LUND, Sweden — February 19, 2025 — Cellevate AB, a biotech company developing next-generation cell culture systems to revolutionize biomanufacturing, announced today the U.S. launch of its lead product, Cellevat3d® nanofiber microcarriers, at the third Viral Vector Process Development & Manufacturing Summit, taking place in Boston Massachusetts between February 19 and 21.
The news comes just three months after the company’s highly successful European pre-launch, which was announced at BIO-Europe in Stockholm, Sweden, in November 2024.
Cellevat3d nanofiber microcarriers represent a new category of cell culture systems that have 60 times the surface area of conventional cell growth systems, increasing yield and productivity in upstream bioprocessing of viral vector-based applications to previously unseen levels. They are engineered for stirred tank bioreactors and support a wide range of applications including gene therapy, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), organoid formation, HEK-based recombinant proteins, and vaccine production.
Speaking on the news, Cellevate CEO, Laura Chirica said: “Expanding into the U.S. this soon after our European pre-launch event is a response to the overwhelming market need for innovative, disruptive yet scalable and sustainable technologies in biomanufacturing that provide high yields and faster processes with high productivity. We have the potential to revolutionize cell culture applications with Cellevat3d nanofiber cell culture systems and the therapeutic classes associated with them: at this year’s VVPDM Summit, we will showcase this.”
To celebrate the launch, Cellevate is hosting a lunch on Thursday, February 20, between 12 and 1 p.m., where the North American team is presenting on the novel upstream nanofiber-based cell culture systems. The team will also present a poster summarizing all the validation results. For questions, the team will meet the attendees in the Cellevate booth.
BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — February 19, 2025 — Prime Line, a supplier in the promotional products industry, is thrilled to announce the addition of Cristi Meyer as the new director of National/Strategic Accounts. With 30 years of experience on both the distributor and supplier sides, Meyer brings a wealth of expertise and deep industry relationships to the role.
Cristi Meyer
Meyer has built an impressive career, spending 15 years at Staples Promotional Products, 13 years at Sweda (now SnugZ), and two years at AAA Innovations. Throughout her tenure, she has been dedicated to working with top National Accounts, forging strong relationships with Account Executives, and delivering a solution-based approach to meet client needs.
In her new role at Prime Line, Meyer will be traveling across the country to represent the company with several elite Strategic Accounts, continuing to strengthen partnerships and drive growth.
“Cristi is a fantastic addition to our team,” said Eric Levin, General Manager of Prime Line. “Her deep industry knowledge, extensive network, and strategic mindset make her the perfect fit to support our National Accounts. We’re confident that her passion and expertise will enhance our partnerships and bring incredible value to our customers.”
When she’s not on the road meeting with clients, Meyer can often be found at a concert with friends, enjoying time on the water, or playing a round of golf.
Prime Line is excited to welcome Meyer and looks forward to the impact she will make in her new role.
WASHINGTON — February 19, 2025 — The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Katherine White as the organization’s new vice president of Policy, effective February 18, 2025.
As vice president of Policy at NCTO, Katherine White will work on critical policy priorities to the U.S. textile industry and provide expertise and support to the association’s extensive lobbying efforts in D.C.
“We are excited to welcome Katie to NCTO,” said NCTO President and CEO Kim Glas. “Her extensive expertise and ongoing engagement with the U.S. textile industry is instrumental in advancing our advocacy agenda and supporting this vital industry.”
“I am thrilled and grateful to have the opportunity to contribute to NCTO’s advocacy on behalf of the U.S. textile industry,” White said. “The textile industry is a critical, strategic manufacturing sector and a key contributor to our national defense and the overall U.S. economy. I look forward to working with the NCTO team and our textile association members to advance priority issues and opportunities that impact the industry’s competitiveness and growth.”
White recently served as the U.S. Trade Representative’s (USTR) Chief Textiles and Apparel Negotiator and previously served on the House Ways and Means Committee as an International Trade Policy Advisor.
In her roles at USTR and on the Ways and Means Committee, White worked specifically on trade policy matters, including de minimis and customs enforcement, and helped shape U.S. trade laws. She also participated in the negotiation, implementation, and enforcement of U.S. trade agreements, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Further, White has worked closely with the textile and apparel industry during the development of trade legislation on Capitol Hill.
She has also previously worked at the International Trade Administration at the Department of Commerce and at the White House on the National Economic Council.
White is a North Carolina native and earned a Master of Public Policy from Duke University and Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and International Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Posted: February 19, 2025
Source: The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO)
LOS ANGELES — February 18, 2025 — BELLA+CANVAS, supplier of premium blank apparel, proudly announces the expansion of its Heavyweight Collection with eight new styles across three distinct fabric weights: 6 oz, 7.5 oz, and 10 oz. Designed with creators in mind, this collection redefines heavyweight essentials with precision craftsmanship, bold styling, and the versatility to serve as the ultimate canvas for self-expression.
BELLA+CANVAS Heavyweight Collection
The Heavyweight Collection: Bold, Confident, Curated For Creators
The Heavyweight Collection isn’t just about weight—it’s about presence. These are not basic blanks; they are the foundation of elevated streetwear, artistic embellishment, and everyday essential style. Crafted from superior materials and built with an emphasis on fit and durability, each piece empowers creators, artists, and brands to make a statement.
Expanding on the original 6 oz tees, the collection now includes heavier 7.5 oz and 10 oz garments, offering even greater versatility for layering, customization, and embroidery. The collection includes:
6 Oz Heavyweight Cotton:
3010 UNISEX HEAVYWEIGHT TEE
3511 UNISEX HEAVYWEIGHT LONG SLEEVE TEE
6110 WOMEN’S HEAVYWEIGHT TEE
3010Y YOUTH HEAVYWEIGHT TEE
3511Y YOUTH HEAVYWEIGHT LONG SLEEVE TEE
7.5 Oz Heavyweight Cotton:
4610 UNISEX HEAVYWEIGHT TEE
4651 UNISEX HEAVYWEIGHT LONG SLEEVE TEE
10 Oz Heavyweight Fleece:
4719 UNISEX HEAVYWEIGHT PULLOVER HOODIE
4711 UNISEX HEAVYWEIGHT CREWNECK SWEATSHIRT
4737 UNISEX HEAVYWEIGHT SWEATPANT
What Sets The Heavyweight Collection Apart?
Perfected Fit & Construction: Every garment is designed with precision tailoring, ensuring an elevated silhouette and supreme comfort.
Premium Heavyweight Fabrics: Built to last, our 6 oz, 7.5 oz, and 10 oz fabrics provide structure without stiffness, allowing for effortless styling.
Versatility for Creators: The heavyweight fabric construction allows for customizations, including embroidery, screen printing, and appliqué, making it a go-to choice for brands and designers.
Inspired by Creators, Designed for Impact: This collection is a direct response to the needs of our community—artists, musicians, and streetwear visionaries—who require apparel that stands out and performs.
A Collection Rooted In Creative Expression
The Heavyweight Collection is more than apparel—it’s a movement. With influence drawn from street culture, skate, music, and art, these styles are designed to be worn with confidence and individuality.
“The expansion of the Heavyweight Collection is about giving our diverse, creative community a new canvas to be the most impactful creators,” says Michelle Yu, Creative Director at BELLA+CANVAS. “As a brand, we’ve always strived to be best in class and it shows in the silhouettes and quality of our blanks.”
The Heavyweight Collection is available now. To explore the full range, visit BELLACANVAS.com.
BEAVERTON, Ore. & LOS ANGELES — February 18, 2025 — Nike, Inc. and SKIMS are teaming up to disrupt the global fitness and activewear industry with the launch of NikeSKIMS, a new brand that will deliver industry leading innovation. The long-term partnership will introduce an extensive product line that invites more athletes and women into the world of sport and movement. NikeSKIMS will debut its first collection in the United States this Spring, available online and in select retail locations, with a global rollout planned for 2026.
NikeSKIMS brings together Nike’s world-class approach to advanced innovation, sport science, and athlete insights with SKIMS’ obsession with the female form and pioneering approach to creating solutions for every body. The brand’s shared vision celebrates every dimension of athleticism, from elite to everyday athletes*. Products will be crafted to fit every curve and enhance the body’s natural form.
“We’re energized by the opportunity to build a new brand and shake things up for the next generation of athletes* with NikeSKIMS.,” said Heidi O’Neill, President of Consumer, Product & Brand, Nike, Inc. “This partnership brings together the best of both brands and unlocks an incredible opportunity to disrupt the industry with our shared passion and commitment to innovation. We will invite even more athletes* into sport and movement with product that makes them feel strong and sexy.”
“Over the past five years, SKIMS has redefined the intimates and loungewear industry,” says Jens Grede, Co-Founder & CEO, SKIMS. “Now, by partnering with Nike, the undisputed leader in athletic performance and innovation, we’re poised to create a new standard in the global fitness and activewear market. This partnership will empower individuals to express themselves authentically, merging SKIMS’ focus on body confidence and self-expression with Nike’s relentless pursuit of excellence.”
“Nike and SKIMS share a deep commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and pushing boundaries, driven by an unwavering belief in the power of women,” says Kim Kardashian, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer, SKIMS. “This partnership is the culmination of that shared vision, delivering product that is meticulously designed to sculpt and perform for every body. Every single detail has been obsessed over and carefully considered. We’re incredibly excited to unveil our first collection this Spring.”
Through this partnership, NikeSKIMS will deliver industry-leading innovation and an extensive fitness product line – including apparel, footwear and accessories – designed to meet the unique needs and preferences of athletes* around the world.
SEOUL, South Korea — February 18, 2025 — SK chemicals, the first company in the world to successfully mass-produce chemically recycled materials, has embarked on establishing a comprehensive plastic recycling solution center in Korea. This center will encompass the production of circular recyclable raw materials, demonstration research, and material production.
The company announced on February 18 (KST) that it will establish a Recycle Innovation Center (RIC) at its Ulsan plant where eco-friendly chemical materials are produced. The company will invest in new pilot facilities for the chemical decomposition of waste plastics to produce recycled BHET (r-BHET), linking them with existing commercial copolyester production facilities.
Aerial view of SK chemicals’ Ulsan plant where the Recycle Innovation Center will be constructed.
This marks SK chemicals’ first depolymerization technology-based recycling center in Korea.
The newly constructed depolymerization pilot facility will produce recyclable plastic raw materials (r-BHET) from waste plastics. This facility will validate commercialization technology for various types of low-quality waste plastics that were previously difficult to recycle using conventional methods, expanding beyond typical transparent bottles to include fibers, films, and automotive parts. In particular, the recycling of textiles is known to be highly challenging field due to the diverse forms and types of materials mixed in a single garment. This includes not only polyester yarn but also other fibers such as cotton, as well as various accessories like buttons.
The depolymerization pilot facility is scheduled to begin operations in 2026 with an annual production capacity of 50 tons. BHET(r-BHET), an intermediate raw material for polyester-based materials such as PET and copolyester, is integral to SK chemicals’ chemical recycling technology.
With the construction of the RIC, SK chemicals will establish an integrated research and production system at its Ulsan plant, covering everything from circular recycled raw materials (r-BHET) to circular recycled materials. All processes from depolymerization to demonstration research, polymerization, and mass production will be organically integrated at one location. This is supported by a polymerization pilot that produces a circular recycled PET and a commercial production facility capable of mass-producing circular recycled copolyester.
SK chemicals explained, “Since different industries such as automotive, electronics, and fashion have varying types of waste plastics and require different plastic qualities and properties, it is crucial to have the technology and capability to quickly validate and commercialize depolymerization and material production processes tailored to each industry. With the establishment of the RIC, we will be able to provide faster and more flexible solutions to the complex challenges demanded by various industries based on our foundational technology.”
Completion of RIC is expected to accelerate implementation of SK chemicals’ Closed Loop solution.
Closed Loop refers to a complete circulation system where waste plastics previously destined for landfills or incineration are subjected to collection, crushing, cleaning, depolymerization, and polymerization to be reproduced in a form identical to petroleum-based plastics, which are then used to manufacture products such as electronics and beverage containers.
While recycled plastics from collected waste PET bottles are primarily repurposed into fibers for initial recycling, most fiber products currently end up being incinerated or landfilled after use.
Depolymerization-based circular recycled materials are recognized as a technology capable of achieving a complete circulation structure. Depolymerization-based technology breaks down waste plastics at the molecular level to achieve properties and quality identical to petroleum-based materials. This enables water bottles to be recycled back into water bottles and waste electronic plastics back into electronic products.
By leveraging RIC, SK chemicals strengthens its cooperation with the beverage, cosmetics, electronics, and automotive sectors to secure waste plastic resource circulation infrastructure and stable waste resource supply chains. The company is strategically developing industry-optimized depolymerization technology and expertise to establish a foundation for large-scale production facilities.
Ahn Jae-hyun, CEO of SK chemicals, stated, “Establishing an integrated research and production system from recycled raw materials to recycled plastics will be a crucial turning point in accelerating innovation in the plastic ecosystem’s circular recycling. Through close cooperation with companies in food and beverage, automotive, electronics, and fashion sectors, we will develop comprehensive resource circulation systems for each industry.”
SK chemicals has a strong track record of innovation in recycling: It was the first globally to commercialize circular recycled copolyester using chemically recycled raw materials (2021); the first in Korea to supply circular recycled PET (2022); and has established a solid production base for recycled waste plastic business by acquiring a stake in the Chinese company Shuye Environmental Technology and establishing SK chemicals Shantou.
CARY, N.C. — February 18, 2025 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, announced registration has opened for the World of Wipes® (WOW) International Conference, July 21-24, at the Hilton Columbus Downtown in Ohio.
This year’s theme, Wipe to Win: Innovating for a Sustainable and Profitable Future, will feature industry leaders discussing pivotal challenges and opportunities, including business profitability, sustainability, and flushability.
Attendees at WOW 2025 will gain vital insights into formulation and fragrance innovations, specialty wipes, retailer perspectives, tariffs and regulations, recycling advancements, and new technologies, and market trends and statistics.
WOW 2025 offers a unique opportunity for end-use wipe manufacturers, converters, and suppliers across the supply chain to connect, collaborate on new products and applications, and explore the latest trends, challenges, and breakthroughs shaping the wipes industry.
Highlights of WOW 2025 include:
Pre-Conference Webinars – Gain essential insights into trade-related issues leading to WOW 2025. Program updates will be posted on the INDA website.
WIPES Academy, July 21-22 – Attend 12 expert-led sessions by Heidi Beatty, Chief Executive Officer, Crown Abbey, covering all aspects from wipes product concept to commercialization.
Tabletop Exhibits and Lightning Talks, July 22-23 – Experience a dynamic showcase of the latest innovations. Tabletop exhibitors will present five-minute product overviews, followed by networking during the evening reception.
World of Wipes Innovation Award®, July 22 and 24 – Celebrate excellence by recognizing innovations that leverage nonwoven fabric/technology to enhance wipe product functionality and expand applications. Nominations are open until May 19. Finalists will present their products on July 22, and the winner will be unveiled on July 24.
Conference details will be released at a later date. For registration, tabletop exhibits, or sponsorship information, visit www.worldofwipes.org. For questions, contact the Registrar, registrar@inda.org.
Posted: February 18, 2025
Source: INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry
TOKYO — February 18, 2025 — YKK Corp. announces its achievement of the highest “A List” rating in the 2024 Climate Change survey conducted by the global environmental disclosure nonprofit, CDP. This marks the second consecutive year YKK has received this prestigious recognition.
YKK’s Sustainability Vision 2050 aims for climate neutrality by 2050. The company plans to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions — Scope 1, 2, and 3 — by 90 percent from 2018 levels, in line with the net-zero target outlined by the Science Based Targets (SBT) initiative. This acknowledgement from CDP underscores the global acknowledgment of YKK’s proactive climate action and transparent information disclosure. YKK will continue to collaborate with customers and local communities to accelerate efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions throughout the supply chain, contributing to the realization of a sustainable society.
Comment from Minoru Maeda, vice president and general manager of the Environment & Safety Management Department, YKK Corp.
“Guided by the YKK Philosophy of the CYCLE OF GOODNESS®, which states ‘No one prospers without rendering benefit to others,’ we are dedicated to building a sustainable society through our core business. In December 2024, we received validation from the SBT initiative for our net-zero target. To achieve net-zero GHG emissions throughout our supply chain by FY2050, we are implementing various measures such as energy conservation and renewable energy, while maintaining high transparency in our information disclosure. We will continue to actively work to reduce our GHG emissions and environmental impact throughout our value chain to enhance our trustworthiness with all stakeholders, including our environmentally conscious customers and suppliers.”
Progress on the YKK Sustainability Vision 2050
YKK has laid out sustainability goals to achieve climate neutrality and coexistence with nature by 2050. In addition to its efforts to achieve targets across five key areas—climate change, material resources, water resources, chemical management, and respect for people—and to accomplish ten related Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs), YKK annually discloses the achievement status of those efforts in its Integrated Report, “This is YKK.”
The YKK Philosophy of the CYCLE OF GOODNESS® and Sustainability
YKK is dedicated to fostering a sustainable society through its core business operations. This commitment is rooted in the CYCLE OF GOODNESS® corporate philosophy established by YKK’s founder, Tadao Yoshida. His belief that “No one prospers without rendering benefit to others” encapsulates YKK’s ethos of mutual prosperity with society, customers, related industries, and employees—a mindset that aligns seamlessly with sustainability principles.
Tadao Yoshida consistently imparted this philosophy to his employees, expressing it in various ways. His analogy, “business is like building a bridge,” reflects the CYCLE OF GOODNESS® and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing that societal benefit is essential for personal prosperity. His statements, “manufacturing like clear spring water” and “trash can be a great resource if it is utilized with ingenuity,” highlight environmental consciousness, while “the strength of the forest is greater than the trees” underscores respect for human rights and individuality.
Despite the evolving context and circumstances since Yoshida’s time, his sustainability-oriented philosophy remains central to YKK’s management, continuing to guide the company more than 90 years later.
İZMIR, Turkey — February 18, 2025 — Better Cotton, a cotton sustainability initiative, has launched registration for its annual conference, which is set to take place at the Swissôtel Büyük Efes Hotel in İzmir, Türkiye, June 18-19.
The Better Cotton Conference 2025 will bring together farmers, industry leaders, policymakers and innovators for two days of bold ideas, collaboration and action.
Alan McClay, CEO at Better Cotton, said: “The cotton sector is at a turning point. From climate volatility and biodiversity loss to shifting regulations and increased supply chain scrutiny, the challenges are mounting – but as are the opportunities for meaningful change. The Better Cotton Conference is where the entire cotton ecosystem comes together to tackle these issues, challenge conventional thinking and shape a more resilient future.”
This year’s conference will comprise four themes:
Nurturing Equality – A Fairer Future for Farming Communities;
Restoring the Environment – Turning Climate Commitments into Action;
Deepening Impact with Data – Unlocking Insights for a Stronger Cotton Industry; and
Shaping our Future – Policy, Collaboration and Industry Evolution.
The first, ‘Nurturing Equality’, will delve into the social and economic realities of cotton farming. In addition to discussions around ensuring decent work and supporting livelihoods, a session on gender will highlight how prioritizing women’s empowerment is not just a social imperative, but a strategic approach to enhancing sustainability and productivity in cotton production.
The ‘Restoring the Environment’ theme will follow, with a focus on climate action for a biodiverse future. Both regenerative agriculture and climate finance will be in scope, with the latter session set to define the barriers and mechanisms that can streamline finance back to farming communities.
Day two will start with discussions around ‘Deepening Impact with Data’, as speakers debate whether traceability creates opportunities for farmers to benefit beyond compliance, before conversation turns to digitalization and its potential to improve efficiency, sustainability and livelihoods.
The event will close with the “Shaping our Future” theme, as the conference takes a step back to consider the macro level developments influencing the cotton sector’s direction of travel, from certification and sustainability claim requirements, to the emerging regulations that underpin them.
McClay added: “I’m excited to return to Türkiye after a successful 2024 outing, and welcome attendees both new and old. We’re also thrilled to have USB Certification as our headline sponsor for a second consecutive year. Their support, along with other valued sponsors, will help make this conference an impactful gathering for the industry.”
Nesrin Serin, USB Certification’s CEO & founder, commented: “As the Headline Sponsor, USB Certification is delighted to support and participate in this conference, bringing together industry professionals to exchange insights and collaborate on sustainable practices. This event provides an excellent platform to highlight and reinforce our shared commitment with Better Cotton to improving cotton farming practices, promoting responsible sourcing, and driving positive change towards a more sustainable future for the industry.”
Better Cotton extends a heartfelt thank you to all of the conference’s confirmed sponsors thus far: San JFS, Source Intelligence, Kipas, the National Association of Cotton Ginners of Benin (SFP Group), and Cotton Connect.
TONACATEPEQUE, El Salvador — February 12, 2025 — Intradeco Holdings announces the completion of Phase 2 of its investment through its subsidiary Apopa Energy.
Intradeco Holdings is pleased to announce the successful completion of Phase 2 of its strategic investment through its fully owned subsidiary Apopa Energy. This significant milestone includes a $15,000,000 investment in 10 megawatts of solar energy and the development of a community sports campus in the region. This achievement fulfills Intradeco’s 2021 commitment to adding 25 megawatts of solar energy to El Salvador’s grid, as well as 5 megawatts in Honduras.
Aerial view of Apopa Energy plant and Sport complex
Camila Argueta, manager of Apopa Energy, commented, “This investment demonstrates our dedication to sustainable energy and community development. We are excited about the positive impact on the environment and the local community.”
Since its initial investment in 2021, Intradeco Holdings has committed over $30 million toward sustainable energy projects. The improved investment climate and reduced violence in El Salvador have made this project possible in a previously challenging region, reinforcing the country’s growing role as a leader in renewable energy.
The addition of the solar energy project is an essential step toward furthering the development of green energy in the region. Furthermore, the new sports campus aims to provide valuable recreational opportunities for the local community, ensuring a holistic, sustainable approach to both environmental and social well-being.
This achievement reflects Intradeco’s unwavering commitment to renewable energy and community development, underscoring its mission to make a lasting, positive impact in the regions it serves. Additionally, the new sports complex will offer important recreational opportunities for the local community.
Intradeco Holdings
With over 40 years in the textile industry, Intradeco Holdings is a global vertical manufacturing group offering high-quality apparel across a range of categories, including baby clothing, casual wear, thermal underwear, outerwear, and more. Serving major retailers in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, Intradeco is committed to sustainability, earning recognition from key partners and retailers. With state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, Intradeco drives innovation in renewable energy, regenerative yarns, and sustainable practices, while embracing social responsibility by supporting various charities and foundations globally.
LUND, Sweden — February 19, 2025 — Cellevate AB, a biotech company developing next-generation cell culture systems to revolutionize biomanufacturing, announced today the U.S. launch of its lead product, Cellevat3d® nanofiber microcarriers, at the third Viral Vector Process Development & Manufacturing Summit, taking place in Boston Massachusetts between February 19 and 21.
