HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — March 18, 2025 — Microban International, the leader in antimicrobial solutions, announced the launch of AkoTech, an advanced platform of multifunctional coating technologies that enhance and protect a broad spectrum of products. Easy to use and customizable for various manufacturing processes and end-use applications, AkoTech formulations can provide benefits such as excellent hardness, adhesion, water and oil repellency and chemical resistance. AkoTech’s multifunctional capabilities make it an ideal solution for flooring, exterior finish systems, touchscreens, countertops, furniture, and more. By integrating AkoTech, these surfaces benefit from enhanced durability, improved cleanliness, and long-lasting freshness, helping to maintain their appearance and performance over time.
AkoTech is an umbrella of formulations that includes water-based and solvent-based solutions. The formulations can also use heavy metal–free antimicrobial technologies to inhibit bacterial growth and prevent mold and mildew growth, leading to longer-lasting and more sustainable products. Backed by the power of Microban, AkoTech delivers cutting-edge performance that is bolstered by the suite of services that comes with the Microban brand, including formulation, sales, marketing and regulatory support.
“There are multifunctional capabilities under the AkoTech umbrella, with each iteration of the technology providing crucial versatility and functionality to different types of products,” said James Rapley, liquid formulations manager at Microban. “Customers have been asking for multifunctional coatings for years, and now this umbrella allows Microban and our partners to work together in delivering new and exciting technologies.”
To make AkoTech easy to use for all kinds of applications, the technology is available as a starting-point formulation (used as is or customized if desired), a ready-to-use formulation or a liquid concentrate (requiring the addition of water). AkoTech is integrated into products during manufacturing using a coating application process such as roll coating or spray coating.
“As the global leader in antimicrobial and odor control technologies, we are committed to the development of solutions that support product sustainability by extending their useful lifetimes,” said Microban President Michael Ruby. “We’re proud to launch a system of technologies that aids in this mission while making the integration as seamless as possible for our manufacturing partners.”
Posted: March 18, 2025
Source: Microban International — Part of Barr Brands International
CULVER CITY & OXNARD, Calif. — March 18, 2025 — Today, Outerknown launches the Apex Evolution Trunks by Kelly Slater, the first four-way stretch boardshorts made from NetPlus® material crafted from post-consumer recycled fishing nets. Furthering Outerknown’s commitment to making the highest quality products using the most sustainable materials available, these are the brand’s highest-performing boardshorts yet and represent the second generation of this style.
Outerknown, founded by professional surfer Kelly Slater and creative director John Moore, is celebrated for creating elevated, lasting wardrobe staples from superior quality, responsibly sourced materials. As the first apparel brand founded on a total commitment to sustainability, Outerknown’s current collections are crafted using 99 percent preferred fibers — including organic, Regenerative Organic Certified®, recycled, regenerated, and bio-based materials. By prioritizing innovation over trends, Outerknown continues to lead the industry in sustainable design and alternative fiber solutions.
“Continual progression is in our brand’s lifeblood, so it’s only natural that we were inspired to take the highest performance trunk ever made — and make it even better,” said Outerknown creative director John Moore. “We delivered on all of Kelly’s precise design requests: better no-slip braided drawcords, an enhanced waistband that cinches without bunching, and reinforced ultrasonic-welded seams where it matters most. With our minds forever on the sea, we teamed up with our friends at Bureo to utilize their unmatched NetPlus® material made from recycled fishing nets. This yielded a truly responsibly-made trunk with a little more substance than the first Apex — without compromising any performance qualities.”
NetPlus material is made from 100-perce t recycled fishing nets, reducing the harmful impacts of fishing net waste on our ocean, and is 100-percent post-consumer recycled and 100-percent traceable. Through the NetPlus recycling program, discarded nets are sourced directly from fishing communities before they can end up in the environment. The entire process, from collection through recycling, is third-party audited and certified for material traceability. Utilizing NetPlus material empowers fishing communities around the world by providing waste management infrastructure, employment opportunities, and non-profit funding. Bureo continues to scale NetPlus material to provide a preferred recycled input for performance fabrics, lowering emissions and reducing reliance on virgin materials.
“Developing a boardshort material for Kelly has been an incredibly rewarding experience for the entire Bureo team,” said Bureo co-founder and CTO Kevin Ahearn. “We were able to work closely with the Outerknown team to perfect the fabric blend to ensure it’s durable enough for the demanding spots Kelly surfs, but still super lightweight, with the right amount of stretch to be comfortable for long days in the ocean; we’re thrilled to now share it with the industry. Having Kelly lead this development is a dream come true for a group of surfers and ocean advocates like us and we can’t wait to see this partnership evolve.”
The Apex Evolution boardshorts are available in 17” and 19” outseams, with Outerknown planning to integrate NetPlus into future products and collaborations. This is the second collaborative product for the two brands. In winter 2024, Outerknown launched the Puffer jacket with a shell made of 100 percent NetPlus material.
“After three years of dialing in the details, these trunks are really impressive,” Slater said. “Big improvements. Better fit, better length, a great scallop on the side for room in the leg. The materials hold up better too, and the string tie holds up great and doesn’t come undone. I’m confident these are the best trunks ever made.”
PARIS — March 18, 2025 — After three dynamic days of intense business interactions, expertise sharing, and knowledge exchange, the 60th edition of JEC World 2025 has reaffirmed the pivotal role of the composites industry in building a more sustainable future. Under the unifying theme “Pushing the Limits,” the event showcased the extraordinary versatility and innovation of composite materials that continue to redefine lightweighting, performance, and design possibilities for an increasing number of applications.
This edition marked a new milestone as the largest JEC World ever, attracting more than 45,000 professional visits from 94 countries, 29 percent coming from France, with 27 regional and national pavilions and hosting more than 1,350 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge innovations, and a very strong increase in business relationships as part of the JEC Business Meetings program.
JEC World, the industry Think Tank
During the three days of the show, public authorities, industry leaders and visionaries contributed to make JEC World the composites industry Think Tank, where circular economy principles were raised by all participants, starting by the launch of the European Composites Circular Alliance on March 4th with the European Commission support.
Many strategic partnerships were signed at the show among which Fraunhofer and the ICC Japan, Orbital and Aditya Birla, Vartega and Syensqo, the creation of the Composites TP Team, with Coriolis, Pinette, l’Institut de Soudure, Loiretech and CETIM, the partnership of Beneteau, Veolia, Composites Recycling, Arkema, Chomarat and Owens Corning for the first circular leisure boats, etc… At JEC World, the converging efforts of all stakeholders, heading towards a sustainable future, created a global statement and a tangible source of inspiration.
JEC World, the must-attend business platform of the composites’ worldwide community
The whole value chain gathered in Paris for this “festival of composites”: gathering as many global companies as SMEs under one roof, the event also presented 50+ start-ups resulting, in a lively environment for networking and business opportunities. Powered by a dedicated business meetings platform developed and optimized for the composites industry, the JEC Business Meetings Program enabled 13,500+ face-to-face pre-arranged meetings during the three days — an increase of 68 percent over 2024, demonstrating the dynamism of the industry.
Many countries also participated in the event: Foreign Ministers, French President of the MEDEF (French Business Confederation), Ambassadors and official representatives from 16 countries visited the show as part of official delegation tours. Among them: Austria, Brazil, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Egypt, Germany, Great Britain, Japan, South Korea, Luxembourg, Slovakia, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey and United States.
JEC World: Connecting Innovation and Industry
With more than 600 new products and innovations launched during this year’s show, JEC World remains the best place to introduce new developments to the global market. The JEC Composites Innovation Awards recognized 11 collaborative achievements, reflecting the industry’s dedication to providing new solutions for all application sectors of composites.
For its 8th edition, the JEC Composites Startup Booster competition, now firmly established as the leading competition for startups in the advanced materials sector, rewarded three companies from Netherlands, Spain and the United States for their impressive market potential.
The Live Demo zone was particularly visible on the show floor and well attended over the three days. This feature, highlighting automated and robotized processes, including large-scale additive manufacturing technologies, together with more than 100 machines available on exhibitors’ booths, made the JEC World experience unique.
The strengthening of the partnership with Sampe and the introduction of an exhibition space and conferences dedicated to the many Research and Innovation Projects have allowed JEC World to reach a new dimension in terms of advanced themes.
JEC World 2025 was, all in all, the place where innovation is ubiquitous, and the future of composites is shaping. With confidence, 59 percent of the exhibition space has already been booked for the next edition, which will take place March 10-12, 2026. Exhibitors and attendees have shared very positive feedback about the quality of the exhibition and the resounding success of this flagship event for the industry once again.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — March 18, 2025 — eVent® Fabrics, a global supplier of waterproof/breathable and windproof fabric laminates, is supplying the plant-based eVent BIO laminate to HLINC Golf, the brand new, premium waterproof golf apparel brand.
New to the market in March, 2025, HLINC Golf produces a full line of high-performance waterproof/breathable golfwear, including jackets, trousers, vests, and hats. Drawing inspiration from the links golf courses of Ireland and Scotland, HLINC is designed to provide the highest performance available.
“HLINC is the perfect brand partner for eVent,” said Chad Kelly, president of eVent Fabrics. “Their dedication to creating best in class, PFAS-free products mirrors our own mission and we look forward to seeing this brand take off.”
This partnership is an exclusive in the United Kingdom and Ireland; HLINC will be the only golf brand in that region allowed to use eVent BIO Waterproof laminate technology for two years.
“eVent BIO Waterproof provided us with exactly the right mixture of breathability, low noise, and abundant stretch, all qualities required by novice and expert golfers alike,” said Ian Forrester, Founder of HLINC. “BIO boasts an impressive waterproof rating, with 33-percent more breathability and a PFAS-free construction. It not only makes better golf apparel, but it’s also better for the planet.”
HLINC Golf’s lineup will include the Long Sleeve Jacket (£210/€250); Gilet (£190/€230); Trouser (£180/€220); Bucket Hat (£38/€48) and Cap (£32/€38). All items will feature eVent Fabric’s plant-based laminate.
HLINC launched in March and products will be available at 19 links courses across Ireland and Scotland, as well as on the www.hlincgolf.com website.
eVent’s BIO waterproof laminate is undergoing a name change to stormST. Look for the new naming convention on future HLINC Golf and other eVent partner brand products.
BOLINGBROOK, Ill. — March 17, 2025 — S&S Activewear, a technology-enabled distributor of apparel and accessories in North America, recently announced the appointment of Kendall Whitley as vice president of team sales.
Whitley’s nearly four decades of comprehensive sporting goods industry experience will expand S&S’s presence in the team sales channel to drive revenue growth and increase market share. In this role, Whitley will develop and implement strategic sales initiatives to drive growth — matching the extensive expertise he brings from executive roles at major sporting goods companies such Converse and Adidas. He will report directly to Toby Whitmoyer, chief commercial officer at S&S.
Kendall Whitley
“The sporting goods industry has been my playing field for years now, and this role with S&S is a natural fit as the company expands its work in the team channel,” Whitley said. “My career has been defined by passionate leadership in collaboration with growth-minded teams eager to push the boundaries of what we can accomplish together. I look forward to partnering with such a dynamic organization.”
Prior to joining S&S, Whitley served as vice president of athletics for Nations Best Sports, where he oversaw all business aspects for 125 dealers in the NBS Athletic Division. During his tenure, Whitley established strategic partnerships with 170 key manufacturers and brands and developed innovative sales tools, business education resources and social media strategies to unify the team. Whitley also worked as team sports director for Adidas’ West region, was team sports director for Converse, and founded Gameday Sports at the start of his career.
“Kendall’s impressive track record and deep industry relationships make him the ideal leader to strengthen our team sales division,” Whitmoyer said. “His ability to build strategic partnerships and drive growth aligns perfectly with our vision for bolstering our team channel presence.”
This marks S&S’s fifth leadership appointment since November 2024 as the company continues to strengthen its team across the U.S. and Canada. S&S most recently announced the appointment of two industry veterans to lead its Canada division.
GENEVA, Switzerland — March 17, 2025 — As a pioneer of Indonesia’s Technical Inspection and Verification Program, SGS is alerting exporters to new trade regulations on the country’s imports of luggage and bags, plastics, and hazardous chemicals.
An import licensing program to prescribe the quantities and specifications of finished plastic products has been implemented
With a population of approximately 281 million, Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world. It is also the largest economy in Southeast Asia, with annual imports amounting to USD 263 billion and a GDP per capita of USD 13,900.
“The latest increases in trade regulations for luggage and bags, plastics, and hazardous chemicals is due to the government’s wish to protect micro, small and medium enterprises, which contribute 61 percent of GDP and employ 97 percent of the workforce,” said George Bottomley, Contract Manager, SGS.
“Other concerns relate to revenue and health and safety. If imported goods are falsely described, buyers may declare the goods under a different tariff heading and pay less duty and VAT. Similarly, goods that are misdescribed may enable the importer to avoid a regulation on hazardous substances. It is important, therefore, that an independent party validates the declaration against the actual goods before export to Indonesia.”
Luggage and bags
This market is projected to grow by 4.75 percent to $4.60 billion by 2029, with most bags being imported from the EU. In principle, businesses can import textiles and bags as raw materials, auxiliary materials or consumer goods for trading, after obtaining the appropriate import permit from the MOT.
There are three categories of permitted import:
General import permits for consumption (API-U), required for parties conducting import activities for trading;
Import permits for producers (API-P); and
Import permits for suppliers of raw or auxiliary materials (PPBB).
Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry (MOI) has issued a new regulation requiring importers of textiles, textile products, bags and footwear to produce trademark certificates when applying for an import permit.
Downstream plastics
Since 2024, downstream plastics have been included in the list of products subject to inspection prior to shipment. Currently, there are approximately 500 shipments a month, mostly from China, with almost 70 percent of total plastics imports destined for the food and beverage packaging sectors, half of which are for flexible/rigid packaging.
The automotive and electronics industries make up an additional 15 percent as Indonesia targets the manufacture of 1.4 million new vehicles in 2025. Half of these will be exported, mostly to the Philippines. Other sectors driving demand for plastic products include pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
In February 2024, the Ministry of Trade (MOT) implemented an import licensing program to prescribe the quantities and specifications of different kinds of finished plastic products for import. The technical inspection and verification program is the primary tool used by the MOT to ensure these policies are implemented.
The MOT was concerned about:
The increase in import volumes with low prices due to excess capacity in some foreign countries and unfair trade practices such as subsidies and dumping; and
Downstream plastic products considered to be a risk to health, safety and the environment.
Hazardous chemicals
Chlorine is the most frequently imported hazardous chemical, used in industry and households. However, chlorine gas exposure, even for short periods and at low levels, can lead to eye, throat and nose irritation, causing coughing and breathing problems.
The MOI has identified two categories of importers of hazardous substances:
Manufacturers and importers (API-P); and
General importers (API-U).
Manufacturers/importers (API-P) are not permitted to further distribute hazardous substances on the Indonesian market. General importers (API-U) can only import and distribute hazardous chemicals if they are state-owned companies with a recommendation letter.
According to regulations, the API-P type of importers of hazardous substances must get a recommendation letter from the MOI.
George Bottomley, added: “Our advice is that all new exporters insist that the buyer does their homework to ensure they are entitled to import the goods, have the necessary import permit and, most importantly, that the permit does not expire before the goods arrive in Indonesia.
“All Indonesian government decrees are in the local language and use abbreviations and terminology unfamiliar to a foreign supplier. There is nothing worse than for a foreign supplier to learn that their shipment cannot be cleared through customs owing to a minor infringement that they cannot understand.
“If exporters have any doubts about whether their shipment will clear customs at its destination, the local SGS office in the country of supply, or our partner, KSO Sucofindo – Surveyor Indonesia, can provide guidance.”
The Background
In 2002, in collaboration with KSO Sucofindo – Surveyor Indonesia, SGS established Indonesia’s technical inspection and verification program. It was originally initiated to stop sub-standard steel imports from posing a threat to health and safety and competing unfairly with the local iron and steel industry.
Following the initial success of the program, it was realized that other commodity markets could also benefit from careful inspection before shipment to the country. Many of the early programs became necessary because of the misdeclaration of quantity and specification for items such as textiles, sugar and rice. Others were implemented for security considerations, such as precursor chemicals for narcotics, nitro-cellulose for explosives and color photocopiers being used for forgeries. In short, every commodity program was implemented a specific reason.
USTER, Switzerland — March 17, 2025 — Uster Technologies brought textile industry leaders together to discuss the current issues in using recycled raw material. A delegation of spinners from India met experts from Rieter, Säntis-Textiles, Otto Yarns, Gherzi Textile Organization and TVU at Uster headquarters in Switzerland. This article summarizes the challenges and opportunities of recycled yarns from both sustainability and business aspects.
The ideas and solutions of the panelists diverge on the subject how to be successful with recycled yarns. They see different approaches to achieve the goal.
Expert panel at Uster Technologies: (from left to right) Stefan Hutter, Owner, Säntis-Textiles; Thomas Franz, Sales and Purchasing Manager, TVU; Michael Will, Head Textile Technology & Process Analytics, Rieter; Andreas Merkel, CEO, Otto Yarns; Giuseppe Gherzi, Managing Partner, Gherzi Textile Organization.
The quality of recycled yarn could be improved with an additional step between mechanical opening and the spinning process, according to Michael Will, head, Textile Technology & Process Analytics, from Rieter. The pre-opening or carding does not necessarily have to be in the responsibility of the spinners. It could also be done by the fiber suppliers. Andreas Merkel, CEO, Otto Yarns, anticipates better results with pre-consumer fibers. Post-consumer waste remains a difficult raw material — although readily available in large quantities. He forecasts great future opportunities, but it will take some time.
Stefan Hutter, owner of Säntis-Textiles, also believes in the recycling business, and that recycled material will become a standard. He expects two segments growing: one based on industrial and the other on post-consumer waste. A lot of groundwork has been done, but it’s still a good time to jump in on this business.
Looked at from a trading and dyeing perspective, the quality and sourcing of recycled yarns are challenges. Thomas Franz, Sales and Purchasing manager at TVU, stated that yarn properties are not comparable with virgin fibers — and more difficult with cotton than polyester – and so neither dyeing results nor process efficiency are the same.
Who pays for sustainable yarns?
Producers agree that there will always be a disadvantageous difference compared to virgin fibers. The question is, could consumer expectations be corrected in terms of quality and price regarding garments made from recycled raw material?
Giuseppe Gherzi, managing partner at Gherzi Textile Organization, makes clear that the problem is not the consumer expectations, but that retails and fashion brands are not ready to pay more for recycled garments. The power for change lies in legislation. But there’s a lot of uncertainty. In the end, regulations generate costs as they need a control system.
How to prove recycled yarn?
Technology to secure, that recycled products are genuine are available and also Uster Research & Development team is working on this subject. It is possible to verify the lifecycle of recycled items, such as denim, from their first to third use. However, the cost and whether brands are willing to pay for traceability remain concerns.
Can traceability be addressed in spinning?
Will said: “With innovative technology in combing a 50/50 blend could become a 40/60 but is it necessary to declare this change?” The result of the further discussion of spinning practices was that using a certain percentage of less expensive recycled fibers should be a common standard in the future as long as quality requirements are met – without the need for information or proof.
Of course, the certification also adds to the cost for yarn producers. Plants, as well as raw material shipments and shipments to the customer, need to be certified. Only when the complete chain is certified can, for example, a GRS (Global Recycled Standard) logo be applied. With a required minimum of recycled content in the product a certification system is a must. Merkel could imagine two markets in future: a mass market for cost-effective yarn production with recycled cotton fiber but no certification; and a smaller market with certificates required. There’s a crucial fact that lower prices are expected for recycled, but that’s not the case in reality.
How to make it profitable?
Making good money with recycled yarn will be possible by optimizing and shortening the processes in yarn production. Hutter believes that the costs will come down as soon the market picks up and grows and there’s more material in the market. This happened with polyester and will also follow with cotton. The market wants recycled products.
Spinners are advised to start at some point — meaning with a certain blend of recycled material – to develop recycled yarn further. It’s crucial to learn by testing and analyzing over some years finally to achieve the required product at a much better quality.
The panel discussion is available in full, including the outlook over a time period of five years to those interested in more details. Access the video via this link (https://web.uster.com/cn/atddp/paneldiscussionvideo) or the QR code.
NEW YORK CITY — March 17, 2025 — Ultrafabrics, a global supplier of high-performance coated fabrics and leather alternatives, announces the appointment of the new Director of Merchandising, Kimberle Frost. With a rich background in textile design and color consultation spanning over 30 years, Frost has successfully collaborated with esteemed brands while receiving numerous industry awards for her innovative contributions.
Kimberle Frost
Frost’s impressive portfolio includes collaborations with notable companies such as Mayer Fabrics, Maharam, Designtex, and Robert Allen, among others. Throughout her career, she has received several prestigious awards, including the Best of Year Award from Interior Design Magazine and recognition from Metropolis Magazine. Prior to joining the Ultrafabrics team, Frost worked as an independent consultant for the brand, offering services in color consultation and product development. Her strong relationship with the team and deep understanding of the brand ultimately led her to join Ultrafabrics full-time.
“I joined Ultrafabrics because of the incredible people who truly care about each other and the products we create. Being part of a team with such a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability resonates deeply with my values,” Frost said. “I wanted to play a significant role in shaping the future of a company that sets the standard in our industry with its luxurious products and commitment to making a difference.”
In her new role as director of Merchandising at Ultrafabrics, Frost will act as a vital link between product development, marketing, and sales. She will ensure that the company’s products and colors align with its brand identity and business goals. By leveraging her creativity, strategic planning, and analytical skills, she aims to bring new products to market while enhancing business success effectively. Frost’s responsibilities will also include providing innovative product presentations to support sales, fostering deeper client interactions, and contributing to the development of both existing and new products and color palettes, all while aligning with Ultrafabrics’ brand values and mission.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kimberle to the Ultrafabrics team, as her expertise and passion for innovation will undoubtedly enhance our collaborative efforts and drive our mission forward,” says Jennifer Hendren, vice president of Product Development at Ultrafabrics. “Her extensive background in textile design and her holistic approach to merchandising aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver beautiful, sustainable products. We’re excited to have her insights and creativity driving our product development.”
WINTER PARK, Fla. — March 17, 2025 — TheTextileGateway.org has assembled a distinguished panel of industry leaders to discuss “The Textile Industry Re-Imagined Through Education and Work Force Development.” The panel will be part of the Expert Talks presented at the Functional Fabric Fair held at the Portland Convention Center, April 14 – 16, 2025. The panelists include: Organization Representative Position
Sasha Stolyarov — CEO, AFFOA;
Haskell Beckham — vice president of innovation, Columbia Sportswear;
Amy Bircher Bruyn — CEO/founder, MMI Textiles;
David Hinks — dean, Wilson College of Textiles, NC State University; and
Cheryl Smyre — vice president of Advanced Materials | Ciclo®, Parkdale Mills.
The panel will address critical challenges facing the textile industry, including: how to find skilled workers; attract entry level staff; and, inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators. College and university textile programs are also challenged in trying to attract new students. Many younger students are not learning about textiles and have a narrow view of career path opportunities. Students don’t realize research and product development are significant segments of the domestic industry. New technologies and the need for sustainability will continue to drive textile innovation. As a result, there are growing opportunities for scientists, biologists, engineers and chemists, who never thought about a career in textiles.
To revitalize the industry for the future will require education, outreach, and industry engagement.
Tom Swantko, director of TheTextileGateway.org, explained: “Today’s elementary and high school students are generally learning very little about textiles, and even less about career path opportunities. Outreach is critically needed to educate and excite students about the incredible future of textiles!”
The challenges are significant and will take considerable effort. Amy Bircher Bruyn, CEO and founder of MMI Textiles, believes revitalizing the textile industry will be difficult, requiring participation of industry businesses, associations, and textile schools. “I truly feel there needs to be a consortium of textile associations, coming together to do this much needed work,” states Amy. “It can’t be done with a few. In order to succeed, the project has to be conducted through a mighty force of many committed textile industry leaders.”
Attend this Textile Industry Panel event at the Spring 2025 Functional Fabric Fair in Portland, Ore., to learn how you can become part of this exciting movement! The Panel will be held on Tuesday, April 15 at 2:30 p.m.
FARIBAULT, Minn. — March 12, 2025 — Minnesota brand Faribault Mill — maker of handcrafted blankets, decorative throws, apparel and accessories — has announced permanent price reductions across the company’s most popular and iconic styles.
This move to lower prices comes as the company optimizes production costs through a series of measures including a historic investment in new equipment that increases productivity, streamlined production processes and waste reduction. The ability to reduce prices was also achieved through smart sourcing of materials made in the United States and consecutive years of record sales growth.
“We have worked extremely hard the past three years to be able to realize these efficiencies, ultimately lowering production costs,” said Faribault Mill President and CEO Ross Widmoyer. “To lower our prices is a testament to the hard work of our team to optimize the way we do business. From the materials we source to the development and training of craftspeople to the implementation of new equipment and processes. This period of record growth is a tremendous source of pride.”
The list of the company’s most popular products with improved pricing includes:
Pure and Simple Cotton blankets in all sizes reduced by $100 per unit (originally priced $245 – $345);
Pure and Simple Wool blankets in all sizes reduced by $50 per unit (originally priced $225 – $345);
Penobscot, Madison, Edgecomb, Bar Harbor, Vanburen, Frontier Cotton blankets in all sizes reduced by $50 per unit (originally priced $245 – $345); and
Northshore Plaid Wool blankets in all sizes reduced by $50 per unit (originally priced $275 – $375).
“We’ve been a pioneer in American manufacturing for 160 years, and now it’s time to take our brand to the next level,” said Rick Dow, chief marketing and business development officer, Faribault Mill. “This price reduction is a direct result of the growth and achievements of The Mill in the past several years. To be able to offer this value is not only meaningful to our new and loyal consumers, but extremely meaningful to our company as a whole.”
HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — March 18, 2025 — Microban International, the leader in antimicrobial solutions, announced the launch of AkoTech, an advanced platform of multifunctional coating technologies that enhance and protect a broad spectrum of products. Easy to use and customizable for various manufacturing processes and end-use applications, AkoTech formulations can provide benefits such as excellent hardness, adhesion, water and oil repellency and chemical resistance. AkoTech’s multifunctional capabilities make it an ideal solution for flooring, exterior finish systems, touchscreens, countertops, furniture, and more. By integrating AkoTech, these surfaces benefit from enhanced durability, improved cleanliness, and long-lasting freshness, helping to maintain their appearance and performance over time.
AkoTech is an umbrella of formulations that includes water-based and solvent-based solutions. The formulations can also use heavy metal–free antimicrobial technologies to inhibit bacterial growth and prevent mold and mildew growth, leading to longer-lasting and more sustainable products. Backed by the power of Microban, AkoTech delivers cutting-edge performance that is bolstered by the suite of services that comes with the Microban brand, including formulation, sales, marketing and regulatory support.
