Jeanologia Takes Laser Technology To New Creative Heights At Kingpins Amsterdam

VALENCIA, Spain — April 16, 2025 — Jeanologia, a global supplier of technological innovation for the textile industry, introduce its new concept “ONE TECHNOLOGY. ALL POSSIBILITIES” at Kingpins Amsterdam. This statement of intent emphasizes laser technology as a tool for expression, efficiency, and transformation. One system, infinite possibilities to redefine denim and bring any creative vision to life.

At this year’s Kingpins in Amsterdam, Jeanologia presents a fresh perspective on laser technology not just a technique, but as an essential tool for designers, brands, and laundries looking to differentiate themselves, innovate, and embrace a more conscious, efficient, and emotionally connected model.

At its booth, the company showcases the creative and technical potential of laser through an exclusive capsule collection, centered around three key concepts:

Pure Vintage: A tribute to classic denim. Garments that recapture the essence of authenticity by recreating natural wear effects with impeccable realism. Laser technology, combined with the Atmos washing process, achieves finishes that evoke decades of history, honoring both aesthetics and the environment.

Creative Possibilities: An innovative concept that positions laser as a medium for artistic expression, unlocking new creative possibilities. Vector designs, hyper-realistic images, drill effects, and visual textures stimulate the imagination, proving that technology can be both emotional and at the forefront of creative vanguard.

Denim Métiers by Jeanologia: As a special highlight, Jeanologia presents ‘Denim Métiers’, a unique exhibition creating a bridge between denim as an industrial material and haute couture. Conceptual garments that elevate denim into an artistic, refined dimension, creating a distinctive language that breaks both technical and aesthetic boundaries.

In the words of Carme Santacruz, Jeanologia’s creative director: “With ‘ONE TECHNOLOGY. ALL POSSIBILITIES’, we aim to go beyond the traditional technical view of laser and reveal its true essence as a versatile, emotional, and artistic tool, capable of adapting to every brand, designer, and production challenge.”

With this new proposal, Jeanologia continues to strengthen its position as a leader in sustainable innovation, pushing the textile industry toward a more creative, efficient, and conscious future.

Jeanologia: 30 years leading the transformation of the textile industry

Since its founding, Jeanologia has been on a mission to transform the textile industry into a more ethical, sustainable, and efficient model. The company works closely with brands, retailers, and suppliers on this transformative journey, offering disruptive technologies, innovative software, and a new operational model. Their groundbreaking solutions, including laser technology, G2 ozone, Dancing Box, e-flow, H2Zero, and ColorBox, have redefined garment design and finishing standards, eliminating polluting processes and significantly reducing the use of water, energy, and chemicals. Thanks to these advancements, Jeanologia has saved millions of liters of water and eliminated harmful substances, turning its vision of a truly sustainable textile industry into reality.

In 2025, Jeanologia celebrates its 30th anniversary, marking a legacy of three decades of sustainable innovation. From the introduction of its laser technology in 1999, which revolutionized denim finishing, to its current challenge of implementing a revolutionary sustainable garment dyeing process, the Spanish company has pioneered solutions that not only benefit the environment but also optimize operational costs. Looking ahead, Jeanologia remains committed to creating an eco-efficient and ethical textile future, encouraging all industry stakeholders to join its Mission Zero initiative: dehydrate and detoxify the textile industry. No more water and toxic chemicals used in garment finishing around the world

Posted: April 16, 2025

Source: Jeanologia

Chargeurs PCC: The Expansion Continues With The Introduction Of Five Key New Executives

PARIS — April 16, 2025 — Chargeurs PCC, global manufacturer of textiles, interlining, and inner components for apparel, continues to strengthen its global leadership with the appointment of new executives in strategic positions: Riccardo Cossu as general manager EMEA of Chargeurs PCC and Laure Sénéquier-Crozet as general manager of the Senfa Cilander division.

The company therefore continues the path of growth and innovation, consolidating its presence in the textile-clothing and coating sectors. The new appointments are an integral part of this evolution and are designed to create a more agile and effective organization, helping to optimise processes and support the global development and consolidation strategy.

In particular, the appointment of Riccardo Cossu is strategic in stimulating growth in a dynamic and competitive market, where international know-how and experience, especially in the field of films and bonding tapes and inner components, play an increasingly crucial role. Similarly, the addition of Laure Sénéquier-Crozet is expected to enhance the Senfa Cilander business unit’s performance, taking advantage of new technologies and the wealth of expertise developed through Cilander’s recent acquisitions.

Alongside these crucial appointments, the executive team has been strengthened with Dmitry Fedorov as Deputy CIO for Chargeurs PCC and Claudia Rovati and Elisabetta Nicoli as Global Sales Director and Supply Chain Manager of the Shirting Division, which includes the fabric brands Alumo, Brennet and Eugster & Huber.

“These appointments align with our strategy to differentiate ourselves in the textile-clothing, technical fabrics and coating industry through unique know-how and a broad product offering of the highest quality and best performance.” – Declares Gianluca Tanzi, CEO and Chairman of Chargeurs PCC .

Gianluca Tanzi, CEO and Chairman

“We aim to offer increasingly cutting-edge solutions and customised customer service. The introduction of these new executives with solid global experience will be decisive in advancing our ambitious growth strategy and consolidating Chargeurs PCC’s leading position.”

Last year, Chargeurs PCC completed the acquisition of two business units of the renowned company Cilander, internationally celebrated for its expertise in the supply of high-end fabrics, Swiss traditional excellence, and finishing solutions for complex materials. These assets, which range from top-of-the-line shirting fabrics to outdoor textiles and innovative finishing options, represent a fundamental added value for the further expansion and diversification of the company’s offerings.

Riccardo Cossu

Riccardo Cossu

With solid international experience, Cossu stands out for his leadership and growth orientation.

He brings leadership experience from global companies including Framis, Avery Dennison, Johnson & Johnson.

As General Manager EMEA at Chargeurs PCC Fashion Technology, he will be responsible for the commercial strategy and expansion in the EMEA markets, building on his solid academic and professional experience, and his natural propensity for change and innovation, which are fundamental elements in facing the challenges of an ever-changing global market.

 

Laure Sénéquier-Crozet

Laure Sénéquier-Crozet

With 20 years of experience in international environments, Sénéquier-Crozet has developed soft skills in technical textiles, chemical and plastic industries, architecture and healthcare.

She has led sales, business development, and marketing strategies for global companies such as Serge Ferrari and Aliaxis and provided consultancy through her company to several other businesses such as Vermeiren Group and Van Genechten Packaging.

Now, as General Manager of the Senfa Cilander division, her focus will be on enhancing innovation and growth, drawing on her proven ability to build strong relationships with key accounts and seize new development opportunities.

Dmitry Fedorov

Dmitry Fedorov

An information systems expert with over 20 years of experience in the retail, logistics, FMCG and e-commerce sectors, Fedorov has held leadership roles in international companies such as Unilever, Carrefour and Castorama, leading digital transformation and process automation projects.

Today, as Deputy CIO of Chargeurs PCC, he is engaged in modernising information systems and optimising digital operations on a global scale.

 

Claudia Rovati

Claudia Rovati

A professional with decades of experience in the textile industry, Rovati has held commercial and product development roles in international markets, including France, Asia, India, and the USA.

She has collaborated with leading companies such as Cotonificio Albini, Ratti, and Weba, specialising in sales strategies and key client management.

Since 2021, she has been the Sales Manager for France, India, and Asia for Alumo, Brennet, and Eugster&Huber brands. She now holds the role of Sales Director of the Shirting Division at Chargeurs PCC.

Elisabetta Nicoli

Elisabetta Nicoli

A professional with more than twenty years experience in the textile industry, Nicoli has held positions of responsibility in production management, supply chain and quality control.

She spent most of her career at Cotonificio Albini, where she led processes of industrialisation, optimisation, and operational management.

As Supply Chain Manager at Chargeurs PCC’s Shirting Divison, she will oversee the operational strategy, supplier management and optimisation of production processes.

Posted: April 16, 2025

Source: Chargeurs PCC Fashion Technologies

EURATEX And FTTH Sign Strategic Partnership To Strengthen Euro-Mediterranean Textile Cooperation

BRUSSELS — April 16, 2025 — On Tuesday April 15, EURATEX (the European Apparel and Textile Confederation) and FTTH (Fédération Tunisienne du Textile et de l’Habillement) formalized a new chapter in Euro-Mediterranean collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Monastir, Tunisia. The agreement reinforces the commitment of both parties to closer industrial cooperation, with a strong focus on sustainability, investment, and trade integration under the revised Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention.

The signature ceremony took place at the Monastir Technopole in the presence of senior representatives, including the Governor of Monastir, the Tunisian Minister of Industry, the EU Ambassador to Tunisia, and business leaders from both regions. It marked a significant step towards establishing a structured dialogue and actionable cooperation between two key textile industries, in the context of global supply chain shifts and increasing demand for sustainable production.

“Europe and Tunisia share a long-standing partnership. While our systems may differ, our industries are deeply complementary. In a time of regulatory transformation and increasing environmental ambitions, working together is essential,” said EURATEX President Mario Jorge Machado. “This MoU offers a practical framework to improve competitiveness, drive innovation, and reinforce the resilience of our shared textile ecosystem.”

The agreement also reflects a broader vision to revitalize and reinforce industrial partnerships across the Mediterranean. In an evolving geopolitical and economic context, Tunisia stands out as a trusted and strategically located partner. Deepening regional value chains, reducing dependency on distant sourcing, and fostering nearshoring solutions are not only economic imperatives, but also critical components of building a more sustainable and resilient European textile industry. The MoU with FTTH embodies this ambition by promoting a Mediterranean model of cooperation rooted in proximity, trust, and shared economic interests.

The Tunisian textile and apparel sector is a cornerstone of the national economy, accounting for over 160,000 jobs and more than 1,600 active companies. In 2024, Tunisia exported 2.5 billion euros in textiles and clothing to the EU, confirming its strategic position as a nearshoring partner. The MoU supports Tunisia’s ambition to become a modern, circular and competitive textile hub, while encouraging investment and industrial synergies with European partners.

As the European textile sector undergoes profound transformation, reinforced cooperation with neighboring countries like Tunisia is essential to shape a more sustainable and strategic regional supply chain.

Posted: April 16, 2025

Source: EURATEX — The European Apparel And Textile Confederation

India’s Sports Textiles Industry To Step Into Spotlight With The Launch Of ‘Sporttech Pavilion’ At Techtextil India 2025

MUMBAI/MAHARASHTRA, India — April 14, 2025 — Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt. Ltd. and Concept N Strategies has announced partnership to introduce “Sporttech pavilion” — a dedicated area showcasing sports and activewear textiles and accessories under Techtextil India 2025. It is a premier platform dedicated to the rapidly expanding sports and fitness textiles at Techtextil India 2025.

This strategic alliance aims to provide a major boost to the segment aiming to showcase innovations in specialty fabrics, yarns, sportswear and gear, high-performance textiles and sustainable materials, generating remarkable opportunities for the entire textile universe, especially, for sportswear brands.

The Indian sports and fitness textiles sector are transforming remarkably, driven by the evolving consumer lifestyles, advanced material innovations and growing government support. Amidst this backdrop, this partnership marks a significant leap of growth for the specialized textiles segment, which is envisioned as a game-changer in the Indian sports and activewear market.

The demand for cutting-edge moisture-wicking fabrics, compression wear, breathable textiles and sustainable sports and fitness fabrics are at an all-time high. Rising health consciousness consumers and increasing appetite for high-performance sportswear, are also contributing to the growing demand. This makes Techtextil India 2025 the perfect launchpad for this specialized segment. This collaboration seamlessly aligns with the growing push for self-reliance in textile manufacturing, bundled with the Indian government’s focus on technical textile innovations and expanding domestic production capabilities. Industry leaders are recognizing this as the perfect time to showcase national innovations in fitness textiles on the global stage of Techtextil India.

Adding to this, Raj Manek, executive director & board member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd, mentioned: “With our global Texpertise network and established expertise in trade fairs, Techtextil India has always served as a launchpad for emerging textile innovations. ‘Sporttech Pavilion’ is a natural extension of this vision offering a focused space for sports and performance textiles, an industry that is witnessing phenomenal growth worldwide. This will be beneficial to the manufacturers as well as to the buyers giving them direct access to the latest technologies that will shape the next generation of sports and fitness apparel.”

Speaking about this strategic collaboration, Kishan Daga, Anchor founder, Concepts N Strategies, stated: “India’s fitness and sports textile industry is on the brink of a breakthrough, and ‘Sporttech Pavilion’ will be instrumental in accelerating its growth. India can produce high-quality performance-driven sportswear and gear and it is gaining traction. And with this initiative, we aim to offer a world-class platform dedicated to the segment where Indian manufacturers can showcase their capabilities to a global audience.”

Industry figures highlight growth of this segment:

  • The Indian sportswear market: valued at $10.2 million in 2024
  • Expected to reach $16.6 million by 2033 at a CAGR of 5.1 percent during 2025-2033*1 according to a recent report by IMARC Group.
  • Global sportswear market size was valued at $206.64 billion in 2024.
  • Expected to reach $350.45 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.84 percent during the forecast period*2.

This segment will see an expansion of the exhibitor profile with inclusion of:

  • Sports textile material producers including compression fabrics, breathable textiles, suppliers of sustainable and recycled textiles suitable for sports equipment and gear manufacturers
  • Producers of sports and fitness equipment with an emphasis on textile-based products like: yoga mats, fitness bands, straps, & etc
  • Accessories and footwear manufacturers for products like gloves, bands headgear and socks using innovative materials; manufacturers and brands showcasing new textile technologies in sports footwear and performance shoes
  • Smart textile manufacturers producing materials embedded with sensors for fitness tracking; chemical suppliers for sports textiles
  • Producers of finishing chemicals that enhance performance e.g. anti-odor, UV protection, water-repellent coatings
  • Manufacturers of various fitness textiles and activewear materials and textile machinery manufacturers, equipment suppliers, suppliers of technology for fabric testing, dyeing, and finishing for sportswear and more.

With such an extensive product showcase, the expo aims to attract visitors from major sportswear retailers and distributors, product developers, fitness enthusiasts, fashion designers, research and development professionals, textile institutes, sourcing specialists and other professionals from the textile spectrum looking for the next big breakthrough in the segment. The dedicated space for Sporttech Pavilion will serve as a powerful business catalyst connecting material innovators, sportswear brands and textile manufacturers with national and international sourcing leaders

By leveraging Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India’s extensive global reach and industry expertise, Sporttech Pavilion will facilitate international market penetration for Indian brands while attracting advanced solutions from the global leaders in sports textiles. Besides this, Techtextil India 2025 will open-up the floor for deeper and more relevant business interactions and enable the exhibitors to tap the expanding market with a special focus on medical textiles through the second edition of MEDITEX in association with the South India Textile Research Association (SITRA).

This landmark collaboration between Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India and Concept N Strategies signifies a step towards showcasing India’s strength in the global sports textile market besides various technical textiles and medical textiles.

Sources:  

*1 – IMARC Group

*2 – Fortune Business Insights

Posted: April 16, 2025

Source: Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd

The LYCRA Co. Previews Bio-Derived LYCRA® Ecomade Fiber At Kingpins Amsterdam

WILMINGTON, Del. — April 15, 2025 — The LYCRA Co., a global developer of innovative and sustainable fiber and technology solutions for the apparel industry, announced today that it will preview its bio-derived LYCRA® EcoMade fiber at Kingpins Amsterdam on April 16-17. The company is showcasing denim samples featuring seed quantities of its renewable elastane at its stand in Blue Area 11. It also offers visitors a fully immersive VR experience exploring the product’s journey from farm to fiber.

Join The LYCRA Company at Kingpins Amsterdam, where it will preview its bio-derived LYCRA® EcoMade fiber and promote its revolutionary customized fit solution for jeans, LYCRA FitSense® denim technology.

Set to launch commercially later this year, bio-derived LYCRA EcoMade fiber made with QIRA® will be sourced from annually renewable dent corn from Iowa, offering raw material origin transparency and a sustainable solution to help reduce the environmental impact of apparel. This innovative fiber, composed of 70 percent renewable content, has the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of LYCRA fiber by up to 44 percent*, delivering equivalent performance to the original LYCRA fiber. It is a one-to-one replacement requiring no re-engineering of fabrics, processes, or garment patterns.

“Our customers and their consumers are increasingly seeking products that not only meet high-performance standards but also align with their sustainability values,” said Arnaud Ruffin, The LYCRA Co.’s vice president of brands and retail. “Bio-derived LYCRA EcoMade fiber represents a significant step forward in providing sustainable solutions without compromising on quality, and we are excited to share this innovative fiber with the denim industry at Kingpins Amsterdam.”

The “7 Styles for 7 Days” project at Kingpins showcases how stretch denim made with bio-derived LYCRA EcoMade fiber can transform men’s and women’s wardrobes throughout the week, ensuring lasting comfort, fit, and shape while reducing environmental impact. This exhibit is a collaboration between The LYCRA Co. and Diamond Denim, a part of the Pakistan-based Sapphire Group, and helps accelerate both companies’ journeys toward decarbonization. The exhibit is on display at each company’s stand.

ORTA, a Turkey-based denim manufacturer, will also showcase samples made with bio-derived LYCRA EcoMade fiber and regenerative cotton in its stand. According to Sebla Onder, ORTA’s marketing and sustainability manager, the enthusiastic market response to their capsule collection launched in late 2024 gives her hope that the industry is genuinely ready for meaningful change. “We are thrilled that Citizens of Humanity Group, one of our respected premium brand partners, has sourced this sustainable fabric for their AGOLDE brand, and we eagerly anticipate consumer reaction to this collection in the coming months. We are also looking forward to new, strong brand collaborations emerging from this amazing partnership,” she said.

LYCRA FitSense® denim technology, which debuted at Kingpins Amsterdam last April, is being showcased again this year. This groundbreaking, patented solution offers a customized fit for various body types by incorporating discreet, targeted shaping zones, enabling designers to select specific areas for shaping, support, and lift. This helps consumers feel more confident and comfortable in their jeans. Building on this innovation, SPANX® made a major stride in the evolution of denim fit with the successful launch of the world’s first commercial program featuring SPANXsculpt™ ReDefine denim in January.

For the fourth consecutive year, LYCRA brand has teamed up with the House of Denim Foundation and Jean School students to mount the exhibition “Stretch Yourself #4: Denim of the Future, Designed by Gen Z.” Each featured student designer will display a denim garment featuring innovative fabrics powered by The LYCRA Co.’s technologies, including COOLMAX® EcoMade fiber.

*Estimate from Cradle-to-Gate Screening LCA for a representative LYCRA® fiber manufacturing facility, June 2022, prepared by Ramboll Americas Engineering Solutions, Inc.

Posted: April 15, 2025

Source: The LYCRA Company

BELLA+CANVAS And Stakes Manufacturing Partner To Strengthen Domestic Supply Chains For Global Brands And Major Retailers, Made In The USA, Printed In The USA

LOS ANGELES & CLEVELAND — April 15, 2025 — Amid a rapidly shifting global trade environment and the impact of new tariffs, global brands and retailers are being forced to rethink long-standing offshore production strategies.

Historically, cost savings have driven manufacturing overseas, often at the expense of speed, quality, and sustainability. With the cost gap between domestic and international production narrowing, brands are now prioritizing more agile, high-quality, and sustainable supply chain solutions.

Recognizing this pivotal shift, BELLA+CANVAS, a supplier of premium apparel manufacturing, and Stakes Manufacturing, a cutting-edge on-demand printing and fulfillment provider, are announcing a strategic partnership to support global brands and major retailers in reshaping their supply chains through developing and offering capabilities in both near-shore and fully Made in the USA, Printed in the USA models.

“Our goal is to support the evolving global landscape and help our partners navigate the challenges stemming from tariffs, while also unlocking new opportunities to optimize for a more balanced and resilient supply chain,” said Jed Seifert, co-founder of Stakes Manufacturing. “BELLA+CANVAS has long set the standard for premium product quality, and their unmatched domestic and near-shore production capabilities make them an ideal partner in this effort.”

Together, BELLA+CANVAS and Stakes Manufacturing offer end-to-end domestic and near shore solutions that prioritize:

  • Speed: Faster turnaround times and quicker replenishment cycle;
  • Quality: Premium apparel and retail-grade decoration;
  • Sustainability: Reduced overproduction and lower carbon impact;
  • Cost Efficiency: Minimized freight costs and tariff exposure; and
  • Job Creation: Strengthening U.S. manufacturing and local economies.

“BELLA+CANVAS is proud to help brands and retailers optimize their supply chains with both domestic and near-shore capabilities, while also elevating product quality, sustainability, and speed to market,” said Megan Spire, vice president of BELLA+CANVAS. “Our partnership with Stakes enables retail-quality digital printing at scale, empowering brands to stay competitive and nimble in today’s volatile global market.”

As companies look to future-proof their supply chains, this collaboration aims to serve as a blueprint for how domestic manufacturing can meet the evolving demands of a global economy while championing product excellence and operational agility.

Posted: April 15, 2025

Source: BELLA+CANVAS

Under Armour Appoints Dawn N. Fitzpatrick, Eugene D. Smith, And Robert J. Sweeney To Its Board Of Directors

BALTIMORE — April 15, 2025 — Under Armour Inc. announced that, effective April 15, Dawn N. Fitzpatrick, Eugene D. Smith, and Robert J. Sweeney will join the company’s Board of Directors.

“Dawn and Rob’s extensive financial and operational expertise, combined with Gene’s deep knowledge of intercollegiate sports management, makes them exceptional additions to our board,” said Mohamed A. El-Erian, chair of the board at Under Armour. “As we pursue our strategy to create greater value for Under Armour’s athletes, customers, shareholders, and teammates, their unique talents, insights, and passion for the brand will be invaluable for navigating our next chapter.”

Effective April 15, Under Armour’s board will include Douglas E. Coltharp, Jerri L. DeVard, Mohamed A. El-Erian, Carolyn N. Everson, Dawn N. Fitzpatrick, David W. Gibbs, Karen W. Katz, Eric T. Olson, Kevin A. Plank, Eugene D. Smith, Robert J. Sweeney, and Patrick W. Whitesell.

Dawn N. Fitzpatrick

Dawn N. Fitzpatrick

Since 2017, Fitzpatrick has been the CEO and Chief Investment Officer of Soros Fund Management LLC, a privately held investment management firm. Before joining Soros in 2017, she spent 25 years at UBS and its predecessor organizations, where she most recently served as Head of Investments for UBS Asset Management and was a member of the UBS Asset Management Executive Committee. Earlier, she held several positions at the UBS O’Connor hedge fund business, including CEO and chief investment officer. Fitzpatrick serves as a non-executive director of Barclays plc and serves on its Remuneration, Risk, and Sustainability Committees. Additionally, she serves on the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas Financial Sector Advisory Council, where she is chair, the Advisory Council of The Bretton Woods Committee, and the Bloomberg New Economy Advisory Board. She previously completed a six-year term on the Investor Advisory Committee on Financial Markets at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Fitzpatrick earned her bachelor’s degree from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, where she ran track and cross country.

Eugene D. Smith

Eugene D. Smith

Smith served as senior vice president and athletic director at Ohio State University from 2005 to 2024. Throughout his tenure, he co-chaired the NCAA’s Federal-State Legislative Working Group, which advised the NCAA on name, image, and likeness issues, chaired the 2011 NCAA Men’s Basketball Committee and was a member of the College Football Playoff Selection Committee. Additionally, he participated in the NCAA’s Management Council, the Committee on Infractions, the Executive Committee, the Football Rules Committee, and the president’s Commission Liaison Committee. As the first Black president of the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and a former president of the Division I-A Athletics Directors Association, Smith was the Director of Athletics at Arizona State from 2000 to 2005, at Iowa State from 1993 to 2000 and at Eastern Michigan from 1986 to 1993. He played football as an undergraduate at Notre Dame, where he was a defensive end on the 1973 national championship team and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. After graduation, he joined the coaching staff at Notre Dame and contributed to the Irish victory in the 1977 national championship.

Robert J. Sweeney

Robert J. Sweeney

Since 2019, Sweeney has served as the president of Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm focused on consumer, distribution, and retail-related investments. Before joining Sycamore Partners, he spent 22 years at Goldman Sachs, most recently as a partner and Global Head of the Consumer/Retail Investment Banking Group. During his tenure at Goldman Sachs, he provided advisory support to Under Armour on various matters, including the company’s initial public offering in 2005. Sweeney served as an officer in the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force from 1989 to 1995, holding various roles aboard the USS Annapolis and at the Submarine Officer Advanced Course training command. He graduated from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree and MBA, and he was recognized as a Palmer Scholar.

Posted: April 15, 2025

Source: Under Armour Inc.

Sicomin Bio-Based Resin Technology Powers Melker’s Award-Winning Sustainable Kayak Series

MARSEILLES, France — April 15, 2025 — Sicomin, a formulator and supplier of high-performance epoxy resin systems, is proud to announce its role in the development of Melker of Sweden’s latest sea kayak series, the Melker Värmdö. Leveraging Sicomin’s advanced GreenPoxy® bio-based resin systems, the project sets a new benchmark for sustainable, high-performance watersports equipment.

The collaboration between Sicomin and Melker has resulted in a next-generation composite laminate, combining renewable materials with industry-leading mechanical performance and aesthetics. Central to this innovation is Sicomin’s GreenPoxy InfuGreen 810 infusion resin and Green Coat transparent gelcoat, both incorporating significant bio-carbon content.

Sustainable Innovation with Advanced Materials

The Melker Värmdö kayak is manufactured using a closed-mould vacuum infusion process, optimized to deliver lightweight strength, superior durability, and an impeccable surface finish directly from the mould—eliminating the need for secondary painting or clear coating.

Key materials featured in the kayak include:

  • Sicomin InfuGreen 810 Resin: DNV GL-certified with 38% bio-carbon content, offering ultra-low viscosity for efficient room-temperature infusion.
  • Sicomin Green Coat Transparent Gelcoat: A robust, UV-resistant coating with 50% plant-based content that protects and enhances the natural look of the kayak’s flax and cork laminates.
  • Bcomp ampliTex™ Flax Fabrics: Renewable natural fiber reinforcements that deliver exceptional mechanical properties and visual appeal.
  • Amorim NL20 Cork Core: A 100% cork core providing lightweight strength and excellent impact resistance.

High Performance Meets Low Environmental Impact

The Värmdö’s bio-based construction significantly reduces reliance on petroleum-based materials, minimizing the kayak’s carbon footprint without compromising performance. Flax fibers and cork cores enhance mechanical strength, flexibility, and impact resistance, extending the product’s lifetime while offering an ultra-lightweight structure for exceptional manoeuvrability and easy transportation.

The transparent Green Coat gelcoat further enhances the natural aesthetic of the flax and cork laminates, creating a premium, eco-friendly finish that requires no secondary coatings.

Industry Recognition and Commercial Success

Following more than three years of material development and prototype testing, supported by recyclable 3D-printed test models, Melker finalized design and R&D of the Värmdö series in Sweden with serial production now secured in Sri Lanka.

The project has been widely recognized, securing prestigious awards including Best Sea Kayak at both the North American and European paddlesports industry awards.

A Proven Model for Sustainable Sporting Goods

“This collaboration with Melker perfectly demonstrates how our GreenPoxy® systems can deliver both technical excellence and meaningful sustainability in series production,” said Philippe Marcovich, President of Sicomin. “The Värmdö kayak is proof that high-performance composite products can be developed with a significantly reduced environmental impact—without compromising on strength, durability, or aesthetics.”

Posted: April 15, 2025

Source: Sicomin

Sustainability At Messe Frankfurt’s Textile Trade Fairs: Five Core Issues For The Textile And Fashion Industry

FRANKFURT, Germany— April 15, 2025 — With the new “Texpertise Econogy Insights”, Messe Frankfurt’s textile trade fairs are shining a spotlight on five core issues facing the textile and clothing industry as it undergoes a transformation targeted at greater sustainability. These key themes are based on the results of the sustainability check offered to exhibiting companies as part of the Texpertise Econogy textile sustainability program and conversations with international textile experts.

Textile waste equivalent in volume to 370,000 fully-loaded Airbus aircraft, a recycling rate of one per cent and 99.7 percent of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises: the textile and clothing industry is not just a world of superlative figures, but also an industry with one of the most complex supply chains in the world. Where the industry stands in terms of sustainability and what drivers and obstacles are playing a role in its transformation is the focus of the report “Texpertise Econogy Insights — five central developments for a more sustainable textile industry,” published today by Texpertise, a network of more than 60 Messe Frankfurt textile events in 13 countries.

For more sustainability in the textile and clothing industry: national and international regulatory requirements are intended to bring more transparency to the industry’s complex supply chains.
Photo — Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH

“Transformation requires cooperation. The international textile events by Messe Frankfurt serve as key hubs for change in this process. With the international sustainability programme Texpertise Econogy, we are making developments for a more sustainable industry tangible, connecting green pioneers with companies and creating hotspots for knowledge and networking,” said Olaf Schmidt, vice president, Textiles and Textile Technologies at Messe Frankfurt.

Together with renowned experts from textile research, business and associations, Messe Frankfurt analyses five key themes for the sustainable transformation of the international textile and clothing industry: the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as an international benchmark for responsible corporate behavior, transparency and traceability in global supply chains as well as the advantages and disadvantages of natural fibers, synthetic fibers and regenerated fibers in terms of their environmental compatibility and functionality. It also evaluates environmentally friendly process standards and innovative approaches to textile recycling.

Among those interviewed for the report were representatives from Aalto University; Euratex; Fashion for Good; Hohenstein Group; IKEA; Industrial Association for Finishing, Yarns, Woven Fabrics and Technical Textiles (IVGT); Oberbadische Bettfedernfabrik (OBB); Saxon Textile Research Institute (STFI); United Nations Fashion and Lifestyle Network; VDMA Textile Care, Fabrics and Leather Technologies; German Association of Home Textiles Manufacturers and the Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment and Energy.

These themes are derived from the results of the Texpertise Econogy Checks, the sustainability check that exhibiting companies can now undergo at 24 of the more than 60 Messe Frankfurt textile events across the world. The check evaluates companies against a set of international sustainability standards in the areas of Sustainable Supply Chain, Materials and Processes as well as Strategy and Innovation. During the period from January 2024 to January 2025, a total of 820 companies at 17 events in Germany, France, the USA and China completed the Econogy Check.

An ongoing commitment to greater sustainability

Since 2008, Messe Frankfurt has played an active role in promoting sustainability within the global textile and fashion industry. At its international textile fairs, it developed curation tools for textile sustainability early on, as well as creating special areas for sustainable textile innovations and integrating sustainability themes into its fringe programs. At the end of 2023, Messe Frankfurt grouped all the sustainability-related activities at its international textile events under one communications umbrella: Texpertise Econogy. The aim of this is to ensure greater visibility for sustainable textile innovations, offer better orientation in a world of increasingly complex sustainability developments and promote knowledge transfer and cooperation within the international textile industry insofar as sustainable transformation is concerned. Since it was launched, Texpertise Econogy has been rolled out to 24 of the approximately 60 Texpertise events across the world.

Messe Frankfurt Texpertise

With a portfolio of more than 60 international textile trade fairs in 13 countries, Messe Frankfurt is the global market leader for textile trade fairs. The trade fair portfolio spans the entire textile industry value chain: Texpertise brings together these events, current issues and a global network of more than 500,000 industry representatives from all over the world. As a central communication platform, Texpertise provides information on the world-renowned trade fair brands and the first-class services offered by Messe Frankfurt.

“Texpertise Econogy Insights” is available as an accessible e-paper and in printed format.

Download the e-paper version here:

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Information from the international textile industry and Messe Frankfurt’s global textile fairs can be found in the Texpertise Newsroom at www.texpertise-network.com

Posted: April 15, 2025

Source: Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH

Trützschler Nonwovens At IDEA 2025: Elevating Production Performance

DÜLMEN, Germany— April 14, 2025 — Trützschler Nonwovens and American Trützschler are excited to announce their participation at IDEA 2025 in Miami Beach. Visit booth #2242 to discover comprehensive solutions designed to enhance your production’s sustainability, performance, efficiency and product quality.

New machinery targeting production excellence

Trützschler will showcase two groundbreaking product innovations at the exhibition: The X-Series cards and the Modular High Performance Dryer (MPD).

NCT-X in the T-SUPREMA needle-punching line at the Technical Center in Egelsbach.

The X-Series includes the new carding models NC-X and NCT-X, which can increase productivity by up to 4 percent, reduce raw material consumption by up to 2.5 percent, and provide over 100 additional operating hours per year. The cards of the X-Series can be universally used in inline and crosslapper configurations. End products range from hydroentangled wipes and lightweight through-air bonded hygiene nonwovens to heavy high-loft nonwovens for insulation materials and needle-punched technical nonwovens.

The MPD dryer optimizes thermal energy usage during the drying process of hydroentangled nonwovens. It operates with conventional energy sources like natural gas, electricity or heat exchangers, as well as CO₂-neutral hydrogen or biogas. Its vertical design and small footprint make it ideal for expanding existing hydroentangling line capacities.

Utilize the full potential of every production line

The consistent use of the digital work environment T-ONE has demonstrably increased production speed by more than 50 percent depending on the product and reduced waste by up to 30 percent. As a modular software solution, T-ONE optimizes workflows, implements best practices, ensures complete transparency, and captures all production-relevant data in real time. The software is tailored to the individual production and IT systems of each nonwoven manufacturer and has already proven its effectiveness in over a dozen installations worldwide.

Discover new opportunities for exciting end products

Utilizing wood or fast-growing plants as fiber raw materials is our approach for sustainable, top-quality wipes. As pioneer in Carded/Pulp (CP) and Wet-Laid/Spunlace (WLS) solutions, Trützschler Nonwovens offers reliable solutions for processing paper-grade pulp. Our valued customer Elixrr Industries has recently demonstrated the effectiveness of our concept by commissioning a hyper-flexible CP line, the first pulp-based nonwoven line on the Indian subcontinent.

We’re always at your side

American Trützschler, located in Charlotte, N.C., the textile heartland of America, offers comprehensive sales, service, maintenance, and spare parts support. Our certified UL508A panel shop specializes in complete/partial upgrades and customized solutions, while their well-stocked inventory of card wires is backed by 24/7 rewiring service available at your sites.

Curious? Join us at IDEA 2025 – we look forward to engaging in inspiring discussions with you.

Posted: April 15, 2025

Source: Trützschler Nonwovens GmbH

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