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26.01.2024

Stahl expands ZDHC level 3-certified portfolio

Stahl has achieved Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) MRSL 3.1 Gateway certification for 2,151 products in its portfolio. This achievement underlines Stahl’s ongoing commitment to the ZDHC mission of achieving high standards for sustainable chemical management.

ZDHC certification enables companies working in the footwear, apparel and accessories value chains to demonstrate their commitment to responsible chemical management, with the ultimate goal being zero discharge of hazardous chemicals. Level 3 certification represents the highest level of conformity with the ZDHC certification programme. To achieve this, Stahl’s formulated chemical products and raw materials were verified and tested against ZDHC’s latest Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL 3.1) by Eurofins | Chem-MAP®. The Chem-MAP® programme was also used to audit the chemical management and stewardship processes at three of Stahl’s manufacturing sites.

 

Stahl has achieved Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) MRSL 3.1 Gateway certification for 2,151 products in its portfolio. This achievement underlines Stahl’s ongoing commitment to the ZDHC mission of achieving high standards for sustainable chemical management.

ZDHC certification enables companies working in the footwear, apparel and accessories value chains to demonstrate their commitment to responsible chemical management, with the ultimate goal being zero discharge of hazardous chemicals. Level 3 certification represents the highest level of conformity with the ZDHC certification programme. To achieve this, Stahl’s formulated chemical products and raw materials were verified and tested against ZDHC’s latest Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL 3.1) by Eurofins | Chem-MAP®. The Chem-MAP® programme was also used to audit the chemical management and stewardship processes at three of Stahl’s manufacturing sites.

 

Source:

Stahl

adidas and Malbon Golf introduce The Crosby Collection (c) adidas AG
26.01.2024

adidas and Malbon Golf introduce The Crosby Collection

  • Limited-edition capsule features apparel and footwear for men and women inspired by Bing Crosby’s popular Clambake event and the fashion surrounding it

In 1937 the entertainer Bing Crosby started the popular Crosby Clambake, an annual event that brought musicians, actors, celebrities, and professional golfers together for a friendly competition around a sport they all loved. Today, adidas and Malbon Golf are introducing a special capsule of product – The Crosby Collection – inspired by those early Clambakes and that camaraderie, spirit and fashion from an era that set the stage for what the golf landscape looks like today.

  • Limited-edition capsule features apparel and footwear for men and women inspired by Bing Crosby’s popular Clambake event and the fashion surrounding it

In 1937 the entertainer Bing Crosby started the popular Crosby Clambake, an annual event that brought musicians, actors, celebrities, and professional golfers together for a friendly competition around a sport they all loved. Today, adidas and Malbon Golf are introducing a special capsule of product – The Crosby Collection – inspired by those early Clambakes and that camaraderie, spirit and fashion from an era that set the stage for what the golf landscape looks like today.

Taking design cues from the fashion that adorned the early days of Bing’s notorious Clambakes, adidas and Malbon Golf put together a range of product for men and women with modern takes on the silhouettes that defined an era. For men, this includes button-down polos, pleated trousers and shorts, crewnecks, a lightweight sport coat and an iconic cardigan inspired by one of the posters from one of the early Clambakes. For women, the capsule includes a color-blocked dress with an argyle print, polos with slightly longer and wider sleeves to go with a boxier cut, and a form-fitting culotte pant.

In addition to the key pieces in the collection, adidas and Malbon will include a checkered anorak, a T-shirt in two colorways featuring the iconic clam decanters that were gifted to all amateur participants in Bing’s Clambakes, and a 5-panel hat. adidas will also include two limited-edition footwear offerings as part of the collection with a specially designed Stan Smith Golf model as well as the new MC87 that mixes performance with style.

More information:
adidas Sportswear Golf
Source:

adidas AG

25.01.2024

Archroma and Sanitized AG enhancing collaboration in marketing, sales, and technology

Archroma proudly announced the continuation of its longstanding partnership with SANITIZED AG, marking collaborative success in the textile industry. This enduring alliance has been a cornerstone in driving innovation and setting industry standards, particularly for odor and hygiene management within the home textiles and apparel industry.

Archroma, one of the best chemical suppliers in the markets, further solidifies its position through the acquisition of Huntsman’s Textile Effects division in February 2023.

The acquisition enabled Archroma to broaden its global reach and technical expertise. Paired with our strong expertise in freshness additives, we enhance our marketing teams for joint communication, enhance the salesforce in the regions and strengthen our innovation force to drive the industry towards more sustainable solutions,” says Michael Lüthi, CEO of SANITIZED AG.

Archroma proudly announced the continuation of its longstanding partnership with SANITIZED AG, marking collaborative success in the textile industry. This enduring alliance has been a cornerstone in driving innovation and setting industry standards, particularly for odor and hygiene management within the home textiles and apparel industry.

Archroma, one of the best chemical suppliers in the markets, further solidifies its position through the acquisition of Huntsman’s Textile Effects division in February 2023.

The acquisition enabled Archroma to broaden its global reach and technical expertise. Paired with our strong expertise in freshness additives, we enhance our marketing teams for joint communication, enhance the salesforce in the regions and strengthen our innovation force to drive the industry towards more sustainable solutions,” says Michael Lüthi, CEO of SANITIZED AG.

With a focus on strategic development, Archroma and SANITIZED AG aim to reinforce mills and brands in elevating their products by adding the value of freshness to their products and providing high-quality effects. This collaboration offers customers a flexible package, completed with application support through technical service and expertise, along with access to a strong product portfolio. Notably, the partners are ready to lead market trends and transformations, particularly in freshness finishes, ensuring their collective success in the dynamic landscape.

More information:
Archroma Sanitized AG Sanitized
Source:

Archroma

Stidierendenprojekt Gurtbänder Bildquelle: Hochschule Albstadt-Sigmaringen/Corinna Korinth
Prof. Manuela Bräuning und Frank Bez (hinten) sind von den kreativen Ideen der Studierenden beeindruckt – sie entwickelten aus Gurten Hochbeete, Taschen und Organisationshelfer.
25.01.2024

Gurt- und Sicherheitsbänder in kreativen Händen

Hängende Hochbeete, Organisationshelfer für zu Hause, die Werkstatt oder unterwegs und Bausätze für modische Taschen: Studierende aus dem sechsten und siebten Semester Textil- und Bekleidungstechnologie an der Hochschule Albstadt-Sigmaringen haben aus Gurt- und Sicherheitsbändern der Firma Carl Stahl aus Herbrechtingen innovative Produkte entwickelt. Bei der öffentlichen Abschlusspräsentation des Industrieprojekts beeindruckten sie die anwesenden Unternehmensvertreter ebenso wie das interessierte Publikum.

Die Studentin Sarah Sturm erklärte die Aufgabenstellung des von Prof. Manuela Bräuning betreuten Projekts: „Wir sollten neue Anwendungen für Gurtbänder finden.“ Diese fallen normalerweise nicht gerade durch kreative Nutzung auf, doch das Unternehmen möchte sich neue Absatzmärkte für seine Produkte erschließen – so kam die Zusammenarbeit mit der Hochschule zustande. Die Studierenden führten zu Beginn des Semesters zunächst eine Marktrecherche durch und sammelten erste Ideen. Anschließend verfolgten drei Gruppen ihre Ansätze.

Hängende Hochbeete, Organisationshelfer für zu Hause, die Werkstatt oder unterwegs und Bausätze für modische Taschen: Studierende aus dem sechsten und siebten Semester Textil- und Bekleidungstechnologie an der Hochschule Albstadt-Sigmaringen haben aus Gurt- und Sicherheitsbändern der Firma Carl Stahl aus Herbrechtingen innovative Produkte entwickelt. Bei der öffentlichen Abschlusspräsentation des Industrieprojekts beeindruckten sie die anwesenden Unternehmensvertreter ebenso wie das interessierte Publikum.

Die Studentin Sarah Sturm erklärte die Aufgabenstellung des von Prof. Manuela Bräuning betreuten Projekts: „Wir sollten neue Anwendungen für Gurtbänder finden.“ Diese fallen normalerweise nicht gerade durch kreative Nutzung auf, doch das Unternehmen möchte sich neue Absatzmärkte für seine Produkte erschließen – so kam die Zusammenarbeit mit der Hochschule zustande. Die Studierenden führten zu Beginn des Semesters zunächst eine Marktrecherche durch und sammelten erste Ideen. Anschließend verfolgten drei Gruppen ihre Ansätze.

Das „Team Grün“ beschäftigte sich mit dem Trendthema Urban Gardening. Für Menschen mit wenig Platz und ohne Garten entwickelten sie ein mehrstöckiges hängendes Hochbeet, das in der Wohnung ebenso genutzt und angebracht werden kann wie beispielsweise auf dem Balkon. Rankhilfen sind flexibel einbaubar, und auch an eine künstliche Beleuchtung zur Wachstumsförderung haben die Studierenden gedacht. Die Größe ist veränderbar, und dank der robusten Materialien der Firma Stahl ist das Hochbeet stabil, wetterbeständig und leicht.
 
Das „Team Tasche“ entwarf verschiedene Bausätze samt Anleitungen für Taschen, die zu Hause selber zusammengesetzt werden. „Uns war die Nachhaltigkeit unserer Produkte sehr wichtig“, erklärte die Studentin Klara Rauscher. „Deshalb werden für die Taschen nur Restposten der Firma Stahl benutzt.“ Die Taschen sind langlebig und sehr robust und können ohne Nähmaschine und Vorkenntnisse in rund einer Stunde gefertigt werden.

Das „Team Orga“ entwickelte schließlich eine Organisationswand, die aus Gurt- und Gummibändern von Hand gewebt wurde. Sie kann zu Hause ebenso aufgehängt werden wie in der Werkstatt oder auch im Transporter und bietet jede Menge Stauraum für Werkzeug, Schreibsachen, Fotos und etliches mehr. „Alle Gurtbänder kommen von Carl Stahl, und unser Produkt kann an Wänden und fast allen anderen Oberflächen angebracht werden“, erklärte die Studentin Tugce Sarikaya.

Frank Bez, Leiter der Entwicklungsabteilung bei Carl Stahl, zeigte sich nach der Abschlusspräsentation der Studierenden komplett begeistert: „Sie hatten wirklich sensationelle Ideen. Ich bin überrascht, was man aus unseren Produkten alles machen kann“, sagte er. „Es ist immer etwas Besonderes aus etwas Kleinem etwas Großes zu machen und einem Gurtband so viel Leben einzuhauchen.“ Er hofft nun, dass der ein oder andere seine Ideen noch weiter vorantreiben möchte, „vielleicht in Form einer Bachelorarbeit“, und bedankte sich im Namen des Unternehmens für das gelungene Projekt.

Source:

Hochschule Albstadt-Sigmaringen

KARL MAYER: Launch of new tricot machine TM 4 EL (c) KARL MAYER GROUP
24.01.2024

KARL MAYER: Launch of new tricot machine TM 4 EL

At the end of last year, KARL MAYER launched the TM 4 EL – a new, highly flexible machine for the mid-range segment in the four-bar tricot machine sector. The machine produces fabrics for upholstery, automotive interiors and outerwear, as well as sportswear items and home textiles.

Featuring KARL MAYER’s proven CFRP technology, the TM 4 EL is up to 30% faster than the previous four-bar tricot machine designed for the commodity sector.

The new TM 4 EL is offered in gauges E 28 and E 32. The available working widths are 210” and 280”, with a working width extension also available. Further width varieties are also planned. Equipment highlights include an integrated Laser Stop to detect yarn breakages early, and functional LED lighting, which illuminates the warp knitting area for easy handling and signals unplanned machine stops using the corresponding colour. The machine can be networked with KM.ON’s secure cloud via the k.ey device to utilise the KARL MAYER GROUP’s digital solutions. This includes, for example, the web-based lapping editor CORE LITE.

At the end of last year, KARL MAYER launched the TM 4 EL – a new, highly flexible machine for the mid-range segment in the four-bar tricot machine sector. The machine produces fabrics for upholstery, automotive interiors and outerwear, as well as sportswear items and home textiles.

Featuring KARL MAYER’s proven CFRP technology, the TM 4 EL is up to 30% faster than the previous four-bar tricot machine designed for the commodity sector.

The new TM 4 EL is offered in gauges E 28 and E 32. The available working widths are 210” and 280”, with a working width extension also available. Further width varieties are also planned. Equipment highlights include an integrated Laser Stop to detect yarn breakages early, and functional LED lighting, which illuminates the warp knitting area for easy handling and signals unplanned machine stops using the corresponding colour. The machine can be networked with KM.ON’s secure cloud via the k.ey device to utilise the KARL MAYER GROUP’s digital solutions. This includes, for example, the web-based lapping editor CORE LITE.

Source:

KARL MAYER GROUP

24.01.2024

Rieter: First information on the financial year 2023

  • Sales of CHF 1 418.6 million in the financial year 2023
  • Order intake of CHF 541.8 million in the financial year 2023; order backlog of around CHF 650 million as of December 31, 2023
  • EBIT margin of around 7% expected for the full year 2023 at the upper end of the guidance
  • Market remains challenging

The Rieter Group closed the financial year 2023 with slightly lower sales than in the previous year. According to the first, unaudited figures, total sales of CHF 1 418.6 million were achieved, which is around 6% down on the previous year (2022: CHF 1 510.9 million). In line with expectations, the order intake of CHF 541.8 million was considerably below the previous year (2022: CHF 1 157.3 million). Rieter expects a positive EBIT margin of around 7% for the full year 2023 (2022: 2.1%).

  • Sales of CHF 1 418.6 million in the financial year 2023
  • Order intake of CHF 541.8 million in the financial year 2023; order backlog of around CHF 650 million as of December 31, 2023
  • EBIT margin of around 7% expected for the full year 2023 at the upper end of the guidance
  • Market remains challenging

The Rieter Group closed the financial year 2023 with slightly lower sales than in the previous year. According to the first, unaudited figures, total sales of CHF 1 418.6 million were achieved, which is around 6% down on the previous year (2022: CHF 1 510.9 million). In line with expectations, the order intake of CHF 541.8 million was considerably below the previous year (2022: CHF 1 157.3 million). Rieter expects a positive EBIT margin of around 7% for the full year 2023 (2022: 2.1%).

Outlook
Rieter is operating in a challenging market environment due to the economic and geopolitical conditions as well as the continuing weak demand. There are initial signs of a market recovery visible for the financial year 2024. Rieter will present an outlook for the financial year 2024 at the annual results press conference on March 13, 2024.

Source:

Rieter Holding AG

Advance Denim launches collection with Lenzing's matte TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers (c) Advance Denim
24.01.2024

Advance Denim launches collection with Lenzing's matte TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers

Lenzing Group announced the collaboration with China’s internationally recognized denim mill, Advance Denim, to use matte TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers for their latest Denim Collection.

The TENCEL™ brand offers innovative and planet-friendly fiber solutions1 that strive to enhance the adoption of responsible production2 within the textile industry. Leveraging resource-saving, closed-loop production process3, TENCEL™ fibers are naturally soft and smooth to the touch and support a natural dry feeling through moisture control. The rollout of matte TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers in 2021 provided denim manufacturers with a solution that enabled them to enjoy the ample tactile and environmental benefits of TENCEL™ fibers, while also maintaining a matte finish on the end product.

Lenzing Group announced the collaboration with China’s internationally recognized denim mill, Advance Denim, to use matte TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers for their latest Denim Collection.

The TENCEL™ brand offers innovative and planet-friendly fiber solutions1 that strive to enhance the adoption of responsible production2 within the textile industry. Leveraging resource-saving, closed-loop production process3, TENCEL™ fibers are naturally soft and smooth to the touch and support a natural dry feeling through moisture control. The rollout of matte TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers in 2021 provided denim manufacturers with a solution that enabled them to enjoy the ample tactile and environmental benefits of TENCEL™ fibers, while also maintaining a matte finish on the end product.

“Matte TENCEL™ fibers are an extremely important innovation for the denim sector as they address the need for responsible denim made with less shine for a more vintage look. Many brands are currently looking for styles that meet this criterion while also providing softness and drapability for wide-leg jeans. Matte TENCEL™ fibers create the perfect mixture of performance and sustainability without sacrificing that true vintage indigo look,” said Amy Wang, General Manager of Advance Denim. “The matte denim in the ‘Denim Collection’, achieved by using matte TENCEL™ fibers, not only has exceptional softness to the touch, but its fiber properties also make the denim more like traditional cotton jeans after washing. This will enable the final garments to retain the intended retro style of the fabric.”

 

1 TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibers are certified with the EU Ecolabel for textile products (license no. AT/016/001) for environmental excellence.
2 The responsible production of TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibers uses at least 50% less water and emits at least 50% less CO2 compared to generic lyocell and modal fibers, according to Higg MSI, thereby saving precious resources for future generations. Results based on LCA standards (ISO 14040/44) and available via Higg MSI (Version 3.7).
3 Savings consider solvent recovery.

Source:

Lenzing Group

Disney unveils virtual ‘HoloTile’ floor technology (c) Disney, The Walt Disney Company
Lanny Smoot, Disney Imagineer and Creator of HoloTile floor
22.01.2024

Disney unveils virtual ‘HoloTile’ floor technology

Disney unveiled the HoloTile floor, created by Disney Research Fellow and longtime member of Walt Disney Imagineering Research & Development Lanny Smoot.

The HoloTile floor is a multi-person, omni-directional, modular, expandable, treadmill floor. It allows any number of people to have a shared virtual reality (VR) experience, walk an unlimited distance in any direction, and never collide or walk off its surface.

The HoloTile floor can also be an insert in a theatrical stage, allowing performers to move and dance in new ways, or stage props and structures to move around or appear to set themselves up.

The new technology was revealed (see here), as Lanny Smoot is being inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. He is the first Disney Imagineer to receive this recognition.

Disney unveiled the HoloTile floor, created by Disney Research Fellow and longtime member of Walt Disney Imagineering Research & Development Lanny Smoot.

The HoloTile floor is a multi-person, omni-directional, modular, expandable, treadmill floor. It allows any number of people to have a shared virtual reality (VR) experience, walk an unlimited distance in any direction, and never collide or walk off its surface.

The HoloTile floor can also be an insert in a theatrical stage, allowing performers to move and dance in new ways, or stage props and structures to move around or appear to set themselves up.

The new technology was revealed (see here), as Lanny Smoot is being inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. He is the first Disney Imagineer to receive this recognition.

Smoot is also credited with giving Madame Leota her ability to “float” in the Séance Room at the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland Park; crafting the state-of-the-art extendable lightsaber used by Disney Live Entertainment; inventing the Magic Playfloor interactive game experience on the Disney Cruise Line; producing the immersive Fortress Explorations adventure at Tokyo DisneySea; and designing the virtual and interactive koi ponds at the Crystal Lotus Restaurant at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel.

More information:
Disney floor space Virtual Reality
Source:

Disney, The Walt Disney Company

22.01.2024

SHIMA SEIKI at Pitti Filati 94

SHIMA SEIKI ITALIA S.p.A., Italian subsidiary of leading Japanese computerized knitting solutions provider SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD., will exhibit at the 94th edition of the Pitti Immagine Filati exhibition in Florence, Italy (24th-26th January 2024). It will exhibit as part of the CustomEasy section, which involves the concept of Fashion at Work and explores customization in the presence of textile machinery and design software, represented in part by SHIMA SEIKI's lineup of WHOLEGARMENT® knitting machines and APEXFiz® design software.

SHIMA SEIKI ITALIA S.p.A., Italian subsidiary of leading Japanese computerized knitting solutions provider SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD., will exhibit at the 94th edition of the Pitti Immagine Filati exhibition in Florence, Italy (24th-26th January 2024). It will exhibit as part of the CustomEasy section, which involves the concept of Fashion at Work and explores customization in the presence of textile machinery and design software, represented in part by SHIMA SEIKI's lineup of WHOLEGARMENT® knitting machines and APEXFiz® design software.

The new SWG-XR® flagship machine features 4 needle beds for all-needle knitting of high quality WHOLEGARMENT® products using the company's original SlideNeedle™, in addition to a re-designed sinker system and a compact, light-weight carriage featuring 4 systems as well as auto yarn carriers. All contribute to increased productivity of more than 25% over the previous MACH2®XS machine, as well as increased product range using a wider variety of yarn for supporting knits for all seasons, and higher quality for knitting beautiful fabrics and silhouettes; even items that were impossible to knit with the MACH2® series, including punch-lace patterns, variable stitch knitting and intarsia knitting. Setting new standards for the next generation of waste-free, sustainable WHOLEGARMENT® knitting, SWG-XR® at Pitti Filati will be shown in 15L and 18L as well as a prototype machine in 22L.

APEXFiz® subscription-based design software supports the creative side of fashion from planning and design to colorway evaluation, realistic fabric simulation and 3D virtual sampling. Virtual samples are a digitized version of sample making that are accurate enough to be used effectively as prototypes. By replacing physical samples, virtual samples reduce time, cost and material that otherwise go to waste.

The product planning capability of APEXFiz® is enhanced by several web services featured as part of the SHIMA SEIKI Online Services (SHIMA online) web platform. These include SHIMA Datamall™ digital content web service that allows users to search, browse and purchase a variety of useful data for streamlining the planning and production of fashion items, as well as the recently renewed yarnbank® digital yarn sourcing web service that offers digitized yarn data by yarn companies from around the world for download and use in virtual sampling. SHIMANAVI® e-learning system is also part of the online platform.

Source:

SHIMA SEIKI

22.01.2024

bvse: Ab 2025 Energiebeihilfen für Kunststoffrecyclingunternehmen

Kunststoffrecyclingunternehmen können ab dem 1. Januar 2025 wieder Energiebeihilfen beantragen. Das teilte der bvse-Bundesverband Sekundärrohstoffe und Entsorgung in einem Mitgliederrundschreiben mit.

Nach den Erläuterungen fallen unter den förderungsfähigen Wirtschaftszweig 20.16 (Herstellung von Kunststoffen in Primärform) nun auch folgende Tätigkeiten der Kunststoffrecyclingbranche:

Kunststoffrecyclingunternehmen können ab dem 1. Januar 2025 wieder Energiebeihilfen beantragen. Das teilte der bvse-Bundesverband Sekundärrohstoffe und Entsorgung in einem Mitgliederrundschreiben mit.

Nach den Erläuterungen fallen unter den förderungsfähigen Wirtschaftszweig 20.16 (Herstellung von Kunststoffen in Primärform) nun auch folgende Tätigkeiten der Kunststoffrecyclingbranche:

  • Herstellung von Zellulose und ihren chemischen Derivaten,
  • Herstellung von Kunstpulvern, -granulaten oder -flocken durch Compoundieren oder Umwandeln von Kunststoffharzen sowie aus wiedergewonnen Kunststoffabfällen,
  • Herstellung von recyceltem Kunststoff in Flakes oder Kunststoffgranulaten auf Basis von vorbehandelten Kunststoffabfällen durch stoffliche Verwertungsverfahren.

Wie die bvse-Justiziarin Annette Reber erläuterte, hat die Klassifikation der Wirtschaftszweige neben statistischen Zwecken auch eine wichtige Bedeutung für die Bewilligung von Energiebeihilfen. Staatliche Energiebeihilfen dürfen, so Reber, nur den Unternehmen bewilligt werden, die zu den in den europäischen Leitlinien für staatliche Klima-, Umweltschutz- und Energiebeihilfen 2022 (KUEBLL) aufgeführten Wirtschaftszweigen gehören. Der Wirtschaftszweig 20.16. (Herstellung von Kunststoffen in Primärform) wird als förderungsfähig angesehen, der Wirtschaftszweig 38.31 (Rückgewinnung sortierter Werkstoffe) hingegen nicht.

Source:

bvse-Bundesverband Sekundärrohstoffe und Entsorgung e.V.

22.01.2024

Adient again ranked as Top Employer

Adient, a leader in automotive seating, has been certified for the second time by the Top Employers Institute as a European Top Employer for several of its EMEA locations.
 
23 of the automotive supplier’s locations in the Czech Republic, Hungary, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, and Serbia underwent an extensive assessment by the institute and were evaluated in categories such as People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity & Inclusion, Wellbeing and more. All six assessed markets obtained the certification, having already done so in last year’s edition.
 
While the organization’s overall score improved by 4.5% compared to 2023, Adient stands out the most from its competitors in the areas of People Strategy and DE&I practices, at 11% and 7%, respectively.

The Top Employers Certification Program has been created to provide guidance on people practices of employers in a wide range of industries. It evaluates companies worldwide and provides feedback on their working culture based on a best practice survey.

Adient, a leader in automotive seating, has been certified for the second time by the Top Employers Institute as a European Top Employer for several of its EMEA locations.
 
23 of the automotive supplier’s locations in the Czech Republic, Hungary, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, and Serbia underwent an extensive assessment by the institute and were evaluated in categories such as People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity & Inclusion, Wellbeing and more. All six assessed markets obtained the certification, having already done so in last year’s edition.
 
While the organization’s overall score improved by 4.5% compared to 2023, Adient stands out the most from its competitors in the areas of People Strategy and DE&I practices, at 11% and 7%, respectively.

The Top Employers Certification Program has been created to provide guidance on people practices of employers in a wide range of industries. It evaluates companies worldwide and provides feedback on their working culture based on a best practice survey.

Avery Dennison and NRVLD showcase T-shirts with AR experience (c) Avery Dennison Corporation
22.01.2024

Avery Dennison and NRVLD showcase T-shirts with AR experience

Avery Dennison, a leader in materials science and digital identifications solutions, has completed a project with NRVLD, a community-based agency comprising artists, technologists and media personalities who are passionate about disruptive innovation.

Avery Dennison created limited edition augmented reality T-shirts worn by the NRVLD Executive Team during ‘NRVLD’, an immersive event held during Art Basel Miami Beach in December 2023.

The 30 T-shirts were digitally connected via heat transfers featuring a QR code and image recognition. Visitors were transported to an immersive artwork metaverse, built by ARkivist. In addition to the AR experience, each garment was personalized with the wearer's contact details embedded in the NFC woven patch on the chest, providing a connection point for guests throughout the event. Both connected garment experiences were powered by Avery Dennison’s atma.io connected product cloud.

Avery Dennison, a leader in materials science and digital identifications solutions, has completed a project with NRVLD, a community-based agency comprising artists, technologists and media personalities who are passionate about disruptive innovation.

Avery Dennison created limited edition augmented reality T-shirts worn by the NRVLD Executive Team during ‘NRVLD’, an immersive event held during Art Basel Miami Beach in December 2023.

The 30 T-shirts were digitally connected via heat transfers featuring a QR code and image recognition. Visitors were transported to an immersive artwork metaverse, built by ARkivist. In addition to the AR experience, each garment was personalized with the wearer's contact details embedded in the NFC woven patch on the chest, providing a connection point for guests throughout the event. Both connected garment experiences were powered by Avery Dennison’s atma.io connected product cloud.

Avery Dennison will be showcasing this project at NRF 2024: Retail’s Big Show, from January 14-16 at the Javits Convention Center in New York. The connected T-shirts will feature alongside a host of apparel digital solutions for supply chain visibility, product tracking, and consumer engagement.

Michael Colarossi, vice president, innovation, product line management and sustainability, Apparel Solutions, Avery Dennison comments: “The trajectory of consumer experiences unmistakably leans towards digital, and brands are actively seeking innovative methods to engage consumers by merging traditional craftsmanship with digital creativity. In this scenario, AR acted as the conduit, and Avery Dennison's connected garment technology and on-garment Embelex branding turned that vision into tangible reality."

Pavan Bahl, founder of Bellwether Culture and co-founder NRVLD, comments: "In the Web3 sphere, blockchain technology enables ownership of digital goods and identity. Our collaboration with Avery Dennison showcases the potential of bridging this gap, illustrating the exciting possibilities in this space."

Source:

Avery Dennison Corporation

19.01.2024

TrusTrace completes $24 Million Growth Investment

TrusTrace, a SaaS company with for product traceability and compliance, has announced the completion of a (U.S.) $24 million growth investment led by Circularity Capital, a specialist investor in businesses that enable the circular economy, with participation from existing investors Industrifonden and Fairpoint Capital.

According to Shameek Ghosh, CEO and Co-Founder of TrusTrace, the new investment will enable the company to further accelerate its global expansion ambitions by strengthening its presence in key markets, deepening product innovation and expanding collaborations – helping to create a global network where all value chains are traceable, circular, and fair.

Traceability has accelerated in importance and momentum as a key enabler of sustainable transformation, as evidenced by TrusTrace’s five-fold growth in subscription revenue in the 27 months since the previous growth round by Fairpoint Capital and Industrifonden in 2021, preceded by seed funding from Backing Minds in 2019.

TrusTrace, a SaaS company with for product traceability and compliance, has announced the completion of a (U.S.) $24 million growth investment led by Circularity Capital, a specialist investor in businesses that enable the circular economy, with participation from existing investors Industrifonden and Fairpoint Capital.

According to Shameek Ghosh, CEO and Co-Founder of TrusTrace, the new investment will enable the company to further accelerate its global expansion ambitions by strengthening its presence in key markets, deepening product innovation and expanding collaborations – helping to create a global network where all value chains are traceable, circular, and fair.

Traceability has accelerated in importance and momentum as a key enabler of sustainable transformation, as evidenced by TrusTrace’s five-fold growth in subscription revenue in the 27 months since the previous growth round by Fairpoint Capital and Industrifonden in 2021, preceded by seed funding from Backing Minds in 2019.

With more than a billion products now tracked through the platform, TrusTrace has established itself as a business-critical solution for supply chain traceability. TrusTrace customers include adidas, Brooks Running, Tapestry, Asics and many more. TrusTrace also plans to offer its services to regional and mid-size brands in 2024.

Patrick Strumpf - CEO Photo: Haelixia
Patrick Strumpf - CEO
19.01.2024

Haelixa: new CEO and new member to Board of Directors

Haelixa, a provider of physical traceability solutions, announceed the appointment of a new CEO, Patrick Strumpf, and the addition of Stefan Karlen to the Board of Directors. These positions shall mark a significant step in Haelixa’s mission to advance the growth of supply chain transparency solutions and drive positive change in the industry.

Patrick Strumpf joins Haelixa as its new CEO; he has over 20 years of experience building and scaling up businesses. Thanks to his strong entrepreneurial background, he has excelled in various manufacturing, distribution, and retail roles. Strumpf’s proven leadership, commercial acumen and strong customer focus will ensure the company keeps pushing its boundaries and attains even greater heights of success. “I am excited about the Haelixa traceability solution. It sets the highest standards and delivers outstanding advantages to brands and manufacturers who position themselves as innovation leaders, especially regarding compliance and credibility issues.”

Haelixa, a provider of physical traceability solutions, announceed the appointment of a new CEO, Patrick Strumpf, and the addition of Stefan Karlen to the Board of Directors. These positions shall mark a significant step in Haelixa’s mission to advance the growth of supply chain transparency solutions and drive positive change in the industry.

Patrick Strumpf joins Haelixa as its new CEO; he has over 20 years of experience building and scaling up businesses. Thanks to his strong entrepreneurial background, he has excelled in various manufacturing, distribution, and retail roles. Strumpf’s proven leadership, commercial acumen and strong customer focus will ensure the company keeps pushing its boundaries and attains even greater heights of success. “I am excited about the Haelixa traceability solution. It sets the highest standards and delivers outstanding advantages to brands and manufacturers who position themselves as innovation leaders, especially regarding compliance and credibility issues.”

Stefan Karlen joins Haelixa’s Board of Directors; he brings over 30 years of experience in the supply chain industry, having served as the Group CEO of Panalpina, one of the world’s leading freight forwarding and logistics companies. With his deep understanding of global supply chains and expertise in building solid teams, Karlen will provide valuable insights to Haelixa’s Board of Directors. His track record of driving innovation is instrumental in shaping the company’s strategic direction. “I am passionate about environmental responsibility and bringing positive change”, said Karlen. He added, “I identify with Haelixa’s values and am excited to leverage my skills to a company that prioritises sustainability and integrity.”

More information:
Haelixa CEO Board of Directors
Source:

Haelixia

19.01.2024

Mahlo joins forces with Brückner Textile Technologies at Colombiatex

Mahlo GmbH + Co. KG will participate in the Colombiatex textile show, held in Medellin from 23 to 25 January. This year, Mahlo will be joining forces with Brückner Textile Technologies to present their solutions for the textile production sector at their joint booth.

Both companies appreciate the power of Colombia’s textile industry. Textile is one of the most important industrial sectors in the Latin American country with an export value of clothing of more than 600 million US dollars. The United States are also the main export destination for apparel products. At Colombiatex 2024, Mahlo's Head of Sales, Thomas Höpfl, will be present to share insights and discuss how Mahlo’s innovative technologies can address the specific challenges faced by Colombian textile manufacturers. Sustainability of process efficiency being among the most pressing ones.

Mahlo GmbH + Co. KG will participate in the Colombiatex textile show, held in Medellin from 23 to 25 January. This year, Mahlo will be joining forces with Brückner Textile Technologies to present their solutions for the textile production sector at their joint booth.

Both companies appreciate the power of Colombia’s textile industry. Textile is one of the most important industrial sectors in the Latin American country with an export value of clothing of more than 600 million US dollars. The United States are also the main export destination for apparel products. At Colombiatex 2024, Mahlo's Head of Sales, Thomas Höpfl, will be present to share insights and discuss how Mahlo’s innovative technologies can address the specific challenges faced by Colombian textile manufacturers. Sustainability of process efficiency being among the most pressing ones.

Archroma showcases Super Systems+ at Colombiatex 2024 Photo: Archroma
19.01.2024

Archroma showcases Super Systems+ at Colombiatex 2024

Archroma is showcasing its planet conscious innovations and solution systems at this year’s Colombiatex de Las Américas, being held from January 23 to 25, 2024.

Archroma is using its attendance at Colombiatex 2024 to introduce a new concept that promises to help the region’s brands and mills optimize their productivity, add value to their products and create a positive impact on the environment: Super Systems+.

The Super Systems+ solutions offer great performance, including end-product durability, while meeting sustainability targets with cleaner chemistries that comply with current and anticipated industry regulations or deliver resource savings, or both. Solutions are currently available for popular end-use segments, from denim to cotton and poly-cotton knits.

Archroma is showcasing its planet conscious innovations and solution systems at this year’s Colombiatex de Las Américas, being held from January 23 to 25, 2024.

Archroma is using its attendance at Colombiatex 2024 to introduce a new concept that promises to help the region’s brands and mills optimize their productivity, add value to their products and create a positive impact on the environment: Super Systems+.

The Super Systems+ solutions offer great performance, including end-product durability, while meeting sustainability targets with cleaner chemistries that comply with current and anticipated industry regulations or deliver resource savings, or both. Solutions are currently available for popular end-use segments, from denim to cotton and poly-cotton knits.

For black denim with a cleaner environmental footprint, brands and mills can choose DIRESUL® EVOLUTION BLACK to create unique shade and wash-down effects with an overall impact reduction of 57% compared to standard Sulfur Black 1 liquid.* For authentic blue denim, Archroma’s aniline-free** pre-reduced DENISOL® PURE INDIGO 30 LIQ produces coveted indigo colors with the same performance and efficiency as conventional indigo dye, but in a more planet-friendly way.

To embrace circularity and create natural shades on cellulosic-based fibers including cotton, kapok, linen and viscose, brand owners can now turn to Archroma’s patented EarthColors® technology. It makes high-performance biosynthetic dyes from non-edible natural waste, such as almond shells, bitter orange residues and cotton production byproducts, helping conserve natural resources. For next-generation processing of polyester and its blends, Archroma’s ERIOPON® E3-SAVE all-in-one auxiliary combines pre-scouring, dyeing and reduction clearing in a single bath to achieve substantial savings of water, energy and time.

For weather protection and stain resistance that is both economically and environmentally sustainable, Archroma Super Systems+ draw on an extensive portfolio of fluorine-free durable water repellents.

* Ecotarrae lifecycle analysis
** Below limits of detection according to industry standard test methods

Source:

Archroma

B.I.G. Yarns: Virgin polyester BCF yarns for automotive carpet (c) Beaulieu International Group
17.01.2024

B.I.G. Yarns: Virgin polyester BCF yarns for automotive carpet

To expand its support for high-end and luxurious automotive interiors, B.I.G. Yarns has completed its first industrial production runs of virgin polyester BCF yarns for automotive carpet to complement its line of polyamide PA6 superior yarns.

There is a growing market in PET for automotive interior applications, with polyester allowing automotive OEMs and Tier 1 to develop products that, from the outset, consider eco-design by building MONO-polymer carpets and flooring that are 100% recyclable at End of Life (EOL ). These materials are helping to ensure improved and more sustainable EOL recycling of electric vehicles that are driving the future of the car industry.

To expand its support for high-end and luxurious automotive interiors, B.I.G. Yarns has completed its first industrial production runs of virgin polyester BCF yarns for automotive carpet to complement its line of polyamide PA6 superior yarns.

There is a growing market in PET for automotive interior applications, with polyester allowing automotive OEMs and Tier 1 to develop products that, from the outset, consider eco-design by building MONO-polymer carpets and flooring that are 100% recyclable at End of Life (EOL ). These materials are helping to ensure improved and more sustainable EOL recycling of electric vehicles that are driving the future of the car industry.

The new PET BCF Yarns offer high-performance for automotive carpets, including abrasion and stain resistance, and durability, passing all stringent automotive tests including the Taber test for abrasion performance, compressibility and recovery ability test, light fastness in automotive (DIN EN ISO 105-B06) and VOC (fogging) according the VDA 278 test on VOC and FOG emission. The yarns can be color solution dyed, have a dTex between 1300 – 1500, 81 filaments and are ideally for mats with a composition of 400 to 800 gram per m², while the yarns for molded carpets have a dTex of 1200, 144 filaments for 380 gram per m².

With the addition of PET BCF yarns, B.I.G. Yarns is now a one-stop-shop for 3 types of Solution Dyed BCF carpet yarns for the automotive industry: nylon (PA6), polypropylene (PP) and polyester (PET), and the Eqo-range of PA6 yarns – the sustainability focused EqoBalance, EqoCycle and EqoYarn.

The automotive carpet market is expected to grow strongly in the coming decade with the increased demand for vehicle customization and personalization driven by owners looking to upgrade and enhance interiors, including the flooring area.
A growing awareness around car hygiene is also boosting the market as consumers become more conscious of maintaining cleanliness in their vehicles, including the floors. Automotive carpets provide an effective solution by trapping dirt and preventing it from spreading to other areas.

Source:

Beaulieu International Group

17.01.2024

Everfield acquires Swedish software specialist for commercial laundry industry

Software group Everfield has acquired the Swedish software reseller “SoCom Scandinavia AB” (SoCom Scandinavia). The previously independent reseller is now a subsidiary of German “SoCom Informationssysteme GmbH” (SoCom), which Everfield acquired early 2023. SoCom Scandinavia distributes SoCom’s ERP system for the commercial laundry industry in Scandinavia. SoCom is among Europe’s leading providers in this segment and with this acquisition is further expanding its market position in the Nordic countries.

Software group Everfield has acquired the Swedish software reseller “SoCom Scandinavia AB” (SoCom Scandinavia). The previously independent reseller is now a subsidiary of German “SoCom Informationssysteme GmbH” (SoCom), which Everfield acquired early 2023. SoCom Scandinavia distributes SoCom’s ERP system for the commercial laundry industry in Scandinavia. SoCom is among Europe’s leading providers in this segment and with this acquisition is further expanding its market position in the Nordic countries.

“By acquiring SoCom Scandinavia, we have successfully completed the first so-called bolt-on acquisition for one of our portfolio companies”, says Oscar Koberling, Acquisitions Manager at Everfield. In a bolt-on acquisition, the company being purchased is integrated into an existing portfolio company. “We focus on long-term sustainable growth and work closely with the management of our portfolio companies to identify the right targets”, Koberling highlights. “With the addition of SoCom Scandinavia, SoCom can now further strengthen the sales and support in this region and thereby continue to foster growth in Scandinavia.” With its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software “TIKOS”, the German software developer SoCom from Krumbach enables laundries of any scale to achieve end-to-end process management.

SoCom Scandinavia distributes the “TIKOS” laundry software in Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark and Iceland. The company was founded in 2017 by the sole shareholder Anna Johansson, in close cooperation with the German SoCom Informationssysteme GmbH. “I myself come from the commercial laundry industry and was therefore able to convince myself of the performance and flexibility of the TIKOS software in practice”, says Anna Johansson. “Our success in the past years shows that many laundries in Scandinavia share this assessment. In the future, we will work even more closely with our German colleagues to further expand our market share in the region.”

Johansson and her team will continue to be available to customers at the existing location. “Since establishing SoCom Scandinavia, Anna and her team have already won and supported a plethora of well-known clients for our software”, emphasizes SoCom’s CEO Michael Wieser. “By integrating SoCom Scandinavia, we can streamline our processes even further. Our main goal remains to offer the best possible service to our clients.”

With its steadily growing software and service portfolio, SoCom has been operating in the laundry industry for over thirty years and is a market leader in the German-speaking region. In total, SoCom’s products are used in over 350 laundries across 17 countries.

More information:
Everfield SoCom laundry Software
Source:

möller pr GmbH

17.01.2024

Lenzing: Top sustainability ratings

The Lenzing Group has once again been recognized for its sustainability performance and its active contribution to transforming the industry towards a circular economy. The rating agency MSCI awarded Lenzing an “AA” rating for the third time in a row, placing Lenzing among the top eight percent of rated companies in its peer group. In addition, Lenzing participated for the first time in the SAC Higgs FEM verification to assess the environmental impact of product manufacturing at its sites and achieved positive results.

The Lenzing Group has once again been recognized for its sustainability performance and its active contribution to transforming the industry towards a circular economy. The rating agency MSCI awarded Lenzing an “AA” rating for the third time in a row, placing Lenzing among the top eight percent of rated companies in its peer group. In addition, Lenzing participated for the first time in the SAC Higgs FEM verification to assess the environmental impact of product manufacturing at its sites and achieved positive results.

According to the rating agency MSCI, Lenzing continues to lead the way among global companies in terms of governance structures. In addition, MSCI highlights Lenzing’s leadership in implementing initiatives to mitigate the risk of environmental liabilities associated with the release of toxic pollutants and highlights its water stewardship program, which includes a water risk assessment. The confirmation of the “AA” rating from MSCI ESG enables Lenzing to further reduce its interest expense. In November 2019, Lenzing placed a bonded loan in the amount of around EUR 500 mn, which is linked to the company's sustainability performance. In line with its commitment under the bonded loan, the company will donate the entire interest expense it saves thanks to the “AA” rating to a social-ecological project.

By November 2023, all Lenzing sites, with the exception of the sites in Brazil and Thailand, which are however scheduled for 2024, have completed the first external verification of the module with excellent results. With almost 20,000 participating companies from different sectors of industry, which achieved less than 50 percent in total average in 2023, Lenzing sites achieved verified scores of more than 70 percent to 95 percent.

Source:

Lenzing AG

17.01.2024

AkzoNobel: Jolanda Poots-Bijl steps down

Jolanda Poots-Bijl has announced that she will step down as a member of AkzoNobel's Supervisory Board as of January 31. The decision follows her appointment as CFO of Ahold Delhaize, which limits availability for her current Supervisory Board role.

The Supervisory Board will announce a successor – to be nominated for appointment at the next Annual General Meeting – in due course. Until then, her activities will be covered by the current Supervisory Board members.

Jolanda Poots-Bijl has announced that she will step down as a member of AkzoNobel's Supervisory Board as of January 31. The decision follows her appointment as CFO of Ahold Delhaize, which limits availability for her current Supervisory Board role.

The Supervisory Board will announce a successor – to be nominated for appointment at the next Annual General Meeting – in due course. Until then, her activities will be covered by the current Supervisory Board members.

Source:

AkzoNobel