise and know-how with new and existing customers in the defence and military sectors.”

Pincroft’s Managing Director Mike Collins, added: “The appointment of Louise as our Business Development Manager is a great step forward for the company’s growth plan in the coming years, where we focus on maximising the market’s knowledge of our vast 130 years of expertise in commission dyeing, printing and finishing of fabrics.

Posted: January 3, 2023

Source: Pincroft

Global Advanced Materials Manufacturer Hollingsworth & Vose To Expand In Virginia

RICHMOND, Va. — January 3, 2023 — Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that Hollingsworth & Vose (H&V), a global manufacturer of advanced materials used in filtration, battery, and industrial applications, will invest $40.2 million to expand its operation in Floyd County, Va. The company will add more than 28,000 square feet to its facility at 365 Christiansburg Pike Northeast to accommodate new production equipment to meet increased demand. Virginia successfully competed with Georgia for the project, which will create 25 new jobs.

“Hollingsworth & Vose has generated positive economic impact and job opportunities in Floyd County for more than four decades, and this significant investment further solidifies the company’s commitment to Virginia,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Businesses with a long history of expansion in the Commonwealth offer powerful testimonials on why a Virginia location is a foundation for success, and we look forward to a continued partnership with H&V.”

“Hollingsworth & Vose has played a role in the success of Virginia’s advanced materials industry over the past 46 years, and we are thrilled to support this important corporate partner’s expansion in Floyd County,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “The company’s continued investment is a strong testament to the New River Valley’s strategic location and business-friendly environment, and we thank H&V for creating high-quality jobs in Floyd County.”

“We’ve been a part of the Floyd, Virginia community since 1976. This facility is essential to serving both our global and domestic customers,” said Josh Ayer, CEO of H&V. “We chose Virginia for this expansion because of its positive business environment and strong support from the Commonwealth of Virginia and Floyd County.”

“We are delighted to continue to support Hollingsworth & Vose’s growth in Floyd County. Their new investment is over three times bigger than the largest private investment in our county’s 191-year history,” said Joe Turman, Chairman of the Floyd County Board of Supervisors.

“The Hollingsworth & Vose expansion will provide crucial jobs for our Floyd families and enable us to keep more of our families working here at home,” said Delegate Marie March. “We are a hard-working community and believe that this company understands the loyalty and dedication that workers here in SWVA bring to their business. I happily welcome this investment and expansion to our economy. Private enterprise ventures always reward and benefit our local community.”

With incorporation dating back to 1892 and headquartered in East Walpole, Massachusetts, H&V’s advanced materials contribute to a cleaner world through products that provide clean air, clean liquids, and energy storage. The company has been family-owned for seven generations. In 1976, H&V established its first Virginia facility in Floyd County and employs over 200 workers.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Floyd County to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $558,700 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Floyd County with the project.

Posted: January 3, 2023

Source: Virginia Office of the Governor

Now Made In USA: SENSIL® EcoCare Recycled Premium Nylon 6,6

RIDGEWAY, Va. — January 3, 2023 — NILIT, a nylon provider for apparel, has launched a new version of SENSIL® EcoCare recycled nylon 6,6 that is made completely from U.S. materials at its North American facility in Martinsville, Va. The new Made in USA SENSIL EcoCare is Berry Amendment, USMCA, and CAFTA compliant and is available in a wide variety of fibers and yarns for circular knit, warp knit, seamless, and woven applications.

“Increased use of recycled inputs is a significant aspect of NILIT’s sustainability strategy and something that strongly resonates with conscious consumers these days,” said Michelle Lea, NILIT’s vice president of Global Marketing. “Plus, the US consumer truly appreciates products that are manufactured locally.”

“Adding the Made in USA recycled nylon 6,6 to our SENSIL EcoCare range of products helps us respond effectively to the many US brands, retailers, and government agencies who prefer locally produced, environmentally responsible fabrics,” said Manuel Guerra, NILIT’s general manager of North America. “Whether for compliance, supply chain management, or sustainability, this newest addition to our SENSIL® portfolio is highly relevant for the entire textile and apparel industry here in the States.”

SENSIL EcoCare is made from post-industrial recycled nylon 6,6. NILIT uses a highly efficient recycling method that requires less energy, water, and chemicals and generates a smaller carbon footprint than other recycling procedures. The NILIT recycling process retains the properties of virgin fibers for fine denier, high quality Nylon fibers and yarns. Apparel made using SENSIL EcoCare is as comfortable, functional, and resilient as it is eco-friendly. Made in USA SENSIL EcoCare is perfect for activewear, intimates, socks, hosiery, ready-to-wear, workwear, light industrial, medical, and military end uses.

NILIT manufactures a full portfolio of sustainable SENSIL premium nylon 6,6 products to give designers the beautiful, environmentally considerate performance fabrics they need to create apparel collections that respond effectively to consumer demands.

Posted: January 3, 2023

Source: NILIT

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