Strataglass Announces New Master European Distributor to Support Brand Distribution and Marine Fabricators

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — November 15, 2021 — Strataglass LLC., a manufacturer of press-polished clear vinyl enclosure products, is pleased to announce that SURETEX, a corporation based in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, has been appointed as Master Distributor in Europe for all Strataglass brands.

This distribution plan is the latest in the expansion of the Strataglass brand based efforts to be a worldwide total solution provider. SureTex, strategically located in The Netherlands, provides a logistical platform that will soon enable Strataglass brand products to be readily available to textile distributors and marine fabricators throughout Europe. Improving product availability and quality of delivery supports Strataglass’ mission of helping marine manufacturers grow their business by delivering quality products and services of exceptional value on time, efficiently, every day.

SURETEX, sister company of SUREFAS, operates from Rotterdam and is dedicated to service the European technical textile market. It builds on extensive product knowledge, a dedicated team and strong network of reliable distributors and clients of SUREFAS. All sharing a vision that demanding applications require best in class materials. SURETEX is proud to contribute to this industry by ensuring a steady supply of this legendary product Strataglass to Europe.

“We are delighted to be expanding our business with the addition of the Strataglass brand products. Along with Herculite and Strataglass, we share common values and business principles. Herculite’s 65-year commitment to quality and customer satisfaction will continue to benefit our employees, distribution partners and customers.” said Bas Jan Veldhoen, director and owner of SureTex.

Craig Zola, Herculite Products vice president of Marketing and Distribution, shared the excitement and the vision. “SURETEX can build on the strong presence among trade and professionals in the European technical textiles industry of its sister company SUREFAS B.V., being a world class company and has been an important manufacturer of fasteners for technical textile applications in Europe for many years. We are excited about our new partnership and expanding our business together with the Strataglass and CrystalClear marine enclosure brands. Both brands are iconic and have a solid reputation for quality worldwide.”

Posted November 15, 2021

Source: Strataglass LLC.

Biotransformation Technology In Nonwovens Tops Avgol Agenda At Hygienix™ 2021

BANGKOK — November 15, 2021 — Avgol®, an Indorama Ventures company, will be showcasing its latest work in biotransformation technology for polyolefin fibers and nonwoven fabrics at this year’s Hygienix™ event.

Nick Carter, vice president, Nonwovens Marketing at Avgol, will be a guest speaker at the event, giving a presentation alongside Dr. DeeAnn Nelson, R&D and Innovation manager with Avgol in North America, on ‘Biotransformation Technology in Polyolefin Fibers and Nonwoven Fabrics, Focus on Fugitive Used Articles’. “Today, the word “sustainability” does not have a unified meaning in the industries we serve,” said Nick. “Perform a regional analysis on any given customer or consumer, delve into a legislative body or advocacy group’s positioning and you will find each are likely to use the word ‘sustainable’ with varying interpretations, implementations, and implications.

“We are going to focus on several aspects of sustainability, including the topic of waste single use articles in the environment and use of recycle-friendly, biologically sourced colorants,” he said. “Specifically, we intend to move from the problem statement to a means for reducing the negative environmental and financial effects such single use article fugitive wastes pose to municipalities and manufacturers and discuss aspects of cross-industry cooperation to be reliable vendors to our customers.”

The Avgol presentation, part of the Product & Process Innovation in AHPs series, will take place at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, November 16.

From their base at the tabletop event, Nick and the Avgol team will be discussing the global challenge of eliminating incineration, chemical treatment, landfill, dumping and, in particular, fugitive material pollution from non-woven products.

“Working with our sister companies in Indorama, we have established our vision of innovating together for circular evolution,” said Nick. “Our first major project is now addressing the need to achieve full biodegradation of our materials to help solve the issue of waste plastics that find their way into the environment.

“Following our recent success at Index 20, we will be sharing insight to our research and development strategy with Hygienix attendees, addressing the degradation performance of our products and the path forward for the industry in terms of the use of new bio-colorants, biosurfactants and new technologies. Of course, we will also be demonstrating our latest Forward Innovative Thinking (FIT™) range of hygiene materials too, including natureFIT™.”

natureFIT is the newest innovation in the Avgol technology platform, designed to imbue nonwoven fabrics with additional qualities and benefits that anticipate the shifting demands of the consumer-led retail space. The suite of fabric solutions is focused on replacing elements of spun melt fabric design, where possible, with natural alternatives. The advanced technology affords product designers a significant reduction in polymer consumption to reduce environmental impact while simultaneously enhancing softness and conformability.

Hygienix runs from November 15-18, 2021, at the Westin Kierland Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. For more information on Avgol, speak with the team at the event or visit www.avgol.com.

Posted November 15, 2021

Source: Avgol®, An Indorama Ventures Company

Kelheim Fibres Once Again Finishes High In Canopy’s Hot Button Ranking

KELHEIM, Germany — November 15, 2021 — In the Canopy’s 2021 Hot Button Ranking, Kelheim Fibres once again occupies a leading position: With a increase of 2.5 points in the evaluation, the Bavarian viscose specialty fiber manufacturer tied for third place out of around 40 viscose fiber manufacturers worldwide and a dark green/green shirt for the second year running. The Hot Button Report not only stands for responsible raw material sourcing — it is an overall sustainability indicator for viscose fiber producers.

Especially in the areas of transparency and procurement, the NGO Canopy, which is committed to the preservation of ancient and endangered forests, awarded Kelheim Fibres top points: Kelheim Fibres is the only EMAS-certified viscose fiber manufacturer worldwide and publishes all environmentally relevant data publicly.

Kelheim Fibers also gained points in the area of “Next Generation Solutions” — the use of alternative raw materials in fiber production. Together with the Swedish textile recycling company Renewcell, the fiber experts are planning to realize the large-scale production of high-quality viscose fibers from up to 10,000 tonnes of the 100-percent textile recyclate Circulose® per year.

“As a manufacturing company, we take our responsibility towards the environment very seriously. Sustainable action must begin with the raw materials on which our products are based: Trees, and in particular the ancient and endangered forests of our planet, play an important role in climate protection as carbon reservoirs, as well as for biodiversity and many other ecological processes. It is our duty to protect this valuable and irreplaceable resource,” says Matthew North, Commercial Director at Kelheim Fibres. “We are very proud of our position in the Hot Button Ranking and will expand our pioneering role even further in the future.”

Posted November 15, 2021

Source: Kelheim Fibres GmbH

Carrington Textiles Weaves Sustainability Into Brand New Fabrics

ADLINGTON, United Kingdom — November 15, 2021 — Global workwear textile manufacturer Carrington Textiles has announced the launch of nine new fabrics developed using sustainable fibers that include recycled polyester, BCI and organic cotton as well as a new technology that biodegrades synthetic fibers, utilized for the first time in workwear fabrics by Carrington Textiles. A flame retardant fabric is also being introduced to the market with a superb durability that in turn gives garments a longer life.

With the tagline “weaving sustainability into our fabrics,” the launch campaign includes the release of the company’s popular fabric range guides — available to download on their website — with a new brand identity and design, showcasing a more dynamic look and sleek new photography to better represent today’s workwear. These new range guides were designed keeping not only the customer, but also the environment in mind as they are made with recycled paper which is also 100-percent recyclable, as well as being coated with antimicrobial technology for peace of mind.

Regarding the new fabrics being launched, Carrington Textiles has invested a great deal of resources into R&D to develop these products as part of their stretch, Balance Range and flame retardant collections.

In terms of the stretch new products, the textile manufacturer introduced Constance 210 gsm and Balaton 255 gsm. Both named after European lakes, these fabrics incorporate REPREVE recycled polyester made from plastic bottles, and BCI cotton in their composition. They also utilise the high stretch technology from XLANCE® which is eco-friendly, solvent-free, and produced using 100-percent renewable energy. Constance 210 is the Carrington Textiles sustainable alternative to workwear fabric Idra, and Balaton 255 is the ‘greener’ option for Cresta.

Balance Range Weaved Sustainability

The Balance Range is a big focus for the manufacturer who’s aiming to help tackle the global discussion on climate change, textile sustainability and circularity, by releasing seven more products to add to the eight existing eco-friendly textiles of the range.

Starting on the lighter side of the Balance Range spectrum, and named after a forest in North East England, is Kielder 185 gsm, a fabric which composition consists of 50-percent BCI cotton and 50-percent REPREVE recycled polyester made from plastic bottles. As an environmentally friendly alternative to Cooltex Lite, Kielder 185 offers an outstanding soft feel due to its 4/1 twill, a polyester face for greater durability and cotton inside for increased wearer comfort.

Next are the additions to the Delamere family in their 210 gsm and 245 gsm weights. With the philosophy of protecting forests like the one in England these fabrics are named after, Delamere 210 and 245 include 65-percent recycled REPREVE polyester and responsibly sourced cotton from the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI). Delamere 210 is a sustainable alternative for Delta and Delamere 245 for Tomboy.

With a name inspired by the West Pennine Moors in Northern England are Rivington 205 gsm and 220 gsm. The Rivington family offers leisure finish as a standard for a soft feel and incorporates 65-percent recycled polyester as well as 35-percent BCI cotton. Also providing the benefits of mechanical stretch, Rivington 205 and 220 are the eco-friendly options to Xtraflex Lite and Xtraflex 1 respectively.

Revolutionary workwear fabrics that biodegrade

Microfibres in the oceans is a hot topic in the textile world now. Annual estimates of plastic microfiber pollution entering the oceans is equivalent in weight to over 50 billion plastic bottles.

To help tackle the issue, Carrington Textiles started to look at innovative products available that would break down these microplastic fibers. Following extensive research, the company has adopted CiCLO technology, a sustainable textiles ingredient in the form of an additive that is combined with polyester at the very beginning of the fibre making process. When CiCLO polyester ends up in the environment either through washing or end of life of the garment, it behaves like natural fibers, in turn reducing microplastic pollution and textile accumulation.

Being the first textile manufacturer to use this revolutionary technology for the production of workwear fabrics, Carrington Textiles has launched Hawksbill and Orca. Both named after marine animals to represent the importance of microplastic free oceans, and with a weight of 245gsm, Hawksbill and Orca are the sustainable alternative to the company’s bestselling fabric, Tomboy.

Hawksbill’s composition includes 65-percent CiCLO polyester and 35-percent organic cotton. While Orca incorporates 26-percent recycled CiCLO polyester, 29-percent virgin CiCLO polyester and 35-percent BCI cotton.

These two brand new fabrics are made following Carrington Textiles’ usual rigorous quality standards, so they not only offer the best performance and durability to the end user, but also greatly reduce their impact on the environment when the life of the garment comes to an end.

A durable flame retardant with antistatic addition

Industry talks are leaning towards not only the use of sustainable fibers, but also durability. With 90-percent of professional clothing ending up in landfill, it’s important to increase the life of garments with the utilization of fabrics that can withstand industrial washes and multiple uses.

That’s why Carrington Textiles has launched Flamestat 250 gsm, a new member of the Flamestat family which is guaranteed to last the lifetime of the garment due to its robust construction. With 75-percent cotton, 24-percentpolyester and 1-percent antistatic, this fabric’s flame retardancy is to the standards EN ISO 11612, EN ISO 14116 index 3 and EN ISO 11611; while its antistatic properties are to EN ISO 1149-3-5 standard.

Carrington Textiles’ Sales & Marketing Director Paul Farrell, said: “These new fabrics see us take a major step towards an ever more sustainable future in workwear textiles, increasing the use of recycled and sustainable fibre sources, as well as introducing biodegradable technologies, and doing so whilst still maintaining the same high levels of durability to prolong the garment lifetime.  We look forward to announcing more new sustainable products in the future, and to keeping Carrington Textiles are the forefront of sustainable textile development”.

Posted November 15, 2021

Source: Carrington Textiles

Canada Goose Launches Performance Luxury Footwear Collection

TORONTO — November 12, 2021 — Today, Canada Goose launched its first-ever Footwear Collection, debuting two innovative styles for men and women: the Snow Mantra Boots and the Journey Boots. As the ultimate expression of the brand, this new category delivers on its purpose and takes its acclaimed function-first design to another level.

“Building new categories is a core competency for us and footwear is the natural next step in our product portfolio,” said Dani Reiss, president and CEO, Canada Goose. “Canada Goose Footwear has been years in the making, as we defined and developed this category unlike anything seen before — something that our consumers have long been asking us for. This collection exemplifies the Canada Goose lifestyle, standing the test of time and the elements.”

The collection launches with a global campaign that explores real stories of real people through three videos: Romeo Beckham; Indigenous Artist & Activist, Sarain Fox; and Indigenous Leader and Former NHL Player, Jordin Tootoo. Their powerful stories of resilience and perseverance, of defining their own paths, are told through Canada Goose’s Live in the Open ethos, which invites people to express themselves freely without judgement. Living within that ethos is a Force of Nature, detailing personal journeys, each striving for their own metaphorical summit.

Gear testing is a fundamental part of the design process at Canada Goose with its network of industry experts. For Footwear, the brand tapped adventurers, athletes, researchers and cinematographers to test the boots over a course of six months. They embodied the mantra of living in the open, traversing continents and logging thousands of kilometers, across diverse terrain and a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions.

The brand was inspired by its six-decade product archive for this collection — a design technique that mirrors its approach to outerwear and apparel, reimagining and reinventing its iconic pieces. The Snow Mantra Parka served as the inspiration for the two footwear styles, employing the same legendary features and performance qualities. Canada Goose footwear is handcrafted by experts and each pair are one-of-a-kind. The patina of the soft and durable leather is a hallmark of its high-quality, a characteristic that develops over time and tells a story of its adventures.

The Snow Mantra Boots are made of nylon, called Tundra Tech, and leather, and are packed with the DNA of its namesake parka counterpart. The boot is designed for use in extreme environments, which requires a secure fit, as well as additional warmth and comfort. The insulated liner molds to the foot shape over time to create a unique and tailored fit. As with any Canada Goose product, the features make it versatile and adaptable to wear and deliver beyond extreme temperatures. Drawcords and cord-locks allow for quick adjustments and seal out the elements, while the varied lacing modes create different fits for wear in diverse environments. The Snow Mantra Boot is available in black, white and red for men and women.

The Journey Boots are equally at peak performance from the city to off-the-grid adventures. The Journey is a performance luxury hiking boot, handmade in Italy and inspired by vintage hiking boots. The versatility and custom fit are also brought into this style. The upper, constructed with just three pieces, guarantees flexibility and as a result, enduring use, as it too will mold to the foot’s shape. The scratch rubber bumper is a refined take on protection, with the chamfered edge referencing the texture from climbing shoes and providing protection from water or rock. The Journey Boot comes in black, white/snowcap, tundra clay/camel for women, and black, dark cedarwood/black, mid-grey/white for men; the latter of which is made with suede.

Both styles are built with a waterproof membrane, creating a fully sealed barrier. They’re each rated on the brand’s proprietary Thermal Experience Index (TEI), just like its outerwear, another testament to the performance and heritage of the styles. The Snow Mantra Boot is a TEI 5, protecting in temperatures that reach -30°C / -25°F and below, while the Journey Boot is a TEI 2, designed for 0°C to -15°C / 32°F to 5°F.

Canada Goose relentlessly seeks to be sustainably innovative, focused on enacting change and driving impact through its HUMANATURE purpose platform, which unites its sustainability and values-based initiatives. Canada Goose Footwear strengthens this focus. The Snow Mantra and Journey Boots are made with responsibly sourced TerraCare Leather. TerraCare® is dedicated to using and developing ecological tanning methods, resulting in lower water and chemical consumption. Specific to innovation, the Snow Mantra Boots are made with Primaloft® Gold Insulation and Primaloft Aerogel, allowing the boots to function under repeated compression, wear and use, as well as retain and provide warmth when wet.

The brand’s 35+ stores will further support the storytelling around the launch with dedicated retail theatre, and interactive and immersive experiences that bring footwear to life as an exhibition. All footwear purchased will be packaged in an exclusive and limited-edition case that emphasizes the ultimate in protection and durability in a functional model. Additionally, 3D vortex murals in select cities around the world literally demonstrate a Force of Nature, while Snapchat users are invited to try-on and test-out each boot through augmented reality.

Canada Goose Footwear is available now in its stores around the world, online at canadagoose.com and at select wholesale partners.

Posted November 12, 2021

Source: Canada Goose

Italian Textile Machinery: Third Quarter 2021 Remains Positive For New Orders

MILAN — November 12, 2021 — The index of orders intake for Italian textile machines, as compiled by ACIMIT, the association that groups together Italian textile machinery producers, rose by 66 percent for the period from July to September 2021 compared to the same period in 2020. The value of the index stood at 119.8 points (basis 2015=100). This growth has concerned both the Italian and foreign markets, with an increase in domestic orders of 130 percent compared to the same period in 2020, and up 54 percent for foreign orders.

However, the index of orders intake shows a 17-percent drop when compared to the previous quarter this year, due mainly to the summer break and a demand for machinery that has stabilized over the last few months.

Regarding these figures, ACIMIT President Alessandro Zucchi said: “Overall, the numbers for new orders remain positive, in spite of a slight decline compared to the months prior to the summer period. This proves that Italian companies have been capable of responding quickly to new market conditions, as has often happened in other historical periods. The ability to adapt, coupled with a remarkable flexibility, are part of our DNA as Italian businesses, not just in our specific sector”.

This positive moment for Italy’s textile machinery sector is expected to continue through to the year’s end, as ACIMIT’s analysis notes. Indeed, Italian machinery manufacturers are forecasting an increase in the orders intake for the last quarter of the year, both abroad and domestically. ACIMIT’s President concludes: “The resumption in trade show attendance we’ve witnessed has improved the climate of confidence among companies. However, we need to make the most of this moment, since the difficulties are not yet entirely behind us. In particular, we must continue on the path of digitalization and sustainability”.

Posted November 12, 2021

Source: ACIMIT — ITALIAN TEXTILE MACHINERY

Lisa Donohue Appointed To Gap Inc. Board Of Directors

Lisa Donohue

SAN FRANCISCO — November 9, 2021 — Gap Inc. announced today that Lisa Donohue has been elected to the Gap Inc. board of directors. Donohue brings 30 years of global consumer, data and digital marketing leadership, including as CEO of two of the world’s leading marketing agencies. She currently serves on the board of directors of NRG Energy, AcuityAds and Brown Jordan as well as She Runs It, a non-profit organization helping women access marketing, media and tech leadership roles.

As the former CEO of Publicis Spine, as well as a member of the Publicis Groupe Management Committee leading the marketing giant’s digital, data, technology and talent capabilities, she fused marketing and enterprise business transformation for clients. Prior to Publicis Spine, Donohue served as global brand president of Starcom Worldwide, and earlier as CEO of Starcom USA, where she led brand vision, client relationships, product and growth. Under her leadership, Starcom built industry-leading digital offerings with its data and analytics practice, oversaw more than $10 billion in media billings and ultimately became the most awarded media agency in the country.

“Ms. Donohue is a highly accomplished executive who brings diversity of thought and experience that will further strengthen the Board’s depth of talent,” said Bobby Martin, executive chairman, Gap Inc. “Her track record of unlocking growth through creativity and science, will complement the Board’s oversight of Gap Inc.’s long-term strategy.”

“I am inspired to join the board of directors of Gap Inc., an iconic company – and its four powerful, global brands — with deep connections to consumers and a commitment to people, purpose and inclusion,” Donohue said. “I look forward to supporting this organization and its teams, and being part of Gap Inc.’s compelling next chapter.”

“Lisa is a brand-building visionary and proven authority in driving business transformation through customer-centric leadership,” said Sonia Syngal, CEO of Gap Inc. “Her unique perspective along with her passion for driving social impact will benefit our future growth strategies.”

Posted November 11, 2021

Source: Gap Inc.

Milliken & Company Announces Carbon-Neutral Flooring Portfolio

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — November 11, 2021 — Today, global manufacturer Milliken & Company announced a new milestone in its ongoing sustainability journey. All Milliken carpet, luxury vinyl tile and entryway tile products around the globe are now carbon neutral, offsetting carbon emissions in raw materials and manufacturing carbon footprint* using Verified Carbon Standard credits. This announcement, which anchors Milliken’s Flooring Business’s M/PACT initiative, is yet another part of the global manufacturer’s overarching commitment to sustainability, and specifically addresses carbon reduction to continue to support the fight against climate change.

“A healthy future requires a commitment to big goals and developing world-class expertise,” shared Halsey Cook, president and CEO for Milliken & Company. “By utilizing our materials science expertise across a range of industries, we can develop sustainable products. We can also ensure that we are doing our utmost to manufacture those products in a responsible manner. It will be collaborations and collective efforts that move the needle on sustainability.”

As part of M/PACT — a carbon-neutral initiative spearheaded by Milliken’s Flooring Business  —the business commits to reductions in Milliken’s carbon emissions and waste output. “We are continuously working to remove unnecessary materials from our products, use recycled materials and reduce our dependence on oil,” according to Jim McCallum, president, Milliken’s Flooring Business and executive vice president of Milliken & Company. “Our WellBac™ carpet products are Red List Free, containing no harmful chemicals, and all our flooring products have 100-percent transparency in materials to 100 ppm. We prioritize sourcing materials locally and manufacture our products regionally to decrease shipping distances.” Milliken hopes to develop long-term partnerships with architects, designers, corporate clients and others around the world who share the company’s commitment to sustainability.

In recent years, Milliken’s Flooring Business has captivated the interior design community with the beauty and performance of its product lines. Sustainability is another element of great design. “Our M/PACT program proves that flooring can achieve a designer’s aesthetic and performance objectives without sacrificing sustainability considerations,” adds McCallum. “We all have the ability to make an impact, and we look forward to continuing the work and the dialogue surrounding climate change through our M/PACT initiative.”

* As calculated and verified through an ISO14025/ISO14040 compliant LCA and published in third-party EPD.

Posted November 11, 2021

Source: Milliken & Company

American Hygienics Corp. (AHC) Leads Drafting Of The Flushable Nonwoven Materials Standard

SHANGHAI, China — September 13, 2021 — The China National Textile and Apparel Council (CNTAC) officially released the “Test Method and Evaluation for Flushability of Disposable Sanitary Nonwoven Materials.”(GB/T 40181-2021).

The standards apply to the biodegradable and dispersible disposable sanitary non-woven materials and specify the test method and evaluation.

American Hygienics Corporation (AHC) played a leading role in the drafting, whose development team has been exploring innovations and application developments of nonwoven materials and eco-sustainable solutions

“We’ve learned a lot from what’s going on in more advanced markets of where they have undergone problems with mislabeling of such products that don’t comply with regulations or make a false claim,” said Nilesh Parmar, CEO and founder of American Hygienics Corp. “There was no real flushability regulation, so standards are necessary for future growth. With a proper standard in place, the industry will be regulated and policed. I am extremely honored that AHC and my team could be part of this, and we are confident that this standard may soon become widely adopted.”

The new standard will have a significant impact on wet wipes manufacturing and innovation, this also posed great opportunities in product needs and immense challenges in exploring new models of industry practice.

Posted November 11, 2021

Source: American Hygienics Corporation (AHC)

YKK Europe Announce The Development Of A New Zipper With Both Stainless-Steel Slider And Open Parts

RUNCORN, United Kingdom — November11, 2021 — YKK Europe is pleased to announce the development of a new zipper with both stainless-steel slider and open parts. Available from all YKK offices, zippers with this slider can be used in various industries like boat building, sail making and industrial laundry.

The stainless-steel slider and open parts contain molybdenum, forming an alloy which drastically enhances corrosion resistance, especially for more saline or chloride-exposed environments

This type of stainless steel is used in many industrial applications involving processing chemicals as well as in high-saline environments such as coastal regions and outdoor areas where de-icing salts are common, making this coil zipper stronger, more sustainable and longer lasting. The slider is replaceable.

Posted November 11, 2021

Source: YKK Europe Ltd

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