From the Sector

Ontex Group NV, a leading international developer and producer of personal care products, announces that it has completed the divestment of its Brazilian business activities to Softys S.A., a personal hygiene company with operations across Latin America and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Empresas CMPC S.A., headquartered in Chile.

The transaction includes Ontex’s business in Brazil and its manufacturing facility in Senador Canedo in the State of Goiás. The business develops, manufactures, commercializes and distributes diapers and pants for the baby care market under the PomPom, Cremer, Sapeka and Turma da Mônica brands, as well as for the adult care market under the Bigfral brand. It employs approximately 1,400 employees.

Gustavo Calvo Paz, CEO of Ontex, said: “Reaching this milestone allows us to focus further on our retailer brands and healthcare in Europe and North America, where we have significant growth drivers for the future. Moreover, the proceeds from the sale will further reduce our indebtedness, putting us in an even stronger position to further execute our transformation. I am convinced that Softys is well placed to take the business forward, enabled by the talent and expertise of our teams.“

Aggregate net cash proceeds received at closing, net of cash/debt disposed, are €81 million, after the impact of tax-related and transaction costs, hedging expenses, as well as provisional balance sheet adjustments. On top of this amount, €18 million* will be put in escrow at closing.  The divestment proceeds will be used to reduce Ontex’s outstanding gross financial debt further.

FILTREX™ 2025, EDANA’s flagship event for the filtration industry, wrapped up last week after two dynamic days of discussions, technical advancements, and industry collaboration. This 10th edition brought together more than 100 professionals to explore the latest developments in air and liquid filtration, sustainability, and regulatory challenges.

Industry Insights and Key Conversations
The FILTREX 2025 conference brought together experts from across the filtration industry to discuss innovation, sustainability, and regulatory challenges shaping the sector. The event opened with a keynote by Dr.-Ing. Frank Möbius, Senior Innovation Advisor at UnternehmerTUM and former BMW Group Manager, highlighting the role of Open Innovation in maintaining competitiveness in an evolving market.

Throughout the sessions, industry leaders addressed major trends influencing filtration. Dr. Marc Schmidt (AAF-Lufttechnik) explored how economic and social shifts are reshaping filtration markets, while Anthony Lawson (Hengst Filtration) examined the impact of evolving air quality guidelines and PFAS restrictions on filter design. Experts such as Cédric Vallet (Ahlstrom) and Christof Keppler (Gessner) presented innovations in filtration efficiency, carbon footprint reduction, and the development of biodegradable filter media. Meanwhile, Dr. Pero Mićić (FutureManagementGroup AG) offered a strategic framework for future-proofing businesses against industry disruptions.

Spotlight on Sustainability in Filtration
Sustainability took centre stage at FILTREX 2025, with a dedicated round table that saw insights from Oswaldo Anaya (Freudenberg Performance Materials), Cédric Vallet (Ahlstrom), and Bruce Lorange (Hollingsworth & Vose). The discussions focused on how the industry can reduce its environmental impact while still delivering high-performance solutions. Oswaldo Anaya, Product Marketing Manager at Freudenberg Performance Materials, reflected on the event, saying, “I was glad to join this last edition of FILTREX. It confirmed the great things I’d heard from colleagues about previous events. Highly relevant and timely topics for the filtration industry, plus valuable networking in a relaxed setting.”

FILTREX™ Innovation Award 2025
A major highlight of the event was the FILTREX™ Innovation Award, which this year went to Johns Manville for its Evalith® product. Their groundbreaking recycling process transforms HVAC glass microfiber waste into compounded pellets for injection molding, turning waste into durable, second-life products. The award was presented during a Networking Evening Cocktail at Vienna’s Kunsthistorisches Museum, providing an ideal atmosphere for further discussions and potential collaborations.

PFAS-Free Filtration and Industry Innovation
The closing session tackled the critical topic of PFAS-free filtration, revealing solutions like high-performance PFAS-free HEPA media and nanofiber membranes that not only enhance performance but also reduce environmental impact. Industry leaders also discussed upcoming changes in PFAS regulations and the continued push for safer alternatives in the filtration industry.

Looking Ahead
FILTREX™ 2025 firmly established itself as the key event for the filtration industry, providing a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation. As Bruce Lorange, Global Marketing Communications Director at Hollingsworth & Vose, put it: “The recent FILTREX event in Vienna presented a unique opportunity to network, learn, see old friends, and make new ones in the filtration and nonwovens space. The quality of presentations was top-notch—informative and thought-provoking—and the venue provided the perfect backdrop for the thought leaders gathered to take our industry to the next level. A sincere thanks to the EDANA FILTREX team for arranging such an impactful event!”

Suominen’s Annual Report includes the Report by the Board of Directors including the Sustainability Statement, Financial Statements for 2024, the Auditor’s report, Assurance report on the Sustainability Statement, Corporate Governance Statement, Remuneration Report and Annual review.

Suominen’s sustainability statement is prepared in accordance with the Finnish Accounting Act, European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and EU Taxonomy regulation.

Together with the Annual Report, Suominen publishes the Report by the Board of Directors and the Financial Statements as an xHTML file in accordance with European Single Electronic Format (ESEF) reporting requirements. In line with the ESEF requirements, the primary statements have been labeled with iXBRL tags and notes have been labeled with iXBRL block tags. The audit firm Ernst & Young Oy has provided an independent auditor's reasonable assurance report on Suominen’s ESEF Financial Statements. The assurance has been conducted in accordance with International Standard on Assurance Engagements ISAE 3000.

EDANA, the leading global association and voice for nonwovens and related industries has published its annual overview of the high-level figures from the EDANA Statistics Report on Nonwovens Production and Deliveries for 2024.

According to the latest data, in 2024, compared to data from 2023, nonwovens production in Greater Europe increased in volume by 2.6% to 2,976, 400 tonnes, and by 2.9% in surface area resulting in 85.1 billion square meters of nonwovens being manufactured. However, differing trends were observed at the national level when comparing production between Greater European countries, and also when assessing the various production processes of nonwovens and market segments.

Wetlaid nonwovens, which experienced a significant decline in 2023, demonstrated the most substantial growth rates this year. Conversely, airlaid was the only web-forming process to register a decline in 2024, yet it was also the sole process to exhibit growth the previous year. Spunmelt production continues to dominate in terms of surface area. Drylaid exhibited limited growth, attributable to the positive developments seen in the production and sales of Air-through and Hydro-entangled materials.  

The predominant end-use for nonwovens continues to be the hygiene market, accounting for 27% of deliveries, amounting to 797,300 tons, and exhibiting a 1.7% growth in 2024. Last year, the most substantial growth sectors for nonwovens were building and roofing materials (+14.2%), food and beverage applications (+13%), cotton pads (+4.9%), and personal care wipes (+4.8%).

Jacques Prigneaux, EDANA’s Market Analysis and Economic Affairs Director, further expanded on the trend: “In the aftermath of two consecutive declines of more than 5% in 2022 and 2023, the production of nonwovens in Greater Europe has reverted to its pre-pandemic level in terms of weight. At the same time, the production in surface area grew faster, resulting in an average grammage of 34.9 gsm, as opposed to the 37.2 gsm recorded in 2019.”

Prigneaux added “thanks to data collected in two units, our statistics provide EDANA members with the opportunity to thoroughly analyze trends in tonnage and surface area across 11 production processes and at least 83 market segments.”

A comprehensive analysis, including deeper insights into production trends, market evolution, and strategic outlooks, is available exclusively to EDANA members. This report serves as a critical resource for companies looking to navigate the evolving nonwovens landscape. In addition, in November 2024, EDANA, together with INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, released the Global Nonwoven Markets Report, A Comprehensive Survey and Outlook, 2023-2028. The report forecasts a steady growth in demand for nonwovens across key sectors over the next five years. This report is available for purchase.

Electrically conductive prints on textiles are the basis for functional textiles with electronic functions, so-called smart textiles. Conductive inks and binders must be well matched to ensure permanent conductivity even under external mechanical influences such as stretching, pressure and bending. The DITF are working on new ink formulations that meet these requirements.

Sports, fashion and the automotive industry - textiles with integrated electronics are used in many areas of everyday life. Textile-integrated electronics help monitor human vital parameter and performance data, and enable the fashion industry to integrate interactive elements into clothing. It is used in a variety of ways in the automotive industry, where it enhances passenger comfort and safety.

The most common conductive components used in textiles to date are wrapped yarns and tension-relieved conductive yarns arranged in loops. They ensure a reliable flow of electricity even in textiles subject to high mechanical stress. Their production is complex. As a result, they are expensive and only partially suitable for the mass market. Printing conductive structures on textile surfaces using screen printing or chromojet technology, a digital spray printing technique, is much more cost-effective.

However, there are several challenges in producing printed conductive textiles. One of the biggest difficulties is ensuring the conductivity of the printed materials while maintaining the flexibility and softness of the textile. In addition, the durability of the prints can deteriorate, especially with frequent washing or mechanical stress. Stretching or movement can cause the prints to break or tear. Electrical conductivity is often impaired even under low mechanical stress, when the stretching of the conductive layer is not reversible. The adhesion between the print application and the textile can weaken with repeated stretching. This results in poor long-term stability. The integration of electronic elements into textiles is also often hampered by the fact that the connection between the conductive elements and the electronic components is prone to failure.

The DITF are working on new solutions to address these challenges. The Color- and Functional-Printing Working Group is working on new ink and paste formulations based on conductive particles and elastic binders. The aim is to improve the elongation behavior of prints while maintaining good electrical conductivity. The elastic properties of the binder are largely determined by the auxiliaries and additives used. The DITF determine the interactions between these components and derive knowledge for the formulation of new elastic and highly conductive inks.

The hysteresis properties of new ink formulations are of central importance. Hysteresis refers to the ability of a material to maintain its properties under repeated strain or stress. Well-matched hysteresis supports the conductivity of printed structures even under continuous mechanical stress. Suitable materials can adapt to the movement of the textile without compromising the conductive properties.

The goal of the research team at the DITF is to expand the knowledge of the interactions between conductive particles and binders, between additives and textile auxiliaries, in order to produce highly conductive inks and pastes. This will make it possible to produce the best possible and most resistant print coatings for different textile substrates and different applications, enabling reliable conductivity.

Under these conditions, the costs for mass production of textile electronics can be reduced.

The UK’s leading contemporary fashion and lifestyle show, Scoop announces an exciting move to Olympia National Kensington, London for their upcoming S/S ’26 show taking place 13-15 July 2025.

A beautifully renovated heritage building with a serious design pedigree, having housed iconic fashion events over its 100-year history, Olympia National Kensington will provide the perfect backdrop for Scoop to expand their repertoire of emerging and exclusive designers in a more elevated and spacious venue.  Scoop’s Founder and Managing Director Karen Radley says, “We’re always seeking the new, and our new home will soon unveil its most beautiful incarnation yet. We can’t wait to welcome you to this exciting new chapter!”

This landmark season, ‘For Fashionable People’ will see Scoop walking on sunshine with an electric mix of fashion, lifestyle and iconic art and culture that captures the energy and joie de vivre at the heart of the show. While the details are kept a closely guarded secret Scoop S/S ’26 will embrace joy and optimism, celebrating the feel good in their new home at Olympia National Kensington.

Radley has always stood proudly at the forefront of unveiling emerging designers from around the globe and perfectly curating a show that reflects the retail environment giving Scoop its distinct character. Radley comments, “This season at Scoop will be a true breath of fresh air. Buyers will walk into our sunshine filled! new home at Olympia National Kensington, to a showcase that celebrates emerging designers poised to have significant impact on the UK market.”

Recognised as a must-see on the international trade show circuit, Scoop will open its doors at Olympia National Kensington, this July with an edited line up of premium women’s fashion as well as luxury home, beauty, lifestyle and men’s collections.

Large-area filtration faces the stigma of high costs, maintenance efforts, and time-consuming changeover and cleaning activities. However, good filtration is unavoidable with increasing rPET proportions. So, BB Engineering has addressed these issues with its decades of experience in extrusion and filtration. The new COBRA filter combines continuous and automated large-area filtration with integrated intermediate filter cleaning – setting a new standard in efficiency, ease of use and resource saving, and finally meeting the demanding requirements of recycling processes.

Large-area fine filtration made for recycling
Recyclers are currently dealing with a dilemma when it comes to filtration. Increasing recycling quotas coupled with insufficient availability mean that lower input qualities are also being considered for recycling, resulting in more challenging contaminants. At the same time, higher-quality applications are being targeted, which further intensifies the requirement for fine filtration. There are systems for large quantities of contaminants, but they do not filter as finely as a candle filter. There are also candle filters that provide excellent filtration but cannot cope with high levels of contamination.

The new COBRA filter can do both. It was specially developed for demanding filtration tasks with high levels of contamination, particularly in PET recycling. Multitasking is the keyword. COBRA unites large-area fine filtration with simultaneous, fast and effortless cleaning, and is therefore able to handle higher contamination rates, which common candle filters would fail on. However, this allrounder can also be used for other applications, e.g. in synthetic fiber spinning.

Continuity and process stability thanks to automation
As a continuous filter, the COBRA filter has two filter inserts, one of which is always active in production mode and the other either in stand-by mode or in intermediate cleaning. The automated switchover ensures a smooth changeover between the inserts. The status of the filter inserts is constantly checked by the system and, if necessary, the COBRA filter automatically initiates the cleaning and changeover process. All the operator has to do is confirm this on the user interface – no further manual intervention is required. The process thus continues to run stably and safely without interruption. Operator-related deviations in the switching process, operating errors or delays, all of which could affect the process, cannot occur.

Effortless inline cleaning – effective and safe
The highlight of the COBRA filter is the integration of BBE’s White Filter Cleaning technology (WFC). This process enables absolutely chemical-free and environmentally friendly intermediate cleaning of the filter inserts using hot steam alone and extends the filter’s service life many times over. BBE has already had WFC in its product portfolio as a stand-alone solution for several years. Now, for the first time, the cleaning system is integrated directly into a filter, bringing additional advantages, like cleaning speed and wear-reduction. Production and cleaning becomes an alternating interaction. Only after multiple operating/cleaning cycles (the exact number depends on product and degree of soiling) is it necessary to completely remove the filter insert for a service check and full cleaning. The WFC cleaning process only takes around 10 hours, whereas conventional cleaning takes several days. Filtration and cleaning form a self-contained, automated system that guarantees process and operating safety in equal measure: The operator does not have to handle melt or chemicals.

Development goals: Simplified handling, economic efficiency
BBE focused on simplifying filter changes and cleaning processes through automation as well as significant savings in operating costs. And that has been successful. Comparing the COBRA filter with other fine filters with a throughput of 2000 kg/h reveals a saving of 40% in pure operating costs. This saving results from various aspects. One significant part of the savings comes from the reduction of melt loss through backflush-cycles. Another key point is the continuous operation with significantly longer service life thanks to the integrated cleaning with steam. This is linked to reduced use of spare parts and consumables due to the gentle treatment, conversion costs and a lower energy requirement, as no heating and cooling phases and generally lower cleaning temperatures are required. Costs of chemicals are completely eliminated. Automation reduces personnel costs due to the low operating effort and training requirements. In terms of operation, the COBRA filter is also very safe - the closed system of filtration and cleaning without chemicals eliminates many of the risks associated with conventional filters and cleaning methods, such as the risk of injury and fire.

The cost savings are even more far-reaching if you extend the consideration to the downstream processes. The outstanding cleaning performance of COBRA saves a great deal of effort, interruptions and further processing.

The new COBRA filter will be presented to the public for the first time at the PRSE in Amsterdam at the beginning of April.

The Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025 (CFC 2025), held on 12-13 March in Cologne, Germany, brought together industry leaders, innovators and researchers to explore the latest innovations and new technologies for fibres – in textiles, hygiene products and packaging. The conference has established itself as the leading international platform for the emerging cellulose fibre industry. Two days with high quality program and outstanding speakers highlighted the growing importance of addressing environmental concerns within the textile industry.

The main source for the production of staple fibres or filaments such as viscose, lyocell, modal or other types of new cellulose fibres is wood-based chemical pulp. At the same time, new sources such as agricultural wastes and fibres, paper grade pulp and recycled textiles are emerging on a global scale, with a variety of new sources and companies contributing new technologies, processing methods and ideas.

Biosynthetics, featured for the first time at the conference, drew significant attention. Experts discussed the challenges and opportunities of cellulose fibres and biosynthetics, with particular focus on scalability, biodegradability, and performance comparisons to conventional synthetic fibres from fossil origin.

Dynamic Engagement and Scientific Discourse
The CFC 2025 fostered discussions among attendees, with a strong emphasis on scientific advancements and sustainable practices. Participants actively engaged in sessions covering topics such as circular economy strategies fibre-to-fibre recycling from textile, marine biodegradability versus fibre microplastic formation, alternative feedstocks, and innovative technologies for pulp, fibres, biosynthetics, and yarns.

In order to support the development, innovation and market entry of cellulosic fibres, Dieter Eichinger, CIRFS (BE), presented a proposal for a new standard that includes all types of cellulosic fibres such as Viscose, Lyocell, Tencel, Modal, Cupra and new innovative fibres under the generic term "cellulose fibres". The proposal was widely supported by the participants. Anna Palmberg, IKEA (SE), also expressed a concrete interest in using more cellulose fibres in the future.

The event witnessed heightened activity on social media platforms, with delegates sharing insights, experiences, and key takeaways using the hashtag #CFC2025. This digital engagement extended the conference's reach, allowing a broader audience to participate in the discourse on sustainable textiles.

Innovation Award winner announced
The announcement of the "Cellulose Fibre Innovation of the Year 2025" award winners was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the conference. Sponsored by GIG Karasek, the award recognises groundbreaking developments in the field. Every year, the award recognises the three most promising innovations in the field of cellulose fibres, highlighting groundbreaking advancements and their potential impact. This year, for the first time, the award also offered the opportunity to recognise innovations in the field of biosynthetics. The top three outstanding technologies were honoured this year for their remarkable advancements. These three pioneers will certainly pave ways in the future of the sustainable fibres industry:

1. .SA-Dynamics (Germany): Cellulose Aerogel Textiles
   SA-Dynamics introduced revolutionary insulation materials made from 100% biodegradable cellulose aerogel fibres. These materials combine the flexibility of traditional fabrics with the superior thermal insulation properties of aerogels, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil-based and animal-derived insulation materials in textiles as well as in construction.  
2. Releaf Paper France (France): Releaf Fiber
   Releaf Paper France transforms urban fallen leaves into sustainable cellulose fibres, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional hardwood pulp. Their proprietary low-temperature extraction process yields high-quality fibres ideal for packaging materials, aligning with circular economy principles by repurposing urban leaf waste.
3. Uluu (Australia): Seaweed-Derived Biosynthetic Materials
   Uluu is set to replace plastics in textiles with natural PHA polymers, derived from farmed seaweed. In partnership with Deakin University, Uluu is developing textile fibres that perform like synthetic polyester but are biodegradable in various environments, eliminating persistent microplastic pollution in fashion. 

The GoodTextiles Foundation (GTF), in collaboration with its local partner Chetna, announces a new project at the Ashram Residential High School for Girls in Rasimetta Village, in the state of Telangana, India. The aim of the project is to empower over 545 female students by providing them with school supplies and digital access to education.

As part of this project, all pupils were provided with new school backpacks and reusable stainless steel water bottles. An additional 5% reserve was set aside for future enrolments. Another important part of the project was the complete refurbishment of the computer room. The existing 21 machines were extensively refurbished and returned to service. An uninterruptible power supply system (UPS) was installed to counteract the frequent power cuts in the region and to ensure smooth classroom operations.

In addition, an experienced computer teacher was hired for a two-year period. This teacher will provide the students with basic digital skills to improve their chances of further education and employment in the long term. These measures not only give students easy access to education but also provide them with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.

The Ashram High School is located in a remote part of the state of Telangana. The GoodTextiles Foundation has been involved there for many years. In the past, 37 toilets have been renovated, access to clean drinking water has been provided and sports and recreation areas have been improved by levelling the ground.

With the current project, the GoodTextiles Foundation is sending out another strong signal of its commitment: sustainable support through education - with a long-term impact on the community. The GoodTextiles Foundation is supporting the project with around €14,840.00.

At the SaigonTex 2025 textile machinery exhibition which is taking place from April 9-12 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Monforts will highlight the benefits of its advanced finishing technologies for denim.

Over 900 Monforts THERMEX hotflue dyeing systems are now operational in the main textile producing countries, with many of them devoted to denim production, and a significant number already reaping the benefits of the Econtrol® and Econtrol®T-CA processes*.

Econtrol® is a continuous process for the dyeing of woven cotton and cellulosic fabrics in which reactive dyestuffs are fixed into the fabric in a one-step dyeing and drying operation with a controlled combination of steam and air. The entire pad-dry process takes just two-to-three minutes at a temperature of between 120-130°C and a relative humidity volume of 25-30%.

Monforts denim range concepts which are successfully running worldwide enable the processing of high-qualtiy and reproducible fabrics which are stretched and skewed far more gently than with conventional range combinations. The ‘double rubber’ version of a THERMEX range comprises two compressive shrinkage units and two felt calenders in line, for super elastic and bi-elastic materials. Additionally, the combined drying, stretching and skewing functions for denim fabric are possible with the ThermoStretch unit, which can also include an EcoApplicator system for the minimum application of necessary finishing chemicals.

In 2024, Vietnam surpassed Bangladesh to become the world’s second-largest textiles and apparel exporter, trailing only China, with total export revenues reaching $44 billion. This is in part due to tariffs that are currently 10-20% lower than China’s and significantly cheaper labour costs – less than half of China’s.

Vietnam’s textile and apparel industry is poised for further expansion in 2025, leveraging cost advantages and rapid production turnaround while proactively managing rising logistics costs and adapting to shifting trade dynamics.

* Econtrol® is a registered trademark of DyStar Colours Distribution GmbH, Germany.