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

Baker-Polito Administration Awards $700,000 For New UMass Dartmouth Biodegradable Plastics Lab

DARTMOUTH, MASS. — November11, 2021 — Yesterday, Lt. Governor Karyn Polito and executives from UMass Dartmouth celebrated the announcement of a new $739,936 award from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to support the development of a new research and development laboratory in New Bedford to study biodegradable and ocean-safe plastics. The new Plastics Biodegradation Laboratory at UMass Dartmouth will enable efficient testing of plastic biodegradation, helping address the significant waste caused by traditional plastics used in textiles, packaging, and other products that accumulate in the ocean and other water resources.

The state grant was awarded by the Collaborative Research and Development Matching Grant program, an effort managed by the Innovation Institute at the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech), and will be paired with $1 million in match funding, more than $450,000 from private industry partners, including leading advanced materials companies such as PrimaLoft. The launch of the new lab will advance UMass Dartmouth’s research in advanced materials and the Blue Economy and make needed testing capabilities available for Industry.

“We are pleased to make investments across the state to support projects like this, which are addressing critical demands for new, innovative products,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “This investment in new research infrastructure at UMass Dartmouth will further strengthen Massachusetts’ Blue Tech sector, working collaboratively with the private sector to create innovative products and grow jobs here in the Commonwealth.”

“Institutions like UMass Dartmouth play a critical role in preparing Massachusetts’ students for their future careers, teaching them how to tackle major global challenges such as plastic waste,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito, who chairs the Commonwealth’s Seaport Economic Council. “This new lab, and the partnerships with leading organizations in manufacturing and research, will solidify the Commonwealth’s role as a global leader when it comes to R&D in the Blue Tech sector.”

The main biodegradability lab will be housed at UMass Dartmouth’s School for Marine Science & Technology (SMAST) campus in New Bedford, a newly expanded state-of-the-art facility with classrooms, labs, and offices for faculty, staff, and students. The Commonwealth’s capital investment will fund new lab equipment which will address material biodegradability and its environmental impact, specializing in the ocean impacts, and advancing the development of new, environmentally-sensitive products. In addition, investments on the main campus include auxiliary services in toxicology testing and microplastics assays. The lab will fill an important niche for businesses interested in the field, providing additional research capacity for the evaluation of plastic biodegradability.

In addition to PrimaLoft, partners on the project include Radical Plastics of Beverly, Paramount Planet Product, UMass Boston, UMass Lowell, the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Boston-based SeaAhead, and the U.S. Army Soldier Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center.

Project estimates call for positive economic impacts within two years of launch, noting the large potential market for biodegradable products being driven by consumer demand and new legislation aimed at limiting plastic pollution. Through the collaborations with Radical Plastics and Paramount Planet Product, the project expects to support the creation of approximately 75 direct jobs starting in 2023 and estimates an additional 232 jobs supported by supply chain and spending effects.

“I want to thank our partners at the Mass Tech Collaborative and PrimaLoft who have helped UMass Dartmouth continue our research focus in the key areas of sustainability and the Blue Economy,” said UMass Dartmouth Chancellor Mark A. Fuller. “With this new biodegradability lab, our university will be able to create research opportunities for students and faculty while providing impactful results and economic benefits to government and industry.”

“With sustainability at the forefront and new biodegradable materials and technologies emerging, the need for testing and validation is paramount,” said Mike Joyce, PrimaLoft president and CEO. “Textile materials often wind up in landfills, marine environments and wastewater systems, and we’ve developed biodegradable technologies that combat this issue at the fiber level. The expertise provided by the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, and in particular the School for Marine Science & Technology, is a perfect fit for validation of these technologies. The UMass Dartmouth legacy in the textile sciences, as well as its leadership position in marine sciences and sustainability, makes it a logical location for this new laboratory.”

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Plastic Product Manufacturing Industry in the United States produced $201.1 billion worth of plastics in 2019, with $3.9 billion from products in Massachusetts. However, biodegradable alternatives make up a fraction of that overall market, highlighting the strong growth opportunity for Massachusetts firms to deliver biodegradable products and address future demand.

“The Commonwealth’s tech and innovation sector is well known for tackling major challenges and by partnering with UMass Dartmouth and MassTech, this grant will help this sector address a major market opportunity that will have positive impacts on our environment,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. “The Baker-Polito Administration has made investments in research and development a critical building block of our economic development plans and this grant will further the momentum we’ve generated while also capitalizing on the South Coast’s centuries-long history in manufacturing.”

“The Collaborative R&D Fund was created to fund exciting partnerships like this, projects that bring together partners from academia, industry, and government to address major business opportunities,” said Pat Larkin, Director of the Innovation Institute at MassTech. “This fund has made key investments in critical industries for Massachusetts, but this is the first that has tackled a challenge like this, with a direct tie to disposable consumer goods and the companies solving the problem. It’s an exciting opportunity for the South Coast and Massachusetts overall.”

To date, the Collaborative R&D Matching Grant program has awarded more than $28 million, leveraging more than $50 million in matching contributions from outside partners. This includes 10 projects that have supported innovative industry/academic collaborations and investment in novel R&D infrastructure to bolster the Massachusetts tech and innovation economy statewide. Emerging industries supported include cloud computing, marine robotics, printed electronics, cybersecurity/data science, and nanomaterials/smart sensors. These investments have led to the formation of 79 new industry partnerships and 54 intellectual property and licensing agreements in the past two years.

“The development of the Blue Economy is integral to the South Coast’s economic future. I am thrilled that UMass Dartmouth is receiving this award that will allow it to continue to be a leader in the field,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “Thank you to the Baker-Polito Administration and the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative for their support of this industry and thank you to Chancellor Fuller for his stalwart leadership in keeping UMass Dartmouth and the South Coast at the cutting edge of the Blue Economy.”

“UMass Dartmouth continues to be a leader in developing the Blue Economy and solutions to climate challenges in the Commonwealth and beyond,” said Senator Mark Montigny. “I am pleased that this capital grant, supported by the Legislature, from the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative is being awarded to UMass Dartmouth. It will bolster the campus’ efforts to create critical technology to stop ecological disaster from polluting materials in our ecosystem.”

“Floating plastic has done immeasurable damage to our oceans and waterways,” said Representative Paul A. Schmid III. “This research has the potential to reduce significant harm to our planet. I am thrilled UMass Dartmouth is taking an active role in such important work.”

Posted November 11, 2021

Source: The MassTech Collaborative

 

IFAI Expo Celebrates Its 100 Year Anniversary With A Successful Show In Nashville 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — November11, 2021 — Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) wrapped up IFAI Expo 2021, North America’s largest specialty, industrial and advanced textiles event, on November 4 at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn. Expo 2021 included 218 exhibiting companies and a total of 3,173 verified participants. This year was the 100-year anniversary of IFAI Expo’s in-person show.

IFAI Expo provided attendees access to the industry’s leading companies, live product demonstrations on the show floor, the latest innovations in technology and textiles as well as valuable education and insight into current and future trends.

For the first time since 2019, attendees had the opportunity to browse the show floor of 218 exhibiting companies who were displaying their latest products, equipment, and services. In addition to visiting exhibit booths, the show floor also hosted more than 20 campfire education sessions broken out by Advanced Textiles, Specialty Fabrics and Shade and Weather Protection markets.

“It’s been really nice to see the samples of materials in person. There’s hardly a substitute for seeing and feeling things up close and in person,” said Zeke Olson, Billboard Tarps. “We have already exchanged information, gotten quotes and found what we came here looking for.”

The Advanced Textiles (AT) Conference was held on November 1, the day before the show floor opened. The AT Conference offered an afternoon of 13 classroom sessions dedicated to the Advanced Textiles market and continued through Nov. 3 with campfires and additional classroom sessions. Topics included Advancing Textile Manufacturing Through Collaboration, Innovations in E-Textiles, Medical Textile Breakthroughs, Industry 4.0 and Advanced Manufacturing, and Sustainability in Advanced Textiles.

Expo also hosted three days of market-specific classroom education with 33 sessions focused on shade and weather protection, graphics, marine, sustainability and business operations, along with a wealth of other specialty fabrics and advanced textile-focused content.

“The feedback I’ve received from exhibitors and attendees was both similar and positive,” said Steve Schiffman, IFAI president & CEO. “Everyone understood that attendance would be impacted by travel restrictions and concerns about COVID-19, but unequivocally IFAI Expo exceeded their expectations.

“Attendees had more time to spend at exhibit booths looking at the array of new products throughout the exhibit hall. Everybody seemed to enjoy the Opening Reception which featured a look back at IFAI Expo’s 100 years and those that went to the Industry Night enjoyed the sounds of industry band, Hangin’ by a Thread and the taste of Nashville barbecue. Many exhibitors were very happy they exhibited this year sharing positive comments on both the quality of attendees as well as the number of new attendees who visited their booth.

“Nashville was a wonderful location for IFAI Expo and we’ll be back! The industry was excited to be back together, and we were delighted to provide the venue to help people reconnect. We’re already well into planning and looking forward to IFAI Expo 2022, Oct. 12–14, 2022 in Charlotte, N.C.”

“I’ve already recommended new people to come to the next IFAI Expo,” said Zach Harris, Prodim USA. “This is the trade show to be at because it has a little bit of everything all under one roof. We for sure found value in coming to this year’s show.”

Highlights at the show included: IFAI Expo’s Opening Reception, which took place just outside of the show floor, allowed participants to socialize while enjoying refreshments; Industrial Fabrics Foundation’s Industry Night at Martin’s Bar-B-Que in Downtown Nashville where attendees enjoyed live music from IFAI member band, Hangin’ by a Thread, which featured industry veterans along with some guest vocalists; the Annual Fun Run/Walk which featured a route that allowed participants to see key landmarks around the city of Nashville; the Puppy Booth on the show floor; the first ever Fabric Structures Summit; and finally, Keynoter Steve Rizzo as he spoke to attendees about how to increase productivity, find greater joy and enthusiasm and reach new levels of success.

The Manufacturing for Good demo area returned to IFAI Expo this year where backpacks were manufactured and donated to the Boys & Girls Club of Middle Tennessee.

“I am so glad we decided to exhibit at IFAI Expo this year. We have met many new customers and formed a lot of new relationships,” said Gary Grewal, American Plastics

The Awards & Networking Breakfast took place on Nov. 3 and recognized winners of the International Achievement Awards, Show Stopper Program and Outstanding Volunteer Award. The winners of the Outstanding Volunteer Award were Tom Auer of Bearse USA, Charlene Clark of Signature Canvasmakers LLC, Keith Harris of TenCate and Paige Mullis of Glen Raven. They join an elite list of previous winners who generously gave their time to serve on different boards, task forces and committees, judged competitions and provided education and leadership to others in the industry.

“For us to see all of our customers face to face, we would have to travel all across the country for weeks but with IFAI Expo this year in Nashville, we were able to see them in just a couple of days and that is great value to us,” said Joey Barbarito, William Barnet and Son LLC.

Just before the keynote presentation, the IFAI Annual Meeting took place and provided everyone with an update of the current ongoings at IFAI. Amy Bircher was named as IFAI’s 53rd Chairman of the Board. Bircher is the founder and CEO of MMI Textiles in Westlake, Ohio. She succeeds Kathy Schaefer, CFO of Glawe Tent and Awning Company in Fairborn, Ohio.

Attendees at IFAI Expo participated in Market/Division Meetings which took place in the IFAI Hub on the show floor where members and nonmembers came together to discuss challenges their market is facing, new opportunities and technologies.

Mark your calendar for IFAI Expo 2022, October 12–14, 2022 in Charlotte, N.C.

Posted November 11, 2021

Source: Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI)

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