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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Artificial intelligence in textile patterns and sizing

September 1, 2024  |  Industry in Focus, Markets

A lot of uncertainty surrounds artificial intelligence (AI). What are its limitations? How many human jobs will it replace? Can it be trusted with our private information and security? Will it eventually outsmart us and take over the world? The answers to those questions are still unknown, but one t…
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Network with architects to foster shade business development

September 1, 2024  |  Markets, Product Trends

For shade companies, workmanship, expertise, credibility and product knowledge are among their top priorities. This is especially important when building new relationships with prospective clients and collaborators. In a journey to procure projects with architects, the first step is to reach out to …
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Presenting shade to architects and designers

August 19, 2024  |  Awnings & Canopies, Markets

Beyond providing energy savings, glare disruption and overall comfort, shade structures also provide an aesthetic value in design, shape and color.
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Thermal control in wearable technology

August 1, 2024  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

The textile-heated garment industry is revolutionizing how we stay warm. Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA), the organization I work for, is at the forefront of developments in the types of heat sources used, particularly how they are controlled for optimal comfort and efficiency.
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