RadiciGroup’s Sustainability Report 2021 Published: The Document Combines Financial And Non-Financial Performance Indicators

BERGAMO, Italy — July 14, 2022 — The new RadiciGroup Sustainability Report has been published. With the goal of continuous improvement, the 2021 report has a broader reporting boundary compared to prior years and takes into consideration all the Group companies, including sales and service companies. Over 30 sites located across Asia, North America, South America and Europe have provided their 2021 data on economic, social and environmental performance.

Not only indicators of a financial nature but also measures of environmental impact (E), social values (S) and good organizational governance (G): the latter so-called ESG criteria have become a priority for RadiciGroup, which is preparing for the new European Union non-financial reporting directive in order to contribute to the transition towards a fully sustainable economic system and increase the value of its companies.

“The Sustainability Report always offers me the opportunity to observe RadiciGroup from a privileged vantage point: a future perspective,” Angelo Radici, president of RadiciGroup, stated. “Today, the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is our main guideline on sustainability issues. It shows us an ambitious scenario and urges us to confront a multitude of challenges that affect our enterprise from every point of view. We try to be quick to react and tenacious, staying faithful to our roots and our style, but expanding our perspective to become increasingly more competitive and proactive in the businesses we are engaged in. From the viewpoint of achieving less environmental impact in the future, we propose to be an enabler and facilitator for our stakeholders on themes such as the circular economy, where we see ourselves as protagonists in ecodesign and recycling, as well as innovation, which we put at the service of anyone who is processing and using our products, so as to offer real sustainability solutions together.”

The Sustainability Report is an important tool for understanding RadiciGroup’s results and implementing new improvement action plans. It is a document that is produced starting from the Group’s values expressed in the Code of Ethics, which is the true guideline for the various chapters of the Sustainability Report and the basis of RadiciGroup governance.

On the environmental front, the themes of climate change and decarbonization are RadiciGroup priorities and part of a policy aimed at the uncoupling of growth and resource usage. The Group undertakes to lower emissions from production and choose limited-impact energy sources. This commitment is confirmed by the numbers: in the 2011-2021 period, total emissions per metric ton produced were reduced by 60 percent, while renewable source energy used by the Group reached 51.7 percent. Specific investments to decrease environmental impact are ongoing: in 2021, EUR 3.1 million were allocated to introduce best available techniques and improve emissions abatement and energy efficiency.

Not only environmental sustainability, but also social sustainability. “RadiciGroup is a family-run business,” Angelo Radici pointed out. “My brothers, Maurizio and Paolo, and I are involved in sustainability matters on a daily basis. In the future, we want our companies to continue to be places where people are valorized for their uniqueness and workers can count on safe working conditions and respect for their rights. We are particularly connected to our employees and our local communities and respect the territories where we operate. I take this opportunity to thank everyone, because RadiciGroup’s sustainability results are the fruit of the hard work of more than 3,000 collaborators worldwide, aided by the support of our other stakeholders.”

Posted: July 14, 2022

Source: RadiciGroup

Bio-bean, Manufacturer Of Inficaf, Recognized For The Second Year Running As A Best For The World™ For Exceptional Impact On The Environment

ALCONBURY WEALD, England — July 13, 2022 — Bio-bean, manufacturer of Inficaf, has once again been named a Best for the World™ B Corp™ in recognition of its exceptional positive impact on the environment. Best for the World is a distinction granted by B Lab to Certified B Corporations (B Corps) whose verified B Impact Scores in the five evaluated areas — community, customers, environment, governance, and workers — rank in the top 5 percent of all B Corps in their corresponding size group (10-49 people).

Bio-bean earned this honor for the second year running because of its impact business model of recycling spent coffee grounds and transforming them into a variety of sustainable bio-products, including Inficaf: a sustainable, bulk, raw material for product designers and developers in industries such as plastics, automotive friction, cosmetics, foundry, building construction materials, and more.

Inficaf reduces carbon dioxide emissions, is a homogeneous, yet versatile material, and helps businesses meet sustainability demands. It’s a cost-competitive material, and, as it turns out, is better for the environment than spent grounds going to any of the other standard disposal methods. In fact, Inficaf saves up to 17 times more in greenhouse gas emissions versus spent grounds going to anaerobic digestion.

George May, managing director of bio-bean, had this to say of the company’s Best for the World recognition: “Being recognized as a Best for the World B Corp in the Environment impact area for a second year is a huge honor for us. To be among the top 5 percent of more than 5,000 B Corps globally, and one of only six UK companies to be honored for positive environmental impact is something we’re extremely proud of.

Environmental sustainability is at the heart of what we do, but we’re also focused on continuous improvement, including in our day-to-day operations. We will continue collaborating with the global B Corp community and others to improve and positively impact all our stakeholders, in every impact area.”

Every year, Best for the World recognizes the top-performing B Corps creating the greatest positive impact through their businesses. More than a badge of honor, Best for the World provides an opportunity for recognized companies to share knowledge, learnings, and best practices with the B Corp community and businesses outside of the community to encourage innovation and transformation across the business sector. The full lists are available at bcorporation.net.

The Best for the World recognition is administered by B Lab, the global non-profit network that certifies and mobilizes B Corps, which are businesses that meet high standards of positive social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Today, there are more than 5,000 B Corps across 80 countries and 155 industries, unified by one common goal: building an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economic system.

“Each Best for the World edition is an opportunity to raise the bar for how businesses can and should operate to create real and lasting positive impact for their workers, customers, communities, and the environment,” said Dan Osusky, Head of Standards and Insights at B Lab Global. “While no company is perfect and even the best companies can and should continue to strive to improve, the B Corps recognised as Best for the World can provide us all — standards setters, B Corps, non B Corps, and sustainability advocates — with inspiration on what true leadership in business can look like to make progress on addressing our current global challenges.”

B Corp Certification doesn’t just evaluate a product or service, it assesses the overall social and environmental impact of the company that stands behind it. To achieve B Corp Certification, a company must meet a score of at least 80 points on the B Impact Assessment, an evaluation of a company’s positive impact, and pass a risk review, an evaluation of a company’s negative impact; change their corporate governance structure to be accountable to all stakeholders, not just shareholders; and exhibit transparency by allowing information about their B Corp Certification performance to be publicly available on their B Corp profile on B Lab’s website.

Posted: July 14, 2022

Source: bio-bean Ltd.

KM Fabrics: Certified Clean Air Gold

GREENVILLE, S.C. — July 14, 2022 — All KM Fabrics 100-percent inherently flame-resistant (IFR) polyester velvets have been certified by Intertek, a leading Total Quality Assurance provider to industries worldwide. Intertek’s Clean Air Certification validates the level of volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from products using a global network of testing labs accredited to ISO 17025.

“We are excited to share that KM Fabrics IFR polyester fabrics are now Clean Air GOLD Certified! Whether being specified for drapery, upholstery, wall covering or wrapped panel applications this certification ensures consumer and client confidence in the user-health and safety of our product,” said Paul Tantillo, president of KM Fabrics.

Intertek’s Clean Air GOLD designation independently verifies that the level of volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from our 100% IFR polyester velvet fabrics comply with various VOC standards, such as ANSI/BIFMA e3, CDPH SM v1.2, LEED and WELL.

In addition, all KM Fabrics 100-percent IFR polyester velvets qualify for the following LEED credits and WELL features:

  • LEED credit Low-Emitting Materials under the category Indoor Environmental Quality
  • LEED credit Indoor Air Quality Assessment under the category Indoor Environmental Quality
  • WELL Feature A01 – Air Quality
  • WELL Feature A05 – Enhanced Air Quality
  • WELL Feature X06 – VOC Restrictions

Posted: July 14, 2022

Source: KM Fabrics

AATCC Announces Scholarship Winners

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — July 7, 2022 — Each year, AATCC Foundation recognizes a new group of students who were selected to receive AATCC Foundation scholarships. This year, 26 recipients were awarded more than $90,000 in scholarship and fellowship funds for the fall 2022/spring 2023 semesters. To learn more about each individual scholarship, please visit https://www.aatcc.org/foundation/#grants.

AATCC Foundation is proud to introduce this year’s scholars:

AATCC Foundation Charles E. Gavin III Family Scholarship
Jonathan Shaheen: I am a 4th year Polymer and Fiber student in the Georgia Tech Materials Science and Engineering department. I am honored to have been selected as a recipient of the 2022 Foundation Charles E. Gavin, III Family Scholarship. In my 3 years at Georgia Tech, I have had the privilege of taking many interesting courses across a wide range of subject matters. Material Science has always interested me because of its diverse quantity of applications and meaningful impact on the industries it is applied to. Outside of the MSE department, I am minoring in Computer Science and swim with the varsity team for Georgia Tech. I enjoy the computer science classes I am taking and am excited to apply that knowledge toward a better understanding of material system modeling. This scholarship will allow me to continue to focus wholeheartedly on my classes while also providing me the opportunity to swim and conduct research without so much pressure to offset the cost of higher education. I would like to thank the Gavin family for their generosity in giving this scholarship, and AATCC for the dedication of their member corporations to continuing the education of Polymer and Fiber science in the US.

Alan Gonzalez: I am Alan Gonzalez, a 4th-year Materials Science & Engineering major (polymers concentration) at Georgia Tech. I am fortunate to receive the AATCC Foundation Charles E. Gavin III Family Scholarship for the 2022-2023 school year. This will be my final year at Tech and this scholarship will contribute tremendously towards paying my tuition and achieving graduation. I spend a lot of my time conducting research work (thermal studies of hybrid organic-inorganic fabrics) on campus for Professor Mark Losego and I plan to continue that work in the upcoming year. After graduation, I am hoping to work in the materials industry, specifically with smart apparel or sports performance wear. Of course, graduate school is always a possibility down the line in the future if I want to continue down the research path. I am incredibly grateful for this scholarship and excited for the opportunities it will bring to my career! 

AATCC Foundation Charles H. Stone Scholarship

Sophie Frain: I am a rising junior at NC State University in Polymer and Color Chemistry (American Chemical Society Certified concentration). I am heavily involved with our student chapter of AATCC, first as Social Media Chair (2021) and currently as President. Additionally, I have gotten to explore dyeing and finishing through working at the Zeis Textiles Extension over the past year. This summer, I am interning at National Fiber Technology with their production and soft goods teams. This year, I will also begin taking courses for a Masters in Textile Chemistry through NC State’s Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s program. Post-graduation, I plan to be contributing to textile development and innovation. I am so thankful to the AATCC Scholarship Foundation for selecting me as a recipient of the Charles H. Stone Scholarship! I am forever grateful for the opportunities, resources, and friends that AATCC has provided me during my academic career.

Madigan Petri: I am a Polymer and Color Chemistry student ant NC State University and am set to graduate in 2024. I spend most of my free time hiking and playing tennis in my home state of Colorado. At school, I fence for the club team and participate in science workshops for young women with Girls Engineering Change. After graduating, I plan on continuing my education and getting my master’s degree in Textile Chemistry. As a career, I am very interested in research on sustainable packaging and dye techniques. Far into the future, I would like to teach classes at a university. This scholarship is proof that I have the industry backing my goals; it also gives me the ability to help finance further studies.

Sruthi Koppol: I am a rising junior from Cary, N, studying Polymer & Color Chemistry with a Medical Sciences concentration at NC State University. I am beyond grateful for the support of AATCC Foundation to receive the Charles H. Stone Scholarship for the 2022-2023 school year! Over the last two years as an undergraduate student, I’ve been able to make so many connections through the Wilson College of Textiles. With an interest in Optometry School in the future, I’ve worked as an Optometric Technician in the past year, and currently research with Dr. Gao through the STEPs program in the textile labs, conducting experiments to develop 2-D material-based sorbent materials for phosphorus sustainability. I served as the Vice President for NC State’s Chapter of AATCC this past school year, and currently work at the Textile Dean’s Office. I am curious to see how my interests in organic/analytical chemistry and the medical field will push me independently to work on a research project addressing an important environmental concern. I look forward to learning more about myself and my skills with these experiences to pursue a career in STEM. With this scholarship, I am thankful to be able to continue to take on more opportunities to further my education and contribute to the Wilson College of Textiles!

AATCC Foundation Varley Family Scholarship

Andie Zion: This fall, I will start my second year in the Textile Development and Marketing program at the Fashion Institute of Technology. I am so pleased to be a member of the AATCC community as it is such a strong network, and it is truly inspiring to see the accomplishments of those in it. This scholarship is so significant for me because it will allow me to pursue more research on my own time outside of school. I am fascinated by new developments in textile sustainability and would love to work towards the collective mission of helping our planet and its biosystems. I will be double minoring in Psychology and Ethics and Sustainability while earning my bachelor’s degree at FIT and plan to use these topics together to look for new approaches to sustainability. I am beyond grateful for this opportunity and look forward to hearing about more accomplishments from fellow members of the Association.

AATCC Foundation Grady, Hauser, Houser Daniels Graduate Fellowship

Mark Gaskill: Born in Goldsboro and raised in Raleigh, I have recently received my M.S. in Textile Chemistry from NC State University. I have elected to continue my education as a PhD student in the Fiber and Polymer Science program at NC State. My graduate research focuses primarily on the evaluation of protective textiles against the infiltration of particulate and chemical vapor. The bulk of this research focuses on garments used by firefighters and fire investigators. As occupations in the fire service have seen steep increases in the rates of cancer, a greater effort has been put forward to ensure these individuals are properly protected. The goal of my research is to develop and improve methods of evaluating garments used in the fire service and to ensure complete ensembles provide adequate protection at the system-level. I am very thankful to the AATCC Foundation for their support and look forward to repaying this kindness in the future.

AATCC Foundation Scholarships help fund over 20 students in their collegiate journey each year. These scholarships are helping fund the future of the textile industry. If you would like to fund a scholarship and make your mark in textiles, please visit https://members.aatcc.org/store/foundation/1330/ to donate!

Posted July 12, 2022

Source: AATCC

Royal Robbins Ramps Up Marketing Team In Colorado

SAN FRANCISCO — July 7, 2022 — Royal Robbins, the outdoor lifestyle apparel brand
born in Yosemite and designer of versatile trail to table clothing since 1968, announces Gareth Martins as the brand’s new director of marketing to lead the overall strategy and marketing operations for all of Royal Robbins in North America. Martins joins Royal Robbins from an impressive career spanning more than two decades in the outdoor industry and will be based at the Fenix Outdoor North America headquarters in Louisville, Colo. Royal Robbins was acquired by Fenix Outdoor in 2018.

Martins has earned positive kudos for work in brand stewardship, marketing and organizational leadership, public lands advocacy and product sustainability communications, outdoor industry and conservation spaces, and board service for several conservation organizations. Martins began his outdoor industry career at Osprey Packs, eventually leading marketing for the brand during multiple years of extraordinary growth. In line with Royal Robbins growth plans, Martins will help identify and execute on key marketing strategies that will aid in broadening brand awareness for the iconic outdoor apparel brand.

“As we experience continued growth of the Royal Robbins brand, we’re excited to bring on Gareth, and a great new marketing team, as we look to strengthen and expand our brand footprint,” said Michael Millenacker, CEO of Royal Robbins. “We feel strongly that this trio of outdoor industry marketing professionals will help us push the envelope in showcasing
Royal Robbins product versatility and our commitment to producing outdoor activewear that lets consumers adventure more with less.”

Also joining the Louisville, Colo.-based marketing team, Stevie Gluck has been named Royal Robbins Brand Marketing Manager to oversee the management of seasonal workbooks, correlative lifestyle and studio photography, management of direct mail content, and work to develop key marketing stories for the brand throughout the year.

Gluck arrives at Royal Robbins with a lifelong love for the outdoors and a background and experience set that significantly adds to the brand storytelling and creative outlook at Royal Robbins. With stints at Junket Productions, REI, and The North Face, Gluck has years of experience in influencer marketing and social media. His work experience, combined with a personal and professional love for the outdoors, will serve Royal Robbins as the brand continues to grow in new and emerging markets, authentically and creatively.

Rounding out the marketing hires is Samantha Silverman, who joins the Royal Robbins team as Marketing Coordinator. Most recently, Silverman worked as an editor at Outdoor Life, and brings with her experience in content and digital marketing, outdoor gear testing, and editorial backing. Silverman is excited to bring her expertise to the team and engage the Royal Robbins network through newsletters, brand storytelling, social media and overall marketing strategy.

Posted July 12, 2022

Source: Royal Robbins

Carnegie Fabrics Announces New Indoor/Outdoor Upholstery & Drapery Collection

NEW YORK CITY — JULY 11, 2022 — Carnegie Fabrics today announced a new line of indoor and outdoor upholstery and drapery. Skylight” expands Carnegie’s fleet of indoor and outdoor offerings that allow for excellent flexibility and cleanability.

Carnegie’s new Skylight upholstery collection — made using Sunbrella yarns — features patterns and textures inspired by the natural palettes of the varied American landscape. From the rich terrain of the Great Plains to the sun-faded hues of the California coast, these outdoor fabrics are engineered for longevity against the elements, making them suitable for the environments they were inspired by. Not only that, all Sunbrella products are Facts-certified silver, GREENGUARD gold certified, and OEKO-Tex certified, making this a fully sustainable choice.

The newest Skylight window fabrics — made by Création Baumann — are both functional and innovative: woven with inherently flame-retardant yarns that have been engineered to withstand prolonged exposure to high levels of UV light. Because they are resistant to both high-UV exposure and pass NFPA 701, they are one of the first drapery products that surpass contract standards for both indoor and outdoor use. It’s also an incredibly sustainable option. Création Baumann’s holistic sustainability strategy ensures its words are followed by clear actions. It’s committed to climate compatibility, product longevity, and cyclable products and materials.

“Not only is the Skylight collection visually exciting, but it is durable, sustainable, and the finish-free fabric offers endless cleanability,” said Carnegie Fabrics CEO Gordon Boggis. “Skylight embodies Carnegie’s commitment to sustainability and our desire to create products that benefit the built environment. We’ll continue to tirelessly bolster our sustainable solutions, making it easier for customers to make the right decision for the planet.”

The collection includes:

Upholstery Indoor/Outdoor

Panorama 6036: From the rich terrain of the meadows in Big Sky to the sun faded hues of the California coast, Panorama recalls the natural palettes of the varied American landscape. Woven with solution-dyed bleach cleanable yarns engineered for longevity against the elements, Panorama’s large-scale organic pattern is suitable for the environments it was inspired by.

Sanibel 6974: A natural flax-inspired palette is blended with a subtle slub yarn allowing this bleach-cleanable fabric to mimic the beauty of refined long-staple linen. At home inside and out, Sanibel is woven with solution-dyed Sunbrella yarns, ensuring added performance and longevity against the elements.

Boggle 6968: Saturated bright hues are blended in a waffle weave construction, creating a fabric with an intrinsically chromatic and tactile feel. Woven with bleach-cleanable Sunbrella yarns for performance, Boggle embodies a dynamic and contemporary take on a classic weave. Suitable for everything from breakout lounges to lounging poolside.

Solstice 6998: Nine heathered yarns are woven in a versatile basketweave construction, creating rhythmic color transitions in this bleach-cleanable fabric Solstice. Woven with solution-dyed Sunbrella yarns, this wool-like texture is as versatile as it is performance-driven. Whether in the conference room or the roof deck, Solstice is engineered for high-traffic indoor and outdoor environments.

Dune 6134: Variegated boucle yarns complement a plush solution-dyed chenille in this bleach cleanable fabric Dune. The duality of these materials creates a comforting tactile surface and allows this fabric to be suitable for all performance-driven environments.

Création Baumann Window Indoor/Outdoor

Outdoor Chicago 101610: Both functional and innovative, this semi-transparent drapery ‘Outdoor Chicago’ is woven with inherently flame-retardant yarns that have been engineered to withstand prolonged exposure to high levels of UV light. By naturally repelling water and resistant to mold and mildew, this fabric provides optimum color, light, and durability for both indoor and outdoor use.

Outdoor Boston 101615: Both functional and innovative, this semi-transparent drapery ‘Outdoor Boston’ is woven with inherently flame-retardant yarns that have been engineered to withstand prolonged exposure to high levels of UV light. By naturally repelling water and resistant to mold and mildew, this fabric provides optimum color, light, and durability for both indoor and outdoor use.

Posted July 12, 2022

Source: Carnegie Fabrics

Circ Raises More Than $30 Million, Expanding The Potential To Recycle Clothing And Eliminate Clothing Waste, With Investments From Apparel And Technology Giants

DANVILLE, Va. — July 12, 2022 — Today, the circular fashion company Circ announces more than $30 million in Series B funding backed by some of the largest international apparel companies and venture capital firms. The investment will help to drive new progress for Circ as it fulfills its mission of protecting the planet from the cost of clothing. The round was led by the Bill Gates-founded Breakthrough Energy Ventures (BEV) with additional investment from new partners, including one of the world’s largest fashion retailers Inditex, global diversified manufacturer and leader in American textiles Milliken & Company, and international investment group Lansdowne Partners. Previous investors joining Circ’s latest round of funding include 8090 Partners, Alante Capital, Card Sound Capital, Circulate Capital, Envisioning Partners, and Marubeni.

Circ developed the revolutionary technology system that returns clothes to the raw materials from which they were made, preserving the earth’s natural resources in nature. Most people are unaware of the ingredients that make our clothing, often forgetting that those materials come directly from the earth in the form of natural fibers like cotton and synthetic fibers like polyester, which is made entirely from petroleum-dependent plastic. The company’s technology is uniquely capable of separating and recovering mixed polymer streams, specifically any blend of polyester and cotton, which account for most fabrics manufactured, and hence, most of the clothing that hangs in our collective closets. Circ’s technology is projected to substantially reduce carbon emissions created by the fashion industry.

“Combining best-in-class financial investors, led by Breakthrough Energy Ventures with
investment from fashion market leader Inditex, is a springboard to rapid, large-scale
manufacturing success,” explained Peter Majeranowski, CEO of Circ. “With this investment
round, we’ve secured suppliers, purchasers, and major financial stakeholders to establish a
much cleaner fashion future. We already have all the clothing we need to make all the clothing we’ll ever need. Now, alongside our partners, we can make recycled garments accessible to every shopper.”

Circ’s innovation has caught the attention of major brands and organizations, including early investors Patagonia, Marubeni, and Fashion For Good. This latest round of funding will help the company complete its engineering work for larger-scale facilities while continuing commercial launches with key partners. Funds will also be used to add core team members in engineering, R&D, management, and business development.

“The textiles industry is estimated to account for over 1 Gt of CO2-equivalent emissions per
year as of 2016, the largest portion of which comes from raw materials,” said Carmichael
Roberts, BEV. “BEV was founded to drive innovative solutions — like the technology Circ has created — that will reduce and eliminate greenhouse emissions as quickly as possible. Recycling can reduce emissions associated with deriving textile raw materials, however, most textiles are blends, which are difficult to separate and recycle. We see Circ’s ability to recycle blended textiles as a significant breakthrough that can help us to achieve our global carbon goals by reducing the carbon intensity of textile raw materials.”

“At Inditex, we are very excited to announce Circ as our first venture investment in a clean technology company,” said Óscar García Maceiras, CEO at Inditex. “In partnership with Circ, we are committed to promoting the transformation of the entire fashion industry. We look forward to contributing our knowledge and corporate capabilities to Circ’s rapid success and achievement of industrial scale.”

This announcement comes on the heels of a remarkable period of growth for the company, which announced a partnership with the international technology group Andritz in the summer of 2021. The partnership was focused on the rapid scaling of Circ’s patented recycling process with the help of Andritz’s global reach and depth of expertise in equipment manufacturing and engineering.

Posted July 12, 2022

Source: Circ

Worldwide Shipments Of New Textile Machinery 2021 Were As High Or Higher Than Pre-Pandemic

ZÜRICH, Switzerland — July 5, 2022 — In 2021, global shipments of spinning, texturing, weaving, knitting, and finishing machines increased sharply compared to 2020. Deliveries of new short-staple spindles, open-end rotors, and long-staple spindles rose by +110 percent, +65 percent, and +44 percent, respectively. The number of shipped draw-texturing spindles surged by +177 percent and deliveries of shuttle-less looms grew by +32 percent. Shipments of large circular machines improved by +30 percent and shipped flat knitting machines registered a 109-percent-growth. The sum of all deliveries in the finishing segment also rose by +52 percent on average.

These are the main results of the 44th annual International Textile Machinery Shipment Statistics (ITMSS) just released by the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF). The report covers six segments of textile machinery, namely spinning, draw-texturing, weaving, large circular knitting, flat knitting, and finishing. A summary of the findings for each category is presented below. The 2021 survey has been compiled in cooperation with more than 200 textile machinery manufacturers representing a comprehensive measure of world production.

Spinning Machinery
The total number of shipped short-staple spindles increased by about 4 million units in 2021 to a level of 7.61 million. Most of the new short-staple spindles (90 percent) were shipped to Asia & Oceania, where delivery increased by +115 percent. While levels stayed relatively small, Europe saw shipments increasing by +41 percent (mainly in Turkey). The six largest investors in the short-staple segment were China, India, Pakistan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh.

Some 695,000 open-end rotors were shipped worldwide in 2021. This represents 273 thousand additional units compared to 2020. 83 percent of global shipments went to Asia & Oceania where deliveries increased by +65 percent to 580 thousand rotors. China, Turkey, and Pakistan were the world’s 3 largest investors in open-end rotors and saw investments surging by +56 percent, +47 percent and +146 percent, respectively. Only deliveries to Uzbekistan, the 7th largest investor in 2021, decreased compared to 2020 (-14 percent to 12,600 units).

Global shipments of long-staple (wool) spindles increased from about 22 thousand in 2020 to nearly 31,600 in 2021 (+44 percent). This effect was mainly driven by a rise in deliveries to Asia & Oceania with a increase in investment of +70 percent. 68 percent of total deliveries were shipped to Iran, Italy, and Turkey.

Texturing Machinery
Global shipments of single heater draw-texturing spindles (mainly used for polyamide filaments) increased by +365 percent from nearly 16,000 units in 2020 to 75,000 in 2021. With a share of 94 percent, Asia & Oceania was the strongest destination for single heater draw-texturing spindles. China, Chinese Taipei, and Turkey were the main investors in this segment with a share of 90 percent, 2.3 percent, and 1.5 percent of global deliveries, respectively.

In the category of double heater draw-texturing spindles (mainly used for polyester filaments) global shipments increased by +167 percent to a level of 870,000 spindles. Asia’s share of worldwide shipments increased to 95 percent. Thereby, China remained the largest investor accounting for 92 percent of global shipments.

Weaving Machinery
In 2021, worldwide shipments of shuttle-less looms increased by +32 percent to 148,000 units. Shipments in the categories “air-jet”, “rapier and projectile”, and “water-jet” rose by +56 percent to nearly 45,776 units, by +24 percent to 26,897, and by +23 percent to 75,797 units, respectively. The main destination for shuttleless looms in 2021 was Asia & Oceania with 95 percent of all worldwide deliveries. 94 percent, 84 percent, 98 percent of global air-jet, rapier/projectile, and water-jet looms were shipped to that region. The main investor was China in all three sub-categories. Deliveries of weaving machines to this country cover 73 percent of total deliveries.

Circular & Flat Knitting Machinery
Global shipments of large circular knitting machines grew by +29 percent to 39,129 units in 2021. The region Asia & Oceania was the world’s leading investor in this category with 83 percent of worldwide shipments. With 64 percent of all deliveries (i.e., 21,833 units), China was the favored destination. Turkey and India ranked second and third with 3,500 and 3,171 units, respectively. In 2021, the segment of electronic flat knitting machines increased by +109 percent to around 95,000 machines. Asia & Oceania was the main destination for these machines with a share of 91 percent of world shipments. China remained the world’s largest investor with a 76-percent-share of total shipments and a +290-percent-increase in investments. Shipments to the country rose from about 17 thousand units in 2020 to 676,000 units in 2021.

Finishing Machinery
In the “fabrics continuous” segment, shipments of relax dryers/tumblers grew by +183 percent. All other subsegments rose by 33 to 88 percent except dyeing lines which shrank (-16 percent for CPB and -85 percent for hotflue). Since 2019, ITMF estimates the number of shipped tenters non-reported by the survey participants to inform on the global market size for that category. The global shipments of tenters is expected to have increased by +78 percent in 2021 to a total of 2,750 units.

In the “fabrics discontinuous” segment, the number of jigger dyeing/beam dyeing shipped rose by +105 percent to 1,081 units. Deliveries in the categories “air jet dyeing” and “overflow dyeing” increased by +24 percent in 2021 to 1,232 units and 1,647 units, respectively.

Find more about this extensive study on www.itmf.org/publications.

Posted July 12, 2022

Source: ITMF

Gap Inc. Announces CEO Sonia Syngal To Step Down And The Appointment Of Horacio “Haio” Barbeito As President And CEO Of Old Navy

SAN FRANCISCO — July 11, 2022 — Gap Inc. announced today that President and CEO Sonia Syngal will step down from her position and from the company’s board, departing the company following a brief transition.

“Leading this great company and our 100,000-strong employees since 2020, through unprecedented challenges for our industry, and society, has been an immense honor. Through it all, Gap Inc. and its dedicated teams have seized change as an opportunity, restructured for future growth, crystallized unique brand identities rooted in cultural relevance and fiercely chased transformation,” Syngal said. “With an exceptional and industry-leading CEO for Old Navy now appointed, I am thankful to have the board’s support in stepping down, ushering in a new opportunity for fresh perspective and rejuvenated leadership to carry Gap Inc. forward.

“The company’s co-founders, Doris and Don Fisher, created a lasting and undeniable legacy for Gap Inc. as a company with a heart. It is a home for creatives, innovators, data scientists, operators and customer advocates, to build their careers and break boundaries, just as it enabled me to do the same,” Syngal added.

“My fellow board members and I want to thank Sonia for her steadfast leadership and many contributions to Gap Inc. during her 18 years with us. Most notably, amidst significant global disruption, social unrest and economic instability, Sonia had an immediate impact as Gap Inc. CEO, establishing a clear strategic direction and cultural identity that has united this global enterprise as a force for good with powerful brands poised to stand the test of time,” said Mr. Martin. “While a search is underway, the Board has complete confidence in the formidable leadership team to guide the company through this transition. And I look forward to championing this incredible team as they continue to write Gap Inc.’s next chapter with grit and passion.”

Effective immediately, Bob Martin, the company’s current executive chairman of the board, will serve as Gap Inc. president and CEO on an interim basis. Mayo Shattuck will continue to serve as lead independent director.

Bob Martin is a 40-year industry veteran with extensive retail experience at corporations including Dillard’s Inc. and Walmart where he served as CEO of its International division. He has served on the Gap Inc. Board since 2002, as lead independent director from 2003 to 2015, and as executive chairman since 2020. Mr. Martin brings significant global governance and executive management experience as well.

Horacio Barbeito to Serve as Old Navy President and CEO

The company also announced that Horacio “Haio” Barbeito will join the Gap Inc. Leadership Team as president and chief executive officer of Old Navy, where he will lead the brand in delivering on its unique value proposition, offering style, fit, quality and cultural relevance at jaw-dropping prices. Barbeito will join Old Navy on August 1.

“Haio is a true multi-disciplined retail leader who shares our vision of bringing the democracy of style and service to millions of Old Navy customers, leveraging our greatest assets – our people and our product. We are thrilled for Haio to bring his authentic leadership style to the team, backed by a strong track record of delivering growth through challenging times at complex global organizations,” said Mr. Martin. “Particularly in this environment, Haio’s sincere customer empathy, operational excellence, and passion for product and marketing innovation, will fuel Old Navy’s competitive strengths on its path to $10 billion, rooted in fun, family, fashion and value.”

Barbeito most recently served as president and CEO of Walmart Canada where he led more than 70,000 associates and drove significant growth in the online business. During his 26-year career at Walmart, he served in a variety of leadership roles across merchandising, marketing, supply chain and store operations with global experience in five countries. He has served in CEO roles at Walmart for 10 years, first as President and CEO of Walmart Argentina and Chile before taking the role as CEO of Walmart Canada where he has spearheaded a modernization effort to grow that market’s omnichannel business. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Universidad Argentina Empresa.

Update on Second Quarter Fiscal 2022

The company is expecting net sales in the second quarter fiscal 2022 to decline in the approximately high-single digit range, relatively in-line with its prior expectations.

The company continues to navigate margin headwinds and, as previously communicated, still expects to incur an estimated $50 million of transitory incremental air freight expense in the quarter as well as inflationary costs on raw materials and freight. In addition, it has taken a more aggressive approach to assortment balancing resulting in increased promotional activity during the quarter, which it expects will have a negative impact on gross margin in the quarter.

Furthermore, the company now anticipates second quarter fiscal 2022 adjusted operating margin percentage to be zero to slightly negative.

The company has not completed its quarter closing and review process and the final results for the second quarter fiscal 2022 may differ from the statements made in this press release. The company will be providing further details on its second quarter fiscal 2022 financials as well as its outlook when it reports second quarter fiscal 2022 results on Thursday, August 25.

Posted: July 12, 2022

Source: Gap Inc.

Sappi North America Releases 2021 Sustainability Report, Earns Top Rating For Sustainable Practices

BOSTON — July 12, 2022 — Sappi North America Inc. — producer and supplier of diversified paper, packaging products and pulp — today released its 2021 Sustainability Report, which includes the highest possible rating from EcoVadis, the world’s most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings.

Sappi Limited, including Sappi North America, has once again earned a Platinum rating in the annual EcoVadis Corporate Social (CSR) ratings. This achievement places Sappi North America individually and Sappi Limited collectively in the top 1 percent of all companies reviewed. EcoVadis evaluated Sappi’s commitment to sustainable practices using 21 criteria, including environment, labor and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement.

The 2021 Sustainability Report displays Sappi’s dedication to innovation, sustainability and business growth throughout its communities and staff. The report also highlights how Sappi remained innovative and prosperous amid supply chain disruptions; its steadfast resolve to advancing women in leadership roles, along with strategic partnerships to forge a path for women in STEM; and its commitment to employee safety and third-party collaborations for sustainability initiatives.

To help achieve its ambitions 2025 sustainable developments goals, Sappi continued to integrate the principles of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals as a key part of its business and sustainable practices.

“Our business strategy, operational efficiencies and critical improvement plans in 2021 drove our strong market performance, while at the same time meeting or exceeding our targets for environmental stewardship,” said Mike Haws, President and CEO, Sappi North America. “These achievements are an encouraging start on our journey toward aligning our 2025 strategic goals with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, an important global benchmark for sustainability.”

Sustainability Achievements

Highlights from the report include:

  • Increased women in senior management roles. Sappi set a new goal in 2021 to enhance diversity in its workforce, also aligning with the UN’s SDGs. The company exceeded its goal and appointed 21% of women in senior management positions. Sappi continues to prioritize the promotion of talented individuals with diverse experiences and backgrounds.
  • Reductions in waste and energy emissions. Sappi exceeded its year-end goal to reduce solid waste in landfills, which brings the company closer to their five-year target of a 10% reduction. Further, the company also reduced CO2 emissions with the use of 80.7% renewable and clean energy.
  • Improved safety rate and investments in safety leadership training. In 2021, improvement in safety increased and four out of five Sappi manufacturing sites experienced their best-ever lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR) performance. Additionally, the company invested in safety leadership training across mills with the intent of extending the training to other sites in fiscal 2022.
  • Partnerships in STEM and forestry. In an effort to advance STEM careers for women, Sappi partnered with Girl Scouts of Maine and the Women in Industry division of the Technical Association of Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI). The virtual program teaches girls the science and technology of the pulp and paper industry, including papermaking and recycling. Continuing in 2022, the program is slated to reach even more Girl Scouts across the country. Additionally, Sappi joined forces with Maine Timber Research and Environmental Education Foundation (Maine TREE Foundation) to host a four-day tour to educate Maine teachers about sustainable forestry and the logging industry.
  • Best-in-class environmental practices. As an endorsement of sound environmental practices, the Cloquet Mill achieved an impressive overall score of 84% on the Sustainable Apparel Coalition’s (SAC’s) Higg Facility Environmental Module verification audit. The mill is the first to undergo and complete an external environmental management verification process.
  • Building confidence in sustainable textiles. Through a collaborative partnership with Sappi Verve Partners and Birla Cellulose, forest-to-garment traceability solutions became available for brand owners. Focused on responsible sourcing, traceability and transparency, the partnership ushered in confidence for consumers and brands to ensure their products originate from renewable sources of wood.

“Let me make this real for a moment: our improvement in energy efficiency from the 2019 baseline is enough to electrify over 80,000 homes for a year,” said Beth Cormier, Vice President of Research, Development and Sustainability, Sappi North America. “Our reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, off this same baseline, is equivalent to annually removing over 24,000 cars from our highways. This does not happen without a strong plan to meet these goals, and more importantly, it can only happen with dedicated employees to execute that plan. We accomplished our goals against the difficulties of the COVID pandemic and continual challenges to employee wellness—a real testament to Sappi’s adaptability and perseverance.”

To read Sappi North America’s full 2021 Sustainability Report and request a copy, please visit: http://www.sappi.com/sustainability-and-impact.

Posted: July 12, 2022

Source: Sappi North America, Inc.

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