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Photo: Cobra International / JEC
27.01.2025

JEC Award: Design, Furniture & Home for Cobra International

Stylish and recyclable carbon fibre furniture
Cobra and its partners have coordinated the design, engineering, material selection and manufacturing of a range of innovative carbon fibre-based furniture. The furniture uses the recyclable epoxy resins, along with other production waste, and recycled raw materials.

Cobra, Aditya Birla Group, Burapa University, Hankuk Carbon, and Luxara Design Studio present a recyclable composite meeting table and barstool. The Liana table uses Recyclamine resins, high-modulus prepreg and Cobra’s production-waste BMC material for its structure. Neolith, a 100% sustainable artificial marble with 52% recycled content, and Hankuk woven carbon fabric provide the exceptional surface finish. The Loop barstool uses a looping design style, and again, it uses Recyclamine resins and Hankuk carbon over a recyclable PET core for a high-end yet sustainable seating solution.

Cobra International (Thailand)
Partners:
• Aditya Birla Chemicals Ltd. – Advanced Materials (Thailand)
• Burapha University (Thailand)
• HANKUK CARBON CO., LTD. (South Korea)
• LUXARA DESIGN CO.,LTD. (Thailand)

Stylish and recyclable carbon fibre furniture
Cobra and its partners have coordinated the design, engineering, material selection and manufacturing of a range of innovative carbon fibre-based furniture. The furniture uses the recyclable epoxy resins, along with other production waste, and recycled raw materials.

Cobra, Aditya Birla Group, Burapa University, Hankuk Carbon, and Luxara Design Studio present a recyclable composite meeting table and barstool. The Liana table uses Recyclamine resins, high-modulus prepreg and Cobra’s production-waste BMC material for its structure. Neolith, a 100% sustainable artificial marble with 52% recycled content, and Hankuk woven carbon fabric provide the exceptional surface finish. The Loop barstool uses a looping design style, and again, it uses Recyclamine resins and Hankuk carbon over a recyclable PET core for a high-end yet sustainable seating solution.

Cobra International (Thailand)
Partners:
• Aditya Birla Chemicals Ltd. – Advanced Materials (Thailand)
• Burapha University (Thailand)
• HANKUK CARBON CO., LTD. (South Korea)
• LUXARA DESIGN CO.,LTD. (Thailand)

Key benefits:
• Thin yet strong, only achievable with carbon fibre
• Lightweight yet durable for lasting performance
• First recyclable carbon fibre furniture
• Upcycling composites waste
• A step towards circularity

21.01.2025

45 Years Trevira CS®

Indorama Ventures exhibited the Trevira CS® brand together with 17 Trevira CS partner companies at the Heimtextil trade fair in Frankfurt, Germany, from January 14-17, 2025.

This year Trevira CS is celebrating its 45th anniversary! In 1980 Trevira CS® was launched on the market, at that time a pioneer for permanently flame retardant textiles whose flame retardant properties neither wash out nor are lost through ageing or use. They are characterized by the fact that they meet all essential fire protection standards without the need for a chemical finish. Fabrics made from specially produced flame-retardant polyester can be labeled as Trevira CS after passing a brand test. Samples, brochures, pictures and short anecdotes from 45 years of Trevira CS will be on display in a special area of the exhibition stand, inviting visitors to browse and smile.

Indorama Ventures exhibited the Trevira CS® brand together with 17 Trevira CS partner companies at the Heimtextil trade fair in Frankfurt, Germany, from January 14-17, 2025.

This year Trevira CS is celebrating its 45th anniversary! In 1980 Trevira CS® was launched on the market, at that time a pioneer for permanently flame retardant textiles whose flame retardant properties neither wash out nor are lost through ageing or use. They are characterized by the fact that they meet all essential fire protection standards without the need for a chemical finish. Fabrics made from specially produced flame-retardant polyester can be labeled as Trevira CS after passing a brand test. Samples, brochures, pictures and short anecdotes from 45 years of Trevira CS will be on display in a special area of the exhibition stand, inviting visitors to browse and smile.

In the anniversary year the focus of the Trevira CS® joint stand will be on permanent flame retardancy and the sustainability approaches of Trevira CS fabrics, which are known for their outstanding properties and versatility in the textile industry. Not only will the latest yarn and fabric developments from the 17 partners be presented, the three sustainability approaches from 1. pre-consumer recycling, 2. the Trevira CS take-back concept in cooperation with the company ALTEX Textil-Recycling GmbH & Co. KG in Gronau, Germany and 3. developments from chemically recycled raw material, but also all submissions to the Trevira CS Fabric Competition 2025. This encouraged Trevira CS participants to explore the interfaces between permanent flame retardancy, textile design, functionality and safety and to submit articles for five different categories.

The BREATHAIR® brand, a 3D upholstery material, was also be presented at the trade fair. This innovative and recyclable product has been specially developed for the upholstery industry and offers new possibilities for sustainable and comfortable furniture designs. Thanks to the nature of BREATHAIR®, it can be recycled at the end of its life cycle . Visitors to the trade fair will have the opportunity to experience the unique comfort of BREATHAIR® up close in a seating lab.

The Deja™ brand is an integral part of Indorama Ventures' commitment to long-term sustainability through recycling and bio-based materials. The product portfolio includes chips, as well as various staple fibers and filament yarns in multiple titer and yarn specifications.

In cooperation with Auping and TWE, Indorama Ventures and Deja™ developed an innovative mattress consisting of two basic components. This new design allows for easier disassembly and therefore more efficient recycling. The partnership aims to promote the circular economy and reduce the environmental impact of mattresses. By using recyclable materials and reducing waste, the companies are actively contributing to a more sustainable future.

Source:

Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited

Opening press conference Heimtextil Foto: Messe Frankfurt / Pietro Sutera
14.01.2025

Heimtextil 2025 starts with over 3,000 exhibitors

Heimtextil kicks off the new trade fair year with over 3,000 exhibitors from 65 countries. At the opening, architect and designer Patricia Urquiola presented her installation ‘among-us’ at Heimtextil.

“The steady growth and the very high level of internationality confirm the strength of Heimtextil. As leading international trade fair for home and contract textiles and textile design, it is an indispensable partner for the global industry – this is more important today than ever before. Especially in challenging times, Heimtextil offers companies the opportunity to strengthen their market position: through international visibility, the identification and realisation of potential and the development of new global business partners”, says Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt.

Heimtextil kicks off the new trade fair year with over 3,000 exhibitors from 65 countries. At the opening, architect and designer Patricia Urquiola presented her installation ‘among-us’ at Heimtextil.

“The steady growth and the very high level of internationality confirm the strength of Heimtextil. As leading international trade fair for home and contract textiles and textile design, it is an indispensable partner for the global industry – this is more important today than ever before. Especially in challenging times, Heimtextil offers companies the opportunity to strengthen their market position: through international visibility, the identification and realisation of potential and the development of new global business partners”, says Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt.

Visitors to the leading trade fair for home and contract textiles find a globally unique range of products on 16 hall levels. This spans from wallpapers, upholstery fabrics, mattresses and sleep systems, towelling products, textile designs, fibres and yarns to carpets. The Carpets & Rugs area counts three times as many exhibitors in 2025 and is growing by several hall levels.  

The Heimtextil Trends 25/26, curated for the first time by the Milan-based design platform Alcova, offer inspiration and sustainable solutions. In the Trend Arena in Hall 3.0, they are spectacularly staged. They are looking at material qualities, colours and innovative production processes.

The content programme covers the most important industry topics. It addresses different visitor groups – from retailers, wholesalers, industry, designers, furniture and bedding shops, interior architects, interior designers, architects, contract furnishers and many other decision-makers. At the Retail Stage in Hall 12.1, topics ranging from sleep and sustainability to AI in retail and optimising the customer experience are being highlighted. The Texpertise Stage in Hall 4.0 focuses on materials for contract furnishings, trends in hotel design, carpets and the Heimtextil Trends 25/26.

Installation by Patricia Urquiola: design concepts for retail and hospitality
At the Heimtextil opening press conference, star designer and architect Patricia Urquiola presented her design installation ‘among-us’ in Hall 12.0. The area contains products made specially for Heimtextil. For example, a hanging carpet created by the traditional dhurrie technique. Patricia Urquiola developed the unique pieces together with partners such as Kettal, Moroso, cc-tapis, Aquafil and Cimento®. Embedded in the installation, they show retail and hospitality the possibilities opened up by the textile design of tomorrow. Patricia Urquiola emphasises holistically designed rooms and objects, living areas that merge seamlessly as well as materiality and versatility.

“‘among-us’ is a convivial and intuitive textile installation that shows the evolving possibilities of textiles, exploring their hybrid potentials across various scales – from product design to one/off pieces. The title, among-us, refers to the concept of being together and reflects the intent of the installation to celebrate hybrid new relations”, explains Patricia Urquiola.

In ‘among-us’, physical and virtual worlds merge through a grid on the floor inspired by drafting software. At the centre are textile elements in abstract and organic forms such as a sofa or an upholstered sculpture. They demonstrate the interplay of materials and technologies. Screens show their virtual counterparts and encourage interaction. At the same time, ‘among-us’ shows how textile innovations influence design processes. Textiles combine functionality, aesthetics and sustainability and create unique possibilities. The installation also shows how traditional craftsmanship can be integrated into the design of spaces and products.

Source:

Messe Frankfurt

Photo Kornit Digital & Niso Furniture
13.01.2025

Kornit Digital & Niso Furniture launch furniture collection at Heimtextil 2025

Kornit Digital LTD. engaged in sustainable, on-demand digital fashion and textile production technologies, will unveil its transformative home décor solutions at the world’s largest trade fair for home textiles, Heimtextil 2025. The Company will present a furniture collection in collaboration with the prestigious Israeli brand Niso Furniture.

The collaboration will feature a fully designed living room concept, showcasing sofas, armchairs, a dining table, and curtains—all created using Kornit’s digital printing systems. This collection will highlight how Kornit’s technology enables designers and manufacturers to transform spaces with infinite customization options, delivering premium-quality, sustainable products on demand.

Kornit Digital LTD. engaged in sustainable, on-demand digital fashion and textile production technologies, will unveil its transformative home décor solutions at the world’s largest trade fair for home textiles, Heimtextil 2025. The Company will present a furniture collection in collaboration with the prestigious Israeli brand Niso Furniture.

The collaboration will feature a fully designed living room concept, showcasing sofas, armchairs, a dining table, and curtains—all created using Kornit’s digital printing systems. This collection will highlight how Kornit’s technology enables designers and manufacturers to transform spaces with infinite customization options, delivering premium-quality, sustainable products on demand.

Kornit’s approach offers a unique ecosystem that supports a virtual-first supply chain, eliminating inventory and waste by producing only what’s needed, when it’s needed. The collection demonstrates the flexibility to print on a wide variety of fabrics—naturals, synthetics, and blends—using a single ink set, ensuring a seamless design process across multiple materials and applications. Visitors to the Kornit booth will witness firsthand how this technology empowers personalization and creativity while achieving superior speed and sustainability.

“This partnership with Niso Furniture embodies the digital transformation sweeping through the textile and furniture industries,” said Chris Govier, EVP Strategic Growth and Marketing at Kornit Digital. “Together, we are creating a new paradigm for home décor—one where creativity, sustainability, and agility converge. Heimtextil 2025 is the ideal platform to showcase how Kornit’s demand-before-supply model enables designers and businesses to deliver unique, high-quality pieces while transforming traditional supply chains. We’re excited to engage with industry leaders, customers, and partners as we shape the future of home décor.”

Leon Edot, co-owner of Niso Furniture, echoed this sentiment: “Our collaboration with Kornit Digital reflects our shared vision of combining creativity and technology to redefine furniture design. The collection we’ve created represents a new era in home décor, where innovation knows no boundaries. We’re proud to represent Israeli ingenuity on this global stage and to showcase our ability to inspire and lead in design and technology.”

Source:

Kornit Digital

Source; Retviews study by Lectra
21.11.2024

Black Friday fashion trends: Insights from the new Retviews study by Lectra

  • Considering that 2024 summer discounts have increased compared to the previous year (+6%), even sharper price cuts are expected for Black Friday and Cyber Monday
  • Outerwear: the growing popularity of suede garments suggests that brands should focus their discounts on other outerwear, such as down jackets
  • Sneakers: basic and slim-fit models are selling out quickly, while those with a more structured fit are experiencing slower turnover

With Black Friday and Cyber Monday just around the corner, fashion brands are called upon to make conscious and targeted decisions to remain competitive during this peak season. In this context, Lectra, a leader in Industry 4.0 within the fashion, automotive and furniture sectors, leveraged real-time data from Retviews – its AI-powered solution for automated market intelligence to offer insights on increasing sales, reducing stocks and boosting profitability. These tips aim to guide brands in developing the most effective discount strategies based on key fashion trends for the year’s most popular shopping period.

  • Considering that 2024 summer discounts have increased compared to the previous year (+6%), even sharper price cuts are expected for Black Friday and Cyber Monday
  • Outerwear: the growing popularity of suede garments suggests that brands should focus their discounts on other outerwear, such as down jackets
  • Sneakers: basic and slim-fit models are selling out quickly, while those with a more structured fit are experiencing slower turnover

With Black Friday and Cyber Monday just around the corner, fashion brands are called upon to make conscious and targeted decisions to remain competitive during this peak season. In this context, Lectra, a leader in Industry 4.0 within the fashion, automotive and furniture sectors, leveraged real-time data from Retviews – its AI-powered solution for automated market intelligence to offer insights on increasing sales, reducing stocks and boosting profitability. These tips aim to guide brands in developing the most effective discount strategies based on key fashion trends for the year’s most popular shopping period.

Discounts: marked reductions are expected, but targeted at specific categories
For brands, preparing year-end discounts require careful planning to align with consumer preferences. The summer sales period, which represents the highest sales peak before winter promotions, serves as a valuable indicator. AI-based solutions, such as Retviews, are useful to identify and track items that only sell with discounts versus those with high sell-through rates and regular restocking. This allows brands to pinpoint when and where discounts are necessary, optimizing inventory and maximizing profitability.

In particular, Retviews data shows that summer discounts in Europe increased by 6% in 2024 compared to the previous year, suggesting even sharper price cuts for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

In 2023 the average discount rate slightly decreased compared to 2022 (35% vs 37%); however, weaker summer sales this year indicate a greater quantity of products in stock, which may prompt brands to increase their reductions (following a trend that had already established itself in the United States in 2023, when discount rates had risen to 40%, compared to 37% in 2022).
Strategic and targeted price reductions, however, will help brands maintain margins while also meeting the demands from fashion enthusiasts. So, which product categories are likely to see the most significant discounts?
 
Autumn jackets: full price for suede outerwear, discounts on down jackets
In the autumn-winter season, outerwear is at the heart of collections, with this year's styles ranging from denim and leather to suede. Suede stands out as a premium, on-trend fabric with high consumer demand. For instance, in ZARA's latest collection, suede jackets quickly became bestsellers, with the brand’s blazers consistently selling out and being restocked, despite their premium pricing.
 
The popularity of suede highlights its potential as a full-price item, allowing brands to focus discounts on other pieces and prioritize full-price sales for trend-driven items. Classic and timeless styles continue to dominate, from tailored blazers to sophisticated silhouettes seen in prêt-à-porter, premium, and luxury collections. Meanwhile, down jackets, which are a key part of the Gorpcore trend, could now be considered a less promising investment for brands and may therefore see deeper discounts this Black Friday.

Sneakers: slim fits are bestsellers, while running shoes see lower demand
When it comes to sneakers, there has been a surge in popularity for classic, aerodynamic styles, with consumers gravitating towards slim and basic models inspired by Adidas classics such as Sambas, Gazelles, and Spezials. These slimmer, retro-inspired models are selling out quickly, while more structured sneakers appear to have slower turnover rates. According to Retviews data, retro and colorful sneakers have become bestsellers in brand collections from Adidas, Puma and Zara. On the other hand, bulkier, running-style sneakers are experiencing lower demand, with larger stock levels. Consequently, these items may be subject to special discounts.

Source:

Lectra

16.10.2024

No imm cologne in January 2025

Together with the Association of the German Furniture Industry (VDM) and the German Furniture and Kitchen Retailers Association (BVDM), Koelnmesse has decided to skip the imm cologne's January 2025 edition. This joint decision was taken following intense discussions and reflects the challenging conditions the furniture industry is currently facing, particularly in Germany. It gives everyone involved the chance to collaborate with Koelnmesse on the development of a new, more viable future trade fair format.

It was taken primarily due to the fact that the German furniture manufacturers are generally in troubled waters, as there is a scarce domestic demand for furniture, and the industry is therefore, understandably, keeping a close eye on its spending.

According to the latest VDM industry figures, the entire market recorded a significant fall in turnover in 2023, as well as in the first six months of 2024. It dropped by 9.7 percent for all furniture, and even by 11.2 percent for upholstered furniture. The employee and company numbers are also going down.

Together with the Association of the German Furniture Industry (VDM) and the German Furniture and Kitchen Retailers Association (BVDM), Koelnmesse has decided to skip the imm cologne's January 2025 edition. This joint decision was taken following intense discussions and reflects the challenging conditions the furniture industry is currently facing, particularly in Germany. It gives everyone involved the chance to collaborate with Koelnmesse on the development of a new, more viable future trade fair format.

It was taken primarily due to the fact that the German furniture manufacturers are generally in troubled waters, as there is a scarce domestic demand for furniture, and the industry is therefore, understandably, keeping a close eye on its spending.

According to the latest VDM industry figures, the entire market recorded a significant fall in turnover in 2023, as well as in the first six months of 2024. It dropped by 9.7 percent for all furniture, and even by 11.2 percent for upholstered furniture. The employee and company numbers are also going down.

"We're extremely sorry to be skipping the imm cologne, but ultimately, this is a necessary, and the right step," says VDM president Leo Lübke. "Like many other industries, the furniture market has also changed considerably over the past few years - and along with this the demand for trade fairs. Unfortunately, the industry's current situation is forcing many companies to change course. As an industry, we are working intensely with Koelnmesse on the development of new concepts tailor-made specifically for the individual furniture segments. As Europe's largest furniture nation, we need our central industry shows, and believe in the Cologne venue's furniture expertise."

BVDM president Markus Meyer agrees: "I understand the decision to skip next January's trade fair, and I'm sorry that the industry did not lend better support to its leading international trade fair. The imm cologne has been an important meeting place for the industry for decades. By taking a break next year, we will not only lose a central platform for innovation and exchange, but also an important stage for serving the international market. All of the industry's stakeholders are now urgently tasked with getting together and finding joint solutions. More than ever before, we must now concentrate on securing and strengthening our position. The industry needs a strong platform like the imm cologne in order to restructure itself in a way that ensures its future viability."

The chairman of the Koelnmesse management board is also looking towards the future: "Pausing the imm cologne at this point in time is a logical decision, in view of the situation the industry currently finds itself in," says Gerald Böse. "It was an extremely difficult decision to make, but it was also unavoidable in order to show our international customers some consideration. Due to its January date, the imm cologne did not take place three years in a row during the pandemic. This lack of continuity, coupled with the current economic environment, makes it impossible for us as event organisers to guarantee an attractive range of exhibitors for the retailers in Cologne in January 2025. We still intend to offer the furniture industry an international stage in Germany in future. We are already jointly developing very promising concepts that meet the changed requirements of all stakeholders as best as can be. Koelnmesse is the world's number one in interiors, as impressively proven by the ORGATEC, the interzum and the spoga+gafa. We must now steer our flagship back on course, together with the furniture industry!"

More information:
imm cologne furniture
Source:

Koelnmesse GmbH

True Joy Photo: AkzoNobel
True Joy
10.09.2024

Radiating Yellow: True Joy is AkzoNobel’s Color of the Year 2025

A sunny yellow shade on a mission to fill our homes with optimism, pride and a splash of vibrant color – that’s True Joy™, AkzoNobel’s Color of the Year for 2025.

A sunny yellow shade on a mission to fill our homes with optimism, pride and a splash of vibrant color – that’s True Joy™, AkzoNobel’s Color of the Year for 2025.

Supported by three complementary color palettes, True Joy is the result of extensive research into color, design, cultural, economic and social trends, which identified a desire to make a joyful leap into the unknown, celebrate craftsmanship and embrace who we are.  
 
“In this rapidly changing world, it’s easy to feel uncertain about our next steps,” explains Heleen van Gent, Creative Director of AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetic Center. “But change creates an opportunity for imagination; a chance to create something even better. With our new Color of the Year and ColourFutures 2025 palettes, we want to inspire consumers to celebrate their roots and creativity and embrace the optimism of moving forward in their homes and spaces.”
 
AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetic Center has been translating trends into desirable colors for homes for more than 30 years. Its annual ColourFutures trend forecast meeting brings together in-house experts, international architects, designers and journalists to share insights into how our reactions to the world around us impact our color choices. Junior designers and interns were also included for the first time this year, to ensure that consumers from the widest possible age range were represented in the influential Color of the Year decision-making process.
 
Their discussions led to three decorative paint color stories being designed around True Joy to help consumers find the right complementary colors to match their mood and design preferences. The Bold color story urges you to leave your comfort zone and inject adventure into your home with bright and uplifting colors, while the Human color story encourages you to bring creativity into your home by filling it with unique handmade pieces. The Proud color palette invites you to embrace your identity and have the confidence to create a home that’s just as unique as you are.
 
Apart from Deco brands, the on-trend colors, textures and special effects have been designed for other key markets and segments, including aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, metal furniture, lighting, cabinetry, flooring, and building and architectural products.

Source:

AkzoNobel

07.08.2024

30th anniversary of Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles opens doors

Doors will open next week for trade fair Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles, with over 900 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions set to welcome global buyers at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) 14 – 16 August. Leveraging its 30 years of expertise in the home and contract textiles industry, the Autumn Edition will serve as a sourcing platform for industry players to forge impactful business partnerships and exchange market insights.

With the fair spanning 100,000 sqm of exhibition space in Halls 5.1, 5.2, 6.1 and 6.2, visitors are preparing to explore the entire home and contract textile spectrum at the gateway to Asia’s home living. To help buyers streamline their sourcing and maximise relevant business opportunities, 14 product zones will be set up, each spotlighting in-demand segments within the industry. These zones and their exhibitors include:

Doors will open next week for trade fair Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles, with over 900 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions set to welcome global buyers at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) 14 – 16 August. Leveraging its 30 years of expertise in the home and contract textiles industry, the Autumn Edition will serve as a sourcing platform for industry players to forge impactful business partnerships and exchange market insights.

With the fair spanning 100,000 sqm of exhibition space in Halls 5.1, 5.2, 6.1 and 6.2, visitors are preparing to explore the entire home and contract textile spectrum at the gateway to Asia’s home living. To help buyers streamline their sourcing and maximise relevant business opportunities, 14 product zones will be set up, each spotlighting in-demand segments within the industry. These zones and their exhibitors include:

  • Bedding: Ideaz Lifestyle Limited, Kageyama & Co Ltd, Shaoxing Chuanshi Home Textile Company Limited, Zhangjiagang Coolist Life Technology Co Ltd, Zhejiang Huaxing Feather & Down Products Co Ltd
  • Carpets & rugs: Beijing Home Value Co Ltd, Beijing U-living Home Decoration Co Ltd
  • Curtains & curtain fabrics: Dongjae Co Ltd, JWL FABRICS CO LTD, Textile Depo Co Ltd, Xi'an Zhong Yang Window Blinds Article Co Ltd, Zhejiang XIDAMEN New Material Co Ltd
  • Designer studios: Fine Art Inc, IKT Surfaces and Textures SL, Tela's Design Lda
  • Editors: Beijing Ya Da Home Decoration Articles Co Ltd, Prestigious Textiles (Shanghai) Limited, Raffinato Shanghai Ltd Corp
  • Leather: Anhui Anli Material Technology Co Ltd, Dongguan ARA Manufacture Co Ltd, Scope Leather Company, Zhejiang Changfeng New Material Co Ltd
  • Upholstery & sofa fabrics: Hangzhou Eastern Fabric Co Ltd, Mobus Fabrics Ltd, Suzhou Larbene Textile Co Ltd, Zhe Jiang Maya Fabric Co Ltd

In addition, specialised product zones for accessories, textile design, intelligent equipment, loungewear & bath, sun protection, table and kitchen linen, trade publications, and whole home products will further enrich buyers‘ sourcing experiences.

In the 30th year’s edition, buyers will have the opportunity to procure products from suppliers covering 15 countries and regions across Asia, Europe and North America. International exhibitors such as Advansa Marketing GmbH (Germany), Elastron Group (Portugal), Mobus (UK) and Morgan (USA) are set to participate.

Additionally, the newly introduced Uzbekistan Pavilion will showcase locally distinctive products, while the returning Türkiye Pavilion and Belgium Zone will also be present. Key exhibitors in these areas include:

  • Türkiye Pavilion: organised by Uludag Textile Exporters’ Association (UTIB), including Aleran Tekstil (Bona Home), Kucukcalik Tekstil and Weavers Tekstil.
  • Belgium Zone: exhibitors include CTF2000 and Love Home Fabrics.
  • Uzbekistan Pavilion: organised by Trade Development Company JSC, comprised of suppliers such as Great Kokand and Sam Rafoat Tekstil.

Buyers from 75 countries and regions have already pre-registered. Furthermore, 11 buyer delegations from 15 countries, including India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Morocco, Myanmar, Philippines, Poland, Russia, Spain, Thailand, Vietnam and more will augment the premier platform's diversity, and provide invaluable connections for building global business partnerships.

Four themes shaping the future of the industry
This year, the fair will stage a slate of concurrent events, organised around four central themes pivotal to the industry's growth. Key events on the agenda include:

Design Inspiration
The display area illustrating the central aspects of the upcoming Trends 2025 ‘Healing Home’ concept will be located in Hall 6.1 – the main focus of an exclusive tour guided by the trend designer. About Healing, the featured six-designer panel discussion on Day 1 afternoon, will further delve into the healing theme from an international perspective.

Other highlighted seminars, awards ceremonies and display areas include: 30th China Home Textiles Design Festival & Designer Recommended Brand Awards; China Intangible Cultural Heritage of Textile Exhibition; Design for Fun, Using Playful Methods to Support Sustainable Development by Mr You Zhou; Psychology at Play in Design by Ms Pallavi Dean, and Weaving Paths to Sustainability: the Impact of Textile in Interior Spaces by Mr Saverio Quaia.

Business O2O
Conducted by Ms Esra Lemmens, the theme’s highlighted seminar is titled Unlocking Opportunities: Successful Business Strategies for the Middle Eastern Design Market. Along with the 10th Home Textiles and Furniture Industry Ecological Integration Forum, the events under this theme will explore effective business strategies across sectors on Day 1 afternoon.

Industry Empowerment
Bridging Borders: A Designer x Producer Talk on Sustainability will bring together designers and manufacturers from the East and West to address sustainability challenges and strike a balance among all stakeholders – this round table discussion is scheduled for Day 2 afternoon.

Textiles & Technologies
Within the Econogy Talks umbrella, the Sustainable Fibre Forum in Home Textiles will provide a platform for green producers such as 3M, Advansa, and Indorama to share their latest eco-friendly innovations with home textile applications. Moreover, attendees interested in integrating sustainability into their Messe Frankfurt trade fair involvement, can gain insights on the Texpertise Econogy programme during an extensive session held on Day 2 morning.  

Beyond the stage, the 7th China International Fibre Art Exhibition will present artisic creations in its display area in Hall 5.1, with previous iterations well-received by fairgoers.

Source:

Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd

(c) Digital Wave Technology
05.08.2024

Dovetail Furniture expands Partnership with Digital Wave Technology

Digital Wave Technology announces its continued partnership with Dovetail Furniture, one of the largest importers and wholesale distributors of fine handcrafted furniture on the West Coast (USA). Dovetail Furniture has signed a multi-year agreement to leverage Digital Wave Technology’s product experience management (PXM) solution as a key part of its technology footprint.

Dovetail Furniture, known for its meticulously curated collections and on-trend designs, has partnered with Digital Wave Technology to provide intricate product details via the solution provider’s PXM system to ensure efficiency and accuracy. Digital Wave’s PXM, which includes product information management (PIM), master data management (MDM), and digital asset management (DAM), helps the organization:

  • Drive improved efficiency and tailor business processes to its unique needs
  • Provide a single version of the truth across all channels
  • Leverage workflow automation critical to its product information management process

Digital Wave Technology announces its continued partnership with Dovetail Furniture, one of the largest importers and wholesale distributors of fine handcrafted furniture on the West Coast (USA). Dovetail Furniture has signed a multi-year agreement to leverage Digital Wave Technology’s product experience management (PXM) solution as a key part of its technology footprint.

Dovetail Furniture, known for its meticulously curated collections and on-trend designs, has partnered with Digital Wave Technology to provide intricate product details via the solution provider’s PXM system to ensure efficiency and accuracy. Digital Wave’s PXM, which includes product information management (PIM), master data management (MDM), and digital asset management (DAM), helps the organization:

  • Drive improved efficiency and tailor business processes to its unique needs
  • Provide a single version of the truth across all channels
  • Leverage workflow automation critical to its product information management process
Source:

Digital Wave Technology

Flos and B&B Italia partner with “Casa Italia Paris 2024” (c) B&B Italia S.p.A.
24.07.2024

Flos and B&B Italia partner with “Casa Italia Paris 2024”

Flos and B&B Italia, furniture brands of Made in Italy design, take part in the Casa Italia Paris 2024 project, the hospitality house that will host the athletes and guests during the XXXIII Olympic Games, to be held in the French capital from 26 July to 11 August 2024.

Along with other design brands and contemporary Italian artists, the two companies participate for the first time at Casa Italia Paris 2024 showcasing their most iconic creations, both classic and contemporary, in the venue’s indoor and outdoor spaces, taking guests on a spectacular and evocative journey that epitomizes Italian elegance and beauty.

Flos and B&B Italia, furniture brands of Made in Italy design, take part in the Casa Italia Paris 2024 project, the hospitality house that will host the athletes and guests during the XXXIII Olympic Games, to be held in the French capital from 26 July to 11 August 2024.

Along with other design brands and contemporary Italian artists, the two companies participate for the first time at Casa Italia Paris 2024 showcasing their most iconic creations, both classic and contemporary, in the venue’s indoor and outdoor spaces, taking guests on a spectacular and evocative journey that epitomizes Italian elegance and beauty.

As Official Partner of Casa Italia Paris 2024, B&B Italia is furnishing the living, lounge and outdoor areas with some of its most recognisable products that combine unique design, quality, comfort and function as well as sustainability, an increasingly crucial element intrinsic to furniture designed to last over time. The UP Series by Gaetano Pesce, the Camaleonda sofa and Le Bambole seating by Mario Bellini, the Planck tables by Piero Lissoni, and the Allure O’ table and Flair O’ chairs by Monica Armani will furnish Casa Italia, highlighting a dialogue with the context through the choice of distinctive shapes, colours and materials.

The ongoing dialogue created by the brand’s products continues through to the outdoor lounge areas, where Casa Italia’s green spaces are dotted with products from the B&B Italia Outdoor collection, the brand’s outdoor furniture line launched in 2007. The Ribes sofas by Antonio Citterio, the Crinoline chairs by Patricia Urquiola and the Borea tables by Piero Lissoni will welcome athletes and guests creating stylish aesthetic synergies with the Le Pré Catelan gardens.

Flos has worked at the lighting project for Casa Italia Paris 2024 as Official Supplier, with the aim of making light a precious element for highlighting the works of art and the objects that enrich the setup of the Italian hospitality house, so that the exhibition and its narrative itinerary can be enjoyed both during daytime and nighttime hours. Light is used to shape the space in such a way as to create visual hierarchies among the superb items on display, without forgetting the ambient lighting needed for the celebratory events that will take place in the venue. The Flos lighting display includes some of the brand’s most recognisable suspension creations, such as cocoon models Taraxacum and Viscontea by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni and Zeppelin by Marcel Wanders. These interact with more recent and timeless collections, such as Glo-Ball by Jasper Morrison, Arrangements by Michael Anastassiades, IC and Captain Flint floor lamps, also by Anastassiades, and Bellhop Floor by Barber Osgerby.

For the exterior green spaces, Flos has chosen stylish outdoor floor lamps that create a harmonious dialogue with the surrounding architecture. These include Captain Flint Outdoor and IC Outdoor, designed by Michael Anastassiades, featuring bases in precious materials such as Tuscan imperial travertine and volcanic stone from the slopes of Mount Etna. Finally, Flos Architectural, the brand’s professional lighting division for large-scale projects, has equipped Casa Italia with innovative tech solutions that include The Tracking Magnet, an ingenious patented system with magnetic fastening LED lights in spot or linear versions for functional, efficient lighting that is also comfortable and non-invasive.

More information:
B&B Italia furniture
Source:

B&B Italia S.p.A.

15.07.2024

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles unveils programme

In sync with the fair’s 30th anniversary, the sourcing platform will host around 12 fringe events for fairgoers to stay ahead of the curve, under the following segments: Design Inspiration, Business O2O, Textiles & Technologies, and Industry Empowerment. Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles has joined forces with Danish trend agency SPOTT trends & business to present the design theme for 2025 – ‘Healing Home’ – together with eight trend directions set to captivate the home textiles market. Set to be a hotspot for in vogue sourcing and industry exchange, the show will take place at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) from 14 – 16 August 2024.

In sync with the fair’s 30th anniversary, the sourcing platform will host around 12 fringe events for fairgoers to stay ahead of the curve, under the following segments: Design Inspiration, Business O2O, Textiles & Technologies, and Industry Empowerment. Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles has joined forces with Danish trend agency SPOTT trends & business to present the design theme for 2025 – ‘Healing Home’ – together with eight trend directions set to captivate the home textiles market. Set to be a hotspot for in vogue sourcing and industry exchange, the show will take place at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) from 14 – 16 August 2024.

To help home textile industry players set the tone and direction for the upcoming business season, the fair will present Trends 2025 along with leading trend agency SPOTT trends & business, to illustrate the ‘Healing Home– Spaces for Thriving Living’ theme that marks the path ahead for the evolving sector. This concept conveys the idea of a home that promotes a remedial, prosperous lifestyle, improving peoples’ general health and well-being, with several key factors contributing to the overarching theme:

  • Eight key directions: Age-Old Crafts, Nature-Tech Synergies, Regenerative Possibilities, Wellbeing Spaces, Colourful Gatherings, Bio-Engineered Innovations, Transitional Practices, and Circular Systems.
  • Five key colours: deep burgundy, warm terracotta, light creamy shade, saturated nostalgic green, and vaporous blue.

The founder of SPOTT trends & business, Ms Anja Bisgaard Gaede, will be onsite to share insights related to these new design trends. Fairgoers are invited to join her interactive trend tour, and physically experience the concepts steering the industry's future.

With the intention of sparking further design inspiration for industry players, an expert panel discussion of Chinese interior architects and designers, InterDesign Forum, will be held on the afternoon of Day 1. Focusing on design trend topics related to sustainability, Mr Shen Lei, Founder and Design Director of Interior Architects Design and the Chinese representative of the Intertextile International Lifestyle Trend Committee, will lead the discussion. Adding an international perspective, Ms Anja Bisgaard Gaede will join them for the accompanying round table talk.

In addition to serving as a gateway for efficient sourcing, the show will inspire fairgoers through its fringe programme, with various formats and topics unpacking current talking points.

Highlighted sessions include:    

  • Round table discussion: Bridging Borders: A Designer x Producer Talk on Sustainability – a dialogue between designers and manufacturers, exploring how to collaboratively overcome sustainability challenges and reconcile the demands of both sides, from both Eastern and Western perspectives.
  • Econogy Talks: selected exhibitors, including 3M, Advansa and many more, as well as a representative from Indorama will showcase their innovative green products, giving attendees in-person insights into some of the market’s latest sustainable developments in the Sustainable Fibre Forum. Additionally, a Messe Frankfurt representative will explain the Texpertise Econogy concept, the combination of economy and ecology that represents the sustainability activities in the company’s Texpertise Network. The discussion will show how crucial sustainability is for the economic success of a business today, and indicate how fairgoers can benefit from such an approach.

Beyond the subject of a greener textile industry, other topics will be explored at various events. With more to be announced in the coming weeks, the following seminars hosted by international experts will provide the latest trends and market updates:

  • Bridging Worlds: Design Strategies for Success in Middle Eastern Markets: Ms Esra Lemmens (Day 1)
  • How Psychology Impacts the Way We Design Spaces: Ms Pallavi Dean (Day 1)

Moreover, the 10th Home Textiles and Furniture Industry Ecological Integration Forum will bring together home textile and furniture brands to explore cross-industry collaboration and provide one-stop home solutions. The 30th China Home Textiles Design Festival & Designer Recommended Brand Awards will showcase the latest trends and achievements in home design, allowing participating brands to gain recognition from designers. Meanwhile, the 7th China International Fibre Art Exhibition will invite influential artists from home and abroad to present diverse contemporary fibre artworks; and the China Intangible Cultural Heritage of Textile Exhibition will showcase some remarkable displays.  

Source:

Messe Frankfurt HK, Ltd

ANDRITZ to supply needlepunch line to Şiteks Bild: ANDRITZ
19.06.2024

ANDRITZ to supply needlepunch line to Şiteks

International technology group ANDRITZ has received an order from the Turkish insulation felt manufacturer Şiteks to supply a complete needlepunch line for its production plant in Tekirdag.

With this investment, Şiteks will expand its production capacity to meet the international demand for needlepunched nonwoven insulation products in the automotive and construction sectors. The line is scheduled to start up in the first quarter of 2025. This is the second line that Şiteks has purchased from ANDRITZ.

The ANDRITZ needlepunch eXcelle line for Şiteks can process different types of fibers, including natural fibers, and is specifically designed to meet the customer’s requirements in terms of productivity, quality, and sustainability.

Şiteks Şişmanlar Tekstil San. ve Tic. A.Ş, a member of the Hassan Group, is one of Europe’s largest manufacturers of thermal and acoustic insulation felts. Its products are used in a wide range of applications in the automotive, white goods, construction, and mattress and furniture industries.

International technology group ANDRITZ has received an order from the Turkish insulation felt manufacturer Şiteks to supply a complete needlepunch line for its production plant in Tekirdag.

With this investment, Şiteks will expand its production capacity to meet the international demand for needlepunched nonwoven insulation products in the automotive and construction sectors. The line is scheduled to start up in the first quarter of 2025. This is the second line that Şiteks has purchased from ANDRITZ.

The ANDRITZ needlepunch eXcelle line for Şiteks can process different types of fibers, including natural fibers, and is specifically designed to meet the customer’s requirements in terms of productivity, quality, and sustainability.

Şiteks Şişmanlar Tekstil San. ve Tic. A.Ş, a member of the Hassan Group, is one of Europe’s largest manufacturers of thermal and acoustic insulation felts. Its products are used in a wide range of applications in the automotive, white goods, construction, and mattress and furniture industries.

Source:

ANDRITZ AG

31.05.2024

Oerlikon Barmag: Pumps with magnetic coupling

Polyurethane has become an integral part of our daily lives, whether in the construction industry, in leisure activities, in the manufacture of furniture or in numerous other applications. The precision gear pumps from Oerlikon Barmag, which will be presented at this year's UTECH Asia / PU China 2024 in Shanghai, impress with customised solutions for demanding tasks in the chemical industry. They increase the productivity of the often complex manufacturing processes for this wide range of applications.

Oerlikon Barmag pumps handle demanding processes in PUR applications, in the chemical, plastics or paint and lacquers industries. One of the greatest challenges lies in the accurate and reliable metering of toxic or low-viscosity media. With the GM and GA series and the associated components, Oerlikon Barmag presents the optimum equipment for these applications.

Polyurethane has become an integral part of our daily lives, whether in the construction industry, in leisure activities, in the manufacture of furniture or in numerous other applications. The precision gear pumps from Oerlikon Barmag, which will be presented at this year's UTECH Asia / PU China 2024 in Shanghai, impress with customised solutions for demanding tasks in the chemical industry. They increase the productivity of the often complex manufacturing processes for this wide range of applications.

Oerlikon Barmag pumps handle demanding processes in PUR applications, in the chemical, plastics or paint and lacquers industries. One of the greatest challenges lies in the accurate and reliable metering of toxic or low-viscosity media. With the GM and GA series and the associated components, Oerlikon Barmag presents the optimum equipment for these applications.

GM pump
Pumps in the GM series achieve precise dosing by feeding the flow with low pulsation. The multi-stage GM pump conveys low-viscosity media even under high pressure and the most difficult operating conditions (e.g. 250 bar, 100 mPas). The standard pump for many dosing tasks is the GM series in a square design. With the development of the multi-stage pump, the range of applications for the GM series has been significantly expanded. The round 2-stage GM pump has been specially developed for use in high-pressure technology. It fulfils the special challenge of pumping small flow rates with low viscosities. The pump serves flow rates from 0.05 to 20 ccm/rev and is therefore particularly suitable for the production of PUR moulded parts, block foam, refrigeration unit insulation or sandwich panels.  

GA series
Making products and processes more efficient is a constant challenge for manufacturing companies. This is why Oerlikon Barmag has added the GA series to the GM series especially for the demanding conveying of high-viscosity media. The GA series is available in delivery volumes of 1.25 - 30 cm³/rev (0.6-144 l/h). It is designed for pressures up to 200 bar, for viscosities up to 1,500 Pas and for temperatures up to a maximum of 225°C. With this pump series, Oerlikon Barmag offers customised solutions for process engineering processes where highly accurate and uniform metering is required.

The drum pump
The drum pump from Oerlikon Barmag is specially designed for conveying and dosing highly viscous materials such as adhesives, silicones and other highly viscous materials from drums and other large containers and for pressures of up to 250 bar. One of its special features is not only that it discharges highly viscous materials from the drum, but also that the medium can be dosed directly without an intermediate stop.

The gear pump and drum follower plate are synchronised so that the plate effortlessly reaches the bottom of the container, leaving behind only a very small residual quantity of < 1%. This reduces material costs and has a positive effect on the production process.

Source:

Oerlikon Textile GmbH & Co. KG,

(c) Beter Bed
24.05.2024

Beter Bed: Allergen Spray with “HeiQ Synbio Inside”

The new M line Allergen Spray, powered by patented HeiQ Synbio technology, eliminates allergens that are commonly found in our homes, and which affect a large percentage of people. These allergens include dust mite matters and allergens on pet hair which are found on our beds, sofas, carpets, curtains, and other household items. By applying the Allergen Spray, you can harness the powers of active probiotics, which break down common allergens, making bedroom and living spaces more comfortable and fresher.

Allergies are typically triggered by allergenic proteins. The active probiotics (beneficial bacteria) in the spray generate enzymes that break down proteins, removing these allergy triggers. A study by BMA Laboratories (Bochum, Germany), an accredited and independent laboratory, observed a 60% house dust mite allergens reduction, over 75% pet allergen reduction, and a close to 90% pollen allergen reduction, after the initial treatment.

The new M line Allergen Spray, powered by patented HeiQ Synbio technology, eliminates allergens that are commonly found in our homes, and which affect a large percentage of people. These allergens include dust mite matters and allergens on pet hair which are found on our beds, sofas, carpets, curtains, and other household items. By applying the Allergen Spray, you can harness the powers of active probiotics, which break down common allergens, making bedroom and living spaces more comfortable and fresher.

Allergies are typically triggered by allergenic proteins. The active probiotics (beneficial bacteria) in the spray generate enzymes that break down proteins, removing these allergy triggers. A study by BMA Laboratories (Bochum, Germany), an accredited and independent laboratory, observed a 60% house dust mite allergens reduction, over 75% pet allergen reduction, and a close to 90% pollen allergen reduction, after the initial treatment.

The future of allergen reduction with the M line Allergen Spray, where innovation meets everyday convenience, is now available at Beter Bed stores in The Netherlands and the Belgian Flemish region. The continuous misting spray bottle ensures an even application, making it suitable to apply in home textiles such as mattress toppers, bed linen, pillow covers, comforters, carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture, or any other items in reach of dust mites and pets. In the first week, the spray should be applied every day, and thereafter twice per week. The probiotics keep working for days, helping to maintain a balanced microbiome on treated surfaces

More information:
Beter Bed HeiQ spray application
Source:

HeiQ

colouring process Photo (c) Hypetex
22.05.2024

First technical coloured flax fibre replacing carbon fibre?

British technology company Hypetex has been awarded a significant grant from Innovate UK to develop the world’s first technical coloured flax fibre, which will have applications in the sustainable manufacturing of cars, boats and other products that are usually made with carbon fibre.

Called FlaxTex the material is strong, lightweight and 100 per cent biodegradable, having a net positive carbon footprint at point of manufacturing. It can be colourised whilst enhancing its performance properties, with the process adding some important manufacturing attributes compared to standard flax fibre.

As such, FlaxTex’s mechanical properties represent the closest sustainable substitute for robust and lightweight materials like glass fibre and carbon fibre in composite structures.  

The performance of standard flax fibre is often hindered by its high moisture absorption, resulting in reduced structural integrity when used in composite construction. In addition, the natural brown colour of flax has been deemed unappealing for product use.

British technology company Hypetex has been awarded a significant grant from Innovate UK to develop the world’s first technical coloured flax fibre, which will have applications in the sustainable manufacturing of cars, boats and other products that are usually made with carbon fibre.

Called FlaxTex the material is strong, lightweight and 100 per cent biodegradable, having a net positive carbon footprint at point of manufacturing. It can be colourised whilst enhancing its performance properties, with the process adding some important manufacturing attributes compared to standard flax fibre.

As such, FlaxTex’s mechanical properties represent the closest sustainable substitute for robust and lightweight materials like glass fibre and carbon fibre in composite structures.  

The performance of standard flax fibre is often hindered by its high moisture absorption, resulting in reduced structural integrity when used in composite construction. In addition, the natural brown colour of flax has been deemed unappealing for product use.

Flaxtex solves these issues by removing moisture through the colouring process and sealing the fibres, which waterproofs them and enabling their core mechanical properties. Hypetex’s patented nano-pigment technology changes the colour adding an aesthetic quality to the material.  

This colouring process is set to transform industrial design possibilities of Flax natural fibres by enhancing the strength and performance while simultaneously reducing post-processing requirements and total energy usage. This also aligns with Hypetex's commitment to supporting the green transition and helping manufacturers meet government expectations on the path to UK Net Zero targets and the European Green Deal.

Over the course of a 12-month industrial research project, Hypetex will further optimize its resin systems and processes, expanding the use of FlaxTex across various markets.  

FlaxTex has a range of industry uses, including on construction, automotive, sports equipment and furniture products.

More information:
HYPETEX® flax carbon fibers
Source:

Hypetex

HeiQ: HeiQ Allergen Tech for upholstery fabric (c) HeiQ
08.05.2024

HeiQ: HeiQ Allergen Tech for upholstery fabric

HeiQ announces the extended application of HeiQ Allergen Tech to bring the benefits of this biobased textile technology to the interior upholstered furniture market.

HeiQ Allergen Tech has already been successfully adopted in bedding items like pillows, bed sheets, and mattresses. And now Culp Upholstery Fabrics, a division of Culp, Inc. and a leading suppliers of upholstery fabric, will offer this technology to manufacturers of upholstered furniture. This collaboration will see Culp introduce HeiQ Allergen Tech enhanced interior upholstery fabrics to markets such as the Americas, among others, with Culp as the exclusive supplier.

HeiQ announces the extended application of HeiQ Allergen Tech to bring the benefits of this biobased textile technology to the interior upholstered furniture market.

HeiQ Allergen Tech has already been successfully adopted in bedding items like pillows, bed sheets, and mattresses. And now Culp Upholstery Fabrics, a division of Culp, Inc. and a leading suppliers of upholstery fabric, will offer this technology to manufacturers of upholstered furniture. This collaboration will see Culp introduce HeiQ Allergen Tech enhanced interior upholstery fabrics to markets such as the Americas, among others, with Culp as the exclusive supplier.

HeiQ Allergen Tech addresses the problem of allergens from dust mite matter and pet allergens in textiles with the help of active probiotics, making it ideal for applications in upholstered furniture, such as sofas, armchairs, and other upholstered furniture products, which are among the household items that are rarely or never washed. This naturally derived technology works in the background with its continuous cleaning action to reduce allergens on the treated fabric and thereby create a more comfortable living environment.
The technology of HeiQ Allergen Tech is 100% biobased and long-lasting. Probiotics, also known as “good bacteria”, with benefits for humans and animals, colonize the treated fabrics, leaving no space for harmful dust mite matter or pet allergens to settle in while creating the ideal conditions for better and more comfortable living spaces.

The first treated fabrics as a result of the collaboration are being revealed at the Interwoven trade show on May 7-8 in High Point, NC, USA, where HeiQ and Culp teams provide more details to all visitors.

Green Theme Technologies
27.03.2024

Green Theme Technologies partners with Hwasung International

Green Theme Technologies, suppliers of the EMPEL® water-free and PFAS-free textile finishing platform, continues a trajectory of exponential growth by partnering with Korean-based global textile innovator Hwasung International. Hwasung is the first Korean mill to offer the EMPEL® high performance technology to global footwear brands and regional Korean mill customers.
      
Known globally for providing high performance textiles that incorporate functional yarns such as Dyneema, Kevlar and Cordura, Hwasung will now broaden their high performance and sustainable offerings by scaling EMPEL into their global supply chain.
      
Green Theme’s EMPEL® platform can be applied successfully to a wide range of synthetic knit, woven, non-woven and novel fabrics that are traditionally hard to treat. The diverse list of EMPEL® markets include: Outdoor, High Fashion, Footwear, Automotive, Furniture, Workwear, Athleisure Wear and Military. Because no water is used during the treatment application, EMPEL® can remove pollution and waste from any textile manufacturing process.

Green Theme Technologies, suppliers of the EMPEL® water-free and PFAS-free textile finishing platform, continues a trajectory of exponential growth by partnering with Korean-based global textile innovator Hwasung International. Hwasung is the first Korean mill to offer the EMPEL® high performance technology to global footwear brands and regional Korean mill customers.
      
Known globally for providing high performance textiles that incorporate functional yarns such as Dyneema, Kevlar and Cordura, Hwasung will now broaden their high performance and sustainable offerings by scaling EMPEL into their global supply chain.
      
Green Theme’s EMPEL® platform can be applied successfully to a wide range of synthetic knit, woven, non-woven and novel fabrics that are traditionally hard to treat. The diverse list of EMPEL® markets include: Outdoor, High Fashion, Footwear, Automotive, Furniture, Workwear, Athleisure Wear and Military. Because no water is used during the treatment application, EMPEL® can remove pollution and waste from any textile manufacturing process.

Source:

Green Theme Technologies

Robot system (c) STFI
20.03.2024

STFI: Highlights of textile research at Techtextil 2024

STFI will be presenting high-end textile products and solutions at Techtextil 2024. The highlights from current research results and innovations provide an insight into the digitalisation of textile production, show applications for 3D printing and smart technical textiles and provide examples of particularly sustainably designed products as well as innovative approaches for protective and medical textiles.

The central highlight of STFI's presence at Techtextil is a robot system that demonstrates the automated processing of a bobbin frame on a small scale. The pick-and-place application demonstrates camera-supported gripping of the bobbins. The robot is part of the STFI's “Textile Factory of the Future” which demonstrates automation solutions for the textile industry in a laboratory environment.

STFI will be presenting high-end textile products and solutions at Techtextil 2024. The highlights from current research results and innovations provide an insight into the digitalisation of textile production, show applications for 3D printing and smart technical textiles and provide examples of particularly sustainably designed products as well as innovative approaches for protective and medical textiles.

The central highlight of STFI's presence at Techtextil is a robot system that demonstrates the automated processing of a bobbin frame on a small scale. The pick-and-place application demonstrates camera-supported gripping of the bobbins. The robot is part of the STFI's “Textile Factory of the Future” which demonstrates automation solutions for the textile industry in a laboratory environment.

From the field of sustainable products and solutions, a sleeping bag with bio-based and therefore vegan filling material and a natural fibre-based composite element for furniture construction, in which LEDs and capacitive proximity sensors for contactless function control have been applied using embroidery technology, will be on show. Printed heating conductor structures demonstrate current research work for the e-mobility of the future, as the individually controllable seat and interior heating should ultimately reduce weight and save energy compared to conventional heating systems.

While a protective suit for special task forces protects against the dangers of a Molotov cocktail attack, a shin guard and a knee brace with patellar ring illustrate the process combination of 3D printing and UV LED cross-linking. Other highlights from lightweight textile construction include the rib of a vertical rudder of an Airbus A320 and a green snowboard made from recycled carbon fibres.

More information:
STFI Techtextil Smart textiles
Source:

Sächsisches Textilforschungsinstitut e.V. (STFI)

15.03.2024

TMAS: Digitised solutions at Techtextil and Texprocess

Members of TMAS – the Swedish textile machinery association – will display technologies in alignment with the theme of digitalisation at the forthcoming Techtextil and Texprocess 2024 exhibitions, taking place in Frankfurt from April 23-26th.

Automatic handling
The fully automated and digitised handling solutions for finished garments, home textiles and furniture of Eton Systems, for example, will be demonstrated at Texprocess.

Designed to increase value-added time in production by eliminating manual transportation and minimising handling, the individually addressable product carriers are fully managed and controlled by the latest ETONingenious™ software. This web based real-time data collection and information system continuously accumulates, processes and makes all production information instantly available to supervisors, quality control personnel and management.

Members of TMAS – the Swedish textile machinery association – will display technologies in alignment with the theme of digitalisation at the forthcoming Techtextil and Texprocess 2024 exhibitions, taking place in Frankfurt from April 23-26th.

Automatic handling
The fully automated and digitised handling solutions for finished garments, home textiles and furniture of Eton Systems, for example, will be demonstrated at Texprocess.

Designed to increase value-added time in production by eliminating manual transportation and minimising handling, the individually addressable product carriers are fully managed and controlled by the latest ETONingenious™ software. This web based real-time data collection and information system continuously accumulates, processes and makes all production information instantly available to supervisors, quality control personnel and management.

Bespoke seams
Svegea will demonstrate its EC 300-XS colarette technology, which is used by garment manufacturers around the world for the production of tubular apparel components such as cuff and neck tapes and other seam reinforcements.

The EC 300-XS collarette cutter on show in Frankfurt is equipped with the latest E-Drive II system providing the operator with a very user-friendly touchscreen, providing full control of the cutting process. An accompanying FA 350 fully automatic roll slitting machine will also be demonstrated.

Digital finishing
At Techtextil meanwhile, Baldwin Technology Co. will provide full details of how its highly digitised TexCoat G4 non-contact spray technology for textile finishing and remoistening not only reduces water, chemicals and energy consumption, but also provides the flexibility to adapt to customer requirements in terms of single and double-sided finishing applications.

TexCoat G4 can reduce water consumption and chemical usage by as much as 50% compared to traditional padding application processes.

Yarn tension
Celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, Eltex will display the latest Eltex EyETM system for the continuous monitoring of yarn tension on warp beams.

The Eltex EyETM eliminates problems when warping, and also in subsequent weaving or tufting processes, monitoring the yarn tension on all positions in real-time and enabling a minimum and maximum allowable tension value it be set. If any yarn’s tension falls outside these values the operator can be warned or the machine stopped.

The Eltex ACT and ACT-R units meanwhile go beyond yarn tension monitoring to actually control yarn tension. This extends the application range greatly. The plug and play system automatically compensates for any differences in yarn tension that arise, for example from irregularities in yarn packages.

Accumulated know-how
Vandewiele Sweden AB benefits from all of the synergies and accumulated know-how of Vandewiele Group, supplying weft yarn feeding and tension control units for weaving looms to the majority of weaving machine manufacturers. It also retrofits its latest technologies to working mills to enable instant benefits in terms of productivity and control.

The company will present its latest X4 yarn feeders with integrated accessory displays (TED) as a new standard, as well as launching its own e-commerce platform – iroonline.com.

The TED function enables weft tension settings to be transferred from one machine to another, enabling a fast start-up the next time the same article is woven. The position of the S-Flex Tensioner is constantly monitored by an internal sensor – even if adjustment is made during power off.

X4 feeders are also available with integrated active tension control (ATC-W) as an option. With the ATC-W active tension control, the required tension is easily set and monitored on the integrated display. Once set, the system constantly regulates itself, ensuring consistent yarn tension during the weaving process which is constantly and accurately measured by the ATC sensor unit, sending a signal to the ATC operator unit resulting in consistently stable yarn tension at the required level.

Source:

TMAS - Swedish textile machinery association

AkzoNobel: Expansion of powder coatings plant (c) AkzoNobel
14.02.2024

AkzoNobel: Expansion of powder coatings plant in Italy

A major capacity expansion has been completed at AkzoNobel’s Powder Coatings site in Como, Italy, which will help secure supply to customers across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

Four new manufacturing lines are now operational following the €21 million project – two of them dedicated to automotive primers and two to architectural coatings. New bonding equipment lines have also been added, ensuring that the products meet and exceed industry standards.

The extra capacity in Como has been installed in a renovated building where powder coatings were originally made – a sustainable reuse of an existing part of the site, which was established in 1992. The new lines also use recycled energy and are focused on meeting the highest standards in sustainable production, supporting the company’s ambition to reduce its carbon emissions by 50% by 2030.

AkzoNobel’s Como site is the company’s largest plant for producing powder coatings. It supplies products for market segments, such as home appliances, architecture, automotive, furniture and more.

A major capacity expansion has been completed at AkzoNobel’s Powder Coatings site in Como, Italy, which will help secure supply to customers across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

Four new manufacturing lines are now operational following the €21 million project – two of them dedicated to automotive primers and two to architectural coatings. New bonding equipment lines have also been added, ensuring that the products meet and exceed industry standards.

The extra capacity in Como has been installed in a renovated building where powder coatings were originally made – a sustainable reuse of an existing part of the site, which was established in 1992. The new lines also use recycled energy and are focused on meeting the highest standards in sustainable production, supporting the company’s ambition to reduce its carbon emissions by 50% by 2030.

AkzoNobel’s Como site is the company’s largest plant for producing powder coatings. It supplies products for market segments, such as home appliances, architecture, automotive, furniture and more.

Source:

AkzoNobel