Back-To-School U.S. Retail Sales Expected To Grow 5.5 Percent* Compared To Last Year, According To Mastercard Spendingpulse

PURCHASE, N.Y. — June 10, 2021— As students wrap up the current school year, retailers — and parents — are already preparing for a robust back-to-school shopping season as more kids head back into the classroom. According to Mastercard SpendingPulse™, which measures in-store and online retail sales across all forms of payment, U.S. retail sales are expected to grow 5.5 percent excluding automotive and gas during the critical July 15 through September 6 back-to-school period compared to 2020. Compared to 2019, sales are expected to grow 6.7 percent.

“Back to school has always been a prime season for retailers. This year, the broader reopening brings an exciting wave of optimism as children prepare for another school year, and the grown-ups in their lives approach a similar ‘return to office’ scenario,” said Steve Sadove, senior advisor for Mastercard and former CEO and chairman of Saks Inc. “This back-to-school season will be defined by choice as online sales remain robust, brick and mortar browsing regains momentum and strong promotions help retailers compete for shoppers’ wallets.”

Anticipated Back-to-School Retail Sales
Anticipated Year-Over-Year (YOY) Growth

2021 (July 15-September 6) vs.

2020 (July 16-September 7)

 Anticipated Year-Over-Two Years (YO2Y) Growth

2021 (July 15-September 6) vs.

2019 (July 13-September 4)
Total Retail Sales (ex. Auto and Gas) +5.5% +6.7%
Total Retail Sales (ex. Auto) +10.0% +9.1%
E-commerce Sales -6.6% +53.2%
Apparel +78.2% +11.3%
Electronics +13.0% +9.6%
Department Stores +25.3% +9.5%
Source: Mastercard SpendingPulse, which measures overall retail sales across all payment types, including cash and check

Sector-Level Back-to-School Trends:

As the broader U.S. reopening occurs and consumers return to brick and mortar, we anticipate e-commerce sales will ease slightly compared to last year (-6.6%) but will remain up a significant amount (+53.2%) when compared to 2019. In terms of what consumers are buying this back-to-school season, we anticipate the following retail trends:

  • Apparel Refresh: While athleisure was the fashion statement of 2020, this year brings the diversification of the wardrobe as in-person schooling, reunions and other events drive consumers to make their social debuts in style. Apparel is expected to grow 78.2 percent YOY / 11.3 percent YO2Y.
  • Department Store Shopping Returns: Department Stores, outdoor shopping centers and malls offer a fresh change of scenery for shoppers. We forecast a 25.3 percent YOY/9.5 percent YO2Y increase in the Department Store sector as they rebound from last year’s dip in foot traffic. Buy online, pick-up in store as well as technologies such as contactless will remain important as consumers continue to seek low-contact experiences.
  • Tech Upgrade: If we learned one thing this past year, it’s that technology keeps us connected. With many states and schools determining the virtual/in-person cadence, we anticipate Electronics will be up 13.0 percent YOY/9.6 percent YO2Y.

Building on Ongoing Retail Momentum

The anticipated back-to-school sales growth is a continuation of ongoing retail sales momentum, with May marking the eighth consecutive month of Total Retail Sales growth*. According to Mastercard SpendingPulse, U.S. retail sales excluding automotive and gasoline, increased 12.2% year-over-year in May, and 10.2% compared to May 2019. Online sales in May grew 1.1% and 94.8% respectively, compared to the same periods.

Mastercard SpendingPulse™ 
U.S. Snapshot – May 2021
Sales Growth 
May 2021 vs. 2020 Sales Growth 
May 2021 vs. 2019
Total Retail Sales (ex. Auto and Gas) +12.2% +10.2%
Total Retail Sales (ex. Auto) +16.4% +9.9%
E-commerce Sales +1.1% +94.8%
By Sector
Apparel +75.9% +14.7%
Department Stores +212.0% +4.2%
Furniture & Furnishings +22.5% +20.2%
Grocery +4.8% +14.4%
Jewelry +203.4% +44.7%
Lodging +254.4% -1.5%
Restaurants +84.7% +7.9%
Source: Mastercard SpendingPulse, which measures overall retail sales across all payment types, including cash and check

*excluding auto and gas sales

Posted June 10, 2021

Source: Mastercard

Amazon, Hanesbrands File Joint Lawsuits Against Infringers Of Champion Trademarks

SEATTLE — June 10, 2021— Today, Amazon.com Inc., together with HanesBrands Inc. and HBI Branded Apparel Enterprises LLC (collectively, HanesBrands) jointly filed 13 lawsuits against 17 defendants for selling silicone protective earbud case covers that illegally bear HanesBrands’ registered Champion trademarks. The defendants attempted to offer the infringing products in Amazon’s store, violating Amazon’s policies, infringing on HanesBrands’ registered Champion trademarks, and breaking the law.

The lawsuits were filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington. They allege that the defendants used HanesBrands’ registered Champion trademarks without authorization to deceive customers about the authenticity and origin of the products and to create a false affiliation with HanesBrands. Amazon closed the defendants’ selling accounts.

“The vast majority of Amazon customers shop with the confidence knowing they will receive an authentic product,” said Dharmesh Mehta, vice president of Customer Trust and Partner Support at Amazon. “In the rare instances when bad actors attempt to take advantage of customers and companies like HanesBrands, our team is relentless about tracking down and holding them accountable.”

Amazon strictly prohibits infringing and counterfeit products in its store, and has invested more than $700 million and employed more than 10,000 people to proactively protect its store from bad actors and bad products. Amazon uses industry-leading tools to verify potential sellers’ identities, and Amazon’s proprietary systems analyze hundreds of unique data points to verify information provided by potential sellers. In 2020, only 6 percent of attempted new seller account registrations passed its robust verifications process and listed products. As a result, fewer than 0.01 percent of all products sold on Amazon received a counterfeit complaint from customers. Those complaints were then investigated for accuracy.

“We will aggressively defend our brands and our intellectual property around the world,” said Jon Ram, president of Global Activewear at HanesBrands. “We look forward to prevailing in these lawsuits.”

In June 2020, Amazon launched its Counterfeit Crimes Unit, a global team dedicated to pursuing bad actors and holding them accountable to the fullest extent of the law, including by working with law enforcement. Amazon has filed a series of lawsuits against counterfeiters, including a suit against individuals using social media to promote and facilitate the sale of counterfeits, as well as joint lawsuits with Italian luxury brands Valentino and Ferragamo, cosmetics brand KF Beauty, family travel accessory brand JL Childress, cooler manufacturer YETI, and family-owned-and-operated card game company Dutch Blitz.

HanesBrands, the owner of the iconic Champion brand, is a socially responsible leading manufacturer of everyday casual wear in the Americas, Europe, Australia, and Asia-Pacific. For nearly 100 years, the Champion brand has been synonymous with high-quality uniforms and apparel for amateur and professional athletes, as well as popular styles of sportswear and leisurewear for kids and adults. Champion apparel has been worn by millions of everyday people, celebrities, and athletes, and the Champion brand has become one of the most recognized sportswear brands in history.

Posted June 10, 2021

Source: Amazon.com Inc.

Aegle Launches The First N95 Mask To Feature Exclusive Acteev Anti-Microbial Fabric And Authentication And Traceability Technology

HOUSTON — June 10, 2021— Aegle, an American-made PPE manufacturer and health-tech company, has launched the first N95 and NIOSH certified mask that uses authentication and traceability technology, it announced today. Every box case and lot has an embedded NFC chip to prevent counterfeiting and ensure that every mask sold is trusted, transparent and authentic.

Aegle’s team comprises technologists, industrial designers, and healthcare experts including multiple Ph.D.s and experience in national security and technology. Aegle masks are manufactured domestically in the Houston, Texas metro area and the company has plans to launch and license further PPE applications of its patent-pending authentication and traceability technology.

Masks are available for corporations, businesses, healthcare institutions, essential workplaces and individuals to purchase on Aegle’s website and Amazon beginning today.

“Despite plummeting COVID-19 cases in the US, the world has forever changed as a result of COVID-19 with governments, healthcare organizations, businesses and consumers now well aware of the need to maintain domestic supply of authentic high-quality masks and PPE”, said Thomas Lopez, chief technology officer at Aegle. “We are actively responding to these needs through our health-tech solutions and our laser-focus on innovating and defining the future of high-tech, high-quality protective medical equipment. Our industry-first authentication and traceability technology is the first milestone in our larger mission to make medical protective equipment design safer, transparent and trustworthy.”

Aegle’s N95 mask is designed with careful attention to physical improvements and equipment design for safety and comfort. The masks are made from ultra-lightweight materials that deliver exceptional fit and breathability. Each Aegle N95 mask is designed to effectively secure mask placement, minimize mask movement, and deliver maximum visibility, helping to reduce inhalation exposure to airborne biological particles like COVID-19, Bacillus Anthracis, and Mycobacterium Tuberculosis.

Exclusive Partnerships and Impact

Aegle’s anti-microbial N95 respirator is developed through the Company’s exclusive partnership with Ascend Materials. Ascend’s Acteev fabric is embedded with active zinc ions that independent experts have shown contain anti-viral and anti-microbial efficacy.

Since its founding in May 2020, Aegle has built strong relationships with industry partners including non-profits Project N95 and Get Us PPE to serve the overarching mission of building resilience into the US supply chains and strategic reserves of PPE. Specific initiatives include:

  • ProjectN95 and the Patriot Military Family Foundation: Aegle donated tens of thousands of masks to the National Guard for the Presidential inauguration in January.
  • United Food and Commercial Workers Union(UFCW): Aegle has committed that 100 percent of its employees will be unionized.
  • Aegle donated over 14,000 masks for COVID-19 relief in India last month, to combat one of the worst outbreaks globally

Aegle is backed by a team of Silicon Valley technology entrepreneurs and investors. Co-founder Andrew Moy said, “Aegle is more than a financial investment. Our team is protecting the security and safety of all Americans by supporting the reshoring of critical manufacturing to the United States. Investing in a domestic tech-based and impact-oriented PPE manufacturer helps America break supply chain bottlenecks that continue to plague the global economy as we recover from the pandemic and ensure that we remain prepared for future health crisis.”

Authenticity and Traceability

The authentication and traceability technology enhances supply chain intelligence to help ensure effective end-user distribution and that PPE is effective and not counterfeit.

Available information will include internal and third-party test data for all materials used in the production of the product, date of manufacturing, expiration date, lot number, and will verify that each box is an official Aegle product. Having a security layer that authenticates that the product was manufactured by Aegle aims to provide transparency to the entire supply chain – distributors, retailers, and end consumers.

Aegle’s first manufacturing and distribution center is located in the new VEnergy 100-acre industrial park near Brookshire in the Houston, Texas metro area, currently designated as an economic development HUBZone and Opportunity Zone. The center features 90,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space and neighbors other major national distribution facilities. Following the launch of its N95 mask, Aegle has plans to expand production and construct new industrial warehouse space by the end of this year. Aegle has capacity to produce over 20 million masks and expects to provide over 100 jobs in the greater Houston Area by Q4 2021.

About Acteev:

  • Tests show >99% antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal efficacy;
  • EPA-registered zinc ions embedded in the polymer;
  • Hygroscopic nylon 6,6 fabric attracts moisture, which activates the zinc ions;
  • Not a topical treatment or coating;
  • Not dependent on silver, copper; and
  • Proven efficacy in many end forms:
    • Knit and woven fabrics for consumer textiles, upholstery, uniforms, face masks;
    • Nanofiber, meltblown and spunbond nonwovens for filtration;
    • Fibers for carpets; and
    • Engineered plastics for high-touch surfaces.

Posted June 10, 2021

Source: Aegle

New Survey From Kontoor Brands, Parent Company Of Lee® And Wrangler® Finds Pent Up Demand Fuels Remote Workers’ Desire To Dress Down, Spend More When They Return To The Office

GREENSBORO, N.C. — June 10, 2021— As more remote office workers say they’re ready to return to the office, the time away appears to have rewritten their definition of “business casual,” according to a just-released study from Kontoor Brands, the parent company of Wrangler® and Lee®. While safety protocols mean the office itself may look different, there’s an expectation that office workers, specifically their clothing, will too.

Of the 1,006 adults surveyed, 85 percent expect their office will have a business-casual dress code, but the definition of “business casual” appears to be evolving. Respondents were asked how their return-to-work wardrobe will compare to their pre-pandemic office attire, which found:

  • Fewer people (36 percent) plan to wear dress pants or dress skirts when they return to the office, a decrease of 7 points.
  • Nearly 4 in 10 workers (39 percent) expect to wear jeans to the office, an increase of 7 points.
  • Sweatpants and jogging pants will be more prevalent, with 15 percent of office workers expecting to wear them to the office, an increase of 7 points.

“With the trends and expectations we’re seeing, employers should consider rewriting the ‘business-casual’ definition,” said Scott Baxter, president and CEO, Kontoor Brands. “What the survey findings suggest is employees prefer their clothing to provide a seamless transition between their evolving professional and personal roles.”

The overwhelming majority of office workers (84 percent) said a wardrobe refresh is in order. On average, these consumers plan to spend $445 on new clothes. And more than 8 in 10 (82 percent) indicated they’ll buy new jeans in the next 12 months, many of whom plan to wear jeans more frequently when they return to the office. As for the reasons behind the denim demand, respondents said their current jeans were old or worn-out (45 percent), no longer fit (32 percent) or felt buying new jeans would brighten their mood (34 percent).

“Our clothing is an extension of us, and during this time of uncertainty, people are buying and wearing clothes that make them feel more comfortable,” Baxter added. “Our Lee and Wrangler design teams believe office attire should be comfortable, relaxed and stylish. While office workers may have sacrificed comfort in the past, they now want to check all the boxes when selecting their return-to-office wardrobe.”

Furthermore, the survey found office workers expect their clothes to provide for an easy transition from the office to events. For example, consumers indicated they’re likely to wear jeans for a night out with friends (73 percent), a concert or live performance (70 percent) or date night (63 percent). And a surprising number said they plan to wear jeans to more formal events, such as weddings (31 percent).

About the Survey

Kontoor Brands commissioned unbiased, third-party vendor, KRC Research, to run an online survey of 1,006 adults in the United States 18 years of age or older who are currently employed and worked in an office setting prior to the COVID-19 pandemic (prior to March 2020). Data was collected May 7-13, 2021. More information is available at kontoorbrands.com/news.

Posted June 10, 2021

Source: Kontoor Brands Inc.

Sock Manufacturing Company Renfro Brands Acquired By The Renco Group

MOUNT AIRY, N.C. — June 9, 2021— Renfro Brands, a sock manufacturer and marketer, announces new ownership with the private holding company The Renco Group Inc. With 100 years of history and experience in the legwear industry, Renfro will further diversify The Renco Group’s portfolio while deepening its businesses within manufacturing. Through The Renco Group’s decentralized business model, Renfro’s leadership will partner with The Renco Group to solidify its position within the market while developing a long-term strategy for growth.

“We actively pursued Renfro Brands as they are the clear leader within their category and are poised for continued growth,” said Ari Rennert, president, The Renco Group. “With a unique combination of best-in-class owned and licensed brands, longstanding relationships with leading retailers, unparalleled development and supply chain capabilities, and a top-tier management team, Renfro Brands aligns with our values and represents the right opportunity to expand our portfolio.”

The Renco Group is committed to making long-term investments in Renfro, building value over time by retaining earnings and reinvesting in the business. Renfro’s existing management team, including that of the newly launched DTC marketplace Loops & Wales, will partner with The Renco Group on new areas of investment. Under the new ownership, investment will focus on consumer connectivity, operational agility and brand management.

“As Renfro Brands enters its monumental hundredth year in business, we are thrilled by the opportunity to not only further invest in talent, performance marketing and technology but to also elevate our supply chain resilience through The Renco Group’s manufacturing experience,” said Stan Jewell, CEO, Renfro Brands. “We are brand stewards and this acquisition strengthens our commitment to position brand management as one of our core competencies to create and drive more value internally and externally.”

Today, Renfro stewards over 20 globally recognized brands spanning the essentials, fashion, athletics, outdoors, work and wellness categories. Renfro’s brand portfolio model includes Fruit of the Loom, Dr. Scholl’s, Merrell, Copper Defense, Smartwool and more, including fashion sock labels Hot Sox and K. Bell. The brand’s commitment to sock manufacturing has resulted in long, trusted relationships with large retailers such as Macy’s, Walmart, Costco and Amazon as well as brand licensors. Under The Renco Group, Renfro will aim to create a best-in-class brand management experience for licensing partners and continue to build and balance their brand portfolio to drive value proposition and new business.

Posted June 10, 2021

Source: Renfro

Birla Cellulose’s Grasim Vilayat, India Site Achieves The EU BAT Compliances

MUMBAI, India — June 10, 2021— Birla Cellulose’s Grasim Cellulosic Division, Vilayat, India has successfully commissioned the carbon-disulphide adsorption plant (CAP) and has achieved the stringent level of sulphur-to-air emission norms stipulated in the EU BAT references (EU Best Available Technologies BREFs) for the viscose manufacturing process.

This initiative is in line with Birla Cellulose’s aim to apply the best available technologies (EU BAT) at all of its fibre locations and investments of $170 million are in progress in order to achieve this by the end of 2022.

“Adapting the best available technologies is an important milestone towards achieving global leadership in sustainable practices in the MMCF industry,” informed H K Agrawal, COO of Birla Cellulose, “we are investing in innovation to continually improve our performance. This is the reason that our products come with sustainability credentials that are global benchmarks.”

Birla Cellulose has already achieved Carbon Neutrality in Scope 1 & 2 emissions by sequestration of carbon in its managed forests. Birla Cellulose is also ranked #1 in Canopy’s Hot Button Report for its sustainable forestry practices and innovations in NextGen solutions. Birla Cellulose has also established the global benchmark for lowest water intensity in the viscose manufacturing.

Grasim Vilayat has installed state-of-the-art closed-loop technologies to recover and recycle CS2, which is the key raw material for viscose manufacturing process. With these technologies, the site is able to significantly reduce its emissions and achieve 90 to 95 percent recovery in terms of sulphur and recycle it back to the process. In addition to this, the site also meets all other EU BAT parameters. This was confirmed by an audit conducted by Sustainable Textile Solutions UK (STS) recently. The site also meets the ZDHC MMCF responsible viscose production standards.

Vilayat is one of Birla Cellulose’s flagship sites and post the ongoing expansion, it will be the world’s largest MMCF manufacturing site. The on-going expansion project at Vilayat site is also designed to comply with EU BAT requirements and designed to achieve low energy consumption.

The Vilayat will supply eco-enhanced fibres, Livaeco by Birla Cellulose™ (Viscose & Modal variants) to sustainability conscious Brands globally. Livaeco by Birla Cellulose™ range of products comes with outstanding sustainability credentials such as EU BAT norms, FSC® certification, low water and energy consumption and complete supply chain traceability from forest-to-fashion using GreenTrack™ platform.

Posted June 10, 2021

Source: Birla Cellulose

Platinum Equity To Acquire Global Sewing Machine Manufacturer SVP Worldwide

LOS ANGELES — June 10, 2021— Platinum Equity announced today a definitive agreement to acquire a controlling stake in SVP-Singer Holdings Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries (SVP Worldwide), a consumer sewing machine company. Existing shareholders and management have retained a meaningful equity interest. Financial terms were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to be completed during the third quarter of 2021.

SVP Worldwide accounts for more than one out of three consumer sewing machines sold worldwide through three iconic brands: SINGER®, VIKING®, and PFAFF®. The company’s products are sold across a network of sewing machine dealers, mass retailers, specialty shops, online retailers, distributors, and the company’s 180 internally operated retail stores.

SVP Worldwide CEO Carl-Martin Lindahl and Executive Chairman Stan Rosenzweig, who both joined the company in 2018, will continue in their roles following the change in ownership.

“The company has made impressive strides recently by investing in technology and product development, and is on the cusp of a new stage of growth fueled by innovation and continued operational transformation,” said Platinum Equity Managing Director Jason Price. “Carl-Martin, Stan and the entire SVP Worldwide team have done an excellent job refocusing the business and setting the stage for the next chapter. We fully support the investments they’ve made and we will bring additional financial and operational resources to bear to help accelerate their efforts.”

With its corporate headquarters in Nashville, Tenn., and regional headquarters and sales offices in Milan, Shanghai and Mexico City, SVP Worldwide is a global business that serves consumers in more than 180 countries. The company’s operations include manufacturing facilities in Asia and Latin America, multiple R&D centers, including a new state-of-the-art facility in Sweden, a software development center in the United Kingdom, and a global supply chain with distribution centers in all regions.

“We have made good progress reinvigorating our product development capabilities and redoubling our commitment to our dealer and retail partners, but there is a lot more work to be done,” Lindahl said. “We are excited about the opportunity to work with the Platinum team, which will bring new perspectives and expertise to the table and further expand our playbook.”

Rosenzweig, whose family has been involved in the sewing industry for three generations, added he is optimistic about growth trends in the sector.

“Technology is making sewing more accessible to a broader demographic with new demand driven in part by interest from a younger generation attracted to personalization, self-expression and outlets to showcase their creativity,” Rosenzweig said. “In developing markets, growth is also being fueled by an emerging middle class and a ‘need to sew’ segment that uses sewing machines to generate income. It’s an exciting time for the industry.”

In addition to opportunities for organic growth, Platinum Equity expects to use its M&A resources to help the company expand.

“An upcoming slate of exciting new products positions SVP Worldwide brands to gain market share, and we also believe there are additional means for growth through add-on acquisitions, particularly in sewing-related accessories and other products,” added Mr. Price.

Latham and Watkins is serving as legal advisor to Platinum Equity on the acquisition of SVP Worldwide. BofA Securities is providing financing for the transaction.

Sawaya Partners LLC is acting as exclusive financial advisor and Morgan Lewis as legal advisor to SVP Worldwide with respect to the transaction.

Posted June 10, 2021

Source: Platinum Equity

Techtextil North America 2021 Symposium Schedule Announced

ATLANTA — June 10, 2021— The 2021 edition of Techtextil North America has released the schedule for the Symposium, taking place alongside the Techtextil North America tradeshow, August 23-25, 2021, at the Raleigh Convention Center in Raleigh, N.C.

The Techtextil North America Symposium is dedicated to showcasing advancements in research and technology for the textile industry, highlighting the latest trends and innovations, with a focus on sustainable practices. The show’s theme this year is “Accelerating Technology” and will explore the textile industry’s high level of innovation and contribution to the global supply chain.

Attendees will have the opportunity to expand their expertise and gain a competitive edge throughout seven presentation and panel-style sessions, where industry leaders and subject matter experts will cover the hottest topics around the post-pandemic supply chain, exploring lessons learned, adaptations being made, and future-oriented insights on the industry as a whole. Session content this year will also touch on topics related to the expanded product groups brought by the Texprocess Americas Pavilion and Textile Care Pavilion.

Monday, August 23, 2021

8:30am – 10:00am | Sustainability, Traceability and Supply-Chain Disruptions

Moderated by: Mike Abbott, director of Global Research & Innovation, Hanesbrands

There is a tremendous amount of speculation around what a post-pandemic world will look like, with the textile industry asking itself: What will change and what will revert to how it was before?

What is, at this point, beyond speculation, is that the post-pandemic supply chain and manufacturing ecosystem will be vastly different. Over the coming years, there will be an increased focus on the global manufacturing dynamic, with companies weighing more and more the geopolitical implications – such as disruptions in supply, transparency for labor, material sources, and quality control – of manufacturing in developing countries around the world.

A critical component of this discussion should be the development of a stable domestic textile machinery and manufacturing base to support various needs of the US economy including: continuous demand for commodities, emergency needs for rapid product development, scalable manufacturing for critical supplies like PPE, and what is needed from the federal government to support domestic textile investment.

10:30am – 12:00pm | Digital Transformation Strategy

Moderated by: Keith Hoover, partner, Black Swan Textiles

Imagine designing a garment that can be immediately visualized and manufactured using the same data. Today, the imagination is the only place that can happen. The value proposition is different for apparel brands, textile mills, and garment makers. But other industries have shown how technology can connect the players so that design and engineering are integrated to define an optimized product that flows transparently through material creation, cutting, sewing, and distribution. AI-enabled line planning isn’t enough. 3D design visualization isn’t enough. A lean factory with robots isn’t enough. Digitalization must be comprehensive with a data thread that connects every phase. This session will bring together leaders from every phase of apparel to provide insight into a comprehensive solution.

2:30pm – 4:00pm | High Performance Fibers: From Concept to Market

Moderated by: Sam Buff, vice president & general manager, Manufacturing & Textile Innovation Network

Learn more about what it takes to commercialize an innovative fiber in this interactive session.  Speakers will share their experiences in the journey of progressing an idea to end product in the world of technical textiles.

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

8:30am – 10:00am | Sustainability in Laundering & Textile Care

Moderated by: Todd Cline, director of Research and Development, Sustainability and Wellness, Procter & Gamble

As issues related to sustainability are becoming of increasing importance for the textile industry, suppliers, manufacturers and brands are more closely examining the overall life-cycle of textile products – from design, development and production, to recommended after-market care. In this hybrid presentation/panel session, industry experts will discuss the sustainability journey involved in both home and commercial laundering. What are the environmental impacts, and how can we lessen the overall footprint? Our panel discuss topics including:

  • Material Development and Selection;
  • Energy Consumption and Cold Water Wash; and
  • Fiber Shedding & Microplastic Pollution.

10:30am – 12:00pm | A Full Embrace of Circularity in Textiles

Moderated by: Andre West, director, Zeis Textile Extension, Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina State University

Textile production has become one of the most polluting industries, producing 1.2 billion tons of CO2 per year. Natural resources are put under substantial pressure, causing high levels of pollution; including the use of toxic chemicals, dangerous dyes, and synthetics fibers seeping into water supplies and in our ocean. The circular textiles industry can be defined as a regenerative system in which fabrics are circulated for as long as their maximum value is retained, and then returned safely to the biosphere when they are no longer of use. In a circular model, products are designed and developed with the next use in mind. Less than 1% of clothing is recycled into new clothing. What are the ideas that will drive this new economy? Perhaps these panelists will help you invigorate your company to begin thinking circular.

2:30pm – 4:00pm | Sustainability Strategies to Protect Your Brand and Your Bottom Line

Moderated by: Joe Walkuski, founder and CEO, Texbase

Sustainability and transparency will affect the value of your brand more than anything else in the next two years. Get it right and you’ll succeed. Get it wrong and your brand may never recover. This is true for all brands – ingredient brands as well as consumer brands. Everyone in the supply chain must adapt to shifting demands for sustainable products that must perform. The retail customer will not accept anything but absolute transparency and will reward those brands that are able to deliver specific, concise and accurate data validation. This session will explore best practices in creating sustainable supply chains and the importance of validating, documenting and certifying performance through testing, chain of custody and supply chain collaboration.

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

8:30am – 10:00am | Manufacturing, Managing, and Regulating PPE – Now and into the Future

Moderated by: Dr. Kavita Mathur, associate professor of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management, Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina State University

This session will expose the need for scalable solutions for PPE focusing on respirators, surgical masks, and facemasks, and effective infection prevention strategies that can be deployed quickly and globally to contain pandemic threats while mitigating financial risks worldwide. Learn how PPE market has been impacted by global supply chain issues and continues to present a unique challenge to the global economy in terms of best practices needed to re-open economies effectively while putting into practice strong mitigation strategies to contain the spread of infections. In this presentation-style panel session, our industry experts and researchers will present and discuss this market and their innovative approaches in handling and supporting infection controls and management, current testing standards adapted by industries to evaluate these PPEs for the level of performance and protection they offer to the wearer from airborne particles and from contaminated liquid, and share established compliance and regulatory landscape by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that has allowed these PPE businesses to safeguard the integrity of their supply chain.

Speaker announcements coming soon

Symposium seating is limited, so interested attendees are encouraged to register early. Techtextil North America’s tired pricing structure provides significant savings to those who register in advance. All Symposium registrations include three days of exhibit hall access. Advanced Pricing ends on June 18th, so be sure to take advantage of the savings before it’s too late!

  • $800 for Full Symposium pass, offering the best value for education;
  • $500 for One Day Symposium, Monday, August 23 or Tuesday, August 24;
  • $165 for One Day Symposium, Wednesday August 25; and
  • $90 for Exhibit Hall only.

Registration can be accessed here: https://www.xpressreg.net/register/TTNA0821/start.asp?sc=PR4

Posted June 10, 2021

Source: Messe Frankfurt North America

Game Changing #MakeItFeelRight Campaign Returns: Lenzing’s TENCEL™ Brand Introduces New Ways To Join The Movement And Activate “#MakeAPledge”

LENZING, Austria — June 10, 2021— When #MakeItFeelRight (#MIFR) first launched in 
2019, Lenzing’s TENCEL™ brand set out to raise awareness on the negative
impact that the fashion industry has on the environment. With rising eco-fashion demand in mind, the campaign highlights the importance of making environmentally responsible textile choices with the ability to “#MakeAPledge” and actively contribute to making the world a better place. With this in mind, the TENCEL brand revitalized the #MIFR campaign on World Environment Day 2021. Exciting announcements, new ways to become part of the conversation and entertaining Instagram and TikTok filters are all to be expected throughout the year!

Partnering with sustainable change-makers

TENCEL brand is partnering with One Tree Planted once again, an innovative NGO focused on reforestation efforts, to introduce “#MakeAPledge” on TikTok and Instagram. Consumers will have the ability to submit a short video pledge in exchange for a “Tree Certificate”. For every certificate generated, TENCEL will then plant a tree with One Tree Planted as a way to acknowledge their contributions in aiding the global reforestation effort.

Building on a successful partnership established in the first campaign, TENCEL is excited to partner with Redress once again. TENCEL is always looking for new and exciting partnerships such as Redress and One Tree Planted. As the campaign progresses, watch out for more NGOs and influencers engaging with the sustainability movement!

In addition to NGOs, this year the campaign will include a variety of new and powerful influencers, including Lily Cole, Caitlyn Warakomski, Valeria Hinojosa and more! As social media influencers, their raw star power and dedicated audiences will play a big role in shaping the sustainability movement to #MakeItFeelRight.

“TENCEL, a pioneering textile fiber brand, is delighted to be collaborating with a stellar selection of NGOs and influencers. As advocates for sustainability in a range of ways, we trust them to empower everyday people to be more sustainable and work towards collective sustainability goals. Whether it’s through Instagram Reels, filters or TikTok challenges, we want to give you the power to use your voice and creativity to champion sustainability”.

“It’s up to you to actively support sustainable fashion and the #MIFR campaign is here to help in any way it can,” shared Harold Weghorst, vice president of Global Marketing & Branding at Lenzing Group.

The eco-movement is just getting started

It’s not just about keeping those who are already committed to sustainable practices informed, but also educating those who want to do more but don’t know where to start. TENCEL aims to empower everyday people to participate, actively share content online, and get their voices heard.

“Since the inauguration of the first #MIFR campaign in 2019, the demand for sustainable fashion and lifestyle has skyrocketed. Through our TENCEL brand, we regularly work with various stakeholders in the fashion industry to enhance their sustainability measures. We recognize that a crucial part of this ecosystem are everyday people. With the launch of the #MakeItFeelRight reboot, we want to inspire you to heal the planet by implementing sustainability practices and products in your daily routines. Sustainability is not a project nor a short-term goal, it’s a movement, and it starts with you,” said Florian Heubrandner, vice president, Global Textiles Business at Lenzing AG.

Please check out the TENCEL #MIFR website and social media platforms for more information throughout the campaign. More news and information on new ways to interact with the influencers, brands and NGOs that are making a true difference will be shared soon. We invite everyone to be a part of the #MakeItFeelRight movement and encourage all to #MakeAPledge!

Posted June 10, 2021

Source: Lenzing AG

EURATEX Calls For An Effective EU Industrial Strategy To Counterbalance The Effects Of The Pandemic

BRUSSELS — June 9, 2021— On the occasion of releasing its 2021 Spring Report, EURATEX calls the European Institutions to implement a new Industrial Strategy which will effectively support the European textiles industry. EURATEX welcomes the fact that Textile and Clothing industry is recognised as one of the 14 essential ecosystems of the European economy, but we need to take effective measures to support these sectors, and take into consideration the global dimension.

Economic data for 2020 in EURATEX Spring Report show preoccupying trends.  Figures reflect a dramatic contraction in demand and production: EU turnover contracted by -9.3 percent in textiles (which is in line with the general manufacturing average) and by -17.7 percent in clothing, compared with 2019. Furthermore, supply chain disruptions and substantial price increases of some raw materials are putting significant pressure on the T&C industries across Europe.  The trade deficit for European textiles and clothing jumped from -47 billion euros in 2019 to -62 billion euros in 2020, an increase of more than 30 percent, which is almost entirely due to the import of Chinese face masks and related products. Fortunately, more recent figures from the 1st quarter of 2021 indicate some signs of recovery.

That figure illustrates very well today’s political discussions on the future of the European industry. Many European companies have made considerable efforts to adapt their production to the pandemic, but clearly this was not enough. Whether the production cost in Europe is too high or the EU should adapt its procurement rules, the industry needs have a coherent long-term plan to become more competitive and conquer new markets.

EURATEX General Assembly highlighted the critical role of the new EU Industrial Strategy. The inclusion of textiles and clothing in the fourteen ecosystems is a step in the right direction to consolidate the industrial base but we should look also at the global challenges. European companies should continue investing in innovation, design and quality, in combination with a structural move towards more sustainable textiles. At the same time, the EU should create an environment — both inside the Single Market and globally — where everybody plays by the same rules.

“We should build a transition pathway which is based on an honest dialogue between the industry and policy makers, ensuring an effective level playing field” commented President Alberto Paccanelli. “I am also glad that TEKO, the Swedish Association for textiles and fashion companies, became again one of our members. It is sign that the industry is united. It is now time that the EU institutions deliver on their promises”.

Posted June 9, 2021

Source: EURATEX

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