Hyosung Innovative Textile Solutions Developed To Meet 2026 Swimwear Trends

SEOUL, South Korea — July15, 2025 — Hyosung’s Fashion Design Center (FDC), which explores style trends around the world to guide brands and retailers, says health and wellness, the rise of sports tourism, and a growing love for sustainable products are the key influences shaping swimwear trends for Spring/Summer 2026.

Panache

According to Gary Oh, Hyosung FDC Team/General Manager, consumers are increasingly prioritizing self-care and travel for sport, which is driving demand for versatile, multi-function apparel crafted from sustainable materials to enhance their experiences.

Sporty swimwear that satisfies both active and trendy beachwear styles is gaining attention as surf style and adventure swimwear trends continue to be popular. These pieces have been updated with playful texture, sustainable materials, and functionality.

Hyosung, the world’s largest manufacturer of spandex by market share, provides a broad portfolio of textile solutions that meet these 2026 swimwear trends along with brand and retailers’ varying needs.

“Advancements in sustainable design—particularly through the integration of recycled materials and high-performance, long-lasting fibers—are driving innovation across the industry, delivering measurable value to brands and meaningful product differentiation for consumers,” said Claire O’Neill, Hyosung Director of European Brand Marketing – Textiles.

Leading swimwear brands introducing new collections made with Hyosung’s innovative CREORA® and regen™ textile solutions for 2026 include Panache, Speedo, Yamamay, Curvy Kate, Hanna Andersson, and more.

Panache will introduce swimwear featuring 100% recycled PalmTree fabric made with regen™ Spandex in its women’s Signature Scallop, Liliflora, Polka Dot, Paradiso and Cascade ranges. Hyosung regen™ Spandex is 100% recycled, RCS-certified made from the reclaimed waste from its spandex manufacturing process. This move supports the company’s ongoing commitment to using more sustainable materials.

Catching the surf-style trend, Speedo introduced the first fully recycled four-way stretch board short, called the Lookout Volley 16” for men, also made with 100% recycled regen™ Spandex.

Yamamay’s Basic Essential swimwear collection will be made with FishTale®️, a new-generation fabric developed through partnership with Hyosung and Hung Yen Knitting & Dyeing, Co., LTD.  FishTale® fabric is made from a blend of Hyosung regen™ Ocean post-consumer recycled nylon partially sourced from discarded fishing nets—and 100% recycled regen Spandex – not only reducing waste but also supporting a circular economy model.

Curvy Kate’s Wild Horizon, Sunset Palm, and Ibiza collections, along with Hanna Andersson’s children’s swimwear line, will be made with Hyosung’s high-performance CREORA® Highclo Spandex developed for superior chlorine resistance and high-power. CREORA® Highclo offers greater durability than conventional spandex commonly used in swimwear. Its superior compression preserves the garment’s shape and fit – even in high heat – prolonging the life of swimwear for every adventure in the water.

“For Spring/Summer 2026, the future of swimwear is where fashion, performance, and sustainable choices all come together,” said O’Neill. “We are happy to help provide brands solutions to deliver pieces that fit the way people really live, move, and travel.”

Posted: July19, 2025

Source: Hyosung

TEXTILCOLOR AG Acquires Schoeller Technologies AG – Strengthening Innovative Strength In The Textile Sector And Intensifying Brand Partnerships

SEVELEN, Switzerland — July17, 2025 — TEXTILCOLOR AG, a provider of innovative textile chemicals, today announces the acquisition of Sevelen-based Schoeller Technologies AG from Schoeller Textil AG. With this strategically important step, TEXTILCOLOR strengthens its position in the international market, expands its technology portfolio and creates new development capacities for future-oriented textile and chemical solutions. Schoeller Technologies AG will be integrated into the new “Brand Management” business unit of TEXTILCOLOR AG.

Schoeller Technologies AG was previously responsible for the global licensing and marketing of textile technologies developed by Schoeller Textil AG. With its international experience, strong

network and deep application expertise in the field of functional and protective textiles, the company has established itself as a reliable partner to numerous brands. With the integration into TEXTILCOLOR AG, the marketing of these technologies will be continued – under a new brand identity of TEXTILCOLOR AG.

“The acquisition is a consistent milestone in our long-term growth strategy,” explains Detlef Fischer, CEO of TEXTILCOLOR AG. “With Schoeller Technologies, we are not only gaining renowned technologies, but also a highly qualified team with unique expertise. We will continue to develop and refine the products manufactured to date in this partnership in order to continue to provide our customers with future-oriented and sustainable technologies.”

Hans Kohn, former Chief Operating Officer of Schoeller Technologies AG and new Head of Brand Management, adds: “Both companies share a common vision: the development of high-performance, sustainable and innovative textile solutions for a responsible future. Existing partnerships and customer relationships of Schoeller Technologies AG will be continued in the usual high quality, the established partner network and strengthened by the expanded possibilities of TEXTILCOLOR.”

Posted: July19, 2025

Source: TEXTILCOLOR AG

Rieter Demonstrates Resilience In The Challenging First Half Of 2025

WINTERTHUR, Switzerland — July18, 2025 — In the first half of 2025, Rieter recorded an order intake of CHF 355.4 million (first half of 2024: CHF 403.4 million). This corresponds to a decline of around 12% compared to the same period last year. The expected broader market recovery has led to shifts in investment decisions on the part of customers due to the global trade disputes (particularly US punitive tariffs) and the geopolitical uncertainty.

As already announced in March 2025, the first half of 2025 presented a challenge in terms of revenue volume, but still largely met expectations due to the low order backlog. Revenue amounted to CHF 336.2 million, down 20% on the previous year’s period (first half of 2024: CHF 421.0 million).

Order intake

The Machines & Systems Division posted an order intake of CHF 166.9 million (first half of 2024: CHF 211.5 million). Although Machines & Systems recorded an increase in demand, the closing of orders was significantly impaired by uncertainty surrounding customs tariffs and the geopolitical and economic situation.

The Components Division generated an order intake of CHF 95.7 million (first half of 2024: CHF 117.6 million) and is suffering under lower demand for components for new machines, primarily as a result of the cautious investment activity in the market.

The After Sales Division recorded a gratifying 25% increase in its order intake to CHF 92.8 million (first half of 2024: CHF 74.3 million). This positive development confirms the strategic growth initiatives that have been initiated. Incoming orders are benefiting from increased sales activities in the target markets, such as Central Asia and China, as well as from the ongoing expansion of the service and repair network.

Sales

The Machines & Systems Division posted sales of CHF 144.0 million (first half of 2024: CHF 198.7 million), which corresponds to a decline of around 28%. At the same time, uncertainties surrounding market developments led to project delays for individual customers, which had a negative impact on the order intake and sales.

In the Components Division, revenue fell by 10% year on year to CHF 113.9 million (first half of 2024: CHF 126.5 million). Sales in the business units focusing on new machines remained below the previous year’s period, while the business areas focusing on consumables or man-made fibers were more stable.

The After Sales Division posted sales of CHF 78.3 million (first half of 2024: CHF 95.8 million). While business involving upgrades and repairs (Engineered Solutions) developed in a positive manner, the weaker sales performance of Machines & Systems led to lower revenue generated through the installation of new systems.

Order backlog

As at June 30, 2025, the company had an order backlog of around CHF 510 million (first half of 2024: CHF 640 million).

Non-recurring items, EBIT, net profit, free cash flow

The reporting period was affected by nonrecurring effects from the planned acquisition of Barmag and restructuring costs in the amount of CHF 14.6 million.

Despite the decline in sales, Rieter achieved an operating result (before restructuring and transaction costs) of CHF -2.7 million.

Due to existing capacities and the fixed cost structure, revenue in the first half of 2025 was below the operational break-even point. Rieter continues to assume that sales will be significantly higher than the current level in a normalized market environment.

Rieter was again able to save a substantial amount of overhead costs. These amounted to around CHF 104.9 million in the first half of 2025 (first half of 2024: CHF 119.8 million). The figures demonstrate that the defined cost-saving measures were consistently implemented.

In the first half of 2025, the aforementioned effects resulted in a loss of CHF 17.3 million at EBIT level (first half of 2024: CHF 10.0 million).

Rieter closed the first half of 2025 with a net loss of CHF 20.0 million (first half of 2024: CHF 1.7 million). This decline is attributable to the lower sales volume achieved in the first half of 2025.

The free cash flow in the first half of 2025 amounted to CHF -36.7 million (first half of 2024: CHF -1.1 million). This was attributable to the losses at net profit level and the increase in inventories of finished goods that have not yet been retrieved by customers due to the overall macroeconomic situation.

Extraordinary General Meeting of Rieter Holding Ltd.

On Thursday, September 18, 2025, an Extraordinary General Meeting of Rieter Holding Ltd. is taking place to vote on the planned capital increases as part of the rights issue and the private placement to finance the acquisition of the Barmag Division, as well as on the reintroduction of the capital band that lapses by law as a result of the planned capital increases. Rieter’s largest shareholders, Peter Spuhler (around 33% shareholding) and Martin Haefner (around 10% shareholding) continue to support the planned capital increases and committed to participating in the rights issue pro-rata by exercising their subscription rights as well as investing additional capital through private placement. In addition, a capital reduction by means of a nominal value reduction is to be voted on, whereby the relevant reduction amount is to be allocated to the legal reserves from capital contributions and will therefore not result in any outflow of funds. Subject to regulatory approval, the acquisition of the Barmag Division is expected to be completed by the end of the 2025 financial year.

The invitation to the Extraordinary General Meeting, including the agenda and the Board of Directors’ proposals, is expected to be sent to the shareholders on Monday, August 25, 2025, and will be published in the Swiss Official Gazette of Commerce as well as on the Rieter website.

Outlook for the full year 2025 adjusted

The Rieter Group expects a stronger second half of the year for the 2025 fiscal year, though this depends on a continued market recovery. As the market recovery has slowed due to macroeconomic uncertainties, Rieter is adjusting its sales forecast for 2025 as a whole. The company (without consideration of the Barmag Division) now expects sales of around CHF 750 to 800 million (previously: at the prior year’s level of around CHF 860 million).

Excluding restructuring costs and costs associated with the acquisition of Barmag, Rieter expects an operating EBIT margin at the lower end of the range of 0% to 4% for 2025 as a whole.

Order Intake by Division

Order Intake
CHF million
January – June 2024 January – June 2025 Difference Difference
in local
currency
Rieter 403.4 355.4 -12% -10%
Machines & Systems 211.5 166.9 -21% -20%
Components 117.6 95.7 -19% -18%
After Sales 74.3 92.8 25% 29%

 

Sales by Division

Sales
CHF million
January – June
2024
January – June
2025
Difference Difference
in local
currency
Rieter 421.0 336.2 -20% -19%
Machines & Systems 198.7 144.0 -28% -26%
Components 126.5 113.9 -10% -9%
After Sales 95.8 78.3 -18% -16%

 

Sales by Region

Sales by Region
CHF million
January – June 2024 January – June 2025 Difference Difference
in local
currency
Rieter 421.0 336.2 -20% -19%
Asian countries1 94.2 65.0 -31% -31%
China 74.4 94.7 27% 31%
India 58.7 47.0 -20% -18%
Türkiye 76.7 23.3 -70% -68%
North and South America 54.3 67.4 24% 25%
Europe 25.4 29.9 18% 19%
Africa 37.3 8.9 -76% -76%

1) Excluding China, India, and Türkiye

Key Figures

CHF Million January ‒
June 2024
January ‒
June 2025
Difference
Rieter      
Order intake 403.4 355.4 -12%
Sales 421.0 336.2 -20%
Operating EBIT 10.2 -2.7 -126%
EBIT1 10.01 -17.3 -273%
– in % of sales 2.4% -5.1%  
Net result 1.7 -20.0 -1 276%
– in % of sales 0.4% -5.9%  
Purchase of property, plant, equipment, and intangible assets 12.4 5.6 -55%
Total assets at June 30 1 244.0 1 158.9 -7%
Shareholders’ equity at June 30 397.1 355.5 -10%
Number of employees (excl. temporaries) at June 30 4 831 4 565 -6%
Machines & Systems Division      
Order intake 211.5 166.9 -21%
Sales 198.7 144.0 -28%
Operating EBIT -9.8 -31.6 -222%
EBIT -9.9 -38.4 -288%
– in % of sales -5.0% -26.7%  
Components Division      
Order intake 117.6 95.7 -19%
Sales 126.5 113.9 -10%
Total segment sales 151.4 134.5 -11%
Operating EBIT 5.1 0.2 -96%
EBIT 5.1 -2.4 -147%
– in % of segment sales 3.4% -1.8%  
After Sales Division      
Order intake 74.3 92.8 25%
Sales 95.8 78.3 -18%
Operating EBIT 20.9 6.3 -70%
EBIT 20.9 5.6 -73%
– in % of sales 21.8% 7.2%  

1) The comparative period (January – June 2024) has been adjusted retrospectively as a result of the reclassification of the share in profit of the associated companies from financial result to the operating result.

Posted: July19, 2025

Source: Rieter AG

Turkuvaz Enhances Baby Diapers Portfolio With ANDRITZ Upgrade To The Absorbent Core

GRAZ, Austria — July18, 2025 — International technology group ANDRITZ has completed a service retrofit for the Turkish company Turkuvaz at its Sakarya plant, integrating diversion channel technology into its baby diaper lines. This upgrade enables Turkuvaz to produce game-changing diapers with enhanced core absorption and maximum comfort for babies.

Turkuvaz quality control team and ANDRITZ service manager at one of the upgraded converting lines
(from left to right): Ülay Tören Yilmaz, Marco Buontempo (ANDRITZ), Simge Kara, Zehra Özdamar
Image: ANDRITZ

In addition to improved wearability and a better fit for babies, the incorporation of channel technology ensures superior performance in terms of rewet and acquisition time. It also enables more even distribution throughout the core, reducing the so-called sagging effect. Furthermore, raw material costs are lowered compared to conventional diaper cores.

Sedat Mala, General Manager of Turkuvaz, stated: “This project was crucial for the diversification of our product offering, and having a responsive and customized solutions provider was essential for our business. We are confident that this collaboration will significantly strengthen our market position and drive future growth.”

Turkuvaz already operates nine converting lines and one spunlace line from ANDRITZ, underlining the company’s confidence in ANDRITZ as a reliable and innovative partner.

Posted: July19, 2025

Source:  International technology group ANDRITZ

Global Exhibitors Across Sub-Sectors Confirmed For Cinte Techtextil China 2025

SHANGHAI — July18, 2025 — With 12 exhibiting countries and regions so far confirmed, Cinte Techtextil China is poised to present a dynamic industry platform, bridging the gap between Asian and Western markets. From 3 to 5 September in Shanghai, the fair will feature a full spectrum of technical textiles and nonwovens for 12 application areas, with a key highlight being 2025’s debut product category and zone – the Textile Chemicals and Dyes Zone. Meanwhile, domestic and international exhibitors with automotive applications can be found across the fairground, with the segment drawing strong interest globally. Also featuring a range of innovators in the reputable European and German Zones, the fair’s International Hall (W5) will offer valuable expertise and opportunities to trade visitors from China, Asia and beyond.

A strong combination of global exhibitors has already confirmed their participation this year, coming from Belgium, China, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, the UK, the US, and Vietnam. With the additional textile chemicals and dyes product category launched at the fair, new business avenues have been opened for renowned companies such as CHT Germany GmbH (Germany), Michelman Inc (USA), and more, who will convene at the debut Textile Chemicals and Dyes Zone. The new category is suitable for a range of textile applications, such as for sports & leisure, safety & protection, industrial protection, construction and more.

Other exhibitors featured in this zone include:

Dupré Minerals (UK): the company manufactures high-quality products for the vermiculite, precision casting, friction, and refractory industries. It will showcase the innovative Micashield Vermiculite Dispersion, an aqueous dispersion of chemically exfoliated vermiculite which forms a natural, high-temperature barrier, protecting technical fabrics from flame and heat. Key application areas: for industrial uses.

Shanghai Xinnuo Chemical (China): multi-certified, the company produces water-based emulsified waxes. Raw materials include various petroleum products and derivatives, natural waxes, synthetic waxes and various special varieties such as silicone oil. The melting point of the products ranges from oils which are liquid at room temperature to waxes with a melting point of up to 160°C. Key application areas: for medical & hygiene, industrial and automotive uses.

Yancheng Ruize Color Masterbatch (China): Ruize operates 36 colour masterbatch production lines, producing high-quality “Ruize” brand colour masterbatch, functional masterbatch, and pre-dispersed pigments using advanced grinding technology. The ISO-certified company’s products have been trusted by renowned brands like PGI, Avgol, Beaulieu, and Toray, since their approval for use on Refine IV equipment. Key application areas: for medical & hygiene, civil engineering, automotive and environmental protection uses.

European and German Zones to showcase continent’s industry excellence

With Europe’s production of technical textiles and nonwovens largely returning to pre-pandemic levels the vast Asian market represented at Cinte Techtextil China has attracted leading companies to showcase their quality, high-tech products in the European and German Zones.

In addition to well-known returning brands, such as EMS-GRILTECH, Graf + Cie, Monosuisse, and Swisstulle from Switzerland, and Fibre Extrusion Technology from the UK, several new exhibitors are set to make their mark in the European Zone, including:

  • Serel Industrie (Belgium): specialises in unique electronic systems based on X-ray technology for measurement, regulation and control of the textile production flow. Its new SERVO-X 70kV X-ray Generator is redefining efficiency and sustainability in textile recycling and technical fibre production.
  • Proton Product International (UK): a leading manufacturer of instrumentation and control equipment for use in industrial production, with an international customer base. Its products are suitable for all 12 application areas.

Across the hall, the German Zone will also welcome a strong array of members, including Autefa Solutions, Mahlo, Reifenhauser Heinsberg, and many more, such as:

  • Brueckner Textile Technologies: offers a wide range of finishing machines for technical textiles, nonwovens, floor coverings and glass fabrics, including coating and laminating lines, bonding ovens and stenter frames. Their machines are all energy efficient and sustainable.
  • Lindauer DORNIER: Germany’s internationally recognised weaving machine manufacturer. End products produced with the company’s machines comprise extremely high-performance fabrics for airbags, carbon fabrics for composite structures, and aramid fabrics for fire-resistant or bullet-proof applications.
  • Wetekam Group (new): specialises in technical monofilaments, 3D elements, and artificial turf yarns. It is one of Europe’s leading monofilament producers, reinforcing the German Zone’s reputation for cutting-edge innovation and market leadership.

Highlighted exhibitors featuring automotive textile solutions

Harnessing market demand, Cinte Techtextil China will feature a raft of global Mobiltech exhibitors, including Eastex Industrial Science And Technology and Oriental Industries from China, Picanol from Belgium, Rowa Group from Germany, and more:

  • JCT Industries (Malaysia): a leading manufacturer of PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) products, including short cut, staple fibre and long filament strand. Its fibre can be used in multiple construction sub-sectors, while its filament can be used in various industries such as geosynthetics, textiles, and automotives. The company’s manufacturing process relies on local geothermal resources, and utilises renewable underground water sources.
  • Jiangsu HongFeng Thread Technology (China): a manufacturer and exporter of polyester and nylon filament and spun sewing threads, with reliable solutions for apparel, automotive, furniture, medical, and more. Certifications include ISO 9001, IATF 16949, Global Recycled Standard and various OEKO-TEX credentials.

The fair’s product categories cover 12 application areas, which comprehensively span a full range of potential uses in modern technical textiles and nonwovens. These categories also cover the entire industry, from upstream technology and raw materials providers to finished fabrics, chemicals and other solutions. This scope of product groups and application areas ensures that the fair is an effective business platform for the entire industry.

Cinte Techtextil China will be held from September 3 – 5, 2025.

The fair is organized by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Nonwovens & Industrial Textiles Association (CNITA).

Other upcoming shows:

Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition / Yarn Expo Autumn
September 2 – 4, 2025, National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai)

Posted: July19, 2025

Source: Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Nonwovens & Industrial Textiles Association (CNITA)

Christopher Heyn Appointed Chief Executive Officer Of brrr° To Accelerate Innovation, Growth, and Global Brand Partnerships

ATLANTA, GA — July18, 2025 — brrr°, a supplier of advanced cooling and comfort fabric technologies, today announced the appointment of Christopher Heyn as Chief Executive Officer. Heyn has been serving as Executive Chairman and will now assume the CEO role to lead the company into its next phase of innovation, operational excellence, and global expansion.

Christopher Heyn

Heyn brings decades of proven leadership experience in building and scaling lifestyle, apparel, and performance brands across global markets. He previously served as President and CEO of Lion Brothers, where he led its transformation into a global innovation partner in apparel customization before its acquisition by Avery Dennison. His track record also includes driving brand growth and profitability at Southern Tide, Summit Golf Brands, Nautica, and the NBA.

As CEO of brrr°, Heyn will spearhead the company’s mission to deliver advanced thermoregulating fabric solutions that enhance comfort and performance throughout all seasons across a wide range of apparel, activewear, accessories, and lifestyle products. The company’s patented technology — which combines the powers of natural cooling minerals, active wicking, and rapid drying, plus advanced UPF sun protection — is engineered to provide a superior comfort experience at work and at play, and everywhere in between.

“I’m honored to serve as CEO as well as Executive Chairman of brrr° as we focus on breakthrough innovations in cooling comfort fabric technologies,” Heyn said. “With a winning sales and brand strategy, global partnerships, stronger operational execution, and a commitment to excellence, brrr° is ideally positioned to scale across multiple markets as we offer authentic and impactful solutions that support a more comfortable lifestyle — anywhere, anytime.”

“brrr° is uniquely positioned at the intersection of science, innovation, and consumer demand,” Heyn continued. “We’re excited to collaborate with brands, product developers, mills and other partners to bring our next-generation cooling solutions to life in ways that make everyday life more comfortable and more enjoyable so you can feel your best.”

Under Heyn’s leadership, brrr° is intensifying its focus on high-growth categories including athletic and golf, outdoor, casual lifestyle, and advanced performance uniform and workwear segments. The company is also enhancing supply chain capabilities and expanding its global footprint through strategic distribution and development partnerships in Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Mary-Cathryn Kolb, a former Spanx executive who founded brrr° more than a decade ago, continues to support the company as an Advisor and Board Member.

“Bringing brrr° to life — shaping a complex idea into a real brand with real impact — has been one of the most meaningful journeys of my career,” said Kolb. “As a founder, I’m proud of the innovation we created and the trust we’ve earned from some of the world’s most recognized brands.”

Posted: July19, 2025

Source: brrr°

Essential But Under Threat: Potential EU Countermeasures On US Fluff Pulp Risk Driving Up Prices Of Diapers, Menstrual Products, And Incontinence Products

BRUSSELS — July18, 2025 — EDANA, an association representing the nonwovens and related industries, which include the manufacturers of hygiene products, such as menstrual products, adult incontinence and baby diapers, and their value chain, acknowledges the European Commission’s potential decision to implement countermeasures in response to the recently imposed US tariffs.

One such measure—targeting US-origin fluff pulp—would have far-reaching and unintended consequences. Fluff pulp, classified under CN code 47032100, is a critical raw material used in the manufacture of absorbent hygiene products (AHPs), including but not limited to baby diapers, feminine care, and adult incontinence products. These products are essential to the health, dignity, and daily wellbeing of millions of Europeans—particularly babies, women, and elderly citizens.

From the first diaper of a newborn to the pads that allow women to move through their day with confidence, to the products that restore dignity to the elderly—this material touches lives in deeply personal ways.

Approximately 90%1 of fluff pulp is used in AHPs due to its role in these products. US fluff pulp is irreplaceable because most of the global fluff pulp capacity comes from the US, and it can’t be fully replaced by other markets. Imposing duties on this material would significantly increase manufacturing costs, compounding already high inflationary pressures. The result: higher prices on essential hygiene items for those families who can least afford them.

The ripple effects would extend beyond consumers. European manufacturers would be placed at a disadvantage, facing rising input costs while competitors outside the EU continue exporting finished hygiene products into Europe without the same burden. This threatens not only industry jobs but also the long-term resilience of our production ecosystem.

The global market reality further complicates the issue:

  • The United States accounts for more than 80% of global fluff pulp production. There are no alternative suppliers that can meet European demand in volume or regulatory compliance.
  • Less than half of EU demand for fluff pulp can currently be met through sources outside the US.

If the proposed duties are enacted, they would not only strain household budgets but risk disrupting the supply of indispensable health and hygiene products across Europe. EDANA calls on policymakers to exclude fluff pulp (CN code 47032100) from any countermeasure. Protecting access to essential products, supporting European manufacturers, and avoiding unnecessary hardship for vulnerable consumers must remain a shared priority.

1Trade Tree Online (TTO) and Brian McClay and Associates (BMA) – TTO/BMA (February 2025). Data available on subscription.

Posted: July19, 2025

Source:EDANA

CiCLO Technology Expands Into New Markets And Announces Additional Brand Collaborations Ahead Of Functional Fabric Fair NYC

New York, NY — July17, 2025 — CiCLO® technology, the proprietary fiber innovation that helps reduce synthetic microfiber pollution, is heading into the second half of 2025 with growing traction and fresh industry interest. The company has reached significant milestones and continues to expand its global influence as a leader in biodegradable textile solutions. As the industry prepares for the upcoming Functional Fabric Fair in New York City, July 21–23, CiCLO technology is being recognized for its measurable environmental impact and potential for scalable adoption. Specifically, its new categories include: soft signage, technical performance apparel, outdoor apparel, hospitality, headwear, and nonwoven durable packaging.

In addition to penetrating new markets, CiCLO technology has achieved substantial growth across key areas of the business:

  • 55+ brand partners globally, including leaders in the USA, Canada, UK, Japan and Korea
  • More than 120,000,000 million pounds of fibers sold into the global supply chain
  • An increasing role in circular design strategies, supporting brands seeking durable synthetics made from recycled materials that also reduce the impact of microplastic pollution

“CiCLO technology is driving the industry to take real steps toward reducing the impacts of synthetic microfiber pollution, a major source of microplastics in our ecosystem,” said Andrea Ferris, founder and CEO of Intrinsic Advanced Materials. “These milestones show that progress is possible when material science, design, and business goals align. Our solution is affordable, scaled globally and easy to implement, alongside other solutions to this complex problem like designing fabrics to shed less and improving filtration where feasible.”

In support of continued industry education and transparency, Ferris will speak at a key Expert Talks session at the Functional Fabric Fair New York on July 22, 2025. The session, titled “The Fiber Connection: How Brands and Retailers Are Rebuilding Trust Through Sustainability,” explores how ingredient brands are driving environmental accountability across the apparel value chain.

Ferris will discuss the power of fiber-level solutions and how performance, sustainability, and consumer trust can be combined. “Consumers are increasingly concerned with the environmental impact of their purchases, and that starts with materials,” Ferris continued. “CiCLO technology is working with partners across categories to embed sustainability at the fiber level, where it has the greatest long-term impact.”

Posted: July19, 2025

Source: CiCLO® Technology / Advanced Materials, LLC (IAM)

AAFA Flags Anti-Counterfeiting Recommendations During Anti-Counterfeiting Awareness Month

WASHINGTON, D.C. — July17, 2025 — The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) — a leading voice for safe workplaces, consumer protection, and brand integrity — raises priority actions during National Anti-Counterfeiting and Consumer Education and Awareness Month.

  • Today, AAFA delivered a letter to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative  (USTR) ahead of its next Notorious Markets List (NML) submission process. The U.S. government’s annual NML report calls out the worst marketplaces for the promotion and sale of counterfeits. As expanded upon in the letter, the first Trump Administration broke new ground in 2019 by including the foreign domains of Amazon (a U.S.-headquartered third-party marketplace), in the NML for the first time. Despite efforts by several stakeholders and AAFA, to nominate U.S.-headquartered third-party marketplaces for the NML, it has not included any such nominations since 2020.
  • Last month, AAFA submitted critical comments to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) regarding the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (“OECD”) Draft Voluntary Guidelines for Countering Illicit Trade in Counterfeit Goods on Online Marketplaces.

On July 14, AAFA organized and sent a letter signed by a dozen cross-industry association leaders urging Congress to protect funding for the Office of the Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator (IPEC) and to advocate for an IPEC appointment before the end of the year.

Steve Lamar, American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA)

“Counterfeit, illicitly traded goods—including apparel, footwear, accessories, and travel goods—undermine trusted American brands but also threaten the jobs and livelihoods of millions of U.S. workers and the safety of American consumers and the environment,” said Steve Lamar, President and CEO of AAFA.

“Through stronger education and more effective public policy, we must all work together to combat the scourge of counterfeits increasingly being promoted and sold across e-commerce and social commerce platforms. Counterfeit listings flood these platforms daily while brands fight a lopsided battle with illicit traders who have a completely unfair advantage. As stated in today’s letter to USTR Ambassador Greer, we are eager to work with USTR to update the Notorious Markets List process to include domestic platforms and marketplaces to level the playing field for all businesses, protect legitimate commerce and valuable IP, and to continue the fight against dangerous counterfeits. All of us can do more to support American innovation, to raise awareness, and to protect American families going into the holiday season.”

Today AAFA also extends its gratitude to the sponsors, including Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and co-sponsor—Senators Chris Coons (D-Delaware), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii)—for their continued leadership in recognizing July as ‘National Anti-Counterfeiting and Consumer Education and Awareness Month.’ The designation, introduced by S.Res.314, brings vital attention to the role trademarks play in both the U.S. economy and the protection of consumers.

Learn more about AAFA’s concerns around the larger Digital Devalue Chain of Counterfeits.

https://www.aafaglobal.org/counterfeitdevaluechain

Posted: July 17, 2025

Source: The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA)

Uster Technologies: Discussing The Challenges Of Making Yarn From Recycled Fibers

USTER, Switzerland — July16, 2025 — What does it take to spin quality yarn from recycled fibers? Uster Technologies brought textile industry leaders together to discuss the role of technology, data and automation – as well as the current challenges in using recycled raw material.

Experts from Rieter, Säntis Textiles, Otto Yarns, and TVU commented on the current situation and looked into the future of spinning in a panel discussion organized at Uster headquarters.

It’s more than just machinery – it’s about rethinking processes, embracing AI, data and machine automation as well as building industry-wide collaboration. As spinners navigate the multiple demands of circularity, customer satisfaction, and profitable business, one thing is clear: the future of recycled textiles must be individually engineered, comprehensively tested, and connected like never before.

Standards and individuality: engineering for reliability and diversity

Advanced machinery is a critical component in enabling engineering teams to optimize processes and drive innovation. Machines from leading manufacturers offer reliability but don’t make an inimitable product. “With the goal of being different and unique, we create our own path by developing our own final machines,” says Andreas Merkel, CEO at Otto Yarns. Otto engineers customize the machines for specialized applications. A notable example is the Spin-Knit system, which integrates spinning and knitting into one continuous operation. Originally configured for cotton, the machine was re-engineered to process technical fibers, by removing the standard top section and implementing a proprietary drafting system.

The production of recycled yarns brings technical requirements that are significantly different from those with virgin fibers. According to Stefan Hutter, owner of Säntis Textiles, there is a clear need for the development of new industry standards tailored specifically for recycled materials, and he advocates for Uster Technologies to take a leading role in this effort. Ultimately, the successful integration of advanced production machinery, newly-defined quality standards, and precise quality control systems will require close industry collaboration. This is the only way that confidence in recycled yarns can be established – ensuring that customers not only trust the product’s performance and consistency but are also willing to invest in its value.

Adapting spinning processes for recycled yarns

Recycled yarn production can be achieved with existing spinning technologies, either by adapting current systems or by integrating additional processing steps. “Spinners must go back to the basic task and again learn how to spin, starting from scratch and going through the whole line of spinning,” says Michael Will, Head Textile Technology & Process Analytics at Rieter. This re-learning process is essential due to the variable nature of recycled fibers, and it demands extensive testing and data collection – measuring key parameters, validating process changes, and ensuring consistency through iterative quality control.

Growing customer demand for more automation presents a dual challenge: matching the need for   maximum flexibility with the rigid configurations typical with interconnected automated systems. In conventional spinning mills, linking multiple machines can limit process adaptability. However, machine-level automation offers potential for enhanced flexibility, particularly when processing smaller lot sizes. For instance, features such as automated adjustment of comber nip distances can streamline setups.

The role of data and AI

In the recycling process, sorting, separating, and cleaning are advanced operations in which artificial intelligence plays a critical role in pattern recognition and optimization. In this way, AI enables optimization of material recovery at the right quality, to improve process efficiency. Another key area is traceability, which ensures product reliability and builds trust throughout the supply chain. “For downstream processes such as dyeing, it must be possible to trust certificates,” says Thomas Franz, Sales and Purchasing Manager at TVU.

Data analysis is fundamental to these efforts, but it becomes truly effective only when integrating comprehensive data streams. This means connecting spinning machinery and testing instruments – ideally across different brands – to enable holistic process monitoring and control. For spinners, seamless working between equipment and systems is crucial to unlocking maximum operational benefits and ensuring consistent quality in recycled yarn production.

Enabling the future would start with technology partners meeting, discussing and working together. This is a common belief of the experts participating at the panel discussion – and the Uster event has been one step in this direction.

The panel discussion (Link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLgmyPprjNk) is available in full to those interested in more details.

Posted: July 17, 2025

Source: Uster Technologies AG

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