Kontoor Brands Launches The Wrangler® Brand In China

GREENSBORO, N.C. — December 17, 2020 — Kontoor Brands Inc., a global lifestyle apparel company with a portfolio led by iconic consumer brands Wrangler® and Lee®, today announced that Wrangler has expanded the brand’s international reach to China. Taking a digital-first approach, the initial product offerings are available for consumers through Tmall, a leading online retailer in China.

“One of Kontoor’s core strategic priorities includes expanding to new markets and geographies. Launching our iconic Wrangler brand in China, one of the fastest growing consumer markets in the world, is a key step toward that effort,” said Scott Baxter, president and CEO, Kontoor Brands. “As part of Kontoor Brands, the Wrangler brand is leveraging the collective experience that helped establish Lee as one of the leading denim brands in the Chinese market. This announcement marks an exciting milestone in the brand’s 70-plus year history.”

Since becoming an independent, publicly traded company in May 2019, Kontoor has identified China as a key area of focus in the organization’s international expansion strategy. The further globalization of the Wrangler brand illustrates Kontoor’s commitment to accelerating brand growth through new distribution channels and geographies.

Wrangler products are now available on Tmall.com, an online retailer in China. The launch was celebrated with an activation at Innersect, a multi-day consumer event.

“We’ve reimagined the adventurous optimism of Wrangler’s cowboy spirit for the Chinese market, developing a brand platform designed to resonate with China’s youth and young at heart,” said John Gearing, vice president and general manager, Kontoor Asia Pacific. “We are building awareness and demand for the brand through our initial digital product offerings. In the coming months, we will accelerate our focus on creating engaging and innovative experiences designed to introduce Wrangler’s best-in-class apparel products to the Chinese consumer.”

The brand expects to expand its product offerings along with additional marketing activations in spring 2021.

Posted December 18, 2020

Source: Kontoor Brands Inc.

HanesBrands Names Tanya Deans President Of Hanes Australasia

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — December 18, 2020 — HanesBrands, a global marketer of branded everyday basic apparel, today announced that Tanya Deans has been named president of Hanes Australasia (HAA), effective February 8, 2021.

Deans, currently group general manager, Bras N Things, succeeds David Bortolussi, who in August announced his departure for another opportunity. Bortolussi will remain with HAA through January to ensure a smooth transition.

“I am thrilled to name Tanya as the new president of our Australasia business,” said Steve Bratspies, CEO of HanesBrands. “She is an outstanding people leader with deep experience building iconic brands. Tanya brings a clear vision for the future, and I look forward to working with her as we apply her experience and learnings to drive growth across our global organization.”

Deans will lead 4,400 associates and some of Australia’s most recognized apparel and lifestyle brands, including Bonds, Champion, Bras N Things and Sheridan. She will also be responsible for a rapidly growing e-commerce business and a network of more than 450 stores.

Deans has more than 25 years of experience with Hanes Australasia in a range of brand and product leadership roles. She has extensive knowledge of brand strategy, category management, product development and multichannel execution capabilities. Prior to her current role, Deans led the Hanes Australasia Apparel Group brand and marketing efforts. She has also held leadership roles with the Bonds and Berlei brands.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Hanes Australasia,” Deans said. “We have an outstanding team, iconic brands and a deep commitment to sustainability. I look forward to working with our team and the HanesBrands global organization as we build a truly consumer-centric company and deliver long-term growth.”

Posted December 18, 2020

Source: HanesBrands

TRSA Hosts January 14 Virtual Roundtable Event For Women In The Linen, Uniform And Facility Services Industry

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — December 18, 2020 — TRSA will begin its 2021 professional-development opportunities with a virtual roundtable event designed for women who hold mid-level and higher positions in the linen, uniform and facility services industry. Those participating in this free event will seize an opportunity to virtually network and create opportunities for future collaboration. Employees of TRSA operator members and supplier partners are encouraged to participate; there is also an opportunity for nonmembers to participate for just $35.

The live virtual event is set for January 14 from 1-3 p.m. EST and will be headlined by entrepreneur and coach Gina Radke. Radke is owner and CEO of aerospace manufacturing company Galley Support Innovations. A speaker and coach who has mentored entrepreneurs from around the globe, Radke is well known for her involvement in community service and empowering others with economic opportunities.

In addition to Radke’s presentation, small-group discussions will tackle these topics and more:

  • Maximizing your role in the business world while maintaining integrity and balancing a fulfilling personal life.
  • Enhancing your innovative thinking.
  • Discovering ideas and inspiration on how to make positive changes in yourself and help others toward the same goal.
  • Developing your most important assets — yourself and your people — in order to reach the next level of success.

Registration is now open at www.trsa.org/womensrt. A free copy of Radke’s bestselling book, More Than: How to Be Bold and Balanced in Life and Business, will be sent to the first 75 registrants.

Posted December 18, 2020

Source: TRSA

Ampacet Introduces Whispers Collection — Special Effects Masterbatch For A Textured, Frosted Matte Finish For PET Applications

TARRYTOWN, N.Y. — December 17, 2020 — Ampacet, a global masterbatch supplier, debuts the new Whispers Collection, special effects masterbatch that provides a textural and frosted matte finish for PET applications within all market segments.

An extension of the popular Modern Mattes™ line of special effects masterbatches, Whispers provides a tactile, textural feel in combination with a visual matte effect. The iced energy of the effect is provided without the added expense of a secondary process or mold change.

“The Whispers Collection imparts a look of frozen indulgence for an expressive and airy application of color that supports natural brand messaging,” said Linda Carroll, Ampacet director of Global Insight and Innovation.

Colors currently available include Blue Breeze, Calmed Coral, Golden Glimmer, Lucid Lilac, Muted Mauve and Soft Celadon. This collection of colors can be customized for any color pathway to accurately reflect the targeted brand message.

Posted December 17, 2020

Source: Ampacet Corp.

Truterra, Greenpoint, U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol And Cotton Incorporated Team Up With An Ag Tech Focus To Fuel Continuous Improvement In The Mid-South Cotton Sourcing Region

ARDEN HILLS, Minn./CARY, N.C.— December 17, 2020 — Truterra LLC — the sustainability business at Land O’Lakes Inc., one of America’s largest farmer-owned cooperatives — has announced a new collaboration with Cotton Incorporated, a not-for-profit research and marketing company representing Upland cotton, to advance the adoption of sustainable farming practices across 50,000 acres of cotton in the Mid-South sourcing region. The new initiative will tap the Truterra™ Stewardship platform and Truterra retailer member GreenPoint AG to help connect consumer brands to verified sources of more sustainable cotton in their supply chains.

Truterra and GreenPoint will work with participating cotton growers to establish an environmental sustainability baseline for each field, identify year-over-year improvement opportunities and model the impact of various conservation practices on sustainability and profitability. These efforts will help participating growers measure and improve water quality, land use, soil conservation, soil carbon, irrigation water use efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity and energy use on their cotton fields.

As part of this drive to deepen sustainability practices among U.S. growers, Truterra and GreenPoint Ag will also help participating growers enroll in the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. The Trust Protocol is a system which will set a new standard in more sustainably grown cotton giving brands and retailers the critical assurances they need to source U.S. cotton.

“There is a growing number of consumer brands who are demanding more transparency about the practices used to grow products,” said Jason Weller, vice president, Truterra LLC. “At Truterra, we are committed to working with growers across the country to unlock the enormous untapped value and potential in the market for sustainability. This new collaboration expands our footprint into a new crop — cotton — and offers cotton growers a comprehensive view of all of the factors impacting the profitability, performance and sustainability of their farm business to enable them to not only meet consumer demand, but to make even smarter business decisions.”

“We have set ambitious, science-based sustainability targets for U.S. cotton production over the next decade, and our collaboration with Truterra and GreenPoint AG will help us engage more growers in this important effort,” said Jesse Daystar, chief sustainability officer, Cotton Incorporated. “New enrollment in the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol also will help meet the growing demand from consumer brands to source sustainably grown cotton for their products.”

“Through our long-standing partnership with Truterra, GreenPoint AG works with farmers to safeguard natural resources for generations to come and to help them build resilient farm businesses,” said Jeff Blair, CEO, GreenPoint AG. “It is exciting to be able to offer the precision data and analysis provided by Truterra to our cotton growers for the first time and to position them as a dependable supply source for some of the country’s largest buyers of cotton.”

Initially, the program will work with growers to analyze the 2020 agronomic data and generate sustainability insights that can be incorporated into the growers’ production decisions throughout the early spring months in advance of the 2021 harvest season. Truterra and Cotton Incorporated will look to expand the project to include additional acres in 2021.

Posted December 17, 2020

Source: U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol

Jones Family Of Companies Strengthens Operations And Human Resources Teams

MORRISTOWN, Tenn. — December 17, 2020 — In a year that has been challenging for all businesses, Jones Family of Companies has continued to thrive and progress. Along with the recent acquisition of Rontex America and the opening of a new office in Richmond, Va., Jones is improving its Operations and Human Resources teams across all facilities by bringing on even more highly skilled employees. The most recent additions to the Jones family are Pranil Vora as manager of Quality Engineering and Performance Improvement in Morristown, Tenn.; Alex Webster as Plant Operations manager in Humboldt, Tenn.; and Kassey Cruz as HR Generalist and Operations recruiter in Charlotte, N.C.

Vora joins Jones at the height of an admirable, decorated academic and professional career. While earning his Bachelor’s degree at the D.K.T.E Textile and Engineering Institute in India, Vora participated in three separate internships and received a number of achievements and certifications from institutions around the world, as well as having articles published in several notable textile publications. In May of 2020, Vora earned his M.S. in Textile Engineering from North Carolina State University in Raleigh. Professionally, Vora has worked in the Research & Development departments at Mann +Hummel’s filters division and most recently at The Nonwovens Institute, becoming proficient in several aspects of the nonwovens industry. Vora’s knowledge and skill in textile research will allow him to innovate products and methods of production, to ensure that Jones maintains the standards that its customers expect.

“We are thankful for the opportunity for Pranil to join our team,” said William Moore, director of Sales Operations and Innovation. “We were very impressed by his strong technical textile background and the experience he has gathered thus far, and we anticipate continued greatness from him during his career here.”

Since earning his bachelor’s degree from The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina in 2016, Webster has built a strong and diverse career in the textile industry. Immediately after graduation, he began working in management for Parkdale Mills, overseeing the carding department and assisting in upgrades to the Thomasville, N.C., production plant. In 2019, he began working for Frontier Yarns, moving between supervisor and management roles at three separate facilities across the southeast United States. Webster’s extensive leadership experience will provide even greater structure and efficiency to Jones’ Humboldt plant.

“Alex has exemplified leadership throughout his whole career. He is a great fit to take the lead in a management role at our Humboldt Fiber Plant and we are glad to have him,” commented Monica Cadaret, vice president of Operations. “The talent present in both Pranil and Alex will be great assets to us going forward, and I hope to see them elevate operations in all of our nonwovens plants to a whole new level.”

Cruz joins the Jones business office located in Charlotte. Cruz earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Montclair State University in New Jersey, achieving a certification in Human Resources Management in 2020. During her undergraduate, Cruz participated in an HR internship at Urban CoalHouse, gaining valuable experience in managing the infrastructure of a workplace. After graduation, she joined Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank in New York City as an HR Generalist, further developing her skill set in HR management and recruitment. With Jones, Cruz’s experience will allow her to lead direct recruitment efforts for manufacturing associates across all five nonwovens plants.

“Kassey brings to Jones a much needed skill set to attract, recruit, train, and develop associates for longterm careers at Jones,” stated Doug Mcillvaine, CFO at Jones.

Posted December 17, 2020

Source: Jones Family of Companies

Champion® Launches Champion Defender Series Hoodies With PPE Functions

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — December 15, 2020 — Champion® has just dropped the Champion Defender Series, which incorporates personal protective equipment (PPE) functions into its design, straight from its C Lab. The multi-functional products protect consumers from harsh weather and harsh germs — right in time for the winter months ahead.

The Defender Series Reverse Weave Hoodie features two styles:

  • Defender Series Reverse Weave Hoodie with Attached Ribbed Inset Mask
    The sewn-in Ribbed Inset Mask can be worn around the neck for warmth, or can be pulled up to cover the face. The shock cord on the back of the hood also can be cinched for a secure fit.
  • Defender Series Reverse Weave Hoodie with Two Detachable Scarferchiefs
    The detachable Scarferchiefs may be worn whenever you need to cover your nose, face and neck. Can be worn around the neck or snapped into the hoodie.

Both styles are made of a soft and ultra-comfortable double layer of ribbed jersey with encased elastic trim, plus an inner pocket to hold a personal filter or disposable mask. The hoodies also have elongated cuffs with thumbholes to help cover hands, and use fabric that features anti-odor technology and can adapt to temperature to keep you cooler and drier.

The hoodie is a classic Champion design with an embroidered C logo on the chest. Sold exclusively on Champion.com and available in unisex men’s sizes.

Posted December 17, 2020

Source: Champion

Sigmatex Carbon Textile Solutions Inc. Announces New North American Headquarters With Expansion In Orangeburg County, S.C.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — December 16, 2020 — Sigmatex Carbon Textile Solutions Inc., a manufacturer of carbon fiber textiles, today announced plans to expand operations in Orangeburg County. The more than $4.5 million investment will create 50 new jobs.

Founded in 1986, Sigmatex develops and manufactures carbon fiber textiles for composite material applications. The company works with clients from a diverse range of sectors including space, military, aerospace, automotive, renewable energy, consumer electronics, sports and leisure. Sigmatex designs, develops and produces cutting-edge materials that enable customers to achieve goals — whether space travel, generating green energy or equipping National Hockey League players with advanced hockey stick technology.

Located at 1 Sigmatex Way in Cameron, Sigmatex’s expansion will make the Orangeburg County facility the company’s North American headquarters and will include immediate investment in machinery and equipment — increasing capacity from 750,000 yards per year to three million yards per year.

The company’s expansion is expected to be completed by June 2021.

“At the heart of our business is our people,” said Sigmatex CEO Paul McMullan. “Since the day we decided to locate our business in S.C., we have been delighted with the skill and commitment of the local people we’ve brought on board, and that’s what made our decision to invest further into S.C. an easy one. The plant in Orangeburg will be our flagship operation, with industry-leading equipment, innovative new products and highly capable people. We believe it will be a recipe for success. We are grateful for the support of the Orangeburg County Development Commission and the South Carolina Department of Commerce and look forward to a thrilling next six months as we bring our plans to fruition.”

“It’s a great day when a company expands its footprint in our state,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “Sigmatex’s decision to further invest in Orangeburg County and create 50 new jobs is exciting news for South Carolina, and we look forward to their future growth.”

“We’ve worked hard to create a pro-business environment in South Carolina, and Sigmatex’s new expansion is further evidence that our strategy is paying off,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt. “I congratulate this great company on their incredible commitment to our state, and we look forward to watching them continue to grow for years to come.”

“Orangeburg County is thankful for the additional investment Sigmatex is making in their existing plant located in the John W. Matthews Jr. Industrial Park on U.S. 301,” said Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright Sr. “The impact will create well-paying jobs for another 50 employees and for that, we are grateful. The fact that Orangeburg County will become the U.S. operational headquarters for Sigmatex is testimony that Orangeburg County has what it takes to be successful.”

“When companies invest and grow because they see the value in the local people and support network, it reinforces that we have something amazing beating in the hearts of our communities,” said Central SC Chairman W. Keller Kissam. “As a newer company with its original location in the county, Sigmatex’s announcement today is proof that existing industries can find great success in Orangeburg’s Global Logistics Triangle. Thank you Sigmatex for your dedication, and congrats to you and Orangeburg on many more successful years ahead.”

Posted December 16, 2020

Source: South Carolina Office of the Governor

Birmingham Business Journal Presents Motion Industries’ Randy Breaux With CEO Of The Year Award

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — December 16, 2020 — Motion Industries Inc. — a distributor of maintenance, repair, and operation replacement parts and a wholly owned subsidiary of Genuine Parts Co. — is pleased to announce that Randy Breaux, Motion Industries President, is a 2020 award recipient of CEO of the Year, from the Birmingham Business Journal. The presentation honored winners and finalists — elite leaders from a range of industries — at a virtual event December 3.

The CEO Awards recognize excellence among top executives in the Birmingham metro area for businesses of all sizes. Breaux was named CEO of the Year in the category of Companies with more than 300 Employees.

Breaux has four decades of experience in the industrial manufacturing and distribution markets. Previous to becoming the company’s president in December 2018, he played a key role in setting corporate strategy, key acquisitions, growing supplier relationships, advancing marketing activities and overseeing corporate operations, as executive vice president. He joined Motion Industries in May 2011 following 21 years with ABB/Baldor Electric Company, a leading manufacturer of industrial electric motors, drives, and mechanical power transmission components, based in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Breaux currently serves on several nonprofit boards in the Birmingham area. He has held committee and board positions in numerous industry associations, including past chairperson of the manufacturing council for the Power Transmission Distributors Association.

Posted December 16, 2020

Source: Motion Industries Inc.

Dr. Ralf Brückmann Leaves CHT Germany Gmbh – Levi Cottington In Succession

TÜBINGEN, Germany — December 16, 2020 — The management of CHT Germany GmbH thanks Dr. Ralf Brückmann for the long-lasting successful cooperation in the business field of General Industries. Dr. Ralf Brückmann will end his active role as head of BF General Industries on December 31, 2020, after 21 years with the company. Since joining the company on October 1, 1999, Dr. Brückmann has held major roles throughout the company. The success of the business field General Industries is largely due to his work and expertise. Dr. Frank Naumann: “We thank Dr. Brückmann for his commitment during more than two decades and wish him the best for the upcoming stage of his life.”

Dr. Ralf Brückmann is handing over an extremely future-proof and multi-faceted business field to his successor. Dr. Ralf Brückmann: “I am delighted that Levi Cottington has been found for the position and I wish that he will lead the division through the current challenging times with hands that are as prudent as they are fortunate, as I have done. I am convinced that he will continue to successfully develop the division both professionally and personally.” Cottington gladly accepts the challenge: “I wish Ralf all the best in this new phase of his life and that he will enjoy it to the fullest. I am proud to succeed him and to continue his work in his spirit.”

Levi Cottington, managing director of CHT USA Inc. takes over the management of the global business field General Industries of the CHT Group as of October 1, 2020. In his new function, Cottington combines both tasks. He reports directly to CHT Group management.

Posted December 16, 2020

Source: CHT Group

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