From the Sector

• Growing demand for natural fabrics and blends driving Brodelec business growth

September 25th, 2019, Rosh Ha’ayn, Israel – Kornit Digital (Nasdaq: KRNT), a worldwide market leader in digital textile printing technology, announced that Orleans, France-based Brodelec has installed the country’s first-ever Kornit Presto S system for roll-to-roll, pigment-based digital textile printing.

This installation will enable the multiservice marking brand to expand their business further into customized décor and on-demand fashion.

Brodelec has partnered with Kornit for over a decade and owns several direct-to-garment print systems. Based on demand for natural fabrics and blends in the home décor and fashion markets, they are now expanding their offerings to include bespoke direct-to-fabric services.

Brodelec chose the Kornit Presto S as it is the only single-step solution and therefore the fastest route from design to finished product, making it the most efficient and eco-friendly fabric printing solution in France today.

• Natürlichkeit und Nachhaltigkeit stehen verstärkt im Fokus gesundheitsorientierter Interior Design-Konzepte mit Bodenbelägen und Produkten von Ausstellern der DOMOTEX
• Der Einsatz umweltschonender Lösungen, die auf der DOMOTEX vorgestellt werden, ist Zielsetzung wegweisender Referenzprojekte
• DOMOTEX 2020 10. bis 13. Januar (Freitag bis Montag) Messegelände Hannover

Die führende Messe für Teppiche und Bodenbeläge DOMOTEX beleuchtet mit ihrem neuen Leitthema „ATMYSPHERE“ unterschiedliche Eigenschaften des Bodens, die zu individuellem Wohlbefinden in einem Interieur beitragen. Bei der kommenden Veranstaltung, die vom 10. bis 13. Januar in Hannover stattfindet, stehen unter anderem umweltfreundliche Materialien und Herstellungsverfahren sowie nachhaltige
Produkte im Mittelpunkt.

Angeregt vom wachsenden Gesundheits- und Umweltbewusstsein entstehen derzeit viele relevante Interior Design-Projekte mit umweltfreundlichen Bodenbelägen und Verlegewerkstoffen, die für eine gesunde Raumatmosphäre sorgen. Bei innovativen Interieurs in Hotel, Bar und Restaurant bis hin zum Showroom, Büro und Messestand spielen nachhaltige Böden eine wichtige Rolle für das Gesamtkonzept, wie die
folgenden Beispiele mit Produkten von Ausstellern der DOMOTEX zeigen.

Der Flagshipstore der Deutschen Telekom am Münchner Marienplatz ist nach dem „Collector’s Lab“ Konzept des Unternehmens eingerichtet: Lieblingsstücke werden zu „emotionalen Inseln in einer wertigen Umgebung“ gruppiert, um eine persönliche Atmosphäre für den Kunden zu schaffen. Für die Bodengestaltung des Showrooms kamen zwei unterschiedliche elastische Böden des DOMOTEX-Ausstellers  Windmöller zum Einsatz. Applikationen in Weiß und Magenta auf einem Designboden in grauer Sichtbetonoptik leiten den Blick hin zu den Produktpräsentationen. Den wohnlich gestalteten Rahmen des Lounge- Bereichs und der Beratungszonen betont der Purline Bioboden in Verbindung mit holzverkleideten Wänden und bequemen Polstermöbeln. Purline ist ein Polyurethanboden auf Basis von ecuran. Der Verbundwerkstoff wird überwiegend aus nachwachsenden Rohstoffen wie Raps- oder Rizinusöl und Kreide hergestellt.  „Bewusstes Leben und Arbeiten steht mehr denn je im Fokus der Verbraucher“, erklärt Annika Windmöller, Gesellschafterin und Leiterin der Unternehmenskommunikation. „Ein aktuell sehr ausgeprägtes Umweltbewusstsein, die Forderung nach maximaler Nachhaltigkeit im täglichen Konsum sowie der Wunsch nach dem individuellen Wohlfühlen, sind maßgebliche Treiber unserer Gesellschaft.“ Der widerstandsfähige Purline Bioboden, so Windmöller, entspreche diesen Anforderungen in besonderem Maße. Gerda Karal, die für den Flagshipstore verantwortliche Teamleiterin Innenarchitektur des Kölner Architekturbüros Lepel & Lepel betont, dass es Ziel des Projekts war „Ökologie und Stil in ein perfektes Gleichgewicht zu bringen.“

Das Mama Shelter Hotel in Belgrad wurde von dem in São Paulo lebenden Interior Designer Jalil Amor eingerichtet, der zuvor in den Pariser Architekturbüros von Jean Nouvel und Philippe Starck arbeitete. Amor bezieht sich in seiner erzählerischen Gestaltung auf die Geschichte der serbischen Hauptstadt und ihre Jahrhunderte währende Zugehörigkeit zum osmanischen Reich. So stattete er den großzügigen  Restaurant- und Loungebereich in einem Mix aus modern interpretierten orientalischen Mustern und phantasievollen Pop-Art Elementen aus. Farbenfrohe runde Hocker der „Mafrash Home Décor Collection“ von Zollanvari wählte Amor zugleich als bequeme Sitzobjekte und Eyecatcher. Die Unikate der Collection entstehen aus einer Kombination von alten Taschen und Truhen, die von Ghashgha'i und Luri Nomaden gewebt wurden und handgewebten Arbeiten, die die Techniken von Kelim, Soumak und Zigorats kombinieren. Für die Flachgewebe mit der kunstvollen dreidimensionalen Struktur verwendet Zollanvari beste Hochlandwolle aus den iranischen Zagros-Bergen. In den Räumen des Mama Shelter Belgrade Hotels tragen die handgearbeiteten Teppichhocker zu einer entspannten und inspirierenden Atmosphäre bei. Auf diese Weise erfüllen die edlen Gewebe, aus denen die Hocker bestehen, einen neuen Zweck und werden nachhaltig genutzt.

Vinny Smith, Managing Director von Northern Backdrop Interior Design verwendete für die Gestaltung der Bar des „Greens“ Restaurant im irischen Ring of Kerry Golfclub Holzplanken der „Wave Collection“ aus dem Programm von Corà Parquet. Die organisch geformten Holzelemente sind aus europäischer Eiche gefertigt und haben eine grau glänzend lackierte und lebendig strukturierte Oberfläche. „Das Greens Restaurant bietet seinen Gästen einen herrlichen Blick auf die Kenmare Bay, den Atlantik und die atemberaubende Berglandschaft des County Kerry“, sagt Smith. „Ich wollte, dass alle Designdetails an die natürliche Umgebung dieses Ortes erinnern.“ Für die Verkleidung der Bar nutzte er wellenförmigen Eichenmodule, da diese  „Meereswellen und der Reflexion von Licht auf dem Wasser“ ähneln. „Form, Farben  und Struktur der Verkleidung verleihen der eher kleinen Bar eine große Wirkung und machen sie zu einem Schwerpunkt innerhalb des Interior Designs.“ Corà Parquet verwendet hochwertige Hölzer, die sorgfältig verarbeitet und für eine lange Lebensdauer ausgerichtet sind. Sie sind FSC-zertifiziert und werden nach hohen ökologischen und sozialen Standards produziert.

Vielaris Art Parquet aus Litauen restauriert Böden in historischen Gebäuden. Mit dem Knowhow aus diesen Projekten werden auch exklusive Räumlichkeiten mit neuen Parkettböden ausgestattet. Im Büro eines Immobilien-Investors im Zentrum von Paris verlegte das Unternehmen den „Trio“ Holzboden aus Birkensperrholz mit einer Oberschicht aus Eiche. Dieser nachhaltige Bodenbelag wird aus den geometrischen Formen Dreieck, Diamant und Trapez zu einem ausdrucksvollen und eleganten Muster zusammengesetzt. Einzeln über die Fläche verteilte Dreiecksformen aus Messing unterstreichen den einzigartigen Look des Naturholzbodens. Das Unternehmen verwendet bei seinen Projekten den nachwachsenden Rohstoff Holz und verarbeitet ihn in höchster handwerklicher Präzision, je nach Auftrag auch mit Intarsien sowie Einlegearbeiten aus Metall. Das Besondere an den zweischichtigen Parkettplatten von Vielaris ist, dass alle Details über die gesamte Plattenlage hinweg miteinander verbunden sind. Dieser traditionelle Herstellungsprozess sorgt für eine lange Lebensdauer des edlen Bodens.

Der Messestand von Freudenberg auf der DOMOTEX 2019 sorgte für viel Aufsehen. Besucher konnten in eine scheinbar natürliche Umgebung eintauchen. Der Teppichbelag des Standes war mit Freudenberg-Tuft-Trägern ausgestattet und zeigte täuschend echt wirkende Moos- und Waldmotive, die mit Hilfe hochwertiger digitaler Drucktechnologie entstanden. Nachhaltigkeit gehört zum Selbstverständnis von  Freudenberg. Praktisch umgesetzt wird sie in zahlreichen Projekten zur Reduzierung des Energie-, Wasser- und Rohstoffverbrauchs. „Wir verbessern ständig die Umweltbilanz unserer getufteten Teppichrücken, ohne die Leistung zu beeinträchtigen,“ sagt John McNabb, Freudenberg Performance Materials’ Chief Technical Officer. Dies betreffe die Wiederverwendung der eigenen Abfälle, die Erhöhung des zertifizierten Recyclinganteils und die Vermeidung von chemischen Bindemitteln. „Gleichzeitig verbessern wir den ‚Handabdruck‘ unserer Kunden, indem wir 100% recycelbare Einkomponenten-Tuftuntergründe anbieten.“ So diente der Messestand unter dem Motto „Sustainable Backings“ auch dem kommunikativen Ziel, mit Kunden über den gemeinsamen Aufbau einer nachhaltigen Zukunft ins Gespräch zu kommen.

Das frisch renovierte Restaurant „Panorama 2962“ auf der Gipfelstation der Zugspitze bietet seinen Besuchern eine einzigartige Aussicht auf das Voralpenland. Dort hat die Firma Raumausstattung Kraus aus Grainau auf einer Fläche von rund 800 m² Massivholzdielen mit Produkten von Uzin Utz umweltfreundlich verlegt. Ein Teil des Bodens war mit Fliesen versehen, auf der Restfläche befand sich ein Schnellzementestrich. Um den Untergrund vorzubereiten, mussten zunächst gelockerte Fliesen entfernt und ein Diamantschliff durchführt werden. Auf den behandelten Boden trug das Verlegeteam eine geruchsarme Epoxidharzgrundierung auf, die für nachhaltiges Bauen geeignet ist. Damit wurde die Massivdiele gegen Einwirkungen aus der alten Bestandskonstruktion geschützt und zugleich deren teils labile Stellen verfestigt. Um Spannungen der Massivdiele vom Untergrund zu entkoppeln, verwendete Bernhard Kraus ein emissionsarmes Multimoll Vlies. Anschließend konnten die 20 mm starken Eichen- Massivdielen auf dem Renovierflies mit einem Parkettklebstoff verklebt werden, der ohne weichmachende Inhaltstoffe auskommt und das Umweltgütezeichen „Blauer Engel“ trägt. Diese Vorgehensweise sorgt für eine gesunde Raumatmosphäre ohne Ausdünstung von Lösungsmitteln. Nun unterstreicht der neue Bodenbelag die natürliche und einladende Ausstattung des Restaurants.

Neueste Entwicklungen im Bereich nachhaltig und natürlich gestaltete Böden können Besucher der DOMOTEX vom 10. bis 13. Januar 2020 in Hannover sehen und spüren. Entsprechend dem neuen Leitthema ATMYSPHERE stellen innovative Hersteller dort ihr vielfältiges Angebotsportfolio vor.

• Latex-free: UltraBond allows 100% recyclable thermal bonded nonwovens
• Sustainability & cost-efficiency: significant reductions in CO2 emissions and energy and water consumption for manufacturers of needlepunched exhibition & contract flooring
• UltraBond debuts at Domotex 2019 Stand B56 Hall 11

Beaulieu Fibres International (BFI) unveils a unique opportunity for carpet manufacturers to create fully recyclable needlepunch carpets, and benefit from production and resource savings, without influencing performance.

Launched at Domotex 2019, new UltraBond is a patented polyolefin bonding staple fibre that eliminates the need for latex or other chemical binders to bind nonwovens. It opens up a new path for creating 100% polypropylene (PP) needlepunch carpets which meet the same performance requirements as traditional latex-bonded carpets while reducing the end-of-life environmental impact. Functional properties such as pilling resistance, resistance to wear and abrasion, and also UV resistance are guaranteed.

Using UltraBond manufacturers finally gain the potential to cost-efficiently produce 100% recyclable carpets. In addition to the general benefits of making recycled PP available for the plastics production chain and reduced waste generation, environmental advantages and financial savings arise from a total lack of water and less energy use. As a 100% dry process, thermal bonding uses no water and results in a total absence of waste water. There is also a reduction in the VOC level of the carpet. This all leads to a significant reduction in a needlepunch carpet’s ecological footprint.

The sustainability benefits are quantified through lifecycle analysis (LCA) of an exhibition carpet application – among the primary applications for needlepunch carpets. Evaluations show that the absence of water consumption directly translates into a large energy saving of 93% when using UltraBond compared to a latex bonding solution, and also a potential annual water saving of over 20 million litres for 100 million m2 of exhibition applications in the EU. Without the addition of any other bonding agent, CO2 emissions are reduced by 35% over the full production process.

Karena Cancilleri, Vice President Beaulieu Engineered Products, Beaulieu International Group, commented, “Recyclability and achieving a greener, more cost-effective production process without compromising on current performance levels are significant unsolved topics within today’s carpet industry. By eliminating the need for latex and chemical binders through UltraBond, we offer needlepunch manufacturers a breakthrough they have been looking for that boosts environmental and economic sustainability. We see textile flooring as just the beginning. Together with our customers, we look forward to exploring the potential of this unique thermal bonding fibre in other applications such as laminated nonwovens or as an alternative to dry powders.”

Discover more about UltraBond from the Beaulieu Fibres International team at Stand B56 Hall 11, Domotex 2019 in Hannover, Germany from January 11-14, 2019.

• Performance Days - November 28 and 29, 2018 – Hall C1 Booth B18
• Two of TINTEX’s fabrics have made it into the PERFORMANCE FORUM Jury’s Pick Category that represents fabrics which are a valuable contribution to this season Performance Days Focus Topic “WATER – OUR RESPONSIBILITY”

See, touch and experience the latest collection from TINTEX as they reveal a wonderful range of innovative fabrics that redefine fashion, inspire creativity, spark emotion and optimize responsible solutions. TINTEX, being an ingenious leader in textile and research innovation for over twenty years, transforms a new generation of cotton and other natural based materials. Established in the Porto region as authorities in superior dyeing and finishing techniques making TINTEX Textiles the perfect choice for fashion.

All the recent awards bestowed, demonstrate TINTEX continue research and commitment. They have been awarded for the Best product of the Base Layer Category by ISPO jury, moreover they have just received the prestigious German Design Awards 2019 and last but not least, they are selected as finalists for the Future Textile Awards in the category Best Innovation for Sustainable Textiles.
TINTEX continues to lead the way, as they proudly take part in the Make Fashion Circular initiative, by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and activate change industry wide. This initiative aims to collaborate and innovate towards a new textile economy based on the principles of a Circular Economy.

In addition, since this November, TINTEX is a bluesign® system partner, thus means that they are responsibly acting parties of the textile value chain committed to applying the bluesign® system, continuously improving their environmental performance and always been focused on a sustainable future.

A milestone for TINTEX and fashion, as they launch Naturally Clean - an exceptional smart finishing process that is uniquely responsible. Naturally Clean enhances the natural beauty of cotton, takes a cost effective modern approach to eliminate aggressive treatments and optimizes clean surfaces, vivid colors, providing an exquisitely smooth handfeel. Naturally Clean achieves this by using Novozymes technology, a company that is indeed the world leader in biological solutions. Second, using textile chemicals with the lowest possible environmental impact, without compromising performance, from Beyond Surface Technologies AG. Naturally Clean maintains the original characteristics for an extended period of time. All materials are Oeko-Tex and soon bluesign® certified, thus eliminating harmful substances.
TINTEX’ Autumn/Winter 2019/2020 collection includes vibrant tones, refreshing turquoise and electric green, light and warm copper with chocolate browns that connect the natural and spiritual in an extra-sensorial universe. Infused with a stunning palette of nostalgic and multicultural colors - warm yellow with darkened reds, dynamic purple with urban greys - that express globalization and human connection.
Key smart ingredients of the season are:

• A New Generation of Cotton: GOTS certified organic cotton, Supima® cotton, and ECOTEC® by Marchi & Fildi the smart cotton that saves up to 77.9% water consumption and introduces the concept of a circular economy.
• SeaCell™ and Smartcel™: produced using the Lyocell process in a closed loop with no chemicals released as waste. The patented process of SeaCell™ allows that the positive properties of the seaweed are permanently preserved within the fiber, even after multiple washing cycles. Smartcel™ includes the essential trace element zinc providing anti-inflammatory capabilities.
• REFIBRA™ by Lenzing technology involves upcycling a substantial proportion of cotton scraps e.g. from garment production, in addition to wood pulp, where the raw material is transformed to produce new TENCEL™ Lyocell fiber to make fabrics and garments.
• Bemberg™ by Asahi Kasei: A new generation GRS Certified material, made from cotton linters, with a biodegradability certification by Innovhub. A matchless, high tech natural material, with a special handfeel and aesthetics.
• ROICA™ by Asahi Kasei
  - ROICA™ EF has a percentage of pre-consumer recycled content that is more than 50%, and thanks to this it has been GRS (Global Recycled Standard) certified.
  - ROICA™ V550 a premium stretch innovative yarn boasting the Cradle to Cradle Certified™ Gold Level for Material Health product and ingredients as it was evaluated throughout the supply chain for lower impacts on human and environmental health. Striving toward eliminating all toxic and unidentified chemicals for a safe continuous cycle. Hohenstein Environment Compatibility Certificate - ROICA™ proudly breaks down without releasing harmful substances.

Of special interest this season, the two TINTEX’s fabrics that made it into the PERFORMANCE FORUM Jury’s Pick Category for their contribution to this season Topic “WATER – OUR RESPONSIBILITY”.

A smart rib developed to reduce the water usage as most as possible, from cultivation of raw materials until fabric finishing. A blend of TENCEL™ Modal, cellulosic & biodegradable material treated with no hazardous chemicals, pesticides nor fertilizers, and European hemp, a fast-growing plant that requires very little water and no herbicides, pesticides, synthetic fertilizers or GMO seeds. Both fibres are biodegradable.

The second selected article is a 100% Merino Wool jersey made unique thanks to Colorau® by TINTEX, a patented natural dyeing process technique that uses vegetable herbs and extracts. A great amount of water was saved by avoiding subsequent washing steps. Also, lower water pollution is achieved by avoiding synthetic dyestuffs.

Following the success of Trevira GmbH’s joint booth concept at Heimtextil 2018, the company will be expanding its plans next year. At the 2019 Heimtextil, due to take place from 8-11 January in Frankfurt, Trevira be presenting a new joint booth. At over 2000 msq, the new booth in Hall 4.2 will be significantly larger, up from 1300 msq in 2018, and next year will also see an increase in the number of major customers joining Trevira at Heimtextil, from 16 this year to 22 in 2019.

Trevira has expanded its fair booth concept for 2019. Together with 22 of its biggest customers, the manufacturer of high-quality, flame retardant polyester fibres will tell the story of the entire textile value chain. Starting with the basics - fibre production and yarn manufacture – the exhibition will then move on to show the colouring, weaving and warp and weft knitting stages, eventually taking the visitor right up to the textile editing. Meanwhile, Trevira’s customers will reveal their Trevira CS collections for home and contract textiles at individual stands, demonstrating their contribution to the value chain. Visitors will catch a glimpse of the complex and complicated world of textiles manufacturing, while also gaining an insight into how polyester fibres are transformed into attractive, functional fabrics conveying true visual and sensory appeal along with authentic value.

Trevira GmbH’s CEO, Klaus Holz said: “The overwhelmingly positive market response to our joint booth at Heimtextil 2018 showed us that we are moving in the right direction, and we will continue to build on this concept in 2019, working together with an even larger group of Trevira CS customers to create a shared exhibition space displaying the entire textile value chain.”

Bobingen - Trevira GmbH, Germany, is again participating as an exhibitor at this year’s Building Healthcare show in Dubai, from 2-4 October. The manufacturer of high-value polyester fibres will present a large variety of fabrics made by 12 partners from inherently flame retardant Trevira fibres and yarns.

Modern furnishing concepts for healthcare environments are making increasing demands in terms of quality, functionality, colouring and hygiene. Perfectly matched materials and colour concepts in the interior not only help to provide good orientation for the residents, but also create more attractive spaces. In addition, the use of appropriate textiles such as curtains, drapes, blinds and sliding panels, fabric-covered dividing panels, upholstery and bedding textiles, can improve the room acoustics, protect your privacy and let the room appear in a pleasant light. In healthcare environments where hygiene and cleanliness are of particular importance, antimicrobial textiles may be used.

Trevira CS® and Trevira CS Bioactive® create a safe, attractive and comfortable environment in hospitals, clinics, spas, care homes and all other sectors in the contract sector.

Trevira CS Bioactive® contract textiles combine flame retardant and antimicrobial functions, which makes them the ideal material for use in healthcare facilities. They inhibit the growth of bacteria, prevent the formation of odours in/on the fibre and keep the textiles fresh for a longer time. The permanent flame retardant and bioactive properties of their fibres is integrated at molecular level, meaning that they remain unaffected by repeated washing, abrasion and ageing. This gives them an advantage over textiles with only a supplementary surface finish.

Trevira CS® and Trevira CS Bioactive® fabrics for the healthcare sector presented at the show stand come from these suppliers: Delius, Dina Vanelli, Fidivi Tessitura Vergnano, Gebrüder Munzert, JAB, Mattes & Ammann, Pugi, Rubelli, Rudolf Breuer Mechanische Weberei, Schmitz Textiles/drapilux, Subrenat, Verotex.

Trevira CS® and Trevira CS Bioactive® fabrics meet the requirements of the relevant international fire safety standards and can be certified according to the IMO regulations for the maritime sector. All Trevira fibres and yarns carry the Oekotex Standard 100 certificate. They are manufactured in accordance with the highest standards for sustainable products. A broad variety of collections with thousands of designs are available in Trevira CS® worldwide.

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles has always been at the forefront of the China and Asia markets for participants to find the latest products from around the world and learn about the current market trends. This year, a series of fringe programme events together with some new show features will inspire fairgoers throughout the four-day fair.

New features for contract business

Given the growing demand for textile solutions for architecture, interior design and the hotel industry, the coming August fair will highlight leading contract upholstery suppliers with distinctive labels. In addition, the show will feature a showcase area at hall 5.1 which displays quality contract upholstery from exhibitors. The area will be decorated by interior designers, demonstrating the functionalities of different contract textile products.

To introduce the opportunities that the textile industry can capture from contract business, both domestic and international architects, hoteliers, interior designers and industry experts have been invited to share their insights about design, market, materials and project management on the Contract Business Days, on 28 & 29 August.

Naima A Khan, founder and interior designer from The Green Design in UAE, for instance, will be speaking on The Art of Sustainable Interior Design. She has worked with many international home fashion retail store developers, as well as textile and interior companies, and is experienced in using therapeutic colour schemes, sustainable materials and sunlight in different design projects. Another guest, Esra Lemmens, who is also a designer and active speaker at design events, will talk about the expanding importance of design throughout Dubai as well as her suggestions for doing business in Dubai.

Other speakers also include Martin Oliu from the international design company, Harmony World Consultant and Design (HWCD). He has participated in a broad area of design such as architectural construction & interior design and is responsible for various luxury residential and hotel design projects. Professor Thomas Charles, who has been working on industrial product design and research for user experience & consumer behaviour study, business strategy and branding designs will give a talk on ‘The Power of Innovative Design’. Trevira CS will also participate in the Contract Business Day through their Chinese representative, Jenny Zhang, who will share how the permanently flame retardant Trevira CS textiles can fit into contract business.

Digital printing and technics remain a focal point

The Digital Printing Micro Factory concept was first introduced in the 2017 edition of Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles, and received much attention and positive feedback. To cater to the growing demand for efficient, one-step textile solutions, Global Fortune Limited from Hong Kong will work jointly with Kornit Digital and Bullmer to set up a Micro Factory at this August’s fair. An advanced digital printing system – Allegro & Cut by Kornit Allegro – will be introduced. The system streamlines the entire production process by combining printing and drying together so multiple machinery is not needed. It is also eco-friendly as one single ink set suits various fabric types, and designs will be printed in shapes and sizes that are ready for cutting. Visitors can learn more about the complete production process from printing and cutting to sewing via the onsite demonstration.

In addition to forums discussing how digital printing helps flexible production, there will also be an array of forums where some top domestic industry players will share their experience in resolving  technical problems in productions and satisfying requirements in different product tests.

Forward-looking events to ignite inspiration

The trend committee formed by international trendsetter the NellyRodiTM Agency has developed three themes, namely Caring Future, Crazy Future and Emo Future for the 2019 International Lifestyle Trends. Apart from the trend area where product displays are located, visitors can get a better understanding about the future living styles from the panel discussion and trend area tour. The agency’s creative director, Vincent Grégoire, will guide tours to explain the trend concept. He will also join other industry experts in the panel discussion on consumer lifestyle trends.

Another inspiring event during the show is the Future Talk in which representatives from different industries including fashion brand Shiatzy Chen, home appliance giant Haier, gourmets and lifestyle experts will share their perspectives on the future trends.

The show will be held from 27 – 30 August in the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai. Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Autumn Edition is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Home Textile Association (CHTA).

To find out more about this fair, please visit: www.intertextilehome.com.

As the leading home textiles trade event in Asia, Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles is renowned for its size and also the variety of products offered by its exhibitors from China and around the world.

The show will be held from 27 – 30 August in the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai. It will cover six halls, accommodating over 1,000 suppliers from around 30 countries and regions.
To satisfy buyers from different regions with varied sourcing needs, the show will feature a wide variety of home textile products ranging from bedding, bath, table & kitchen, curtains & upholstery and textile designs & technology to editors, whole home, sun protection, wallcoverings and carpets & rugs.

“The products on offer are of various quality and price levels that visitors can discover both premium brands presented by editors and a massive amount of medium-end products at the show,” said Ms Wendy Wen, Senior General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd.

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles serves as an ideal platform for suppliers to introduce new products to the market as a large number of visitors including import & export corporations, wholesalers, distributors, chain stores and home product manufacturers are attracted.

EUROART and JAB ANSTOETZ are two of the returning editors who are ready to demonstrate their latest collections.
“We are an integrated company based in Beijing which presents both imported decorative fabrics and wallpaper as well as self-owned fabric brands. Buyers can expect to discover advanced jacquard, embroidery, silk and printing techniques from the brands LIZZO and ROMO at our booth,” Mr Frank Lu, General Manager of EUROART said.

Furthermore, the world-known fabrics design company, JAB ANSTOETZ, will also take advantage of the show to present their new outdoor fabrics.
“Our ‘AROUND THE WORLD’ collection possesses high colour stability, mould-resistance and easy-care features. We will also introduce our advanced FibreGuard fabrics which prevent dirt and meet OEKO-TEX® standards,” Mr William Lin from JAB ANSTOETZ said.

Bedding products are another highlight of the show. Returning exhibitor Advansa will display their new fibre formula SUPRELLE™ 95 which is a combination of enhanced sleep comfort and ease of care. And the established French brand TODAY will make their debut at the fair to promote their full range of fashionable bedding items.

Diverse suppliers confirm participation offering all kinds of quality products. Apart from the editors and whole-home exhibitors, worldwide suppliers specialising in different products can be found in the show.

They include:

• Curtains & upholstery: quality brands such as AICO, Ateja, Culp Fabrics, D’Décor, Elastron, Enzo Degli Angiuoni, Harmel Home, Huatex, Sangwontex and more
• Bedding, bath and kitchen: domestic and overseas brands will showcase an extensive range of products for everyday domestic life including comforters, pillows, mattress toppers, bed linen, bathrobes, towels, table napkins and more. Exhibitors will offer insights about utilising various products to display the whole home concept
• Textile design: featuring worldwide original textile design studios. Visitors can discover distinct styles of design from both Asian and European studios
• Carpets & rugs: carpet exhibitors from Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Turkey and other countries
• Digital printing & technics: showcasing the latest digital printing technology, and cutting, sewing and other home textile equipment technics. In view of the good result in 2017, the show will continue to cooperate with industry media to organise professional seminars introducing some latest technique and new applications in the home textile industry

• A unique partnership enabled Lectra to test its revolutionary laser-cutting technology in a real production environment while delivering sustainable competitive advantage to the world’s leading supplier of airbag cushions.

Reaching the next level of growth and performance
Global Safety Textiles (GST) is the leading independent producer of airbag fabric and airbag cushions and supplier to the majority of airbag manufacturers.
Recognized for its long tradition of research and development, GST uses stateof- the-art technology to manufacture technical textiles for a variety of passive safety applications.
With operations on four continents, the German group has a workforce of more than 5,000.
The company’s worldwide operations and resources enable it to fulfill high volumes of orders promptly, providing the global automotive industry with a steady supply of airbag fabrics and cushions.To address GST’s main business challenges and meet their demanding manufacturing specifications, the group evaluated the performance of FocusQuantum OPW for one-piece-woven (OPW) airbag fabric together with Lectra in the pre-launch phase of the advanced laser airbag cutting solution. Following successful testing of Lectra’s advanced airbag cutting technology in a real production environment in Poland, the group then decided to acquire FocusQuantum OPW for implementation in China.

A one-off join testing collaboration on customer premise
The result of a mutually beneficial collaboration between Lectra and its longstanding customer, specifications for laser OPW airbag cutting solution FocusQuantum took into account GST’s exacting requirements. Once the development of FocusQuantum OPW was completed, both companies agreed to conduct joint
testing. “We came to the idea of joint testing when we visited Lectra’s R&D center in Bordeaux,” says Uwe Zimmermann, COO, GST.
“We discussed taking validation of our specifications to the next level. The idea came up to do it directly in a manufacturing environment.”
The extensive testing enabled GST’s experts to certify FocusQuantum as a proven technological platform for the mass production of airbags. “Process capability was a formal part of validations at GST Poland,” recalls Piotr Siwek. Manufacturing Engineering Manager. “It was verified and confirmed that FocusQuantum meets GST’s targets. The biggest improvement over the previous solution was the software, which we also helped Lectra develop. FocusQuantum Suite is one of the biggest advantages.”

Worldwide standartisation and rollout in China
As a result of the successful joint testing, GST decided to proceed with implementation in China. “Because GST aims to become a major player in Asia,
implementation of FocusQuantum in China is the next logical step for us,” explains Zimmermann. “Standardization of all our equipment worldwide is mandatory for us. That’s why we decided to work with a global player like Lectra.” With more than twice the productivity of the previous solution, FocusQuantum
has exceeded GST’s performance targets. The significantly higher level of process capability has both improved cutting quality and reduced the number
of defective cut parts.
“When we compare the unit output and unit cutting cost, we see a real improvement over the previous generation, so we are quite satisfied with the machine,” notes Sky Yang, General Manager, GST China. “It’s more reliable and productivity is significantly higher.”

Paris, February 20, 2018 – Lectra, the technological partner for companies using fabrics and leather, is pleased to announce its partnership with Dual through the signing of a global agreement covering the Korean automotive supplier’s fabric seating and airbag businesses.

Backed by world-class research and development, Dual strives to meet evolving customer needs by offering innovative new automotive interior materials and advanced safety textiles. The supplier’s automotive trim and airbag divisions serve Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, the fourth largest automaker in the world. Currently undergoing rapid expansion, Hyundai-Kia is counting on Dual to increase its manufacturing capabilities in the high-growth regions where the group operates, including China, Eastern Europe, Turkey and South America.

A key feature of the global agreement is Lectra’s commitment to help Dual optimize its manufacturing processes with the aim of improving its cost structure. Lectra’s most advanced technologies—Vector® for vehicle seating and FocusQuantum® for airbags—and unique expertise in cutting room processes are crucial to helping Dual reach its operational excellence objectives.

The agreement designates Lectra as sole supplier for high-ply cutting equipment and services for Dual’s seating and interiors business, and laser cutting equipment and services for the company’s airbag cushion business at six plants located in Korea and China.
For its operations in Korea and China, Dual will gain access to the full array of expertise, customer support and field services that Lectra provides worldwide. Lectra’s complete customer support structure enables maximum uptime through remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance.

“Dual will benefit most from this agreement by containing costs in the cutting room,” remarks Ong Jae-Yeol, Fabric and Seat BU Executive Managing Director, Dual. “This is precisely where Lectra’s expertise can help us gain a competitive advantage.”
“We are pleased to enter into this global partnership with Dual, to support them—not only with our best-in-class cutting technology, but also with Lectra’s expertise in cutting processes,” states Javier Garcia, Senior VP Automotive Sales, Lectra. “Our unique know-how contributes to Dual’s pursuit of operational excellence—the source of sustainable competitive advantage for car seat cover and airbag cushion suppliers.”