Lenzing Unveils TENCEL™ Modal Fiber With Indigo Color Technology To Help Elevate Sustainability In The Denim Industry

LENZING, Austria — February 23, 2021 — The Lenzing Group is enhancing sustainable offerings for the denim industry with TENCEL™ branded modal fibers with Indigo Color technology. The pioneering Indigo Color technology behind this new market offering incorporates indigo pigment directly into TENCEL branded modal fibers using a one-step spun-dyeing process. This delivers superior color fastness relative to conventional indigo dyeing whilst using substantially fewer resources. This innovative offering is awarded with the EU Ecolabel1, a label of environmental excellence awarded to products meeting high environmental standards throughout their life cycle2.

Development of Indigo Color technology to enhance denim sustainability

The denim industry’s demand for eco-responsible alternatives is growing rapidly, as brands and supply chain partners seek greater sustainability. Lenzing has been working closely with such partners to counteract environmentally harmful denim production processes via the botanic origin of its raw materials and responsible production processes.

Denim remains an important market for Lenzing, and the introduction of TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology is designed to help reduce the ecological footprint of denim fabrics and garments. Produced in Austria, predominantly from beech wood derived from sustainably managed wood sources, this new offering has been designated BioPreferred® by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“Innovation is at the core of what we do, from sustainable fiber sourcing through industry leading features and production processes, with the ever-present goal of safeguarding our environment,” said Florian Heubrandner, vice president, Global Textiles Business at Lenzing AG. “By upending traditional manufacturing processes and implementing our pioneering technology along with renewable and eco-responsible materials, TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology sets a new benchmark for indigo application and sustainability in the denim industry.”

Among early launch collaborators for TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology is Adriano Goldschmied, founder of House of Gold, who is widely regarded as the “Godfather of Denim” for his progressive vision in denim development. “The TENCEL brand is leading revolutionary change for the denim industry and it has always been one of my go-to eco-fibers for my collections,” stated Goldschmied. “We are thrilled to collaborate and launch the ‘Seed of Joy’ concept capsule with woven, circular and sweater knit fabrics using TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology, in partnership with mills such as Blue Diamond and In The Loop, as well as machinery producer Shima Seiki.”

Indigo Color technology elevates production standards and significantly reduces waste

Indigo Color technology builds upon the strong credentials of TENCEL Modal fibers with new benefits. Compared to conventional indigo dyeing, the color retention of TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology is superior through dry and wet crocking and rubbing. Despite resistance to home-laundry fading, wash-down effects for denim products can be achieved using commercial laundry techniques. TENCEL Modal fibers with Indigo Color technology are inherently versatile and enable implementation in a range of multi-fiber blends.

Compared to water and energy intensive conventional indigo dyeing, this technology provides indigo coloration with substantial water, chemical and electricity savings, along with less wastewater produced, and no heat energy used. In addition, a specially commissioned indigo pigment from dyestuff manufacturer DyStar®, ensures that TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology can be certified with STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX, guaranteeing ultra-low levels of aniline. Günther Widler,head of Technology, Denim of DyStar, said: “This specially commissioned indigo pigment is based on more than a decade of our working experiences on Indigo Synthesis in Germany. Twenty-five years ago, we invented the most eco awarded DyStar® Indigo Vat 40% to meet the demand for sustainable manufacturing and production.”

To make the commercial launch of TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology possible, Lenzing has partnered with leading supply chain partners including denim mills Candiani and Cone Denim.

“With driving sustainability at our core, we look forward to a fruitful collaboration with the production of this eco-responsible fiber type,” says Alberto Candiani, global manager of Candiani. “TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology also represents a great product to expand denim’s performances and aesthetics around sustainability itself.”

Steve Maggard, president of Cone Denim, added: “Lenzing has long been an industry leader in sustainable fibers. With consumers being more eco-conscious, the denim industry has to evolve and innovate in smarter materials to stay efficient and competitive. We are proud to partner with the TENCEL brand to launch Indigo Color technology for modal fibers and promote greater sustainability for denim.”

1 Please note that LENZING™ fibers are certified with the EU Ecolabel Standard for textile products. Single use end products are NOT included in this Standard. Single use end products made of LENZING fibers can only be labelled or marketed as EU Ecolabel certified if they are certified as compliant with applicable standards, such as the EU Ecolabel Standard for PCPs and AHPs.

2 http://ec.europa.eu/environment/ecolabel/index_en.htm

Posted February 23, 2021

Source: Lenzing

Integrated Fiber Solutions Announces $30 Million Expansion In Rome, Ga.

ATLANTA — February 16, 2021 — Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that Integrated Fiber Solutions (IFS), a manufacturer of synthetic bulked continuous filament (BCF) yarns for the carpet, rug, and automotive industries, will invest $30 million in expanding its operations in Rome, Ga., to meet growing demand. This expansion will bring approximately 40 additional jobs to Floyd County.

“It’s always gratifying to see family-owned Georgia businesses continue to expand and create opportunities in their home state,” said Governor Kemp. “I’m grateful to Integrated Fiber Solutions for continuing to invest in northwest Georgia and creating great manufacturing jobs for hardworking Georgians in Floyd County and throughout the region.”

Integrated Fiber Solutions was established in 1986 to serve the man-made yarn needs of multiple carpet and rug industries in Georgia. With locations in Rome, Dalton, and Lafayette, the company employs approximately 600 people in northwest Georgia.

“We are very pleased to announce the expansion of Integrated Fiber Solutions Rome manufacturing facility. IFS is adding additional capacity to continue to meet the demand of our customers in multiple market segments. The Rome-Floyd community has supported our efforts for many years, and now we have the opportunity to add jobs and opportunities for workers to grow as our business grows,” said IFS COO Mark Cook. “IFS will be investing over $30 million for an expansion of multiple phases spanning the next five years, with the addition of approximately 40 new jobs over the course of the project.”

Integrated Fiber Solutions will construct a new facility adjacent to their current plant, which is located at 19 Westside Industrial Boulevard in Rome. New job opportunities include management, operator, and mechanic positions. Individuals interested in careers with Integrated Fiber Solutions are encouraged to email cbaez@intfibers.com for additional information.

“It is always exciting to hear about and support an expansion of one of our existing industries. Integrated Fibers has been a strong employer over the years, and I expect that they will continue to grow with the increased construction demand we are seeing now. Our Authority and community are glad they chose to invest here once again,” said Jimmy Byars, chairman of the Rome-Floyd County Development Authority.

Project Manager Tamara Brock represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce division on this project in partnership with the Rome-Floyd County Development Authority and Georgia Power.

“Integrated Fiber Solutions’ decision to expand in Rome, the heart of the flooring and synthetic fibers industry, proves that Georgia offers everything companies need to grow. From a strong pipeline of skilled talent to market access and a low cost of doing business, the state continues to attract new companies while also supporting Georgia businesses,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “I want to thank IFS for their continued investment as well as our existing industry team for representing Georgia and assisting companies all across the state.”

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: Georgia Office of the Governor

Virginia Governor Northam Announces PPE Manufacturer To Locate In Harrisonburg

RICHMOND, Va. — February 10, 2021 — Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Valley Guard Supply LLC will invest $1 million to establish a personal protective equipment (PPE) manufacturing facility in the City of Harrisonburg. A service-disabled, veteran-owned company, Valley Guard produces three-ply disposable masks that are 100 percent made in the United States and intends to manufacture other types of safety and security gear in the future. The project will create 45 new jobs.

“Domestic manufacturers of personal protective equipment are critical as we battle this global pandemic, and we thank Valley Guard Supply for answering the call right here in Virginia,” said Governor Northam. “The company’s new Harrisonburg operation will play an important role in localizing our supply chain and keeping health care workers and citizens safe. Valley Guard is a veteran-owned small business with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and we extend our gratitude for their service to our Commonwealth and our country.”

Founded by James Madison University alumni, Valley Guard Supply is a new start-up manufacturer of personal protective equipment that launched in April 2020 after the COVID-19 pandemic began. The company has leased a facility, is purchasing machinery, and hiring full-time staff to establish its first permanent location in Virginia. Valley Guard has a strong sense of social responsibility and has started working with Harrisonburg officials to donate masks to local nonprofits and community organizations serving families in need.

“We are excited to add this homegrown Virginia company to our roster and thank Valley Guard Supply for creating 45 new jobs in the Shenandoah Valley,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “This project is a great success story of proud JMU alumni with first-hand knowledge of the region’s assets and talent who are committed to the Harrisonburg community and the Commonwealth. We thank Valley Guard for its investment and look forward to our partnership.”

“Without a doubt, talent was the driving force behind Valley Guard Supply’s decision to locate its ‘Made in the USA’ operation in Harrisonburg,” said Andy Perrine, Strategic Advisor at Valley Guard Supply. “James Madison University’s ranking as Virginia’s best school for getting a job and the university’s programs teaching innovation — most notably JMU X-labs — gives the company great confidence that our plans for growth and expansion can rely on a steady stream of top talent.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with the City of Harrisonburg to secure the project for Virginia, and connected Valley Guard Supply with GenEdge, which has since approved the company for the GO Virginia-funded Retooling Virginia Manufacturers for Strategic Industries Program. VEDP will support Valley Guard’s job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs in order to support employee recruitment and training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state-funded, demonstrating Virginia’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities for citizens.

“We are thrilled to have attracted a ‘Made in the USA’ PPE manufacturer to Harrisonburg,” said Harrisonburg Mayor Deanna Reed. “We love seeing JMU alumni launching businesses in our city, especially when that business is showing its commitment to the health and wellness of our community during a time when that is most needed. It speaks to the impact that the people and beauty of The Friendly City have on students who come to Harrisonburg for college.”

“Thanks to Valley Guard for working in partnership with the Commonwealth and the City of Harrisonburg, we have a veteran-owned small business here in the Shenandoah Valley providing more job opportunities,” said Senator Mark Obenshain. “This project will greatly benefit our region and state with an increase in supply of personal protective equipment, which is critical as we continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. As a supporter of small business, I am extremely excited about this announcement.”

“I appreciate Valley Guard Supply’s commitment to Harrisonburg,” said Delegate Tony Wilt. “The pandemic has made clear the need to manufacture personal protective equipment and other medical supplies here in the United States. Having these facilities in our own community is an even greater benefit and a win-win for job creation and public health.”

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: Virginia Office of the Governor

C&A Tool Reconfigures To Produce U.S.-Made Face Masks

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — February 18, 2021 — In 2020, as the COVID pandemic was spreading across the country, Churubusco, Ind.-based precision manufacturer, C&A Tool Engineering Inc. saw an opportunity to make a difference.

As a contract manufacturer of surgical and orthopedic devices, C&A Tool was able to quickly repurpose its medical-grade facilities and build a brand new Class-7 clean room to begin producing disposable face masks.

“As the situation progressed and we were seeing critical shortages of face masks and other protective equipment, we saw the chance to pivot and do something to help keep our employees safe and also help the public,” said Adam Heller of C&A Tool.

C&A Tool produces the high-quality face masks in its Auburn, Indiana facility using imported materials. The masks are available for sale on Amazon and directly from the company at www.catool.com/masks.

C&A Tool’s Japan-based parent company, MinebeaMitsumi, has been manufacturing face masks for its worldwide employees and the general public since the beginning of the pandemic.

“We’re proud to be able help our community by producing protective equipment that’s safe and high-quality, right here in Indiana,” Heller said.

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: C&A Tool Engineering Inc.

2021 Oerlikon Manmade Fibers Webinar Weeks: Focus On Home Textiles

NEUMÜNSTER/REMSCHEID, Germany — February 19, 2021 — Oerlikon Manmade Fibers kicks off the new year with a series of webinars on the topic of home textiles. Traditionally, the company’s event calendar begins with the DOMOTEX trade fair and the supplementary BCF Symposium. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the producer of BCF yarn systems has an alternative event for its customers this year. Those interested can register to take part in the webinars via the Oerlikon Manmade Fibers Division corporate Website.

Manufacturing carpet yarn with the BCF S8 – ‘Experience-based Innovation’

March 3, 2021: 2-2.45 CET

The series of webinars launches in March 3, 2021, with a presentation on the BCF S8 system. Nis Lehmann-Matthaei, sales director BCF at Oerlikon Neumag, introduces the latest development steps in the monocolor variant. Under the ‘Experience-based Innovation’ motto, this system technology sets new standards with never-seen-before spinning speeds, up to 700 filaments and fine titers of up to 2.5 dpf.

BCF S8 Tricolor – a massive step forward for your carpet yarn production

March 10, 2021: 2-2.45 CET

In his webinar, BCF Sales Director Michael Rübenhagen focuses on tricolor yarn production. Thanks to the patent-pending CPC-T unit (Color Pop Compacting), the BCF S8 is capable of manufacturing in excess of 200,000 different shades — from mélange through to strongly-separated.

Heavy-denier applications – WINGS HD and eAFK Big V complete your home textiles portfolio

March 17, 2021: 2-2.45 CET

The carpet yarn portfolio is complemented by a POY-DTY solution for heavy-denier applications: using the WINGS HD and the eAFK Big V, carpet yarn manufacturers can efficiently and economically cater to increasing demand for heavy-denier DTY yarns. The technology is presented by Area Sales Director Oliver Lemke.

Compact spinning system for heavy-denier POY and DTY – what the VarioFil can do for you

March 24, 2021: 2-2.45 CET

In a fourth webinar, Product Manager Ralf Morgenroth unveils the VarioFil R+ compact spinning system for recycled filament yarn, developed and built by subsidiary BBE. The system is available for producing POY.

Register now for our digital events in Q1-2021:
www.oerlikon.com/manmade-fibers/en/about-us/events/

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: Oerlikon Textile GmbH & Co. KG

ASTM International Transitions May, June In-Person Standards Meetings To All Virtual

W. CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — February 19, 2021 — In light of COVID-19 and ongoing safety concerns for members and staff, ASTM International announced today that all previously scheduled in-person May and June standards development meetings (including D02 and independent meetings) have been transitioned to all virtual.

Last month, ASTM International announced that all April in-person meetings would be transitioned to virtual as well.

These decisions were based on several factors, including, but not limited to:

  • Continued review of information and recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and other governmental bodies,
  • Input from ASTM International members whose organizations are increasingly concerned with travel, and
  • Specific information on the projected city restrictions in Toronto, Ontario, and other cities, with input from the hotels.

ASTM International staff will be contacting committee leaders to plan for virtual meetings or other alternatives for conducting committee business.

Looking forward, ASTM International will rely on these and other relevant criteria and input points to assess the status of ASTM’s future standards development meetings.

View the status of your committee’s next meeting by visiting www.astm.org/meetings.

For additional resources — including PDF guides for members participating virtually — please visit www.astm.org/updates/committees.html.

Last year, ASTM International also announced they are providing no-cost public access to a suite of more than two dozen standards used in the production and testing of personal protective equipment to combat the coronavirus public health emergency. For more information, visit www.astm.org/COVID-19.

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: ASTM International

Hyosung’s 100-Percent Recycled creora® regen Spandex Grabs Denim Industry’s Attention

SEOUL — February 19, 2021 — With sustainability, traceability and transparency at the top of the denim industry’s agenda, mills and brands are seeking fiber technology solutions to help them create the most responsibly made, eco-friendly denim products.

While still unable to gather in person at trade shows for the time being, Hyosung will present its latest sustainable fiber developments to the tightknit denim community during Kingpins24 FLASH virtual event taking place February 23-24, 2021.

Among its sustainable fiber solutions, Hyosung will highlight its GRS-certified, 100-percent recycled creora® regen spandex made from reclaimed waste, which has been in demand since its launch in 2020.

“Because we make our creora regen spandex from 100-percent reclaimed waste, we are helping our customers make a fully sustainable denim product,” said Mike Simko, Hyosung Global marketing director-Textiles.

Hyosung’s creora regen spandex has caught the attention of Tejidos Royo a leading denim innovator and manufacturer committed to sustainability.

“What is really exciting for us in working with Hyosung is that they have the textile solution that will allow us to make denim fabric made from 100-percent recycled content,” said Jóse R. Royo, sales director, Tejidos Royo.

Hyosung will also share developments with its 3D Max creora spandex, which allows denim products to have dual performance features — ultra-stretch and excellent recovery that lasts over time.

According to Simko, denim made with 3D Max creora spandex eliminates the need for stretch polyester and the fabric can be treated for environmentally friendly laser washing to create distressed looks.

In addition to its 100% recycled regen creora spandex and 3D-Max creor® spandex Hyosung will present the following eco-friendly, multi-function fibers:

  • MIPAN regen aqua X: recycled cool-touch nylon with UV protection;
  • regen askin: recycled cool-touch polyester with UV protection; and
  • regen aerolight: recycled lightweight polyester with high-performance moisture management.

A pre-recorded livestream video between Miguel Sanchez, technology leader at Kingpins, José R. Royo, sales director of Tejidos Royo, and Mike Simko, global marketing director of Hyosung Textiles will be available to view on Wednesday, February 24 at 1:20 PM ET by registering for free at Kingpins24 FLASH: https://kingpinsshow.com/shows/kingpins24-2/.

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: Hyosung

NCTO Sends Letter To Senate Finance Committee In Support Of Katherine Tai Nomination As U.S. Trade Representative

WASHINGTON — February 19, 2021 — National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) President and CEO Kim Glas sent a letter to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) today, voicing strong support for Katherine Tai’s nomination to serve as the next United States Trade Representative (USTR).

“Undoubtedly, this important office should be occupied by someone of unquestioned integrity who is not only an expert in international trade policy but an individual who also possesses a keen understanding of the unique challenges confronting domestic manufacturers and U.S. workers under the international trading system. Katherine Tai has demonstrated all these important qualities over her distinguished career,” Glas said in the letter.

“We believe she is an exceptional candidate to serve as the next USTR and are pleased to lend our strongest level of support to her nomination. Further, we urge the committee to quickly advance her confirmation to the Senate floor so that Ms. Tai can formally begin her important responsibilities as expeditiously as possible.”

The Senate Finance Committee has scheduled a hearing on Katherine Tai’s nomination for February 25.

See the full letter here.

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO)

Shawmut Announces New Health & Safety Business Unit: Initiative Includes Manufacturing Facility Expansion, Strategic New Hires, and Investment in Equipment to Support PPE

WEST BRIDGEWATER, Mass.  — February 18, 2021 — Today, Shawmut Corp. announced the creation of a new Health & Safety business unit that will apply the company’s trademark advanced materials, textile manufacturing and process innovation techniques to producing high-quality, U.S.-made, health and safety products, including its Protex™ line of U.S.-made personal protective equipment (PPE).

A fourth-generation, family-run, global company with locations in North America, Europe and Asia, Shawmut specializes in manufacturing high-performance advanced materials for a wide range of industries, including automotive, medical, industrial, and military applications. Shawmut had historically produced medical-grade barrier fabrics and certain inflatable and orthopedic medical devices but broadened its medical focus in Spring 2020 to include PPE for the COVID-19 pandemic. Shawmut now manufactures medical isolation gowns and surgical barrier fabrics and rapidly developed an N95 particulate respirator that will be available for sale in the coming weeks.

“This is a very exciting time in Shawmut Corporation’s 105-year history, as we delve deeper into the healthcare solutions space,” said CEO James Wyner. “We’re making a significant, long-term commitment to developing innovative US-made health and safety products not only for this period of great need but well beyond so that our country never faces a critical PPE shortage again.”

As part of Shawmut’s commitment to growing this Health and Safety division, the company retrofitted nearly 70,000 square feet of space in its West Bridgewater, Mass., manufacturing facility to produce isolation gowns and N95 respirators. The company also acquired nearly 60 tons of specialized, high-precision melt-blown machinery from Germany, installed a fully automated and flexible production system to support its N95 particulate respirator line, and installed roughly 50 new assembly lines for gowns and masks, some of which are augmented with advanced robotics capabilities. A key component of Shawmut’s rapid development process is an expanded materials testing lab and state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment that will allow Shawmut to test its products on site. The facility’s expansion is expected to create roughly 300 new jobs upon completion.

In addition to the multi-million-dollar facility investment, Shawmut has made several executive expertise hires to support the new business unit, including hiring a veteran of the PPE industry, Steve Walley, as vice president of Sales. Walley will be responsible for the sales growth of the company’s health and safety unit with an immediate focus on scaling its Protex medical isolation gown and N95 particulate respirator products. Shawmut also hired melt-blown material manufacturing expert Matthew Lee as plant manager of its melt-blown and mask manufacturing operations. Lee has over 20 years of high-end melt-blown and non-woven finishing management experience. Additionally, the company has made key executive investments in marketing, product management and engineering expertise, drawing from major PPE, industrial safety, and healthcare companies to rapidly deploy this new business unit.

“When we started working with the state of Massachusetts and the Federal government back in the spring to provide much-needed medical isolation gowns, we were happy to do our part in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” Wyner continued. “What we’ve learned is our deep background in advanced materials and process innovation makes our team uniquely suited to continue responding to and expanding production of this critically needed solution with a larger and more dedicated business unit. We look forward to helping healthcare and industrial supply chains with a new source of innovative, quality PPE solutions.”

Posted February 18, 2021

Source: Shawmut Corp.

VF Corp. Allocates Green Bond Net Proceeds To Advance Ambitious Science Based Targets

DENVER — February 18, 2021 — VF Corp. today announced it has fully allocated the net proceeds from its inaugural green bond issued last year, which totaled approximately 493 million euros.

The proceeds allocated to 13 of VF’s eligible sustainability projects worldwide helped to deliver meaningful positive environmental impacts, including 2 million trees planted, approximately 16,000 metric tonnes of CO2e avoided annually through procurement of sustainable materials, and more than 970 million liters of water saved annually through conservation initiatives.

“We take great pride in being the first company in the apparel and footwear industry to issue a green bond,” said Scott Roe, executive vice president and CFO for VF. “We believe that business success and environmental stewardship are closely linked together, demonstrated by the success of this effort which has enabled us to advance progress toward achieving our science-based targets while also strengthening our business for the long term. We hope our success will inspire others in our industry and beyond to pursue similar initiatives.”

VF issued its inaugural green bond, the first for the apparel and footwear industry, in February 2020. The allocation of the green bond net proceeds was an important step in VF’s implementation of its Made for Change sustainability and responsibility strategy, which supports the company’s business objectives with actions that improve lives and protect the planet.

VF’s use of the green bond proceeds demonstrates its commitment to three key sustainability areas that are core to its business: sustainable products and materials; sustainable operations and supply chain; and, natural carbon sinks. In addition, the net proceeds support projects that align with key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy; SDG 9 – Industry Innovation and Infrastructure; SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production; and, SDG 15 – Life on Land.

To provide transparency for its green bond initiative, VF has published a Green Bond Impact Report, which includes a complete breakdown of allocated proceeds and select metrics and achievements of related projects.

VF’s green bond was issued in accordance with the ICMA Green Bond Principles (GBP) 2018. VF’s Green Bond Framework was reviewed by Sustainalytics, a leading global provider of sustainability research and services that issued a Second-Party Opinion declaring that the framework is credible and impactful.

Posted February 18, 2021

Source: VF Corporation

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