Zipper manufacturers are ever innovating

January 1, 2025  |  Markets, Product Trends

Manufacturers have set out to make a “better zipper” for nearly a century—even longer, if you consider early “slide fastener” and “clasp locker” concepts. When it comes to this small but vital mechanism, innovation is constant.
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Surmountable challenges in making e-textiles

December 1, 2024  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

According to a Business Research Insights market report, the smart fabric segment of the textile industry is poised to grow from $4.19 billion in 2024 to $15.21 billion by 2032, indicating future opportunities to commercialize more smart textiles. However, there are still obstacles that smart produc…
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Fabric + tech: Trade show displays draw in customers

December 1, 2024  |  Markets, Product Trends

Trade shows are all about connecting with customers new and old, and an engaging display using lightweight, vertical assets in eye-catching colors can make that happen. Bright and colorful booths with distinctive features attract foot traffic, and lighting and projection create an experience. Pop-up…
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Smart garments for elderly health care

November 1, 2024  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

Americans over the age of 75 are expected to account for more than 50% of an anticipated population increase of 19 million during the coming decade. This is according to a March 2024 report by Wells Fargo that also warns, “Assuming the share of the population that has difficulty with self-care rem…
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Turkish textile innovations

November 1, 2024  |  Industry in Focus, Markets

Turkey, which changed its name to the Republic of Türkiye in 2022, has a textile industry that dates to the Ottoman Empire and has continued to adapt, thrive and grow into the 21st century. In 2022, the country was ranked as the fourth largest exporter of textiles worldwide, accounting for more tha…
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PFAS’ complicated removal from firefighter turnout gear

November 1, 2024  |  Markets, Product Trends

As textiles move away from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the firefighter turnout-gear market, for one, faces specific concerns. In the past, the market intentionally used PFAS treatments to achieve goals such as oil repellency. Now, health concerns about the “forever” chemicals hav…
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Textiles in the defense industry

October 1, 2024  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

A synergistic relationship exists between defense agencies and the textile industry. Small-to-medium enterprises enjoy support from the defense sector through funding mechanisms such as the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs. Federal agencies, includi…
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Business marketing made simple using AI

October 1, 2024  |  Business, Markets

Full disclosure, I’m not really a marketing guy. When I started AP Consulting more than two years ago, I had no idea what I was doing. And as much as I would like to say I know everything now, I don’t. And that’s OK.
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Custom printed linens unlock growth opportunities

October 1, 2024  |  Markets, Product Trends

In an era inundated with online inspiration, event planners and their clients are continually seeking new ways to stand out while staying on trend—and they’re increasingly turning to customized linens. When every detail makes a difference, a personalized tablecloth pattern or strategically posit…
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Textiles’ role in alternative energy

September 1, 2024  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the amount of renewable capacity added to energy systems around the world grew by 50% in 2023, reaching almost 510 gigawatts (GW), with solar/photovoltaic accounting for three-quarters of additions worldwide.
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