FESPA 2025 Events To Unite Visionaries Across And Beyond Print, Signage And Personalization

DORKING, England — January 15, 2025 — From the May 6-9, 2025, at the Messe Berlin, Germany, FESPA Global Print Expo and its co-located events, European Sign Expo and Personalization Experience, will become the ideal meeting places for Visionaries to meet and discover a wealth of products and solutions for use in specialty print, signage and personalization.

As FESPA marks its return to Berlin for the first time in three years, it looks forward to welcoming its global exhibitor and visitor bases, many of whom are familiar with the host city. The Messe Berlin has been a trade show venue for over two hundred years and the city itself is well-known for its history, as well as its trusted connections and established speciality print market. In addition, Berlin is easily accessible from mainland Europe via both car and public transport, and it offers visitors a multitude of options for affordable accommodation.

Michael Ryan, head of FESPA Global Print Expo, comments: “We’re thrilled to be back in Berlin this year with our new strapline: ‘Where Visionaries Meet’. This year’s message shines the spotlight on our futuristic and forward-thinking FESPA community, including our visitors, exhibitors, award winners, Association Heads and more. It also highlights that our events serve as a meeting point for these Visionaries, empowering them to discover new opportunities and make impactful decisions for the future of their business.”

He adds: “In an ever-evolving industry like ours, it is vital that we are consistently looking forward. How can we guarantee a sustainable future? How is AI impacting the sector? The possibilities for our community are endless and we look forward to highlighting them at our 2025 events.

“FESPA, as an organization, is delighted to welcome Visionaries from our community to the Messe Berlin in May to not only discover the range of solutions being displayed, but to share their thoughts on what the future holds too.”

Exhibitors: New and Returning

Visitors to FESPA Global Print Expo 2025 and its co-located events, European Sign Expo and Personalization Experience, will be able to explore an array of technologies, media, services and consumables from confirmed exhibitors including: 3M, Brother, Caldera, Canon, Durst, EFI, EFKA, Epson, Fujifilm, Kit Builder, Kongsberg, Optimus Group Ltd., Roland, Ricoh, and swissQprint.

FESPA Global Print Expo 2025 and its co-located events will welcome more than 500 exhibitors. A number of these (18%) are returning exhibitors who were not able be present at the 2024 events in Amsterdam, and a selection (17%) of first-time FESPA exhibitors.

Callus Software, Design Huddle, Luxe Lightwrap and Printess are amongst the new exhibitors, showcasing solutions in interior films, finishing, new media for automotive wrapping and design software for personalized printing.

Comprehensive feature program

The highly anticipated World Wrap Masters competition is set to make a return in Berlin. Following a series of regional competitions over the first two days of the event, vehicle wrappers from across Europe will go head-to-head to wrap a variety of special objects and vehicles. This will be followed by the all-important final, where regional champions will battle it out to be crowned the World Wrap Masters 2025 champion. Alongside this, visitors can also attend a series of live wrapping demonstrations with industry experts.

The FESPA Awards are also returning this year, and will celebrate innovation and creativity across 18 different categories, including print, sign and display, vehicle wrapping, garment and textiles and special effects. Visitors will have the opportunity to see entries to the FESPA Awards 2025, first-hand, throughout the duration of the exhibition. Our expert panel of judges, Debbie McKeegan, Graeme Richardson-Locke, Jacek Stencel and Simon Pless, will then announce the winners at the official awards ceremony on Wednesday 7th May 2025.

Ryan continues: “As our exhibitors unveil their plans in the coming months, we’re eagerly anticipating the innovative opportunities they will create at the show, as well as the new avenues for sustained growth that they will inspire for our visitors. Our Berlin events are set to be truly ground-breaking.”

Dedicated websites for FESPA Global Print Expo, European Sign Expo and Personalization Experience are now live at www.fespaglobalprintexpo.com, www.europeansignexpo.com and www.personalisationexperience.com and each provides practical information for exhibitors and visitors. Registration for the events will open at the end of January and visitors can purchase super early bird tickets to all three events for €25.

Posted: January 15, 2025

Source: Federation of European Screen Printers Associations (FESPA)

Molyslip Launches Molychain Range: Advanced Chain Oils And Greases For Textile And Industrial Applications

MANCHESTER — January 15, 2025 — Molyslip, a global supplier of industrial lubricants with over 85 years of expertise, proudly announces the launch of its Molychain range — an innovative line of high-performance chain oils and greases, designed to meet the specific demands of textile manufacturing and other challenging applications. This groundbreaking collection exemplifies Molyslip’s commitment to delivering world-class lubricant solutions, offering exceptional protection and efficiency across diverse industries, with a distinct focus on textile production environments.

Molychain training

The Molychain range is meticulously crafted to enhance chain longevity and performance in textile operations, where consistent, high-speed motion and elevated temperatures are prevalent. With specialized formulations, Molychain products provide critical solutions for textile manufacturers who rely on continuous, reliable lubrication to maintain productivity and equipment lifespan. Each Molychain product is engineered to withstand the unique pressures of textile machinery, minimizing downtime and maximizing production quality.

Precision-Engineered for Textile Applications

In textile manufacturing, where machinery is subject to heavy use and often high temperatures, Molychain TS-300 offers an optimal solution. This fully synthetic oil is designed to perform exceptionally well in textile processes, ensuring seamless, long-lasting lubrication for chains used in spinning, weaving, and finishing applications. By reducing wear and friction, Molychain TS-300 helps textile operations improve operational efficiency, ensuring fabrics are produced without interruption and with consistent quality.

Andrew Cunningham, Global Commercial manager at Molyslip, commented, “The Molychain range highlights our commitment to providing the most advanced lubrication solutions for industries like textiles, where operational continuity and protection of equipment are paramount. Leveraging our latest synthetic technologies and high-quality base oils, we are excited to offer solutions that meet the rigorous demands of textile manufacturing and other industrial applications.”

Key Products for Diverse Textile Needs

The Molychain lineup includes a variety of products tailored for industrial applications, including:

  • Molychain CM: A series of advanced mineral oil-based products formulated to lubricate and protect chain systems across various manufacturing applications, including textile machinery.
  • Molychain HX: Fully synthetic oils designed with high-performance ester base fluids, antioxidants, and anti-wear additives. Molychain HX oils are suitable for industries such as glass, ceramics, and textiles where consistent lubrication at high temperatures is crucial.
  • Molychain GT: This fully synthetic range excels across textile production, glass, and wool curing, providing superior durability and lubrication stability in high-temperature and high-friction environments.
  • Molychain ET: Formulated for use in high-temperature processes, Molychain ET is ideal for industries like mineral wool curing, ceramics, plasterboard drying, and textiles, offering high thermal stability and lasting lubrication.

Each Molychain product is developed in Molyslip’s state-of-the-art laboratory in Manchester, UK, upholding the highest standards in quality, efficiency, and protection.

Posted: January 15, 2025

Source: Molyslip — part of the Metalube Group

CEO Transition At Freudenberg Medical: Former COO Michael McGee Takes Over From Dr. Mark Ostwald

BEVERLY, Mass. — January 15, 2025 — Freudenberg Medical — a global contract design, development and manufacturing partner to the medical device and biopharma industry — has announced a strategic leadership transition. Effective January 1, 2025, Michael McGee, former COO, assumed the role of CEO, succeeding Dr. Mark Ostwald, who transitioned to another leadership role within the Freudenberg Group.

Freudenberg Medical CEO, Michael McGee, takes the reins from outgoing CEO Dr. Mark Ostwald. Photo — Business Wire

Michael McGee joined Freudenberg Medical as COO in 2022, bringing more than 30 years of experience in the medical device industry. His appointment to CEO reflects Freudenberg’s commitment to continuity and alignment with the company’s values and long-term strategy.

Under McGee’s leadership, Freudenberg Medical continues to prioritize customer-centricity by investing in advanced technologies, people and processes. “Since joining Freudenberg Medical, I have been deeply inspired by our company values and our talented global team with proven expertise in materials and technologies. Together, we will build on this strong foundation and drive meaningful advancements in healthcare,” McGee stated. “We remain steadfast in delivering consistent strategic partnership and prioritizing customer success.”

Dr. Mohsen Sohi, Freudenberg Group CEO and speaker of the Management Board, commented on the transition: “Michael has already demonstrated his ability to drive results and success. The Board of Management is confident that under his leadership, Freudenberg Medical will continue to grow, innovate, and thrive.”

Former CEO Dr. Mark Ostwald served Freudenberg Medical for 16 years in various leadership roles. During his tenure, the company doubled its annual revenue, expanded its global manufacturing footprint by one-third, and integrated three Joint Ventures. “Mark’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping Freudenberg Medical’s success. His strategic vision and dedication solidified the company’s reputation as a trusted strategic partner in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries,” added Dr. Mohsen Sohi.

“Leading this extraordinary organization was an honor and a privilege,” said former CEO Dr. Mark Ostwald. “Michael is passionately committed to our strategy and values, developing our people and delivering high-quality products to improve patients’ lives. I am convinced that Michael is the right leader to take Freudenberg Medical to the next level of success.”

Posted: January 15, 2025

Source: Freudenberg Medical / Freudenberg Group

Filson, A Bedrock Manufacturing Company (BMC), Names Tim Bantle President

SEATTLE — January 15, 2025 — Filson, the Seattle-based outdoor clothing and accessories brand and a Bedrock Manufacturing Company (BMC), has appointed Tim Bantle as president. In this role, Bantle will lead the next phase of growth and global expansion for the 128-year-old heritage brand, continuing BMC’s mission to cultivate and grow unique, legacy-driven brands.

Bantle brings more than 20 years of experience in leading and growing renowned brands within the outdoor apparel and equipment industries. His proven track record of success spans a variety of leadership roles at top organizations, most recently as CEO of Seattle-based retailer Eddie Bauer.

Prior to his tenure at Eddie Bauer, Bantle served as general manager of VF Canada, where he oversaw market-leading brands such as The North Face, Vans, Timberland, and Smartwool. He also held senior executive positions at The North Face, where he served as Global general manager for the Lifestyle Business Unit; Black Diamond Equipment, where he served as managing director; and Patagonia, where he spearheaded the launch of several iconic product lines, including the Nano Puff™, Down Sweater, and Black Hole franchises.

“Tim has an exceptional track record of developing strategic plans that drive long-term, sustainable growth while preserving the unique heritage of each brand he has led,” said Steve Katzman, CEO of BMC. “We are thrilled to welcome Tim to the Filson team and look forward to his leadership in guiding this iconic brand into new opportunities for growth and innovation.”

Bantle’s extensive global experience — spanning the U.S., Europe, Canada, and Asia — equips him with a unique understanding of diverse markets and consumers. As Filson continues to expand, one of Bantle’s top priorities will be introducing the brand to untapped domestic and international markets while staying true to its deep heritage and dedication to high quality craftsmanship.

“With its beautifully curated product portfolio and immersive retail experiences, Filson represents a strong foundation for growth,” Bantle said. “I’m excited to collaborate with the team to bring Filson’s deep authenticity and distinctive products to a broader audience across the U.S. and around the world.”

For more information about Filson, visit www.filson.com.

Posted: January 15, 2025

Source: Filson

Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India And Austrian Fibers Institute Announce Collaboration To Host Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress At Techtextil India Symposium 2025

Ground breaking collaboration marked by (from left to right): Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director & Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd and Mr. Matthias W. Gluth, Managing Director, Austrian Fibers Institute

MUMBAI — January 15, 2025 — As the global demand for technical textiles surges, India is emerging as a key hub for innovation and growth. Recognizing the vast potential of this evolving market, Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India is proud to announce a ground-breaking collaboration for ‘Techtextil India — the country’s premier platform for the technical textiles industry with Austrian Fibers Institute. This strategic alliance between the two-leading platforms in technical textiles will bring the Asia edition of the renowned Dornbirn GFC at a part of Techtextil India Symposium in 2025. A powerhouse event that promises to set new benchmarks for the global technical textiles industry.

The 10th edition of Techtextil India 2025 which is scheduled from November 19-21, 2025, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, will open its doors for the Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress Asia on November 18, 2025, to be held under Techtextil India Symposium. By uniting two of the industry’s most influential platforms, this partnership will offer an unparalleled opportunity for the entire value chain of the technical textiles industry to explore global advancements in fibre technology, sustainable materials and cutting-edge applications, aligning with the growing focus on innovations in the domain.

The Dornbirn GFC Asia in India 2025 will spotlight on theme titled as ‘Shaping the future: Sustainable Growth in Fiber Solutions and Innovations’. The conference will be led by globally acclaimed subject matter experts, researchers, manufacturers and thought leaders. The GFC Asia – India Conference will host a diverse line-up of speakers from India and around the world, showcasing cutting-edge innovations and expertise in the fiber and textile industry. The discussions will spotlight ground-breaking advances in spinning technology.

Driven by intensive research and development, the upcoming edition of the Techtextil India will present the innovative strides made by the industry players. From various stages of production of man-made fibre, non-woven and others, to the evolving applications and maintenance methods, the expo will be a source of upgrading knowledge and expanding the network.

Speaking about the collaboration, Raj Manek, executive director and board member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd, said: “The technical textiles industry is at a transformative juncture in India. At this point of time, the partnership of Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India with Austrian Fibers Institute to organize Dornbirn GFC along with Techtextil India 2025 will amplify the benefits of networking and knowledge sharing for the industry professionals. A collaboration of this stature for technical textiles will set a new benchmark for the industry segment.”

Expressing similar sentiments, Matthias W. Gluth, managing director, Austrian Fibers Institute, shared: “We are thrilled about this collaboration, which marks a significant step in extending our presence in Asia. It aligns with the vision of the Dornbirn GFC to strengthen its footprint in this dynamic region. Alongside the already established Dornbirn GFC Asia – Korea, this new collaboration with Techtextil India reflects our commitment to actively contribute to and engage with the growing Indian market, fostering innovation and global partnerships in the fibre and textile industry.”

Techtextil India 2025 edition is already sold out and has witnessed a strong interest from leading global brands who have signed up to exhibit. Industry giants such as Reliance Industries, Aditya Birla Yarns, JB Ecotex Ltd., Ganesha Ecosphere Ltd. and Perlon Group amongst several other prestigious brands, have committed to showcasing their innovations. The industry machinery manufacturers, fiber and yarn, advancements by textile mills, non-woven, functional textiles, high-performance apparel and more, will be a part of the display along with specialized pavilions like Meditex, focusing on advancements in medical textiles.

Indian government is aiming for the technical textile market to reach $40 billion by 2030 and total exports targeted are $10 billion by 2030. The Indian government and the industry players are confident that India will soon become the world leader in manufacturing of technical textiles. Schemes like National Technical textiles Mission (NTTM) and Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) are offering the benefits to industry stakeholders. Under NTTM, the government is focusing on 156 R&D projects for driving innovations. The government is also encouraging Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) to boost the segment.

The growing focus on sustainability and circularity in textiles is opening up new avenues encouraging reuse, repairing, refurbishing and recycling of the products. Indian government and technical textile educational programs are witnessing a growth to impart knowledge and skills across categories like medical textiles, mobile textiles, geotextiles, geosynthetics etc., which represent an attractive future. Applications ranging from medical textiles to sportswear, automotive to construction and environmental sustainability are driving the demand for high-performance materials.

Amidst this backdrop, the collaboration of Dornbirn GFC and Techtextil India 2025 marks a pivotal step in positioning India as a global hub for technical textile innovation and strengthening cross-border knowledge exchange. With the technical textiles market poised to redefine industries, Techtextil Symposium India will also present Meditex Conference during the event.

Posted: January 15, 2025

Source: The Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress (GFC) / Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd.

Eastman Naia™ Showcases “All-Night Comfort” At Heimtextil 2025

FRANKFURT, Germany — January 15, 2025 — At Heimtextil 2025, Eastman introduces the latest innovation in its sustainable fiber portfolio: Naia™ Renew for fill applications. Expanding beyond its proven success in bedding and towels, Naia Renew now transforms comforters and quilts with breathable comfort, luxurious softness, and unparalleled ease of care. This represents a significant evolution in the application of Naia in home textiles, meeting the growing demand for high-performance, more responsible solutions. Manufactured through Eastman’s molecular recycling technology, Naia Renew fiber incorporates 60 percent sustainably sourced wood pulp and 40 percent recycled waste materials via GRS-certified mass balance. This innovative process reduces waste and carbon footprints while supporting a circular economy.

When it comes to performance, Naia Renew delivers a unique combination of breathability and moisture management, creating a dry and relaxing sleep environment. As the human body generates moisture throughout the night, effectively managing trapped sweat is essential for maintaining a restful micro-climate. Naia achieves this by addressing every phase of moisture control: absorption, transport, and evaporation The high-performance fibers enable moisture to be wicked away and dispersed effectively, while the quick-drying properties of Naia create a consistently dry environment, preventing discomfort and supporting uninterrupted rest. The innovative insulation, featuring a unique Y-shaped fiber cross-sectional design, provides a bulky, loft, soft hand, more air retention for warmth, inherited moisture management and breathable performance from Naia fiber. The fibers efficiently absorb moisture without becoming saturated, ensuring lightweight comfort. This allows them to cope with all the temperature and humidity changes that occur during the night, adapting perfectly to the needs of the body and rest.

Naia Renew enhances comforters with breathable properties that improve airflow and moisture management, outperforming traditional mono-fiber fills in water-vapor resistance and transmission tests. The fibers also bring supreme softness, with a silky and lightweight feel that delivers an unmatched sense of luxury, gently draping around the body for ultimate coziness. Hypoallergenic and resistant to bacterial growth, Naia fibers reduce odors and stay fresh, ensuring comforters remain clean and inviting. Additionally, Naia Renew fibers are machine washable and resistant to insect pests, offering practical and durable solutions for busy modern lifestyles. These attributes position Naia Renew as a game-changer in home textiles design, providing “All-Night Comfort” for bedding and comforter fill that ensures longer-lasting relaxation.

At Hall 11.0, Booth 61, Heimtextil visitors can immerse themselves in Naia Renew’s transformative potential. Through interactive displays and product demonstrations, attendees can explore how this groundbreaking fiber for home applications is setting a new standard in comfort, performance, and sustainability.

Posted: January 15, 2025

Source: Eastman

Hyosung Presents New CREORA® And regen™ Spandex Stretch Innovations At Kingpins NYC

SEOUL, South Korea — January 15, 2025 — Hyosung is looking forward to presenting its customized denim textile solutions to the denim community at Kingpins NYC taking place at Basketball City, this January 22-23.

Hyosung will showcase several innovative stretch solutions for denim to include its expanded regen BIO Spandex offering comprised of new regen™ BIO + and regen™ BIO Max Spandex both made with a higher amount of renewable resource content. The company will also showcase its RCS-certified, 100-percent recycled regen™ spandex made from industrial waste; CREORA® 3D Max Spandex that delivers excellent stretch and recovery with a very small portion of spandex content allowing the garment to be recycled*; and CREORA Slip Free Spandex with improved seam slippage that reduces waste.

“Brands adopt diverse approaches to sustainability, ranging from recycled and bio-based materials to recyclable products, making it essential to offer tailored solutions that address their unique needs,” said Simon Hong, Hyosung Global Denim Marketing director.

In addition to presenting its new denim textile solutions at the show, Hyosung continues to sponsor and support the Kingpins Future Fits Forum. With the Kingpins team, it will decorate the Kingpins BOXES displayed with innovative garments made from Levi’s 501-iconic fit deadstock and laser-washed art pieces. The company will also host the Future Fits Forum, a seminar discussing denim fashion trends for the next five years, taking place Wednesday, January 22 at 3:00PM.

At Kingpins NYC, Hyosung can be found in the green area booth #10 at Basketball City.

*Source: The Jeans Redesign Project

Posted: January 15, 2025

Source: Hyosung

Dimension-Polyant Launches New X-Pac® Tactical Manta Fabrics At SHOT Week Supplier Showcase

PUTNAM, Conn. — January 15, 2025 — Continuously innovating to advance technical performance in fabric development, Dimension-Polyant proudly presents its latest breakthrough — new X-Pac® Tactical Manta fabrics — to leading brands in the tactical and shooting sports industry at the Supplier Showcase in booth 51441, January 20-21, 2025, during SHOT Show week in Las Vegas.

Manta fabrics are a pioneering advancement in tactical textiles that redefine the benchmarks for weight, strength and durability. Engineered with a structural core, Manta fabrics deliver exceptional strength, stability, and laser-cut precision. Ideal for demanding applications like structural packs, plate carriers, and MOLLE panels.

Manta fabrics are available in two innovative constructions — Dimension-Polyant’s exclusive Tyra Core Technology® spread filament core, and woven Ultra Core technology utilizing Ultra-PE fibers.

Tyra Core Technology is the pinnacle of spread filament fiber efficiency, delivering exceptionally lightweight, incredibly strong laminates. Tyra Technology expertly aligns and orients each filament, maximizing their contribution to load carrying, tear resistance, and puncture toughness. The result cuts out excess weight and increases performance, boosting tear and tensile strength over conventional materials.

Ultra Core fabrics utilize a mid-layer of woven Ultra-PE fibers. Using a woven mid-layer provides a softer hand feel than its Tyra Core counterparts while also being lighter weight. Additionally, the Ultra Core fabrics are Berry compliant.

The face and backing materials of the Manta fabrics are made of 100% durable nylon and are available in a range of tactical color and patterns. All Manta fabrics are made in Putnam CT, USA, with a line of Berry Compliant options showcasing Dimension-Polyant’s commitment to US-based sourcing and production.

“Our new Manta fabrics have caught the attention of armed forces around the world along with many leading tactical brands,” said Taylor North, Dimension-Polyant Global head of Technical Fabrics. “We are deeply committed to creating and providing reliable materials that empower operators in their mission-critical operations. We look forward to introducing our latest X-Pac® Tactical innovations and also our new X-Pac Tactical Sales Manager, James Lang, at the SHOT Week Supplier Showcase next week.”

Dimension-Polyant will also present the following X-Pac Tactical fabrics during the show:

  • WX21 – USA-sourced 200d nylon face fabric with an added polyester wrap insert for enhanced low-stretch and rip-stop properties. Ideal for lightweight packs, gear pouches, rucksacks, and every day carry applications. Available in black.
  • X33 MULTICAM – Tightly woven 330d traditional Multicam® Nylon face-fabric with black post-consumer recycled polyester X-PLY reinforcement and shiny polyester film backing for a highly abrasion-resistant, tear-resistant, waterproof material.
  • X50 TACTICAL – The workhorse of the X-Pac Tactical line-up. X50 Tactical utilizes a rugged 500d CORDURA® face fabric with a 400d aramid X-PLY which is lighter weight, stronger, than a traditional polyester X-PLY reinforcement. The result is a highly abrasion-resistant, tear-resistant, waterproof material. Available in black, stealth grey, coyote brown, ranger green, khaki, and woodland camouflage.
  • X50 MULTICAM – Rugged X50 features a 500d CORDURA® face fabric in a traditional Multicam pattern for a highly abrasion-resistant, tear-resistant, waterproof material. Available in Multicam Black, Multicam Alpine, and Multicam Tropic.

Posted: January 15, 2025

Source: Dimension-Polyant

Circular Knitter Ekoten Textile Invests In KARL MAYER Tricot Machines

OBERTSHAUSEN, Germany — January 15, 2025 — Ekoten Textile, a knitting manufacturer and Turkey’s leading exporter of circular knits, expanded its technology spectrum with KARL MAYER.

The Team from Ekoten with Senior Sales Manager Bastian Fritsch (on the right) and trainer Gökhan Akyildiz (on the left) at the KARL MAYER Academy in Obertshausen

The industry player headquartered in İzmir, Turkey, operates with a fleet of 245 high-performance circular knitting machines. The daily production capacity is up to 40 tonnes of fabric.

The top-quality multifunctional fabrics impress with their exceptional comfort and sophisticated fabric construction and are supplied to the high-end fashion, sportswear, workwear, and outdoor apparel markets worldwide. Among the customers are leading international brands such as Decathlon, Lululemon, Banana Republic, Under Armour, Hugo Boss and Victoria’s Secret.

Ekoten Textile’s success is based on a forward-thinking vision, a dedicated, technical and design team and the use of cutting-edge technology. Just recently, Ekoten textile integrated KARL MAYER technology into its production capacities and launched a warp knitting division. The first tricot machines arrived in December 2024, with production scheduled to begin in January 2025 at a newly designed, state-of-the-art facility spanning 10,000 m².

By entering the warp knitting sector with KARL MAYER machines Ekoten Textile continues to prioritize state-of-the-art production equipment to drive innovation and meet international demand, now with high-quality warp knits.

The company wants to offer all solutions from a single source to existing customers who use circular knitwear as well as warp-knitted fabrics. Furthermore, the company seeks to attract new clients, particularly in the activewear sector, which now accounts for 70% of total sales, surpassing the fashion industry.

Bilge Cinar

Ekoten Textile can respond optimally to the growing demand for functional, technical and advanced activewear textiles with the HKS machines from KARL MAYER. The company is consolidating its position as industry leader and significantly expanding its innovation potential. “We create around 300 new fabric designs monthly for the fashion industry in particular. While circular knitting has been our strength, with nearly 400 projects realized through our R&D center, warp knitting opens up exciting opportunities for us,” highlights Bilge Cinar, development executive at Ekoten, the company’s innovative spirit.

Bastian Fritsch

The step into warp knitting was the result of years of intensive discussions over detailed requirements and technological innovations.

“We discussed many product-specific aspects and impressed with our expertise,” says Bastian Fritsch, Senior Sales Manager of the warp knitting business unit at KARL MAYER.

Lütfi Kantarcıoğlu,

Ekoten warp knitting manager, Lütfi Kantarcıoğlu, responsible for establishing the new facility, highlighted the alignment between the two companies:

With its global infrastructure, KARL MAYER offers Ekoten Textile more than just high-performance machines. The company provides a comprehensive support system, including a local spare parts supply and service team, access to skilled product developers and sales managers, and essential know-how for integrating warp knitting into Ekoten’s production processes.

To ensure a smooth transition, a four-person Ekoten team underwent intensive training in October and November 2024 on the KARL MAYER Academies in Bursa, Turkey, and at the KARL MAYER headquarters in Obertshausen, Germany.

Ekoten’s warp knitted fabrics will debut at the Première Vision in Paris in September 2025, followed by appearances during the PERFORMANCE DAYS in Munich and at the Functional Fabric Fair in Portland, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its journey of sustainability and innovation. If all goes as planned, Ekoten Textile intends to expand its warp knitting capacity, mirroring its successful strategy in the circular knitting sector. The company’s aim is to establish itself as the market leader in warp knitting as well.

Posted: January 15, 2025

Source: KARL MAYER

Grand Opening Of The Fibroline USA Innovation Lab With Navis TubeTex

LEXINGTON, N.C. — January 14, 2025 — Fibroline, the France-based company that developed dry powder impregnation solutions, and Navis TubeTex, a U.S.-based machinery manufacturer, are launching a new innovation center in Lexington, N.C. This laboratory will bring new expertise and resources to the U.S market for dry impregnation solutions. The inauguration is set for next month.

After having officially formed a strategic partnership in January 2024, Fibroline and Navis TubeTex are now ready to launch the Fibroline USA Innovation Lab, a new state-of-the-art laboratory that will help them provide customers with unparalleled support and cutting-edge technologies. This facility marks the beginning of a transformative journey in creating the next generation of advanced textiles.

“This new lab is a hub for collaboration and ingenuity,” said Will Motchar, president & CEO of Navis TubeTex. “It is designed to explore, test, and bring to life groundbreaking textile solutions that meet evolving market demands.”

The opening of this new location will allow Fibroline to collaborate directly with its partners all over the Americas. “This innovation center is the next step for Fibroline’s development, as our technology is now directly available on this side of the world,” commented Jérôme Ville, CEO of Fibroline. “We had been wanting to extend our presence here, and now we can reach plenty of opportunities and innovative companies to work with.”

Navis TubeTex and Fibroline will hold an inauguration event running from February 11 to February 13. All potential partners are invited to get in touch with Fibroline or Navis to book a slot and meet with their team in order to discuss future collaborations and projects.

The Fibroline USA lab is located inside the Navis offices, at 113 Woodside Drive in Lexington, N.C.

Registration to the event is done by emailing Todd Dickson at tdickson@navisglobal.com.

Posted January 14, 2025

Source: Navis TubeTex

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