UK’s Formula One (F1) Industry: A Crucible Of Innovation In Fiber And Fabric Technologies Driven By British Textile Machinery Association (BTMA) Members

MANCHESTER, UK— April 8, 2025 — Fibre and fabric production technologies – especially in the area of composite reinforcements – have played an as-yet largely unheralded role in the development of the UK’s Formula One industry, but the British Textile Machinery Association (BTMA) aims to change that.

Motorsport Valley

BTMA CEO Jason Kent

“If there’s one thing the UK does well, it’s Formula One, with seven of the ten F1 teams located within just an hour of each other in the midlands region known as Motorsport Valley,” explains BTMA CEO Jason Kent. “They are all linked to a national network of around 4,500 companies involved in a motorsport and high-performance engineering industry worth around £9 billion annually and employing 40,000 people. This network draws on the services of a significant number of our member companies.”

“With the exception of the engine, virtually every part of a Formula One racing car now starts from a textile, including the bodywork, the tyres and many of the latest fuel systems,” says Richard Kirkbright, project manager at Leeds-based Roaches International. “This has influenced developments in the broader automotive sector, in addition to the aerospace industry.”

Show cars and memorabilia

While best known as the developer of textile testing systems, Roaches has over the years also supplied advanced autoclaves to the UK’s composites industry, including a recent delivery to Northampton-based Memento Exclusives, a specialist in the production of show cars working directly with F1 and its leading teams.

Each major F1 team sponsor is supplied with one or two show cars for use at exhibitions and a wide range of other promotional activities arranged around the racing event calendar. These cars have no engine and their bodies may be made of fewer carbon fibre plies, but they are otherwise identical to the latest cars being raced by the F1 teams.

Memento Exclusives has its own in-house carbon fibre parts manufacturing facility and the integration of the Roaches autoclave has significantly expanded its capabilities in show car production.

Master bakers

The Roaches autoclave at Memento Exclusives.

“Composite materials undergo a metamorphosis in the autoclave which subjects them to both mechanical and chemical processes,” explains Richard Kirkbright. “Trapped air and volatiles are expelled and plies are consolidated under precise pressure. Heat cycles are then introduced, curing the resin systems and yielding flawlessly crafted components. Autoclave specialists are a little like master bakers, knowing exactly how to treat their ingredients at every stage of the process, to achieve the desired final product.”

“The Roaches autoclave now enables us to cure large components with full control and achieve a swift turnover of parts while ensuring the highest quality finish,” adds Terry Wasyliw, Head of Build for Memento Exclusives.

McLaren’s influence

Woking, UK-headquartered McLaren was the very first F1 team to introduce a car chassis manufactured entirely from carbon fibre composites back in 1981, setting the ball rolling for the creation of a completely new and global supply chain.

McLaren has this year unveiled a world-first in supercar engineering – aerospace-derived Automated Rapid Tape (ART) carbon fibre, developed at the dedicated McLaren Composites Technology Centre (MCTC) facility in Sheffield. This is being employed to create the active front wings of the W1 hypercar which has a starting price of $2.1 million.

A rear floor component was also developed for McLaren as part of the recently-completed £39.6 million ASCEND programme involving a range of UK partners, including BTMA member Cygnet Texkimp.

Handling, converting and decarbonization

A wide range of handling and converting machines are supplied to the composites industry by Cygnet Texkimp, including bespoke creels, prepreg, coating, slitting and filament winding machines.

Its technologies are employed in the construction of composite components for aerospace and automotive, as well as in the production of tyre cord and more recently in the advanced construction of hydrogen storage vessels which are largely viewed as the future of F1 propulsion, along with advanced batteries for electric vehicles.

Cygnet Texkimp multi roll stack prepreg system.

Cygnet Texkimp has been involved in the F1 supply chain for over 20 years and most carbon fibre used in the industry has been processed on one of its VHD creels. The company is also the largest independent manufacturer of prepreg machines in the world and is currently leading the design and build of the UK’s first carbon fibre research lines for a project led by NCC (National Composites Centre) to accelerate the development of more sustainable carbon fibres.

In addition, Cygnet is licensed to design and build the DEECOM® composite recycling system developed by new BTMA member Longworth Sustainable Recycling Technologies, the first of which was recently commissioned by the Henry Royce Institute in Manchester. DEECOM® is a zero emission, low carbon pressolysis solution using pressure and steam to reclaim pristine condition fibres and resin polymers from production waste and end of life composites.

Cygnet Texkimp is licensed to design and build the DEECOM® composite recycling system developed by Longworth Sustainable Recycling Technologies

“Decarbonisation is a major priority for manufacturers globally,” says Cygnet CEO Luke Vardy. “At Cygnet Texkimp, we’re developing the capability to process technical fibres in ways that enable lightweighting, hydrogen power and electrification, reduce waste and revolutionise the end-of-life management of composite materials and parts. In collaboration with our industry partners, we’re bringing to market some of the most innovative new fibre processing technologies ever developed to deliver real-world benefits that support the sustainability agenda.”

Prepregging

The latest Emerson and Renwick prepreg processing system supplied to an F1 customer in Italy.

Another new BTMA member, Emerson & Renwick (E+R), a specialist in print, forming, vacuum and coating technologies, also supplies technology for the production of carbon fibre prepregs, which are integrated rolls of fabrics and resins.

Its most recent 1.7-metre-wide line supplied to a customer in Italy operates at speeds of 40+ metres per minute for web coatings or prepreg fibre and resin consolidation, or a combination of both processes. It is distinguished by an ultra precise three-roll reverse roll coater for the processing of high viscosity thermo-activated resins and enables the automatic changeover of sensitive woven fabric materials at zero tension, with three high precision calendaring nips with hot/cool plates. Multiple unwind and rewind systems for intermediate lamination steps include side loading and reliable lap splicing and zero speed splicing with a web accumulator for the main product rewind.

E+R has also been part of a consortium working on the development of lithium-sulphur (Li-S) batteries within the £540 million UK Faraday Battery Challenge. Once commercially viable, Li-S batteries promise to provide relatively high energy density at low cost for sustainable electric vehicles of the future – inevitably starting with F1.

Strong links

“In addition to our powerful base of textile testing and control companies, many other BTMA members are working on further F1 and advanced composite projects,” says Jason Kent in conclusion. “We are also forging strong links with the UK’s key research hubs such as Sheffield University’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, the Northwest Composites Centre in Manchester, the National Centre for Motorsport Engineering in Bolton and the National Composites Centre in Bristol.

“The BTMA recently became an associate member of Composites UK too, because this sector is the crucible of innovation for tomorrow’s textiles.”

Posted: April 8, 2025

Source: British Textile Machinery Association (BTMA)

ITMF Global Textile Industry Survey: March 2025 — Global Textile Industry Struggled But Kept Resilient Optimism

ZÜRICH, Switzerland — April 8, 2025 — The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF), has released the results of its Global Textile Industry Survey (GTIS) for March 2025. This survey, conducted regularly across all key regions and segments of the textile value chain, revealed a complex picture of a deteriorated business situation, cautious optimism, regional divergence, and ongoing structural challenges.

After a slow but steady recovery since November 2023, the global business situation in the textile industry has slightly deteriorated in March 2025. While East Asia and North & Central America reported modest improvements, they remain at rather low levels. Garment producers continued to show the most stable performance across the value chain. Despite the current challenges, expectations for the 4th quarter of 2025 remained positive. Optimism was highest in Africa and the Americas, while East Asia stood out with a more pessimistic outlook. Producers of garments, fibers, and finished fabrics were the most hopeful, in contrast to technical and home textiles, where expectations remained subdued.

The prior recovery in order intake had also lost momentum, with declines in East Asia and Europe, while South-East Asia remained relatively stable. Garment producers continued to outperform other segments in maintaining order levels. Order backlogs slightly declined to a global average of 2.2 months, with Europe leading due to the strong presence of textile manufacturers. Capacity utilization held firm at 73%, driven by relatively higher rates in Asia. Meanwhile, textile inventories were showing signs of increases, led by yarn producers, while garment makers continued to keep stock levels low amid ongoing market caution.

The survey also revealed that concerns around demand and geopolitics were still growing. Weak demand remained the most pressing issue, cited by 62% of respondents, followed by geopolitical tensions (41%). Although worries over energy and raw material costs had slightly eased, concerns around interest rates and new sustainability regulations were on the rise.

For more information, please see www.itmf.org

Posted: April 8, 2025

Source: The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF)

First Recycled Textile Dissolving Pulp Facility Opens In China, Expanding Next Gen Opportunities For Global Fashion Brands

VANCOUVER, BC — April 8, 2025 — Yibin Grace – a producer of man-made cellulosic fibre (MMCF) products (viscose staple fibre/filament yarn and lyocell) – opened the first recycled textile dissolving pulp facility in China. This marks a significant milestone in the fashion industry’s shift to a more resilient, circular viscose supply chain. Using post-industrial and post-consumer textile waste from supply chain partners, the new pilot facility is expected to produce high quality, low-carbon dissolving pulp, which can be used in a variety of MMCF products.

With an initial capacity of 1500 tonnes per year, Yibin’s facility is built to address the growing need for circular materials to replace the use of high-carbon forest fibre in the fashion sector. Aligned with China’s national goals of achieving a 30% reduction in textile waste by 2030, and building on the pioneering work done by Next Gen innovators such as Circulose, Yibin intends to expand its Next Gen production to 60,000 tonnes by 2027 with market support.

“Canopy is thrilled with Yibin Grace’s leadership with the launch of China’s first Next Gen textile dissolving pulp mill,” said Nicole Rycroft of environmental not-for-profit, Canopy. “Expanding circular production positions the sector to withstand supply volatility associated with increased forest fires and to capture markets looking for low-impact materials. We look forward to Yibin scaling this technology to commercial levels and being an early-solution provider to the textile sector. This is just the beginning!”

Yibin Grace is located in Sichuan, China and has a combined production capacity of 450,000 tonnes/year of viscose staple fibre, viscose filament yarn, and lyocell products. It was also one of the first MMCF producers to use Circulose recycled pulp in its viscose staple fibre and viscose filament lines, under the brand name ReGracell. Yibin Grace has been working collaboratively with Canopy since 2018 and earned a Dark Green Shirt in the 2024 Hot Button Report. It has no known risk of sourcing from Ancient and Endangered Forests.

Posted: April 8, 2025

Source: Canopy

Jones Family Of Companies Announces Andrew Dailey As General Manager Of Jones Sustainable Packaging

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — April 7, 2025 — Jones Family of Companies, an industry leader in sustainable textile manufacturing, is pleased to announce the promotion of Andrew Dailey to General Manager of Jones Sustainable Packaging (JSP). In this role, Dailey brings invaluable leadership experience and industry knowledge to support Jones’ expansion targeting sustainable solutions and innovation in cold chain packaging.

Andrew Dailey

Andrew Dailey is a long-time member of the Jones leadership team, playing a key role in establishing the reputation for innovation, quality, and sustainability that continues to define Jones today. He initially joined in 1991 as VP of Sales and Marketing and led sales at Jones Yarn for 25 years before transitioning to Nonwovens; he was officially named Vice President of Sales for mattress solutions in 2018. Under Dailey’s direction, both the Yarn and Nonwovens divisions were able to expand into new markets and improve their product offerings all while fostering new and existing customer relationships in alignment with Jones’ customer-focused approach to manufacturing.

“Andrew has been a crucial part of Jones since he first joined us,” said Ralph Jones III, CEO and Chairman of the Board at Jones Family of Companies. “Along with his talent and passion, he has the expertise that only comes with decades of hands-on work in the textile industry. He embodies Jones’ mission to strive for innovation and the highest standards in sustainable solutions.”

Jones Sustainable Packaging’s branded cold chain solutions, EcoFiber Packaging, is the newest addition to the Jones Family of Companies’ growing product offering, the result of a joint venture with a commitment to deliver high-quality, environmentally responsible nonwoven solutions. As a well-established and respected specialist in the industry, Dailey stepped up to facilitate the successful formation and launch of JSP. He will continue to pursue this goal as General Manager, overseeing the company’s operations and ensuring that they continue to provide exceptional customer service and product innovation.

“It’s exciting to be a part of the vision for the future Jones Family of Companies,” Dailey commented. He added, “We have an energetic team that is committed to capturing an industry leading position for sustainable solutions in cold chain packaging.”

Posted: April 8, 2025

Source: Jones Family of Companies

Hyosung To Sponsor Functional Fabric Fair Day Zero Sustainability Workshop

SEOUL, South Korea — April 7, 2025 — Hyosung, a leading sustainable textile solutions supplier and world’s largest manufacturer of spandex by market share, announces that it will be the primary sponsor of Functional Fabric Fair’s new Day Zero (0) Workshop taking place in Portland, OR April 14, 2025 – one day before the spring trade fair opens.

Hyosung will join experts, manufacturers, and brand representatives to discuss sustainable and innovative textile solutions, while also providing valuable insights through its exhibition booth featuring a wide range of sustainable textiles.

“The Day 0 Sustainability Workshop is where the supply chain comes together to drive sustainability forward,” said Simon Whitmarsh-Knight, Hyosung Global Sustainability Director – Textiles. “We’re honored to continue our support of the Functional Fabric Fair team and thrilled to kick off the nation’s premier performance textile trade show with a focus on meaningful change.”

At Functional Fabric Fair – innovation for a better tomorrow

With a focus on providing a complete range of textile solutions catered to the active sportswear and bodywear markets, Hyosung will showcase its diverse portfolio of its branded CREORA® functional, and regen™ sustainable Spandex, Nylon and Polyester materials on April 15-16 at its booth# 1608.

From Nature to Performance Fiber

Creating a more powerful, traceable sustainable story, Hyosung has expanded its regen BIO Spandex offering to include various options for the yarn to be made with a higher content of renewable resources to include new regen BIO + and regen BIO Max. Hyosung was the first company to commercially introduce USDA and SGS-certified regen Bio-Based Spandex made with 30% renewable resources at scale in 2022, which has been successfully adopted by leading global brands such as Pangaia, Icebreaker, Silver Sea Apparel, Van Harvey, and more.

Reuse. Recycle. Regen.

To meet consumer desire for sustainable apparel that offers comfort with performance benefits, Hyosung has uniquely added multi-function properties in the manufacture of its certified 100% recycled Spandex, Nylon and Polyester fibers that include performance benefits such as cooling, warming, anti-odor, and that also offer a natural touch. Hyosung will also present the latest innovations with its GRS-certified, 100% post-consumer recycled regen Ocean Nylon made from discarded fishing nets.

Additionally, Hyosung is introducing textile-to-textile recycled polyester made from end-of-life textiles, further advancing its efforts to create a circular textile ecosystem.

Engineered functional textiles

Continuously innovating, Hyosung anticipates what consumers expect from their performance apparel. Performance Days highlights include:

  • CREORA Color+ Spandex overcomes the difficulty of dyeing regular Spandex blended with nylon and natural fibers preventing dreaded grin-through.
  • CREORA EasyFlex Spandex provides a luxurious soft feel, maintains a long-lasting comfortable fit, and allows for size inclusivity where one size can fit various body types.
  • CREORA Coolwave Nylon delivers long-lasting cooling and approximately 1.5 times faster moisture absorption compared to conventional nylon.
  • CREORA Conadu Polyester is a mechanical stretch fiber that provides a cotton-like texture with excellent elasticity and recovery.

To support product developers and designers in creating garments aligned with their product development needs, Hyosung will showcase an extensive selection of fabrics and concept garments crafted with its innovative yarns, all designed by its Fashion Design Center team and featured prominently at its booth.

Posted: April 7, 2025

Source: Hyosung

Under Armour And UNLESS Debut Regenerative Sportswear Collection At Milan Design Week

MILAN  — April 7, 2025 — Under Armour, Inc. and UNLESS, Inc. are poised to lead a transformative shift in the sportswear industry during Milan Design Week by launching an innovative regenerative sportswear collection. The immersive experience at Fuorisalone, scheduled for April 8 to 10, 2025, offers a tactile journey that illustrates the regenerative cycle of plant-powered innovation – from plants to sportswear to compost and back to rebirth. This Under Armour x UNLESS regenerative collection represents the first collaboration between the two brands.

“As a brand that has consistently disrupted the industry, we are prepared to do it again,” stated Under Armour Brand President Eric Liedtke. “Our unique and innovative approach represents a significant shift from the traditional production cycle, which often relies heavily on plastics and generates waste.”

Liedtke continued, “By using only plant-based materials; this regenerative sportswear collection is designed to decompose rather than pollute – representing a revolutionary advancement in reimagining the future of product creation in our industry, with an innovative commitment that honors both athletes and the planet.”

Designed for movement and crafted to return to nature, the collection includes hoodies, t-shirts, and shorts in men’s, women’s, and unisex styles. Priced between USD $30 and $160, each piece displays vibrant colors and graphics, blending style with a plastic-free future.

Under Armour and UNLESS aim to demonstrate that innovation and responsibility can coexist by utilizing plant-based, fully regenerative materials to redefine how premium sportswear products are created and safely returned to the earth at the end of their life cycle.

Posted: April 7, 2025

Source: Under Armour, Inc.

What’s Coming To Functional Fabric Fair Spring 2025 In Portland

NORWALK, CT — April 7, 2025 — Functional Fabric Fair, powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS®, returns to Portland, Oregon, from April 14-16, 2025, at the Oregon Convention Center for the Spring edition. As the premier sourcing event for high-performance functional fabrics, trims and accessories in North America, this trade-exclusive event and conference will offer the latest innovations, sustainable materials sourcing, education and invaluable networking opportunities for designers, product developers and industry professionals.

Discover Tomorrow’s Textiles Today

Functional Fabric Fair Spring 2025 is the must-attend event for apparel CEOs, designers and sourcing professionals looking to explore the latest in outdoor, activewear and lifestyle performance textiles. With over 300 sustainable-certified suppliers, attendees will source Spring 2026/2027 products and textile technologies.

“Functional Fabric Fair continues to evolve, responding to the needs of our industry,” said Steve McCullough, Event Vice President. “With an expanded exhibit hall, immersive educational programming, and new networking experiences, the 2025 edition promises to be our most dynamic yet.”

Event Highlights:

EDUCATION & CONFERENCE PROGRAM

In addition to the sourcing, the conference program at Functional Fabric Fair offers an array of distinct educational sessions over three days. Attendees can gain insights into the latest trends, innovations and sustainability practices shaping the outdoor and active textiles industry through:

  • Day 0 Sustainability Workshop (April 14) – Led by industry expert Jill Dumain of Fractal CSOs and sponsored by Hyosung, this full-day interactive program will cover material traceability, solvent impacts in manufacturing and sustainability performance in sourcing the day before the exhibit hall opens. This paid conference will take place from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM in Hall C – Room 123.
  • Expert Talks (April 15-16) – Industry leaders will share best practices and innovations directly from the show floor Expert Talks stage— sponsored by AATCC— in over 10 sessions, bringing insights on the latest trends, technologies, case studies and sustainability solutions.

“Our Day 0 Sustainability Workshop is not to be missed,” McCullough emphasized. “This is where thought leaders will come together to discuss the challenges, opportunities and advancements that will shape the future of sustainable textile innovation. The conversations and collaborations that begin here will influence industry direction for years to come.”

KEY EXHIBIT HALL FEATURES

  • AATCC Textile Test Zone – Experience live demonstrations of official testing procedures by the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC).
  • Bodywear Collective – A dedicated space showcasing categories such as underwear, swimwear, shapewear, wellness in motion, and next-to-skin seamless performance sportswear. Sponsored by The LYCRA Company, this area features the Bodywear Collective Trend Forum, showcasing the newest fabric and garment technologies from leading fiber suppliers, mills and manufacturers.
  • Innovation Zone – Spotlighting breakthrough textile technologies and forward-thinking material solutions that are new to the market and poised to transform the industry.
  • Outdoor Recreation Archive – Explore the evolution of outdoor apparel innovations in partnership with Utah State University.
  • Media Lounge – A comfortable space to unwind, connect and recharge designed for networking opportunities and showcases the show’s media partners.
  • Sustainability Lounge – A dedicated hub for sustainable material innovations and cross-industry collaborations.
  • Trend Forum – Curated displays of 12 essential fabric categories with sustainability at the forefront selected by industry experts, including academics, apparel brands and fabric technologists – providing a comprehensive look at innovative materials, and allowing attendees to scan and request samples.
  • Wool Forum (NEW) – A showcase that highlights wool’s natural sustainability, durability and versatility in activewear, outdoor gear and functional fashion, and its ability to regulate temperature, manage moisture and provide comfort in both extreme and everyday conditions.

EVENTS & NETWORKING

  • Design Lab Live – Watch Kelley Dempsey, sustainable designer and Project Runway runner-up, create an exclusive piece from featured exhibitors— FLYTEC, Pontetorto and YKK in real-time on April 15. The final garment will be displayed during the Happy Hour.
  • Book Signing (NEW) – On April 15 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM in the Media Lounge, author Zoë Hong will host a meet & greet and book signing session for her new book Fashion School in a Book.
  • Sustainability Lounge Guided Tours (NEW) – 45-minute guided tours led by Stewart Sheppard of S2 Consulting, on April 15 & 16 at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, highlighting sustainable material suppliers.
  • Italian Bar – Sponsored by Kingwhale Corporation this lounge and concessions area will offer authentic Italian refreshments and a place to recharge between appointments.
  • Coffee Igloo – Enjoy complimentary coffee on both days of the show, located at the Thermore Igloo near the lobby/registration area in Hall A.
  • Happy Hour – Engage with industry peers at the Covation Bio® Happy Hour near the Expert Talks Stage on April 15 from 5:00 – 6:00 PM.
  • After-Hours Networking – Right after the exhibit hall closes on April 15, continue the conversations at local sports bar Spirit of 77 which is located a short walking distance from the Convention Center from 7:00–10:00 PM. Badge is required to enter this private event. Sponsored by NEXTEX; co-sponsored by Brookwood and Duraflex

To ensure attendees have a productive experience at the show, Functional Fabric Fair has implemented Colleqt, a new system that replaces physical business cards and marketing materials by enabling QR code scanning at booths. Attendees receive instant exhibitor information on their phones and daily summary emails, ensuring no connections are missed even at busy booths. Be on the lookout for the floor decals in front of exhibitor booths.

“This event is about more than sourcing—it’s about shaping the future of performance textiles,” McCullough added. “With new interactive experiences, technology integration and expanded educational offerings, we’re excited to bring the industry together for meaningful connections and forward-thinking discussions.”

Registration is free for verified designers, product developers, purchasing agents, material managers and students in the outdoor, performance and lifestyle apparel and footwear sectors. The Day 0 Sustainability Workshop requires separate registration and has limited seating.

For event details, exhibitor lists, travel information, and to register, visit: FunctionalFabricFair.com

Posted: April 7, 2025

Source: Functional Fabric Fair, powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS®

Milliken Naming Investment Fuels NC State Research In The Textile Protection And Comfort Center

RALEIGH, N.C. — April 4, 2025 — A new $1.5 million investment from Milliken & Company will further elevate groundbreaking research at NC State’s Textile Protection and Comfort Center (TPACC)  through a five-year, fixed-term naming.

John Morton-Aslanis, research scholar and thermal lab manager, and Roger Barker, TPACC’s founder and director, run a test using the PyroMan, a life-size manikin used to evaluate the performance of thermal protective clothing, in the Milliken Textile Protection And Comfort Center on Centennial campus.

The newly named Milliken & Company Charitable Foundation Textile Protection and Comfort Center, housed within the Wilson College of Textiles, is poised to reach new heights. The center will continue to build on its global reputation for advancing innovation and enhancing comfort in high-performance protective apparel. This important work safeguards first responders, military personnel and other frontline workers who depend on protective fabrics to keep them safe, secure and able to perform in the line of duty.

“This generous investment from Milliken & Company is a powerful affirmation of our shared mission to lead in textile innovation,” says David Hinks, dean of the Wilson College of Textiles. “It will expand research in protection and performance, open doors for student discovery and fuel the next generation of breakthroughs at the Milliken Textile Protection and Comfort Center.”

David Darko, a sophomore textile engineering major, researches the effect of color on heat stress for firefighters by setting up the manikins outside in the sun to measure their physiological output.

With 30 years of specialized expertise, TPACC remains the only academic center in the United States that researches, tests and evaluates the comfort and protective performance of textile materials, garments and ensemble systems in one location.

As a global manufacturing leader focusing on the science of materials, Milliken produces specialty chemicals, flooring and performance textile materials for a variety of industries, including household care, personal care, agriculture and dyes.

“Milliken and TPACC are aligned in a bold vision to develop breakthrough materials and technologies that shape the future of protective apparel textiles,” says Halsey Cook, president and CEO at Milliken & Company and chair of the Milliken & Company Charitable Foundation. “This collaboration reflects our deep commitment to purposeful textile innovation that impacts lives, transforms industries and ensures that NC State remains a global leader in the field.”

With government grants and industrial partnerships, TPACC innovates Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for first responders, and medical and military personnel.

TPACC has generated nearly $80 million in research and technical service awards since its founding in 1994. Each semester, the center’s faculty and staff mentor 15 graduate students with 60 students, on average, using the center’s 9,500-square-foot state-of-the-art laboratories, office and collaboration spaces in TPACC-related courses.

Posted: April 4, 2025

Source: NC State University – University Communications

Trivantage® Launches Batyline® Sling Fabric Collection — Two Distinct Collections From Serge Ferrari

BURLINGTON, N.C. — April 4, 2025 — Trivantage, a one-stop shop for fabrics, hardware, and accessories, has introduced two distinct offerings to the Batyline sling fabric collection by Serge Ferrari. Batyline Elios and Batyline Eden are ideal for fabricating long-lasting sling chairs and outdoor furniture, having dimensional stability, outstanding strength, and durability in any climate.

Both collections are made from a blend of PVC, polyester, and synthetic yarns and include a flocked yarn which makes them soft to the touch. With an open weave design, breathability, and quick-drying properties, these sling fabrics ensure a comfortable and cool experience no matter the temperature. Other notable features include:

  • 100% waterproof
  • Phthalate-free
  • Resists sagging or stretching
  • Easy to clean; Mildew resistant
  • 5 year warranty

Batyline Eden fabric can be used for sling, cushion, and upholstery projects, featuring 23 standard colors plus five waterproof colors. Compared to other acrylic options, Batyline Eden fabrics are five times more resistant to abrasion and feature double the tensile strength. Batyline Elios fabrics are available in 10 colors to fit with any design.

“We remain dedicated to providing the best decorative and industrial fabrics in the industry and to stay aligned with evolving consumer trends,” said Jimmy Barnhardt, decorative sales manager at Trivantage. “Adding Eden and Elios Sling is the perfect way to elevate outdoor sling seating and allow your craftsmanship to shine.”

For over 30 years, Batyline has been a leading option in the performance furniture fabric industry. To learn more about Elios and Eden, visit:

https://www.trivantage.com/fabric-sling-serge-ferrari-batyline.

Posted: April 4, 2025

Source: Trivantage

JAAF, Sri Lanka, Engages Government On Urgent Response To U.S. Tariffs Threatening Export Sector

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — April 4, 2025 — Sri Lanka’s apparel industry has expressed deep concern over the new Reciprocal Tariff policy announced by the U.S. government, cautioning that the move could severely disrupt the country’s largest export sector.

The Reciprocal Tariff policy announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on April 2, imposes a universal baseline tariff of 10% tariff on all imports into the USA effective April 5.

Yohan Lawrence, Secretary General of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF)

Come April 9, this will then increase with each country being given a tariff rate dependent on the US Government’s view on “Tariffs charged into the USA”. For Sri Lanka, this will see the baseline 10% increasing to 44% for Sri Lanka.

“This tariff is significantly higher than what our regional competitors face,” said Yohan Lawrence, Secretary General of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF). “We could see a rapid shift in U.S. sourcing away from Sri Lanka, which would be extremely difficult to recover from.”

The United States remains Sri Lanka’s largest apparel export market, accounting for over 40% of the sector’s exports, which exceeded USD 5.5 billion in 2023.

In response to the development, JAAF commended the Government of Sri Lanka for its prompt action, including the establishment of a working group to assess the wider economic impact of the U.S. decision.

“We appreciate the urgency with which the Government has responded,” said Lawrence. “We are working closely with the relevant authorities to determine a constructive path forward that also remains consistent with Sri Lanka’s ongoing IMF programme.”

The working group is currently finalizing a proposal that will be presented to His Excellency the President later today. JAAF emphasized the importance of acting quickly and expressed confidence that, with the support of the President, decisive measures would be taken in the national interest.

Despite this setback, Sri Lanka’s apparel industry remains firmly committed to its core values of ethical manufacturing, transparency, and sustainable growth.

Posted: April 4, 2025

Source: The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF)

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