How To Build Consumer Trust With SGS Product Certification Marks

TW Special Report

What consumers want from the products they buy is changing. Better ergonomics, performance, safety and sustainability are now the key deciders when consumers choose new products. In crowded, global markets, how can manufacturers, buyers, importers and retailers increase trust in their consumer products?

Changing Consumer Habits

Consumers want more from their products, and now, with resources such as online review sites, they have access to information that enables better-informed decision making. Traditional bricks and mortar retailers, brands and e-commerce retailers are becoming increasingly aware of these trends and need to find effective ways to respond to altered purchasing habits.

Using the issue of sustainability as an example, a global study from 2021 found that 85 percent of survey responders reported changes in their purchasing habits.* They were now actively seeking greener alternatives and were willing to pay more for them. A different study in the United States found 64 percent of people would pay more for sustainable products, but it also highlighted a major problem — 74 percent didn’t know how to identify a more sustainable product. This creates a business opportunity, as 78 percent said they were more likely to purchase a product that was clearly labeled as environmentally friendly.**

The message is clear — consumers want products that clearly meet their demands and they are willing to pay more for them.

Fragmented Markets

Whether it’s buying a new frying pan for the kitchen, a laptop for the home office, or a pair of shoes for a party, consumers will ask essentially the same sorts of questions before making a purchase.

Increasingly, consumers are also asking themselves if a product is environmentally-friendly. If not, they will actively look for an alternative that can demonstrate sustainability.

In a retail environment governed by online marketplaces and review sites, the primary mechanism they will use to answer these questions is certification. Independent certification to recognized standards is a clear demonstration that a product has been robustly tested, and factories and processes have been routinely inspected and audited. The end result is not only trust in compliance with relevant standards but also that it will meet any claims that are being made for it.

The issue for manufacturers, buyers, importers and retailers is that in global markets there is no single set of defined standards. Whatever market they operate in around the world, they will need to stay up to date with a vast array of ever-changing regulations. Using food contact materials and products as an example, so far in 2022, multiple US states, The Netherlands, Brazil, Uganda, Thailand, Germany and Uruguay are just some of the territories that have introduced or updated their regulations.

With cybersecurity, this fragmented regulatory landscape becomes even more difficult for consumers and industry to navigate because many countries are still playing catch-up in terms of effective governance. Regulators are constantly updating legislation to combat the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Building Trust

In fragmented markets, the key to success is trust. The will to change purchasing habits exists, but what is holding consumers back is confusion stemming from a lack of clarity and trust.

Consumers are also more aware than ever of the tricks used in advertising and that has made them skeptical. Authorities are also responding with more robust rules to stop misleading claims. Using sustainability as an example, ‘greenwashing’ – making unsubstantiated environmental claims that lack transparency – is now a major problem. A recent ruling by the UK Advertising Standards Agency in relation to ‘green’ claims made it clear that “absolute claims must be supported by a high level of substantiation.”***

Authorities and consumers want transparency and are no longer just willing to trust a claim. Instead, they want evidence of independent assessment to prove all safety, compliance, performance and sustainability claims.

Marked For Success

Product certification marks provide the ultimate stamp of assurance that a product has been independently evaluated and is part of a process of continuing assessment. The consumer can instantly see the broad scope of the certification, whether it’s for food contact materials, cybersecurity, performance or environmental claims, and they are given a clear indication that the product conforms to a pre-defined set of standards. Consumers can also gain in-depth information on the criteria against which the product has been assessed via the QR code.

Product certification marks help businesses to build trust in their products while providing a mechanism for market differentiation. For consumers, they give an assurance that the products they buy conform to their requirements.

SGS Solution

SGS has long been recognized as the global leader in testing, inspections and certification and, with SGS Product Certification Marks, it completes this circle.

With the launch of the SGS Performance Mark, SGS Food Contact Product Mark, SGS Cybersecurity Mark and SGS Green Mark, SGS is supporting manufacturers, suppliers and retailers in the delivery of safe, high-performing and compliant products to target markets. These marks improve transparency and enable differentiation in competitive markets. They also give consumers access to greater information on the purchasing drivers that inform their decision-making, whether that’s concerns over cybersecurity, environmental protection or performance.

Assessment is conducted using SGS’s global network of experts and state-of-the-art testing facilities, ensuring compliance with defined market requirements. In areas without enforced regulations, SGS will work with the manufacturer to ensure conformity with relevant market standards.

When trust is important, SGS Product Certification Marks provide clarity and increase consumer confidence.

References

*https://www.simon-kucher.com/sites/default/files/studies/Simon-Kucher_Global_Sustainability_Study_2021.pdf

** https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210322005061/en/GreenPrint-Survey-Finds-Consumers-Want-to-Buy-Eco-Friendly-Products-but-Don%E2%80%99t-Know-How-to-Identify-Them

*** https://www.asa.org.uk/rulings/unilever-uk-ltd-a22-1150985-unilever-uk-ltd.html

October 13, 2022

Demand Still Soft; Future Uncertain

By Jim Phillips, Yarn Market Editor

Demand for yarn from U.S. manufacturers continued to be somewhat middling in October, continuing a trend that began earlier in the third quarter.

Spinners and analysts agree that a saturated source-to-retail pipeline is the primary reason for a slowdown. “Retail shelves are full, and mills have an ample inventory of yarns to meet their immediate needs,” said one source.

“There is also some trepidation about where the economy is headed over the next few quarters,” said an analyst. “The Fed continues to try to slow the economy down to limit inflation, but whether its acts can help avoid a full-out recession is still very much in doubt.”

From a consumer spending and confidence standpoint, falling energy prices spiked a surge over the past few months, according to the Consumer Confidence Index, published by The Conference Board®. Also contributing to the increase, according to other sources, were lowering inflation rates over the past several months. However, they warned, recently announced cuts in oil production by OPEC could plunge confidence levels back to mid-year historical lows.

“At this point, it is just wait and see, for both consumers and businesses,” noted one executive. “We’re hoping for a good holiday season that will lead to some robust orders by the start of the year. But if a lot of product is left on the shelves after the holidays, we could be looking at a slower beginning to the year than we would hope. All things considered, if the European situation stabilizes, we could see a lot of things change for the better in a relatively short time. We could expect a drop in inflation, enhanced supply and reduced costs of energy resources, and a continued revitalization of the global supply chain.”

LYCRA Publishes Planet Agenda Update; Announces Bio-Derived Spandex

The LYCRA Company, dedicated to developing sustainable and innovative fiber and technology solutions for the apparel and personal care industries, announced in mid-October the publication of its first annual Planet Agenda Update.

The Planet Agenda Update is named for The LYCRA Company’s sustainability framework that was established in 2008. It has three pillars that touch every aspect of its business: corporate responsibility, product sustainability and manufacturing excellence.

“We believe in transparency and think it’s important to have a clear sustainability roadmap to guide our business into the future — a bold plan that fully supports our customers and stakeholders,” said Julien Born, CEO of The LYCRA Company. “I’m proud of our teams’ work to advance our sustainability efforts.”

“We have a long legacy as an industry leader known for investing in developing sustainable fibers and collaborating across the value chain,” said Jean Hegedus, sustainability director at The LYCRA Company. “As we created our 2030 goals, we researched our customers’ goals to ensure that our goals supported them, which inspired the update’s theme of ‘What moves you…is what moves us.'”

In other news about the company, LYCRA recently announced it has entered into an agreement with Qore® to enable the world’s first large-scale commercial production of bio-derived spandex using QIRA®, the next-generation 1,4-butanediol (BDO), as one of its main ingredients. This will result in 70 percent of the LYCRA fiber content being derived from annually renewable feedstock. This change could potentially reduce the carbon footprint of LYCRA fiber by up to 44 percent versus equivalent product made from fossil-based resources.

“As part of our sustainability goals, we are committed to delivering products that support a more circular economy while helping our apparel and personal care customers reduce their footprint,” Born said Julien Born. “We are especially pleased to collaborate with Qore, a company that shares our vision for innovative, sustainable solutions. Their expertise in operating fermentation processes and understanding of the chemical value chains makes them the ideal partner to help develop a bio-derived LYCRA fiber at commercial scale.

Cotton Conference To Offer Research, Rechnology Updates And More

The 2023 Beltwide Cotton Conferences (BWCC), set for January 10-12 at the New Orleans Marriott in New Orleans will offer attendees updates on the latest research, technology and issues affecting U.S. cotton production and processing.

The BWCC, coordinated by the National Cotton Council, annually brings together university and USDA researchers, regulatory agencies, extension personnel/agents, consultants, and industry sales/support personnel to exchange information about new products and production/processing systems that can be tailored to individual farming operations for maximum efficiency.

October 2022

John Crocker And Rick Stanford Receive Millson Award For Invention For Development Of The Vortex M6 At AATCC Textile Discovery Summit

Crocker (left) and Stanford

ROCK HILL, S.C. — October 6, 2022 — The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) have awarded John Crocker and Rick Stanford the Millson Award for Invention during the Textile Discovery Summit on October 6, 2022. The award was presented for the pair’s work at SDL Atlas in developing the Vortex M6.

The Vortex M6 was the first commercial grade top loading washing instrument engineered specifically for textile laboratory use for meeting global testing wash standards. The instrument provides programable precision via a multi-language touch screen controller that can manage custom cycles with duration up to 100 hours. The Vortex M6 can be calibrated to ISO 17025 requirements and adjusted back into compliance easily by qualified personnel.

“All of us at SDL Atlas are very proud of Crocker and Stanford. It is a great honor that AATCC has recognized the Vortex M6 as a true step forward in innovation. The textile industry has definitely taken on the Vortex as the new standard top loading washing machine,” said Chuck Lane, SDL Atlas President.

SDL Atlas has recently released a second instrument to the Vortex line, the Vortex Plus, which provides an integrated automatic liquid detergent dispenser which allows for up to 50 repeated wash cycles without operator intervention while also performing all of the same functions as the Vortex M6.

Posted October 11, 2022

2023 Beltwide Cotton Conferences Offering Insight On Latest Innovative Technology, Research

CORDOVA, Tenn. — October 6, 2022 — The 2023 Beltwide Cotton Conferences (BWCC), set for January 10-12 at the New Orleans Marriott in New Orleans, La., will offer attendees timely updates on the latest research, technology and issues affecting U.S. cotton production and processing.

The BWCC, coordinated by the National Cotton Council, annually brings together university and USDA researchers, regulatory agencies, extension personnel/agents, consultants, and industry sales/support personnel to exchange information about new products and production/processing systems that can be tailored to individual farming operations for maximum efficiency.

Those planning to attend are encouraged to register via the BWCC home page at www.cotton.org/beltwide/ and clicking on the registration tab. The BWCC home page also includes links to more information about the forum, including housing reservations and an updated program.

Registration costs for the 2023 BWCC before December 14 are: $200 for NCC/Cotton Foundation members, university and USDA researchers, extension personnel, and associations; $500 for non-U.S. research, extension, associations, and consultants; $400 for non-NCC/Foundation members; and $80 for producers, independent crop consultants, and students.

On-site conference self-registration kiosks will be available 24 hours a day beginning on the evening of January 9. Beginning on the morning of January 10, NCC staff will be available for attendees needing assistance with registration and name badge printing.

The BWCC’s Consultants Conference will run the afternoon of January 10 and extend through the morning of January 11. Topics being considered include updates on ThryvOn™ cotton and its effectiveness on providing season-long protection against spider mites; herbicide resistance; the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol®; changes in weather patterns and the impact on crops; regulatory updates and pesticide impacts from the Endangered Species Act; new precision agriculture technologies; impacts of climate; retail inventory and supply chain status of fertilizer and chemistries; and Dicamba usage.

The BWCC’s 12 cotton technical conferences, which now includes the Cotton Sustainability Conference, will provide findings from current research and updates on emerging technology that are aimed at elevating U.S. cotton production and processing efficiency. Those sessions will meet concurrently beginning on the morning of January 11 and conclude by noon on January 12.

The Cotton Sustainability Conference will plan to focus on the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol®, including multiple panel discussions with many name brands and industry leaders, as well as sustainability experts.

The Cotton Engineering-Systems Conference is planning presentations on data analytics, robotics, remote sensing and unmanned aerial vehicles, among others.

Posted October 11, 2022

Source: National Cotton Council

Devan Chemicals Appoints New Managing Director

RONSE, Belgium — October 11, 2022 — With Thomas Bremer, Devan Chemicals (part of the Pulcra Group), welcomes a new managing director, who will be managing the business of the innovative textile chemical solution specialist going forward. Bremer succeeds Sven Ghyselinck who will move into the board directors of Devan. Bremer, will assume, in addition to his current role as Global SBU Head Textile of parent company Pulcra, also the role of managing director of Devan. The focus of this dual role is to intensify the collaboration between Devan and Pulcra globally and to unlock synergy effects in the textile area and beyond. Devan is headquartered in Belgium and has offices in the U.K., Portugal and the United States. This year, the company celebrates its 45th anniversary.

Bremer has more than 23 years of global business development experience in the area of sales, product and business management for textile chemicals. Prior to joining Pulcra / Devan, Bremer was with Huntsman Textile Effects in Singapore since 2012, where he held various roles during his tenure including Global Business Unit Direct- Textile Chemicals and lately the role of Global Product and Direct Purchasing Director. Before that, Bremer worked at DyStar Singapore and was responsible for the Textile Auxiliaries business in Asia since 2005. From 1999-2005 Thomas was working at Rotta Germany and relocated to China as Sales Manager Asia in 2002. Thomas graduated from the University for Applied Science in the field of Textile Chemistry in 1998.

“I am convinced that Thomas Bremer’s intensive expertise and thorough industry knowledge, combined with his solid vision and leadership skills, make him a perfect match with Devan and its team,” said Ümit Yaldiz, CEO of Pulcra.

“With the support of all the talented and passionate people working here I am excited to guide Devan further on its path towards sustainable business growth,” Bremer stated. “I am looking forward to develop more end-to-end solutions from the Pulcra and Devan range for our customers in various enduse segments like apparel, denim and workwear as well as for home, transport and institutional textiles. The product and solution offering of both companies are complementing each other’s. Pulcra is focused on processing excellence with a wide range of process chemicals and softeners, while Devan offers unique value adding solutions on textiles like thermoregulation, flame retardants, encapsulation technologies and novel anti-microbial products.”

Posted October 11, 2022

Source: Devan Chemical

Ascend Continues Broad Expansion Into New Markets, Launches HiDura™ MED Portfolio

HOUSTON — October 10, 2022 — Ascend Performance Materials today announced a new portfolio of medical grade nylon 6,6 resins and engineered materials for the healthcare market under its HiDura™ brand.

HiDura MED products meet ISO 10993-5 and 10993-10 testing criteria and can be used in a variety of healthcare applications, including:

  • Medical durables: Braces, patient support, furniture, mobility aids and other durable equipment.
  • Drug delivery: Filtration equipment and membranes, tubing, fluid connectors and auto injectors.
  • Surgical instruments: Scalpel handles, dental instruments, forceps and clamps
  • Medical equipment: Housings, protective cases, cables, sensors, connectors and wearables.
  • Wound care: Sutures, tapes and zip ties.

“Ascend’s nylon 6,6 brands are synonymous with unparalleled quality across multiple industry segments,” said Dhruv Shah, Ascend’s healthcare business manager. “Our HiDura MED portfolio offers the same quality to customers looking for solutions that meet the stringent requirements of the healthcare market, including ISO 10993-5 and 10993-10 biocompatibility testing, an effective change notification policy and operational policies to assure the highest possible standards.”

Shah added that the company is focused on supporting its customers’ growth and will continue to expand its healthcare portfolio, including the introduction of long-chain and amorphous polyamide grades in the future. Ascend is also actively exploring applications in medical durables and wound care using Acteev®, its award-winning, patented technology that incorporates the antimicrobial benefits of active zinc ions into our polyamide to create long-lasting functionality and efficacy in reducing the growth of microbes that can cause some medical products to degrade.

Posted: October 11, 2022

Source: Ascend Performance Materials

Leggett & Platt Lowers Full-Year Guidance And Announces Recent Acquisitions — Hydraulic Cylinders Business And Two Textiles Businesses

CARTHAGE, Mo. — October 10, 2022 — Leggett & Platt is a diversified manufacturer that designs and produces a broad variety of engineered components and products that can be found in most homes and automobiles. The 139-year-old company is comprised of 15 business units, approximately 20,000 employees and 130 manufacturing facilities located in 17 countries. The company recently released financial results and reported acquisitions.

  • Full year 2022 sales guidance lowered to $5.1–$5.2 billion
  • Full year 2022 EPS guidance reduced to $2.30–$2.45
  • Acquired a Hydraulic Cylinders business and two Textiles businesses

Diversified manufacturer Leggett & Platt lowered its full-year 2022 guidance:

  • Sales guidance now $5.1 to $5.2 billion (vs prior $5.2–$5.4 billion)
    • Decrease is primarily due to lower volume than previously expected
  • EPS guidance now $2.30 to $2.45 (vs prior $2.65–$2.80)
    • Decrease is primarily from lower volume, reduced production, slower than anticipated cost recovery in Automotive, and operational inefficiencies in Specialty Foam
    • Expect sequential improvement from 3Q to 4Q
  • Based upon this guidance, EBIT margin range should be 9.5% to 10.0% (vs prior 10.5%–10.7%)
  • Cash from operations expected to be $400 to $450 million (vs prior $550–$600 million)

President and CEO Mitch Dolloff commented, “The increasingly challenged global economic environment and consumer backdrop is expected to result in lower than previously anticipated sales and earnings in the third and fourth quarters of 2022. Demand in the U.S. bedding market is fairly stable but remains at relatively weak levels as industry headwinds persist, including inflationary and monetary policy impacts on consumer spending and consumer sentiment as well as higher inventory levels. Given the bedding demand environment and slowing market for steel generally, we are cutting production in our Rod and Wire businesses to reduce inventory.

“Our Specialty Foam business has experienced larger demand impacts as a result of previous pandemic-related supply issues and channel specific pressures. Lower demand in Specialty Foam in combination with operational inefficiencies, which are being addressed by continuing integration work, are taking longer than originally expected to resolve.

“Demand in International Bedding has declined more significantly amid geopolitical and macroeconomic disruptions in Europe. Home Furniture demand has softened significantly in the last few months with slower consumer demand and excess inventory at retail.

“Volume and cost recovery are improving sequentially in Automotive, but at a slower rate than anticipated. While improving year-over-year, industry production forecasts remain dynamic as supply chain and geopolitical impacts bring continued volatility.

“We continue to focus on things we can control and are taking action to mitigate the impact of these challenges by aligning costs, production levels, and inventory with demand; evaluating near-term opportunities with our customers and working with them on new product developments; and continuing to build out our existing businesses through acquisitions. Our strong balance sheet and cash flow give us confidence in our ability to navigate challenging markets while investing in long-term opportunities.”

In late August, Leggett & Platt acquired a leading global manufacturer of hydraulic cylinders for heavy construction machinery. The company has manufacturing facilities in Eschwege, Germany and Ningbo, China and a distribution facility in Halifax, Pennsylvania with combined 2021 sales of approximately $65 million. Also, in late August, the Company acquired a converter of construction fabrics for the furniture and bedding industries located in Shannon, Mississippi. On October 3, Leggett & Platt acquired a distributor of geo components located in Ottawa, Canada. Each of these Textiles businesses have annual sales under $10 million.

Posted: October 11, 2022

Source: Leggett & Platt

Lions Lingerie Group: Full Service Lingerie Manufacture Management In New York

NEW YORK CITY — October 11, 2022 — Lions Lingerie Group is announcing their full package design and manufacturing program for startup lingerie brands looking for a full service manufacturing for lingerie and sleepwear.

New York City-based lingerie manufacturing management company Lions Lingerie Group is a one stop shop for new and emerging lingerie brands. With the rising MOQs of India and China for lingerie production, Lions is providing a solution for smaller, ethnical brands. Lions Lingerie Group is able work with emerging brands so they can work with a domestic team. Lions Lingerie Group has a turn key approach by offering product development (lingerie design), manufacturing, warehousing and distribution.

Lions Lingerie Group works as the project management team to oversee all elements of the lingerie production. Offering eco sustainable fabric and mass production abilities. All faculties of production have ink sublimation, printing of fabric, custom lace and hardware abilities. With virtual assisting Lions Lingerie Group can accept brands that are not just NYC based. Lions Lingerie Group has virtual project management system and each client is assigned a Project Manager who will assist them with updates and can do virtual meetings and fittings.

Posted: October 11, 2022

Source: Lions Lingerie Group

US Department of Defense Partners With OROS For Next Generation Tactical Shelters, Cold Weather Apparel

PORTLAND, Ore. — October 11, 2022 — OROS, an innovator of next-generation thermal materials, has been selected by the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center (DEVCOM SC) to develop the next generation aerogel textiles for both extreme cold weather apparel and, in collaboration with Kostas Research Institute at Northeastern University, tactical shelters.

Aerogel is a substance used by NASA to insulate spacecraft and a technology pioneered by OROS to be used as the foundation for their proprietary materials innovation. Having developed a platform of aerogel solutions called SOLARCORE, OROS has the capacity to create advanced performance materials that may yield clothing systems with fewer layers and less bulk than traditional options.

OROS’ thermal innovations also have the potential to vastly improve the energy efficiency of the Army’s cold weather tactical shelters while increasing overall safety for operators in the field. Enhanced insulative environments, less bulk than current shelter systems and comprehensive thermal management are all key benefits of aerogel textile technology.

OROS CTO Jeff Nash is excited to revolutionize the Army’s approach to extreme cold weather protection and has spent years creating the company’s aerogel technology. A career-long materials engineer, Nash understands first-hand the taxing conditions and rigorous demands arctic environments put on gear.

“We stand ready to pair our vision of aerogel insulating materials with the needs for advanced thermal protection in harsh environments,” Nash said. “It is an honor to be part of transforming the military’s shelter and apparel systems.”

Posted: October 11, 2022

Source: OROS

Innovation In Textiles To Be Highlighted At TITAS

TAIPEI — October 10, 2022 — TITAS, trade show for innovation in textile applications will return to Taipei, Taiwan from October 12-14, 2022.

The 26th Taipei Innovative Textile Application show, known as TITAS will take place in Hall 1 of Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center.

367 exhibitors from across the globe are expected to participate in the show, which is the only textile innovation trade show in Taiwan. Besides the exhibitors from domestic textile & apparel industry, there is also an important number of international exhibitors including Cotton USA, Microban, HeiQ, Ommi Srl and UK-based Alchemie Technology. The US, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, the UK, Switzerland and Sweden are among the nations with exhibiting companies.

While domestic visitor attendance will be high, with thousands of visitors already registered, many more are expected from the rest of Asia, Europe and the US. Key global brands make up an important portion of the visitor list.

What’s more, the Sustainable Fashion Show, hosted by Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture will join TITAS 2022, connecting local textile manufacturers to fashion designers and others along the fashion value chain.

Innovation at its heart

The eagerly anticipated event has an overall focus on innovation, with efforts particularly concentrated across five key areas. These are:

  1. Sustainability in textiles

As sustainability becomes more prevalent than ever before, the exhibitors will focus on adopting eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes for cleaner production, circularity, reducing carbon emissions and achieving zero discharge of hazardous substances.

  1. Functional applications

Following in the growth of the technical textiles market, the event will spotlight added value textiles and apparel with multifunctional purposes for key application areas such as sports, outdoor, fitness and health and wellbeing.

  1. Personal protective equipment (PPE)

In the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, TITAS and its exhibitors will focus on the development of personal protective and medical textile products using advanced textile technology.

  1. Intelligent manufacturing

Digitalisation is paramount if the textile industry is to adapt to changing market and consumer needs. At TITAS 2022, the industry will come together to showcase hi-tech automation systems and solutions to enhance production efficiency, streamline processes and provide value-rich data that will, in turn, increase manufacturing margins.

  1. Smart textiles

Another high-growth area of the textile market, TITAS will look at the increasing research and development around smart textiles and how companies are combining cloud computing and wireless communication technology to provide detective capability in textile applications.

Key exhibitors

Sustainability x Functional Applications

Among the many exciting exhibitors at TITAS 2022, include many looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Far Eastern New Century focuses on sustainability with its most recent textile innovations. It will present brand new materials and product solutions this year at TITAS. For example, the company will promote its FENC® TOPGREEN® rTEX Spun Yarn. This yarn is made from textile waste from the factory floor. The result is a 100% recycled pre-consumer polyester and 100% recycled pre-consumer cotton yarn that is free from any chemical treatment.

Additionally, FENC® TOPGREEN® Bio3 PET utilises LanzaTech cutting-edge biotechnology that transforms industrial waste gas into low carbon MEG, which then turns into brand new polyester, the company says. Capturing and reusing carbon emission, FENC® TOPGREEN® Bio3 PET Filament and Textiles reduces the company’s carbon footprint.

With another nod to sustainability, Formosa Plastics Group’s exhibition theme for the 26th edition of TITAS is a “Circular Recycling Universe.” Combining the concepts of circular economy and the Metaverse, Formosa Plastics Group focuses on using technology to harness a wide variety of different renewable and recyclable natural materials, says the company. Through these efforts, the Group says it has improved its product mix, creating a circular economy and allowing carbon reduction and green energy to truly become a part of people’s lives.

Zig Sheng says its sustainable yarn lowers manufacturers’ carbon footprint. Its Netup nylon, made from recycled fishing net, Revert nylon, a low-carbon recycled yarn which turns nylon waste into nearly 2,400 tons of yarn every year, and its high flexibility, low fibre-shedding yarn, Soufflex are great ways to improve environmental footprints.

Eclat Textile Co will be exhibiting under its new value proposition ‘Materials with purpose’, as it continues to grow in to the activewear sector. The company’s Primefit Zero material is a stretchy textile with a fine furrow structure composed of highly compressed strands of flexuous yarns. They maximize its stretch capabilities and inhibit the loss of elasticity for a longer life cycle, the company says. It is also 100% recyclable.

With net zero carbon emissions in mind, TITAS exhibitor LIBOLON has developed a green circulation concept through water circular economy, green recycling fibre products such as its RePET® eco-friendly polyester recycled yarn and its ReEcoya® recycle dope dye yarn.

Shinkong Synthetic Fibers Corporation is another TITAS exhibitor working towards carbon neutrality. At the show, the company will focus on sustainable topics, including its yarn made from recycled garments. Using specialised technology, Shinkong is getting rid of textile waste by taking garments, that would otherwise have gone to landfill or be burned, back to the material stage to elongate the lifecycle of the yarn. The company will also be showcasing its biodegradable polyester yarn. It is also working on initiatives to develop its carbon neutrality.

Sustainability x Intelligent Manufacturing

Circularity is a theme that runs through many exhibitors at TITAS. New Wide Group says it is looking to create a carbon-neutral circular supply chain in the textile and apparel industry. The company has set up digital “Intelligent manufacturing data control centres” (IDCC) at its factories in Changzhou (China) and Phuoc Dong (Vietnam) to track production and performance data in real-time to achieve an efficient, smart and sustainable manufacturing process. New Wide says it applies the Higg FEM and vFEM modules and is verified with international environmental certifications such as bluesign, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, etc.

At TITAS, New Wide has organised four topic zones: Desert Explorer, Ocean Flow, Optimised Performance and Creative Community. These zones focus on high-performance fabrics including anti-bacterial, breathable and extraordinary wicking functionalities around eco-fashion. The company will also focus on its Naia™ Renew technology – a new age eco-friendly and luxurious fabric of di-acetate cellulose.

Meanwhile, exhibitor Everest Textile Co, will promote its innovative and sustainable technology for environmental protection. Everest develops innovative high-performance and sustainable fabrics, including carbon capture, bio-based, recycling and bio-based composite PET high performance products, the company says. It will also showcase its carbon capture polyester yarn, bagasse bio-based polyester yarn, E-2000 recycled polyester composite bio-based polyester eco yarn, recycled fishing net nylon yarn, recycled high tenacity nylon 6,6 (Cordura® re/cor®), Morphlon® Waste Shoe material recycled yarn and pineapple fibre yarn.

What’s more, the Taiwan Textile Research Institute (TTRI) will exhibit research and development projects in high-end textiles, environmental sustainability, digital innovation and smart textiles and training. Their highlighted products include deodorisation polyester masterbatch and fibre, 2DF high colour fastness dope dyed fluorescent fibres, PCM-long term thermal control technology, generic ECO elastic conductive slurry, precision exercise assistant clothing and force detecting and responding textiles etc. the organisation says.

TITAS exhibitor OSHIMA Taiwan is a leading smart equipment supplier to the garment industry. In partnership with the TTRI and textile producers, OSHIMA says it has developed “the first truly capable domestic fabric inspection machine”. This development will be on show at TITAS 2022.

OSHIMA EagleAi is the first AI fabric inspection machine to master knitted and stretched fabrics while simultaneously maintaining fabric tension within 2%, says the company. It continues: “Our neural network has already learned all the most common fabric flaws, including flux spots, flux contamination, colour spots, colour contamination, filth, oil contamination, holes, knots, folds and colour differences, weft defects, warp defects, hooked yarns, among others.” Averaging an overall accuracy rate of more than 90%, an accuracy rate of 94% and a recall rate of 86%. The biggest advantage however is that the technology can detect over 70% of unfamiliar fabrics in four hours or less, even without prior fabric data input.

Functional Applications x PPE

The demand for protective textiles with functions of safety protection, comfort & aesthetics has been increasing. TITAS showcases a variety of protective textiles for medical use, special clothing and sports. For example, Tex-Ray Industrial Co, has been dedicated to research and development, especially in smart textiles and functional, antimicrobial and sustainable materials. The company showcase their latest innovations including their patented high-resolution and environment-friendly printing technology HD ECOPRINT, revolutionary eco-dyeing process Ecoloration technology, T-Fresh Antimicrobial Materials Series and so on.

To do its bit to protect the ocean, SINGTEX® Industrial Co, a manufacturer of functional fabrics, will launch the 13th generation of S.Café® at TITAS 2022. The S.Café® Ocean, environmental technology ocean coffee yarn takes recycled PET bottles from the ocean and combines them with coffee yarn technology (TW I338729). The company says this reduces waste but the yarn also has odour control and quick drying properties.

The company will also promote its STORMFLEECE® fabric at TITAS. STORMFLEECE® replaces the traditional knitted fleece with single-layer weave fleece. The compact structure of the weave fabric can reduce the flow of microfibres into the ocean during the washing process and uses solution dyed technology to save water resources, according to SINGTEX®.

Additionally, the company’s STORMEGA® product uses fabric to create an air layer. This 3D air layer can capture and maintain body temperature without using fleece.

Also at the show, Light Textile is showcasing its LIGHTEMIS® technology, launched in 2021. This is a fine denier yarn combined with elastic with reflective properties. It can be used in apparel and footwear, providing safety in the dark with high comfort, the company says.

Educational sessions deliver innovative technology

TITAS held a number of forum and seminars related to circular textiles and sustainability and has invited both local and foreign experts to discuss on issues about circular economy in the textile sector as well as textile technologies. In addition to the Circular Textiles Forum “Taiwan Textile Industry on Its Way toward a Circular Future”, there are also 10 professional seminars on textile technologies that help for technical knowledge share. In addition, there will be 10 product launch activities and fashion shows presented by Taiwan Paiho and Cotton Council International, among others.

Integrating physical and virtual marketing to maximize business prospects

A hybrid event, TITAS’ online visitors are also well thought of. TITAS adopt various digital technologies to create a digital, interactive and intelligent exhibition format.

  • TITAS VR Online exhibition hall: a live version of the physical exhibition presenting both panoramic and detailed views of the Show. Launched this year, this new feature aims to provide a reality experience of the show tour to those international professionals who are not able to attend TITAS. Viewers can virtually visit to exhibitor’s individual booth and access relevant information including company profile, e-catalog and contact info.
  • TITAS Online Show: this 24/7 online platform serves as a marketplace for visitors to source the latest products from TITAS exhibitors – anytime and anywhere in the world. In addition to general product categories, products are also classified under five themes including Personal Protective Equipment, Functional Applications, Sustainability, Smart Textiles and Intelligent Manufacturing, and Trend Zone. The Trend Zone online show will run concurrently with the physical show, from 13 October – 14 November 2022.
  • TITAS Live Stream: live interviews of selected exhibitors on their innovations together with a guided tour of their booth during the Show on YouTube, Facebook and TITAS website.

TITAS was selected as a demonstration field of the EXPO-TECH Pilot Project for Digital Exhibitions of the Bureau of Foreign Trade, introducing the following digital technologies to enhance the interactive experience of visitors:

  • 3D Hologram Hybrid Booth: TITAS introduces new VR tech hologram booth with 3D modelling which adopts unique holographic display of 3D textile models and interactive gesture recognition technology. The technology enables visitors to view and feel the authenticity of the fabrics, while overseas exhibitors can showcase as they are in a live setting.
  • Intelligent Manufacturing Interactive Immersive Space: this space is designed to display six intelligent manufacturing processes including dyeing and finishing, production management, CAD design, cutting & printing, sewing & bonding, packing via VR technology. The interactive projection mapping walls combine advanced projection technology, touching technology together with digital interaction and space design, this area provides visitors with an immersive exhibition experience.

To register your attendance, please visit: TITAS https://titas.tw/en-us/

Posted: October 11, 2022

Source: TITAS

1...619620621...2,667Page 620 of 2,667

Sponsors

Breaking News

Load more

Digital Issue

2026 Quarterly Issue III

View Latest Digital Issue

FEATURED ARTICLES

© Copyright 2017 Textile Industries Media Group, LLC.