July 2, 2020
According to the report “Industrial Fabrics—Global Market Trajectory & Analytics” by ResearchAndMarkets.com, amid the COVID-19 crisis and the looming economic recession, the industrial fabrics market worldwide will grow by a projected US$32 billion during the analysis period (2020-2027), driven by a revised compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4%. Polyamide, one of the segments analyzed …
July 1, 2020
Milliken & Company has published its second annual corporate sustainability report. The report gives insight into Milliken’s environmental and social commitments as all global locations work to achieve aggressive sustainability goals by 2025. Using a comprehensive goal scorecard, the 2019 report shares Milliken’s first year of progress towards the company’s 2025 sustainability goals. First introduced …
July 1, 2020
Fully Berry-compliant Polyester Webbing for seat belts, retractors and tie-down applications is available in widths of 1 to 6 inches, with wider widths available for specialty applications. The webbing meets Mil/PIA-W-25361 and commercial A-A-55242A specifications and is available in low minimum runs—as low as 1,000 yards per color—and in customized designs to meet performance properties. …
July 1, 2020
The industry meets virtually to discuss innovations,cybersecurity and collaboration. by Janet Preus The Smart Fabrics Summit, presented by the U.S. Department of Commerce in collaboration with Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI), was held virtually this year. Its speakers covered a range of topics, with special emphasis on cybersecurity and collaborative partnerships. From innovation to commercial …
July 1, 2020
Woven Inspiration owner Christine Becker welcomes the challenge of preservation—of history and her craft. by Holly Eamon Christine Becker was destined for a life immersed in design. Born in Verona, Italy, she spent her childhood captivated by the city’s medieval architecture before moving as a teen to the artist-inhabited neighborhood of Greenwich Village, N.Y. Influence …
July 1, 2020
The Stamskin® One allure collection of indoor/outdoor upholstery fabrics offers the same performance of its sister collection, Stamskin One, with a new finish: an understated leather-like grain suited to classic designs. The fabric pairs a supple, luxurious hand with abrasion resistance of more than 665,000 double rubs (ASTM D4157), inherent resistance to pink mold and …
July 1, 2020
In Sweden, there is a concept known as “lagom.” It’s a way of living life in balance—not too much or too little—a stress-reducing happy medium for daily life. Lagom is the inspiration for the 2020 collection by German textile company nya nordiska. It includes five exclusive fabric innovations using wool, linen and cotton that strike …
July 1, 2020
New features on the Consew® model 2206RB-14-7-DD sewing machine include a presser feet connecting rod that allows for presser feet to alternate more efficiently and a top thread electric clamping system for trimming. Other benefits include a direct drive motor (no belt connection required) and fully automatic functions including an automatic electric foot lift and …
July 1, 2020
Responding to market demand for a fluorine-free solution for stain resistance on fabrics, GreenShield ZERO offers protection from water-based spills such as sodas, coffee and wine. The finish uses nanoparticle-based innovations to reduce the health and environmental impact of stain-resistant finishes. It can be used on materials including polyester, cotton, nylon and solution-dyed fibers. The …
July 1, 2020
Lessons from four member companies that have survived for a century and continue to thrive. by Cathy Broberg In January 2020, the North East Canvas Products Association (NECPA), a trade organization for the canvas and outdoor fabric industry, marked its 100th anniversary. Members celebrated at its annual conference with a gala and by touring a …
May 1, 2020
By Mark E. Battersby Cash flow is the lifeblood of every business. In fact, according to a recent U.S. Bank study, poor cash flow management causes 82 percent of U.S. business failures. Although seemingly counterintuitive, many experts advise putting cash flow management before profits. While profits are how a fabrication business survives, a failure to …
March 12, 2020
GOTS has issued a statement in response to a recent claim by a company stating they hold a certification that’s “More important than organic” and “Textiles with the organic label can still be treated with toxic chemicals at a later stage of production.” While this is possible for uncertified products made from organic fibers, according …
March 12, 2020
Royal DSM, a global science-based company in nutrition, health and sustainable living, SABIC, a global leader in the chemical industry, and UPM Biofuels, a leading producer of sustainable raw materials, recently announced a partnership that will help to reduce the environmental footprint of Dyneema®, the world’s strongest fiber. The collaboration will see Dyneema transition to …
March 4, 2020
In 2019, the number of Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified facilities globally grew by 35 percent, from 5,760 to 7,765 located in 70 countries. The number demonstrates that GOTS successfully serves as a sustainable solution. The required certified organic fibers protect the climate by absorbing CO2, and every processing step, from field to fashion, must …
March 1, 2020
By Rebecca Post An urgency runs through the pages of Richard Seaman’s book A Vibrant Vision: The Entrepreneurship of Multigenerational Family Business. That urgency stems from Seaman’s understanding that few family businesses survive beyond a third generation. Seaman, the chairman and former CEO of Wooster, Ohio-based Seaman Corp., offers a model to family-owned businesses for …
February 12, 2020
Small businesses with a diverse workforce are more innovative and financially successful, according to data gathered by SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors. Data indicates that businesses with more diverse management have 19% higher revenue and are more likely to outperform non-diverse businesses. Diverse teams are more innovative, and therefore, perform …
February 7, 2020
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced the opening of the submission period for a funding opportunity through the State Trade Expansion Program. The purpose of the grant opportunity is to invite proposals for funding from eligible state entities interested in and capable of providing assistance, guidance and tools to qualified small businesses looking …
January 1, 2020
By Larry Oxenham Succession planning can be a tricky matter, especially if you’re passing your business on to a family member. Sometimes keeping it in the family is viable, but not in every case. If it comes time to sell the business instead, you should be armed with some strategies for getting what it’s really …
November 19, 2019
Levi Strauss & Co. (LS&Co.) and Hohenstein have announced a collaboration to utilize the ECO PASSPORT by OEKO-TEX® certification system in the LS&Co. supply chain. This will amplify the capabilities of the Screened Chemistry program developed by LS&Co., helping establish a clearer pathway toward safer chemistry in the apparel industry by providing enhanced levels of …
November 1, 2019
Strategic service makes your company memorable. By Randy Westlund We live in a constantly connected culture of instant gratification. We want what we want and we want it right now—with no delays. Between instant messaging, next-day delivery and online services available 24/7, the marketplace is catering to these demands. Some revealing statistics show how much …
June 15, 2020
IFAI Expo Nov. 3–6, 2020 in Indianapolis, Ind., will mark the event’s 100th anniversary. IFAI has announced that it is moving forward as planned, and registration is now open. Safety protocols are in place and will be coordinated with host hotels and the Indiana Convention Center (ICC). The registration area at IFAI Expo will be …
March 17, 2020
As concern over the Coronavirus (COVID-19) grows, I want all IFAI members to know we are closely monitoring developments and following recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). We will follow their recommendations to keep our employees, their families and our members healthy and safe. With this in …
October 8, 2019
At this year’s annual meeting during IFAI Expo 2019, IFAI presented the Outstanding Volunteer Awards, recognizing members who generously gave of their time to serve on different boards, task forces and committees, judged competitions and provided education and leadership to others in the industry. This year’s winners: Amy Bircher, president, MMI Textiles Inc. Jonathan Chakales, …
October 8, 2019
The Chairman’s Award (originally, the President’s Award) is an honor bestowed by the chairman of IFAI to an individual that has had an extraordinary and meaningful impact on the association. It is rarely given, and awarded at the sole discretion of the IFAI chairman. At IFAI’s annual meeting at IFAI Expo 2019, IFAI chairman Steve …
October 4, 2019
Australia has a very high rate of skin cancer, so it’s not surprising that the country has led the world in the development of shade cloth, Chris Nolan told attendees of a shade cloth educational session at IFAI Expo 2019 in Orlando, Fla. “Even in the temperate areas where most people live, we have an …
October 4, 2019
Bill McSpadden wants IFAI attendees to not make the same mistakes he has made. On day 2 of IFAI Expo 2019 in Orlando, Fla., McSpadden’s educational session on graphics for small to medium fabricators focused on avoiding expensive mistakes that turn profitable projects into unprofitable ones. McSpadden is owner of Capitol Awning, located in Richmond, …
October 4, 2019
Shade has been a requirement for human beings since ancient times, but very little technological development related to shade occurred until the last 30 to 40 years, said Andrew Nasarczyk, senior manager—research and development, GALE Pacific Ltd., Braeside, Victoria, Australia. Nasarczyk explained the design and development of world-class knitted shade fabrics in an educational session …
October 4, 2019
David Dean, director of research and development at Glen Raven/Sunbrella, led the campfire session, “Fire Retardancy in Shade Structures: Requirements and Solutions” during Expo 2019 in Orlando, Fla., According to Dean, in the U.S. there are currently no federally-mandated fire retardancy (FR) regulations for shade structures. The few regulations that have been passed include those …
October 4, 2019
Chris Semonelli, vice president, sales and marketing, E Squared, and president of Coated Technical Solutions, says he has “a philosophy of being assertive with passive aggression” when it comes to sales. “You need to have a deadline with customers and R&D, and make frequent visits. Emails and faxes are great, but you can’t look customers …
October 4, 2019
Keynote speaker Thom Singer hosted IFAI’s annual award ceremony October 3 at Expo 2019, continuing his message to “see people.” As Expo exhibitors and attendees entered the breakfast event, Singer encouraged people to separate from familiar colleagues and sit with new people. This year’s award ceremony was infused with an additional goal—that of networking with …
July 1, 2020
Lessons from four member companies that have survived for a century and continue to thrive. by Cathy Broberg In January 2020, the North East Canvas Products Association (NECPA), a trade organization for the canvas and outdoor fabric industry, marked its 100th anniversary. Members celebrated at its annual conference with a gala and by touring a …
July 1, 2020
For PPE that is both effective and comfortable—and more likely to be worn regularly and properly—consider a systems engineering approach to design. by Sigrid Tornquist Perhaps never before has the acronym “PPE” been so much a part of the common vernacular. In the days of COVID-19, few are unfamiliar with the term. However, PPE—personal protective …
July 1, 2020
Jan Kellogg looks at the big picture for each job that CCP Manufacturing takes on, leading the company into new markets. by Jill C. Lafferty I love working with someone who turns to us with a new idea, saying, ‘Hey, can you make this work?’ We love taking the time to be able to do …
July 1, 2020
Custom manufacturers rely on equipment that multitasks across product lines and markets, with minimal downtime. by Maura Keller Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, every custom end-product manufacturer faced some type of financial challenge. Reduced or canceled orders, customer attrition and market changes always affect manufacturers’ bottom lines. Another commonality among manufacturers is their heavy dependence …
June 1, 2020
Adding automation can prove challenging, with costs to consider, processes to change and nervous employees to reckon with. Still, fabricators who have taken the leap say there’s no other way to go. by Pamela Mills-Senn When Darren Arthur, owner of Nautilux Custom Canvas LLC in Hazlet, N.J., purchased a single-fly Aeronaut cutter eight years ago—his …
June 1, 2020
When it comes to protecting structures from the elements, fabric has it covered. by Jeff Moravec Fabric serves an unending variety of needs, but sometimes overlookedis its role in protecting us from the dangers of our natural world. Here’s a snapshot of several companies and their products that have been designed to protect structures from …
June 1, 2020
High-performing upholstery fabrics offer more features than ever, without sacrificing style and comfort. by Maura Keller Consumers don’t want to choose between beauty and durability, nor do they want to sacrifice performance for sustainability, according to LeAnne Flack, marketing manager for Milliken Specialty Interiors. “Just as [consumers] are more closely examining the food they eat, …
June 1, 2020
by Jill C. Lafferty “Everything is visual today,” says Kevin Greenwood, owner/CEO of Stage Tops USA, a Manchester, Tenn.-based company that manufactures and installs roof skins, wind walls, stage scrims and other fabric projects for major live events around the world. “[My clients] want to be seen. The bigger the better. They want to put …
May 1, 2020
Fabrics, always combining performance and style, are the natural choice for applications ranging from awnings and tents to marine fabrication, outdoor structures, indoor architecture, arts and apparel, medical and aerospace products, to name just a few. We asked our contributors to send us information about their latest high-performance materials: fabrics that weather the storm, fight …
May 1, 2020
Fabric is only half of the equation for many manufacturers in the specialty fabrics industry. The other half, metalwork and framing, requires its own set of capabilities. by Laurie F. Junker A frame is the essential component that transforms fabric into architecture, turning a piece of cloth into some sort of protective cover or defined …
July 1, 2020
The industry meets virtually to discuss innovations,cybersecurity and collaboration. by Janet Preus The Smart Fabrics Summit, presented by the U.S. Department of Commerce in collaboration with Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI), was held virtually this year. Its speakers covered a range of topics, with special emphasis on cybersecurity and collaborative partnerships. From innovation to commercial …
July 1, 2020
Woven Inspiration owner Christine Becker welcomes the challenge of preservation—of history and her craft. by Holly Eamon Christine Becker was destined for a life immersed in design. Born in Verona, Italy, she spent her childhood captivated by the city’s medieval architecture before moving as a teen to the artist-inhabited neighborhood of Greenwich Village, N.Y. Influence …
July 1, 2020
Robotic glove for hand paralysis San Francisco, Calif.-based technology start-up Neofect has developed a robotic glove to help patients suffering from paralysis. The product prototype, Neomano, is a smart glove designed for patient rehabilitation of the hand following a stroke, spinal cord injury or other condition that limits a patient’s ability to use his or …
June 1, 2020
A fabric-clad tower in southern Germany brings technicians, elevator experts and the public together in one spectacular vertical setting. By Bruce N. Wright, FAIA Paris’s Eiffel Tower, London’s Big Ben, China’s Three Pagodas, Iraq’s spiral minaret: Over time, all became more than just their function—they became iconic symbols of their location. Likewise, ThyssenKrupp’s fabric-wrapped Rottweil …
June 1, 2020
by Glenna B. Musante Textile and outdoor gear communities are looking for ways to limit the use of petroleum products. To achieve this goal, apparel and gear brands, as well as ingredient manufacturers within the textile industry supply chain, are beginning to replace or augment plastics and polyester with biomaterials. Textile companies are also turning …
May 1, 2020
By Jeff Moravec It’s easy to misunderstand viral respiratory diseases, whether the current pandemic outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) or past events such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2002−2003. When they fade from the news, people often assume it’s because a cure was found. In fact, what happens is that human-to-human disease transmission …
May 1, 2020
by Lawrence A. Ward and Dave Townsend The textile trade has long been complicated, requiring careful attention to the source and production methods throughout the supply chain to determine whether imports were allowed under quotas or what tariff rate applied to the imports. Although the Trump administration has a fundamentally different policy toward international trade …
April 2, 2020
The organizers of the successful and long-running conference series Textile Coating and Laminating (TCL) have announced its expansion and refocus as the World Congress on Textile Coating (WCTC20). The event will debut in Berlin on November 19-20, 2020. The venue hotel is the Novotel Berlin Am Tiergarten, Berlin, Germany, which has excellent conference facilities. Tegel …
April 1, 2020
John Brown University’s disaster shelter contest challenges students to develop and demonstrate solutions for emergency scenarios. By Holly Eamon Global economic losses from natural disasters topped $232 billion last year, rounding out a decade that cost the world nearly $3 trillion, according to the 2019 Weather, Climate & Catastrophe Insight Annual Report published by global …
April 1, 2020
Sustainability issues leap to the forefront in creating new synthetic fibers. by Ericka Ford, Ph.D. Philosopher scientist Robert Hooke’s 17th-century belief that plants eaten by the silkworm could spin into a silk alternative was an oversimplification of the biological processes that ultimately allowed the food-satiated silkworm to spin silk. Nevertheless, the timely invention of the …
July 2, 2020
According to the report “Industrial Fabrics—Global Market Trajectory & Analytics” by ResearchAndMarkets.com, amid the COVID-19 crisis and the looming economic recession, the industrial fabrics market worldwide will grow by a projected US$32 billion during the analysis period (2020-2027), driven by a revised compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4%. Polyamide, one of the segments analyzed …
July 1, 2020
Milliken & Company has published its second annual corporate sustainability report. The report gives insight into Milliken’s environmental and social commitments as all global locations work to achieve aggressive sustainability goals by 2025. Using a comprehensive goal scorecard, the 2019 report shares Milliken’s first year of progress towards the company’s 2025 sustainability goals. First introduced …
June 30, 2020
HeiQ and Intexso Biochem began their partnership more than seven years ago. Based in Mumbai, Intexso is the sole distributor for HeiQ products in India and offers technical guidance for product applications in the region. India has become a global innovation hub for apparel and home textiles, and Team Intexso is in the forefront with …
June 29, 2020
Field to Market: The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture and the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol have announced a new agreement that formalizes a partnership between the two organizations to document and accelerate sustainable outcomes for U.S. cotton production. The partnership strengthens the ability of cotton growers and the value chain to drive continuous improvement, combining two …
June 26, 2020
Between May 20 and June 8, 2020, the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) conducted its fourth ITMF Corona-Survey among ITMF members and affiliated companies and associations about the impact the corona pandemic had on the global textile value chain. In total around 600 companies from around the world participated. On a global scale, current orders …
June 25, 2020
The USTSA (United States Tent and Structure Alliance) is a group of tent and clearspan fabric structure manufacturers that have aligned to help promote the safe use of tents and other temporary structures for a wide variety of uses. The group was formed in March of 2020 in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The …
June 25, 2020
Global Graphics Software, developers of core technology for digital printing, is collaborating with Inèdit, the authors of neoStampa, an RIP software for textile digital printing, to create an enhanced PDF engine for textile workflows. NeoStampa is compatible with most digital devices sold into the textile market including from vendors such as Mutoh, Epson, EFI Reggiani, …
June 24, 2020
Following the enactment of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Flexibility Act–which was recently signed into law by President Trump –the Small Business Administration (SBA) confirmed that Tuesday, June 30, 2020, remains the last date on which a PPP loan application can be approved. In addition to confirming the PPP application deadline, the Paycheck Protection Program …
June 23, 2020
Heytex USA has hired Julie Bui as technical textiles sales manager. She will be responsible for driving sales for the company’s Industrial and Texineering products in North America. Bui brings extensive sales experience in the industrial, oil and gas, and textile industries. She most recently worked as a strategic sales executive growing her accounts by an …
June 22, 2020
Tent Expo 2021 has been postponed to January 2022. Tent Rental Division (TRD) chairman Michael Tharpe released the following statement: The COVID-19 pandemic has hit our members hard and changed the way in which we do business in today’s environment. As your association, TRD has felt your pain and has listened to your issues and concerns …
March 20, 2020
Shelter Structures America, distributor of Shelter temporary clearspan tent structures, has introduced the First Responder product line of clearspan tent structures and inflatable tents. Due to the market need for medical and screening tent structures, Shelter quickly developed and brought to market the line of inflatable and clearspan tent structures. The Shelter FR20—the first in …
March 1, 2020
The Otratex™ collection of degradable vinyl alternatives is designed to meet health and wellness trends in the hospitality, health care, contract and cruise industries. The fabric can be treated for ASTM-E84 and IMO, and is treated twice with Pro-Tech, a water-based stain repellent with denim and ink protection, once in process and once post-production. Other …
March 1, 2020
Biobased antimicrobial solution BI-OME Natural guarantees optimal freshness and hygiene for textiles. The active ingredients are linseed oil, obtained from the dried, ripened seeds of the flax plant, and chrysanthemum, derived from the seeds of the flowers of the daisy. Recommended for the bedding industry and applications that require solutions to odors, allergens and dust …
March 1, 2020
Designed to keep athletes cool, dry and fresh, ProCool® Stretch-FIT Dri-QWick™ Sports Jersey is a double-facing fabric with hydrophilic fibers next to the skin to wick moisture away, and hydrophobic fibers on the other side to keep moisture from seeping back into the fabric. The hydrophilic side has a diamond mesh, which increases the surface …
March 1, 2020
The innovative Sauleda New Generation collection is comprised of 90 exclusive designs in fabrics for sun protection. The collection includes the fabric GREEN, which purifies the air by means of photocatalysis, with a reduction in pollution around 55%, mold reduction of 60% and a self-cleaning effect of 70%. Other collection highlights include 28 plain colors …
March 1, 2020
Multicolored carpets are now easier with the development of the BCF S8 platform. The core component in the carpet yarn system is the patent-pending Color Pop Compacting Unit (CPC-T) designed for flexible and even color separation. Individually controllable air pressures per color in the CPC-T provide a pre-tangling, which results in an accentuation of the …
March 1, 2020
Easy Cut Studio version 5 includes 64-bit support, which allows the program to process significantly larger design files quickly. The new version includes additional enhanced functions, support for more vinyl cutters, and is optimized to be fully compliant with Apple’s latest operating system, macOS 10.15 Catalina. Combining advanced cutting technology with simple user interface design, …
February 1, 2020
ClipsShop® Self-Piercing Grommet Sets include grommets and washers made from non-rusting solid brass to withstand rain and the elements. The heavy-duty solid brass rust-proof grommets and washers come in a variety of sizes and finishes for use in privacy screens, wind screens, sunscreens and related outdoor products. Available in 500-set packages, the grommet sets can …
February 1, 2020
Fabrics in the Artscape collection—including Brushstroke, Vogue, Enzo and Sedona—are the first digitally printed cotton and cotton/linen offerings in the Breathe by Milliken™ performance fabric line. The collection offers a modern approach, introducing both abstract and watermark characteristics. It also stands out as a natural option that allows for easy cleaning through its plant-based water …
February 1, 2020
With a new matte look and a user-friendly width, Sattler 745 Evolution awning material is a flame-retardant PVC coated textile that offers dimensional stability and is extremely durable. The fabric is weldable and accepts graphic treatments. At 63 inches wide, the awning material is available in 30-yard rolls and in 20 matte finished colors. Keyston …
April 1, 2019
What’s the bottom line for camping gear? For many outdoorspeople, it comes down to fabric that is waterproof yet airy and comfortable, along with convenience and a dash of style. A new camper that is more like a geodesic dome on wheels checks those boxes. A collaboration between BMW Design Works Division and The North …
April 1, 2019
It’s a common joke—don’t go to the hospital, it will make you sick. Yet there is some amount of truth to the idea. One study demonstrated that 92 percent of privacy curtains were contaminated with infectious bacteria within one week of laundering. Another study concluded that up to 60 percent of nurse and physician clothing …
April 1, 2019
If you fall off your bike, you want to make sure you protect your thorax, back and neck. A vest that takes its cue from automobile airbags can do just that. B’Safe features an airbag that inflates instantly in the event of an accident. Developed by the French airbag technology company Helite, B’Safe features a …
April 1, 2019
It’s only fitting that the new research and development facility for the Kolon Group, a leading South Korean manufacturer of innovative textiles, would stretch the boundaries of design. The company wanted the facility, dubbed the Kolon One & Only Tower, to embody its commitment to creativity, technology and sustainability. The 820,000-square-foot building is designed to …
April 1, 2019
Summers are hot in San Ramon, Calif., located 35 miles east of San Francisco in the San Ramon Valley. The community is home to St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, designed in the 1980s by Aaron Green, an associate of Frank Lloyd Wright. The church features a beautiful patio that congregants like to use for …
April 1, 2019
Each year, 23 billion pairs of shoes made from raw materials are tossed in the trash, where they end up incinerated or are left to decompose in landfills. Sympatex Technologies, the high-tech company that produces and distributes membranes, laminates and functional textiles, has a better model for the lifecycle of shoes than creating tons of …
April 1, 2019
Benjamin Hubert of design agency LAYER likes to consider how fashion trends and the latest ideas in technology can be combined to realize his creations. For his furniture collection, TAPE, Hubert was inspired by design practices for garments in the sporting industry—specifically the use of tape to construct snowboard, ski and wet-weather gear. Hubert recognized …
March 1, 2019
Folk art meets Pokémon Ukrainian artist Oksana Levchenya has long admired the craftsmanship of traditional hand-woven rugs and tapestries. She founded OLK Manufactory in Kiev to create woven rugs and tapestries that exemplify the same kind of expertise. Her vertical kilims are created by hand using an intricate technique dating back to the 16th century. …
March 1, 2019
Sometimes inspiration is found in a most unexpected place. For designer Victor Moynier, the spark of an idea for a lighting fixture came from sportswear. The Lausanne, Switzerland-based industrial designer looked at running jackets and saw the possibility to produce a lamp using ripstop nylon. His Marathon lamp was one of nine lighting fixtures created …
March 1, 2019
There are many “must sees” in the Flanders region of Belgium: charming cities and towns graced with medieval architecture, the paintings of the Flemish masters, historical sites, fashion, food and design. The tourism bureau, Flanders Tourism (Toerisme Vlaanderen), wanted to give travelers flying into the Brussels Zarventem Airport a taste of the adventure that awaits. …
November 1, 2019
IFAI’s Manufacturing for Good booth assembles three-ring pencil pouches for A Gift For Teaching. By Sammi Jones IFAI’s Manufacturing for Good booth made its third appearance on the show floor at Expo 2019 in Orlando, Fla. The booth, which debuted at Expo 2017 in New Orleans, La., and also appeared at Expo 2018 in Dallas, …
October 1, 2019
Autometrix employees put the (bike) pedal to the metal to raise money for charity. By Paul Johnson Most people experience joy when giving to a charity, but some undergo considerable pain because of their steadfast commitment and support for an enduring cause. Jonathan Palmer, Autometrix Inc. owner and CEO, and Joel Koopmans, customer solutions expert, …
September 1, 2019
At Presco, charitable giving, community support and energy conservation are a passion. By Paul Johnson In 1942, Robert “Earl” McMackin founded Precision Specialties Company, which made specific tools for geological and oil exploration. When working in the oil fields, Earl and his son, Edwin, recognized an opportunity to design and develop better materials for roll …
August 1, 2019
By Paul Johnson Mermet Corporation was not content to create just any standard environmental stewardship program for the company. Instead, the Cowpens, S.C.-based innovative solar shade manufacturer went several steps further to create its Weaving Change initiative. The program is a broad-based movement that supports sound environmental textile manufacturing, resource conservation, environmental protection and charitable …
July 1, 2019
Diamond Brand Gear is leading a regional effort to revive the art of sewing through education and collaboration. By Holly Eamon With roots extending to 1881, Diamond Brand Gear in Fletcher, N.C., continually works to build upon its legacy. The outdoor and military gear manufacturer is revitalizing not only its brand but also the industry’s …
June 1, 2019
Owens Corning’s philanthropic efforts, charity work and progressive employee policies have produced impressive results. By Paul Johnson For more than 40 years, Owens Corning, a developer and producer of insulation, roofing and fiberglass composites, has been a supporter of a wide range of philanthropic endeavors and a key partner assisting charitable organizations across the globe. …
May 1, 2019
By Paul Johnson As a world leader in the manufacture of marine, awning and outdoor fabrics, Parà Group makes a wide range of products for iconic brands, such as Ralph Lauren Home, Fendi Home and Missoni. Five state-of-the art factories in Northern Italy produce more than 33,000 pounds of yarn and 32,000 feet of fabric …
April 1, 2019
The YKK Group, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, has implemented a bold and broad-based strategy for energy efficiency, reduced carbon output and sustainability. YKK’s green approach has substantially decreased the environmental impact of its 111 facilities operating in 73 countries and regions. But beyond the environmental benefits, these measures have also lowered operating costs, improved safety …
March 1, 2019
Bud Weisbart was determined to make a difference. He transformed A&R Tarpaulins into a leader in fabric and equipment manufacturing for the aerospace industry, and also turned the company into a beacon of inclusiveness, diversity and multiculturalism. After earning a degree in social service and serving in many social service roles, Weisbart entered the business …
February 1, 2019
Ennis Fabrics in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, has a history that’s steeped in community support. James Ennis Sr. launched Ennis Fabrics in 1972 with a goal to provide better industrial fabrics and service. From a modest 2,500 square-foot warehouse, the company steadily grew, and today it sells 9,000 products from a state-of-the-art office and warehouse that …
