The Sweet Living Group, EverCare Announce Next Generation Zinc Oxide

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va./RALEIGH, N.C. — September 15, 2021 — The Sweet Living Group, LLC (SLG), a provider of zinc oxide (ZnO) technology for the textile and laundry detergent industries, and EverCare, a developer of high quality zinc oxides and raw material innovation, announced their unique value proposition with next generation ZnO masterbatch technology.

The Sweet Living Group’s extensive intellectual property enhances textiles by: controlling odor, providing antimicrobial/mold and mildew-resistance, incorporating ultraviolet protection, increasing resistance to degradation, and enhancing flame resistance. Currently, SLG has 16 issued U.S. patents, 5 pending patent applications, and 3 trademarks encompassing ZnO and ultrafine ZnO for textiles.

EverCare and Sweet Living Group developed a range of next generation masterbatches which provide an unprecedented level of dispersion of zinc oxides. These masterbatches are described as the Upgraded Generation X, based on the EcoZinc® and Tenray® technology.

This new generation of masterbatches provides batch to batch performance guarantee and can be used to produce compounds and yarns (PETG, PP, PE, PA) for the textile industry, ensuring excellent odor control, anti- microbial/mold and mildew-resistance, and UV blocking properties.

“We are very excited with the cooperation of the Sweet Living Group which has lead to the development of this new EcoZinc® and Tenray® technology as this technology provides excellent quality control along with fantastic results in the overall textile production,” said Managing Director of EverCare Jeroen Van Den Bosch.

EverCare is focused on innovation, supply and expertise of high-quality ultrafine zinc oxides for personal care and industrial applications, such as coatings, textiles, plastics and is bringing these innovations and high-quality products on the market under the Zano® and Tenray® brand names. The company is head quartered in Raleigh, N.C., and has production facilities and offices in The Netherlands and Belgium. Evercare is a division of EverZinc group, committed to creating products that matter and a provider of specialty zinc materials including fine zinc powders, zinc oxides, battery zinc powders.

The Sweet Living Group’s intellectual property scope of coverage allows their patents to be applied in both the textile and laundry detergent industries including industrial and commercial applications. The licensing program is administered for SLG by Blackhawk Technologies, which is one of the world’s most experienced intellectual property, licensing/patent companies.

The zinc oxide technology of The Sweet Living Group, combined with Evercare’s Tenray zinc oxides will be commercialized under the EcoZinc brand, providing protection for people, textiles, and the environment.

Posted September 20, 2021

Source: The Sweet Living Group/EverCare

Meryl Medical Expands Its Range And Continues To Innovate With New Lines

CONGLETON, England — September 20, 2021 — Meryl Medical,  a hi-tech textile manufacturer that produces environmentally sustainable fabrics, has expanded its portfolio as it brings its offering into mature sectors, in an attempt revitalize and energize what’s currently on offer to the healthcare, hospitality and medical sectors.

Meryl will be supplying finished items as well as selling the fabrics directly, with its current range. This will include bed sheets and linens, towels, workwear including base layers, uniforms, and scrubs, and masks are just a few of the products the company produces and the strong and durable textiles can be completely reused as they continue to focus on environmental impact, quality and protection built around a sustainable circular economy.

The bedding sets and duvet covers are manufactured using hi-tech smart fabrics with a full circular economy, zero shedding and HeiQ permanent virus, bacteria and odor technology.

Garments made with Meryl premium yarns inherit natural elasticity without the need of elastane. They are also made with premium yarn technologies which do not release microfibres to the air and oceans, and are certified as non-polluting. Additionally, these garments offer permanent antiviral protection through HEIQ technology which has been Permanently integrated into the early manufacturing processes, which inhibits the proliferation of virus, bacteria and odours in the fabric.

Kevin Simpson, co-founder of Meryl Medical commented: “Our research and insight demonstrates that procurement teams are wanting to explore more environmental and technologically advanced options but the ranges are currently not available to them. Our raw materials are made into a high performing fabric with a luxurious finish and stylish design. The hydrogen process that the fabrics go through provides the ultimate soft touch and all of our products are treated with HeiQ Permanent, making them antimicrobial, antibacterial and anti-fungal.

“As many companies across the world are keen to cut their carbon footprint, using Meryl’s specialized products can help achieve this. Fabrics can be washed using reduced washing temperatures, and as no chemicals or solvents are used in production, there is no waste water. Importantly, the fabrics are 100-percent infinitely recyclable.”

Ingo Mangold, Meryl Medical’s German textile design engineer, also commented: “It is extremely important for us at Meryl Medical to be part of a circular economy and close the loop on our garments, ensuring that all of our products can be made into another product without creating any waste. The way in which we do this is simple. We collect our yarns and garments at the end of their useful life and they go through a physical process in which they are converted back into base polymer. Once they are back in their basic form, the polymer is used to manufacture yarn with the same properties as virgin yarn which in turn is available to be made into new products.”

All Meryl Medical products are treated with a permanent antiviral-effect, antibacterial and anti-fungal technology co-developed alongside their virology partner, HeiQ. HeiQ helps improve the lives of billions of people by adding functionalities to all kinds of materials through scientific research, specialty materials manufacturing and consumer ingredient branding.

Posted September 20, 2021

Source: Meryl Medical Ltd.

Vanguard USA, A Durst Group Company, Establishes Its European Branch In Brixen, Italy

BRIXEN, Italy — September 20, 2021 — Durst Group, manufacturer of advanced digital printing and production technologies, announces that Vanguard Digital Printing Systems, a U.S. company acquired last year and headquartered in Lawrenceville, Ga., is establishing its European branch in Brixen, Italy.

Vanguard Digital Printing USA is a manufacturer of printing systems for the signage, decoration, business equipment, industrial and packaging sectors. With the formation of Vanguard Europe GmbH, Vanguard will now also offer its wide format portfolio in the European markets. Despite the acquisition by Durst Group, Vanguard remains an independent company under the leadership of founder and CEO David Cich. The choice of the Brixen location, in a building adjacent to the Durst headquarters with over 5,000 square meters of factory space, is intended to leverage technical and administrative synergies between the two companies. For customers, the close proximity offers the advantage that all current printing systems in Durst Group’s overall portfolio can be seen and tested.

The official market launch of the Vanguard printing systems in Europe will take place in October at the Viscom 2021 trade show in Milan and FESPA 2021 in Amsterdam. In the Italian market, Durst Group AG’s “Divisione Vendite Italia” will handle distribution and service, while in other countries distribution will be established and expanded over the coming months, depending on Vanguard’s strategic decisions. For Poland, LFP Industrial Solutions has taken over the distribution.

“With the formation of the European branch, we are bringing the Vanguard printer portfolio, which has been extremely successful in the U.S., to the European markets and are opening up new customer segments,” says Christoph Gamper, CEO and Co-Owner of Durst Group. “Despite the difficult pandemic period, this is a clear signal to the market for large format printing systems. With this step, we offer our customers new opportunities for production excellence and, in combination with innovative workflow and ERP solutions, a complete production chain from pixel to output.”

Posted September 20, 2021

Source: Durst Group

Governor Kemp Announces Bioplastics Company NANTRenewables To Open Facility In Savannah, Ga., Creating More Than 100 Jobs

ATLANTA — September 8, 2021 — Today, Governor Brian P. Kemp announced that bioplastics company NANTRenewables, a subsidiary of NantWorks, will invest up to $29 million to build a manufacturing facility at SeaPoint Industrial Terminal Complex in Savannah. This venture will create 134 manufacturing jobs in Chatham County. Hiring is expected to begin in early 2022.

“I’m glad to welcome NANTRenewables to the number one state for business,” said Governor Kemp. “With our conservative, pro-business policies and world-class infrastructure assets, I am confident NANTRenewables will thrive in the Peach State. I look forward to the solid manufacturing jobs this company will create for hardworking Georgians in our coastal region — specifically in a Federal Opportunity Zone.”

NANTRenewables will manufacture unique biogenic renewable mineral plastic enhancers designed to improve performance, reduce cost, and minimize the overall carbon footprint of finished products. NANTRenewables uses a renewable and self-generating biogenic mineral to produce biodegradable, daily-use products like plates, straws, cutlery, trays, and cups. Additionally, NANTRenewables provides sustainable, value-added products to several other companies within the food, agriculture, and pharmaceutical industries.

“We selected SeaPoint for our new biogenic fillers and bioplastics manufacturing facility because of our shared values focused on sustainability as well as the site’s development-ready network of infrastructure, including roads, rail access, sea access, and nearby utility connections at this impressive industrial complex,” said Harold Meherg, a NANTRenewables senior executive. “We look forward to building our newest plant in Savannah.”

The new NANTRenewables manufacturing facility will be built on an 8.5-acre rail-served parcel at SeaPoint Industrial Terminal Complex in Savannah. This innovative multi-use industrial park is located in a Federal Opportunity Zone and also provides rail and direct deepwater access on the main shipping channel in Savannah. Individuals interested in opportunities with NANTRenewables are encouraged to visit nantbiogoods.com for additional information.

“On behalf of the Savannah Economic Development Authority, I would like to congratulate NANTRenewables for choosing to locate at the SeaPoint Industrial Terminal Complex in Savannah,” said Trip Tollison, Savannah Economic Development Authority President and CEO. “The new manufacturing facility is a great fit for Savannah, and we look forward to watching them grow in our community.”

Assistant Director Alyce Thornhill represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce division on this competitive project in partnership with the Savannah Economic Development Authority and Georgia Power.

“Solutions-oriented companies continue to flock to Georgia thanks to our pro-business, innovation-centered environment, which has helped cultivate an entire sustainability ecosystem,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Many thanks to NANTRenewables for creating jobs and opportunities in Savannah and across the region. I look forward to seeing the additional growth opportunities SeaPoint Industrial Terminal Complex will continue to attract.”

SeaPoint Terminal Industrial Complex recently received authorization from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to construct a new private marine terminal along a one-mile embankment in the Port of Savannah, the fastest-growing container port in the nation. The berth, located on the main shipping channel at 47-foot depth, will support manufacturing operations like NANTRenewables, allowing companies to reduce or eliminate drayage by utilizing all modes of transportation, including vessels.

Posted September 17, 2021

Source: Georgia Office of the Governor

Reebok And Jelly Belly Deliver Some Serious Eye Candy With A Line Of Bold Sneakers

BOSTON — September 17, 2021 — Today Reebok and renowned candy company, Jelly Belly, unveil a sweet surprise — the Reebok x Jelly Belly footwear collection. Featuring silhouettes for both adults and children, the line is inspired by the extensive collection of Jelly Belly gourmet jelly bean flavors.

Those unique flavors are represented in both the bold colors on the shoes as well as illustrated on the sockliners of each model. The shoes even incorporate a literal representation of Jelly Belly’s signature sweetness by using a sustainable bio textile that is sourced from sugarcane, the same plant used to create sugar, which makes for some truly sweet kicks.

Details on the silhouettes featured in the collection include:

Club C Legacy ($110, GZ6881): This Club C Legacy is inspired by BeanBoozled, a game developed by Jelly Belly in which players spin a wheel and eat the jelly bean that matches the color it lands on. The catch is that the pack contains two versions of each color – one tasty (ex. Tutti-Fruitti) and one weird and wild (ex. Stinky Socks). The upper of the shoe references all the BeanBoozled flavors in the latest 6th edition version as well as the “CAUTION” graphic from the packaging. Available in adult sizing.

Instapump Fury ($130, GW3388): Featuring some of the brightest fruit flavors Jelly Belly has to offer this Instapump has a multi-color upper referencing the sour cherry, pink grapefruit, Berry Blue, lime and plum flavors. The silhouette also features silicone details on the toe and PUMP bladder. Available in infant, pre-school, grade school and adult sizing.

Club C Revenge ($90, GV8263): Inspired by classic summer treats the Reebok x Jelly Belly Club C Revenge keeps the iconic chalk upper and incorporates colorful details from the featured flavors – from strawberry daiquiri to caramel corn – on the stripes, tongue, heel and lining. The top lace hole has even been replaced with a chocolate pudding jelly bean detail. Available in infant, pre-school, grade school and adult sizing.

Club C Legacy ($110, GZ6884): This version of the classic silhouette features some of your favorite flavors including, lemon lime, Island Punch and cream soda. Similarly to the Club C Revenge, this shoe retains its iconic chalk upper but is overlayed with some of the bold colors inspired by the beloved flavors. Other features include contrast stitching throughout and a gradient mid panel. Available in adult sizing.

Classic Leather Legacy ($90, GW3376): Rounding out the collection is the Reebok x Jelly Belly Classic Leather Legacy which incorporates some of the most iconic Jelly Belly flavors including licorice, Tutti-Fruitti and bubble gum. Each of these flavors, and more, are represented in the colors of the shoe, which is covered in an eye-catching gradient upper. Available in adult sizing.

The Reebok x Jelly Belly footwear collection will be available on Reebok.com/jelly_belly in unisex sizing beginning September 26th before a wider global release on September 28th.

Posted September 17, 2021

Source: Reebok

Bleeding Edge EnSys Develops Advanced Polymer Armors For Explosives And Ballistic Threats

SULLIVAN, Mo. — September 17, 2021 — Research and development company Bleeding Edge EnSys LLC creates advanced impact and wear resistant polymers for the defense and transportation industry.

Bleeding Edge has created a series of customized urethane composite materials capable of resisting the blasts from an IED and M19 landmine, as well as a polymer transparent armor that is ballistic resistant and passes the FEMA F5 tornado impact test.

“We’ve created polymers for high wear and high impact applications such as track pads on the Abrams M1 battle tanks, landmine detonation wheels, Humvee underbody IED armor, and unique transparent bullet resistant windows. Urethanes are usually lighter weight and more versatile to design with than rubber and other plastics or glass used in armoring,” explained George Sturmon, founder of Bleeding Edge. “Our Humvee underbody blast panel was tested against an IED, as well as an M19 landmine, then shot with 3 rounds of NATO 5.56 AP with no penetration. The panel was only 2.3” thick and weighed 23 lbs/sqft (10.43 kg/sqft). Our NIJ Level III-A transparent armor stops 9mm, .357 Mag, and .44 Mag handgun rounds, in a single 1.5” thick sheet, weighing 8.19lbs/sqft (3.71kg/sqft).”

George originally founded ATRO Engineered Systems in 1984, growing it into a multimillion-dollar company. “In the 80’s we looked into urethanes because of their unique properties that could be customized to fit a wide range of applications while far outlasting rubber components,” Sturmon said. “We had major success using them in heavy truck suspensions.” ATRO has recently been acquired along with Steer King, George’s other startup that manufactured high wear steering components for commercial trucks.

Today, the team at Bleeding Edge are testing new applications for ruggedized polymers and armor composites, including a ballistic security door to protect schools from high caliber rounds and tornados. Currently Bleeding Edge is creating optically clear polymer transparent armor. The unique polymer materials can be made in nearly any shape or size, enabling new applications for security, storm safety, military, automotive, and architectural engineering.

Posted September 17, 2021

Source: Bleeding Edge EnSys LLC

Denim Icon Wrangler® Launches Global “For The Ride Of Life” Campaign Inspired By The Resilience And Optimism Of The Cowboy Spirit

GREENSBORO, N.C. — September 16, 2021 — Wrangler®, a global icon in jeanswear and casual apparel, today announced its fall/winter 2021 advertising campaign, “For the Ride of Life,” which celebrates everyday people pursuing new adventures with energy and optimism. Inspired by the resilience it takes to see challenges as opportunities and leave nothing on the table, the campaign is styled by Hollywood’s sought-after Heidi Bivens and serves as a springboard for a heightened level of western-inspired fashion and culture that is more relevant worldwide than ever before. The integrated “For the Ride of Life” campaign will launch with broadcast commercials across cable and network TV the week of September 13.

“As we continue to draw inspiration from the resilience of those around us, there’s no better time to announce our ‘For the Ride of Life’ campaign showcasing people from all walks of life getting out there and enjoying their ride,” said Holly Wheeler, vice president of global brand marketing at Wrangler. “For nearly three-quarters of a century, the Wrangler brand has fearlessly strived for a confident outlook no matter what obstacles stand in our way. We hope this campaign encourages fans of the brand to have courage, take charge and keep pushing forward through the cowboy spirit within all of us as we look to the future.”

“For the Ride of Life” is anchored by an inspirational campaign film narrated by rising country music star and long-time friend of the brand, Orville Peck. The film features a diverse array of real people following their passions, from a rap crew to a roller girl gang; an eSports player, skateboarder and cowgirl; to young families and an older couple starting a new life together. The result is a celebration of those who live with optimism, joy and courage, no matter where their ride of life may lead.

“Heritage brands like Wrangler with an authentic story behind them are an important and riveting part of history and continue to shape the world around us today,” said international fashion stylist and editor, Heidi Bivens, who styled the campaign. “Wrangler style has always been associated with action and energy. Iconic images fill my mind: a rodeo girl working with her horse, a musician on an arena stage at a sold-out show, a cowpoke steering cattle on a desert plain. The brand has a western mystique that feels authentic, and to capture the genuine essence of this campaign, I accentuated the natural style and aesthetic of real, everyday people.”

The campaign is representative of Wrangler’s continued evolution as a brand balancing dedication to western heritage with strategic growth that is true to its roots. In recent years, Wrangler has expanded its focus to include a broader base of consumers fueled by category expansions in outdoor and female, and geographic expansion with the launch of the Wrangler brand in China. With its 75th anniversary in 2022, the Wrangler brand will launch a year-long celebration, honoring its longstanding presence in music, fashion and rodeo while also celebrating the courage, optimism and triumph of western culture.

The “For the Ride of Life” campaign developed in partnership with New York-based creative agency, YARD NYC, will launch in North America and Europe this fall and will be introduced in other regions of the world in the coming months.

Posted September 17, 2021

Source: Wrangler®, of Kontoor Brands

SARS-Cov-2, Influenza A Inactivated By Zinc-Embedded Nylon Fabric

HOUSTON — September 17, 2021 — An international team of scientists and engineers from the University of Cambridge, the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, ResInnova Labs and Ascend Performance Materials has found that a nylon fabric embedded with zinc ions successfully inactivated 99-percent of the viruses that cause COVID-19 and the common flu.

Face masks, protective clothing and filters are used to slow the spread of viruses. But poor-quality masks can harbor active viruses from infected wearers, posing a transmission risk.

“A major challenge is absorption and inactivation,” said Dr. Vikram Gopal, co-senior author and chief technology officer at Ascend Performance Materials. “Respiratory viral illnesses, such as COVID-19, and the flu, are transmitted through droplets and aerosols. Polypropylene, the material in commonly used disposable masks, is a hydrophobic plastic and does not absorb moisture. Instead, the viruses can sit on the surface of the mask, posing a transmission risk when the mask is handled.”

Cotton also has problems, Dr. Gopal said. “Cotton effectively absorbs moisture, but it doesn’t inactivate the virus — again, posing a transmission risk,” he said.

In the paper published in ACS Applied Materials Interfaces, the researchers described how a fabric made of nylon 6,6 embedded with active zinc ions absorbed virus-containing moisture droplets and effectively inactivated the particles. The fabric produced a 2-log, or 99 percent, reduction of virus particles in one hour.

The research team also was able to demonstrate that nylon with active zinc ions remains stable over time, keeping its virus-inactivating properties after 50 washes.

“The study shows how nylon textile fabric with zinc outperforms the widely used cotton and polypropylene materials at virus absorption and inactivation,” Dr. Gopal said.

The findings have significant implications for future development of PPE according to Dr. Gopal.

“Pathogen-free PPE does more than just cut down the risk of transmitting the virus,” Gopal said. “By making PPE washable and reusable, you reduce the need for single-use products, keeping hundreds of millions of masks out of landfills.”

Posted September 17, 2021

Source: Ascend Performance Materials

Chico’s FAS Appoints Patrick J. Guido As CFO

FORT MYERS, Fla. — September 17, 2021 — Chico’s FAS Inc. today announced that Patrick J. Guido has been appointed CFO of the company, effective September 20, 2021, and will report directly to Molly Langenstein, CEO and president of Chico’s FAS.

Guido has more than 20 years of finance and operations experience and has held numerous executive leadership roles at premier retail and consumer companies. He most recently served as senior vice president and CFO at Asbury Automotive Group Inc., one of the largest automotive retail and service companies in the United States. In this role, he helped support continued growth and financial strength during the COVID-19 pandemic, while also contributing to the development and implementation of the long-term strategic plan.

Prior to this position, Guido served as executive vice president and CFO of lululemon athletica inc., a multinational designer, distributor and retailer of healthy lifestyle inspired athletic apparel and accessories. In this role, he provided financial oversight and business analytics during a historic growth period at the company, which resulted in a significant increase in aggregate revenue, strong EPS growth and substantial increase in share price over two years.

“PJ is a highly accomplished finance executive with deep knowledge of the retail industry and a proven track record guiding companies through significant growth periods,” Langenstein said. “We are excited about the growth of our company. I am pleased to welcome PJ to the Chico’s FAS team.”

“I am incredibly excited to join the Chico’s FAS team and leverage my industry experience to continue strengthening the Company’s financial and operational performance,” Guido said. “I look forward to partnering with Molly and the rest of the team to continue capitalizing on Chico’s FAS’ impressive momentum in its return to sustainable, profitable growth.”

In connection with Guido’s appointment, David Oliver, who has served as interim CFO since February 2020, has been reappointed to his prior role of senior vice president Finance – controller and chief accounting officer.

Langenstein further commented: “On behalf of the Board and management team, I want to thank David for his leadership and many contributions over these past 18 months. We greatly value and appreciate David’s stalwart leadership and guidance during this critical period in our company and look forward to continuing to benefit from his talent and financial expertise.”

Posted September 17, 2021

Source: Chico’s FAS Inc.

Sunlighten And Hologenix Enhance Sauna Experience With CELLIANT-Infused Luxury Cotton Accessories And Heater Covers

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — September 17, 2021 — Infrared light helps the human body naturally, and people are looking to harness the benefits everywhere they can. Infrared isn’t just a trend, it’s becoming an important wellness tool, helping people feel better through myriad health benefits, including heart health, circulation, detoxification, anti-aging, longevity, immunity and muscle recovery. Sunlighten®, the global leader in infrared saunas and portable light therapies, has partnered with Hologenix®, the creators of CELLIANT® infrared responsive textiles found in numerous performance, recovery and sleepwear brands, to further enhance the sauna experience.

“At Sunlighten, we are continually looking to innovate, and the addition of Celliant is another step toward enhancing and extending our sauna experience,” said Aaron Zack, Sunlighten co-founder and CEO.

Fabric infused with Celliant now covers Sunlighten’s infrared heaters in all its sauna cabins to maximize every detail of infrared available. In addition, Sunlighten is introducing its new luxury cotton accessories infused with Celliant for those who want to expand the health benefits of infrared and/or enjoy a spa-like experience. The dual-purpose fabric provides added health benefits, as well as comfort, luxury, and practicality both inside and outside the sauna – it epitomizes “Plush Performance.”

The new Sunlighten Celliant-infused accessories work with the infrared heat of its saunas to amplify the benefits even more. The Sauna Linen Collection consists of a Celliant/cotton hand towel, bath towel, robe and body wrap, perfect for use in the sauna or just for every day. Celliant’s natural, ethically sourced minerals embedded into yarns transform body heat into full-spectrum infrared energy and return it to the body safely and naturally. Celliant promotes local circulation and cell oxygenation in healthy individuals while keeping the user dry and at the perfect temperature. This results in stronger performance, faster recovery and better sleep.

The only sauna company to offer branded accessories, Sunlighten’s line creates a resort feeling with spa-level luxury and is plush, densely woven and has a heavy 760-gram weight. Sauna cushion covers, sauna throw pillow covers and Solo®System SoloPad® covers will also be available soon.

“These luxurious accessories appeal to sauna customers who place a high value on maximizing their time and making the most of their investment,” said Zack. “Our Celliant-infused fabric works with the sauna’s heat and the body’s natural energy to refuel the body. No other company has more effective infrared, ensuring the infrared penetration into the body for all healing benefits. As soon as I read about Celliant technology, I knew it was perfect for our saunas and accessories.”

Hologenix Co-Founder and CEO Seth Casden said, “This is a natural partnership for us. Sunlighten infrared saunas and our Celliant infrared performance technology working in tandem to maximize health and wellness. The Celliant/cotton blend fabric is also the perfect combination of luxurious comfort and our revolutionary infrared technology.”

Posted September 17, 2021

Source: Sunlighten/Hologenix, LLC

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