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SNGPL to restore gas supply to Pak textile sector

2012-01-22T23:10:00.000-08:00

After two days of talks between the representatives of All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) and Petroleum Minister Dr. Asim Hussain, the Sui Southern Gas Pipeline Limited (SNGPL) has issued a notification that it would restore gas supply to textile industries in the Punjab province from January 23, 2012.

SNGPL had stopped supply of gas to textile industries in Punjab from December 25, and had also faltered to keep its promise of restoring gas supply earlier this month.

Subsequently, APTMA had warned that it would shut all industries leading to large-scale unemployment, as textile industries in Punjab employ more than 10 million people.

SNGPL has divided Punjab province into four zones – Gujranwala-Islamabad, Faisalabad-Sargodha, Lahore-Sahiwal, and Multan, Bhawalpur & DG Khan.

Read entire post SNGPL to restore gas supply to Pak textile sector @ Fibre2fashion

China-Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to affect Taiwan’s textile exports

2012-01-19T23:08:00.000-08:00

Taiwan’s textile exports to China are likely to be hit by the China-Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA), negotiations for which are going to start soon, Taiwan’s Bureau of Foreign Trade (BoFT) General Director, Bill Cho, said.

Besides textiles, China-Korea FTA is likely to impact exports of more than 2,000 items to China, particularly when Korea has already inked similar agreements with the EU and the US.

The China-Korea FTA would prove detrimental to Taiwan, especially if it takes form before the conclusion of cross-strait negotiations between Taiwan and China for further facilitations of mutual trade.

According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, industrial machinery, petrochemical materials, machine tools and textile goods are all included in the list of items whose exports from Taiwan to China overlap with those from Korea.

Read entire post China-Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to affect Taiwan’s textile exports @ Fibre2fashion

Mixed market for NZ wool with 72% of total offering

2012-01-18T21:42:00.000-08:00

New Zealand Wool Services International Limited reports that the combined North and South Island Wool auction comprising 18,700 bales saw a mixed market with 72 percent clearance. The weighted indicator for the main trading currencies increased 0.94 percent compared to the last sale on 12th January contributing to a generally softer market.

The stronger NZ dollar combined with current market conditions saw targeted purchasing and variation in levels between selling centres, however, the overall market was generally easier. Mid Micron fleece saw the finer types ease by 3 to 5 percent with the coarser end firming slightly. Fine Crossbred Fleece in both Islands were 1 to 3 percent easier.

Fine Crossbred Shears were 1 to 2 percent cheaper in the South Island and 1 to 4 percent dearer in the North Island apart from the poor styles which were 2.5 percent softer. Coarse Crossbred Fleece were between 2 and 6 percent weaker apart from the Good Style in the North which were up to 2 percent dearer.

Read entire post Mixed market for NZ wool with 72% of total offering @ Fibre2fashion

Textile applications for pineapple and banana waste explored

2012-01-17T21:44:00.000-08:00

Agricultural waste from banana and pineapple, which are eco-friendly and are found in abundance in Philippines, can be used as alternative materials for production of home textiles, apparels, non-woven and industrial fabrics and upholsteries.

Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Philippine Textile Research Institute’s (PTRI) researcher Nora Mangalindan presented the findings of her research at a recent forum.

PTRI aims to help the domestic textile and allied industries in attaining global competitiveness through use of indigenous resources and by enhancing their technical competence in production of textiles and quality assurance.

According to the research, pineapple plantations span on almost 59,000 hectares in Philippines, with majority of them being in Northern Mindanao, Davao Del Norte, Western Visayas, Davao region and Eastern Visayas. This can yield 55,483 tons of pineapple fibre.

Read entire post Textile applications for pineapple and banana waste explored @ Fibre2fashion

Shoou Shyng Launches Cloud Production Equipment for Textiles

2012-01-16T22:25:00.000-08:00

Shoou Shyng Machinery Co Ltd launched a new series of textile industrial cloud production equipment and each equipment contains a huge information system.

Like artificial skin needle punching machine, high-temperature oxidation alumina fibers double-site needle punching machine, 6000 g/m2 super thickness glass fiber needle punching machine, aerospace industrial ceramic fiber needle punching machine, green felt production equipment, Lightweight of automotive interior production line, the V-lap production equipment for heat-proof and Fire-Resistive material in aviation industry and bullet train.

Shoou Shyng’s needle punching machine which has special design is the most elaborate machine in the world.

Read entire post Shoou Shyng Launches Cloud Production Equipment for Textiles @ Fibre2fashion

Pak defers gas supply to Punjab textile industry

2012-01-12T21:29:00.000-08:00

The three days a week gas supply that was to be restored from January 11, 2012 onwards to textile industries in Pakistan’s Punjab would now be restored from January 16, 2012, Federal Petroleum Minister Dr. Asim Hussain assured All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA).

APTMA has strongly criticised Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) for its failure in honouring its obligation of restoring supply from January 11. It stated that this has unnerved not only the textile industry at large, but even the industrial workers.

APTMA cautioned that if the issue is not resolved at the earliest, it is likely to result in large-scale redundancy in the country’s textile industry.

Read entire post Pak defers gas supply to Punjab textile industry @ Fibre2fashion

Cape Wools Merino indicator at record highs

2012-01-11T23:07:00.000-08:00

The first sale of the New Year opened on a positive note when wool prices rose sharply and the Cape Wools Merino indicator gained 7.1% to close the day at a fresh record of R105,15/kg (clean). This is up 49% on the corresponding sale last season and 1% higher than the previous seasonal high.

This is the highest level ever for the South African indicator.

There was keen competition from the various sectors of the trade for quality fleeces and the prices of most of these types rose to well above the R100/kg mark. In the 22-micron category gains of up to 10% were posted.

The price increases were in line with Australia, where the market posted gains just before the Christmas recess and continued to improve at this week’s sales.

The rand was 1.3% weaker against the US dollar compared with the previous sales’ average rate, trading at R8,06, but at R10,28 it was 3.8% stronger against the euro.

REad entire post Cape Wools Merino indicator at record highs @ Fibre2fashion

Ceylon Handlooms back in trend

2012-01-10T22:35:00.000-08:00

The National Level Task Force (NLTF) formed on a high priority basis on December 22 by a top Minister for the development of Sri Lanka’s handloom sector started work on 10 January on the loom industry’s future roadmap as previously scheduled. The new national level project is expected to deliver value and professional structure to Sri Lanka’s $ 13 Mn and growing handlooms sector.

“This effort will bring in Ceylon Handlooms brand to the international markets and also will upgrade and modernise in order to attract more youth to the industry to sustain its long term course. More importantly, this is a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce with various stakeholders such as the private, cooperative and provincial council level industries and the Universities” announced Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka on 10 January at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce at Colombo 03.

Minister Bathiudeen announced this in the immediate aftermath of the in-depth, follow up discussion and presentations held on 10 January after the pioneering meet of the high level taskforce on 22 December at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

Read entire post Ceylon Handlooms back in trend @ Fibre2fashion

Tamil Nadu approves Rs 90 million subsidy for textile parks

2012-01-09T21:27:00.000-08:00

The proposal for providing subsidy of up to Rs. 90 million to all the textile parks to be established in the south Indian State of Tamil Nadu under a consolidated scheme has been approved by the State Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa.

The Chief Minister has approved the proposal with a view to help the State’s textile industry attract more investments, which, in turn, would lead to higher employment generation.

The Jayalalithaa government has been taking several steps to uplift the State’s textile industry by way of introducing several new technologies and innovative ideas.

A consolidated textile park scheme, aimed at ensuring development of the State textile industry through establishment of new parks and attracting new investments, is in existence since 2005.

According to an official release, the CM has given her approval for providing subsidies up to a maximum of Rs. 90 million to the textile parks to further intensify their development, and has also directed establishment of a monitoring committee to oversee implementation of the same.

Read entire post Tamil Nadu approves Rs 90 million subsidy for textile parks @ Fibre2fashion

TN handloom artisans to get new designs for sarees

2012-01-08T22:31:00.000-08:00

With an eye to help the handloom artisans in the south Indian State of Tamil Nadu to get acquainted with the changing market requirements and exercise a firm foothold in the field, the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Chennai, has undertaken a Design Development Project together with the Directorate of Handloom and Textiles.

Pursuant to the project, NIFT is creating some 700 contemporary, marketable designs for home furnishings and sarees, which would be presented to artisans in handloom clusters in Virudhnagar, Erode, Coimbatore and Dindigul.

The new designs would help artisans to better understand the present-day market requirements and produce products which can stand up to changing market requirements.

In addition, the State government has also undertaken a cluster development programme to make weavers’ groups self-sustaining and to increase their visibility.

Read entire post TN handloom artisans to get new designs for sarees @ Fibre2fashion

NY cotton futures leap over holiday period

2012-01-06T22:23:00.000-08:00

Plexus Cotton Limited reports that New York futures made a big move to the upside over the holidays, with March gaining 750 points since December 22 to close at 94.74 cents.

After closing at 85.12 cents on December 14, the market has rallied an impressive 962 points over the last 14 sessions. However, while this move looks quite constructive on the chart, the fact that open interest has been declining sharply on Tuesday and Wednesday should be seen as a warning sign. Typically a powerful uptrend is validated by strong volume and rising open interest, which signals that a trend has momentum.

Surprisingly, open interest increased by only 1'531 contracts since December 14, which is not what we would expect to see in a ten cents move. Even more disappointing is that March open interest decreased by 7'880 lots, with most of this drop happening over the last two sessions.

This indicates that it was primarily short covering and profit taking that fueled the last four cents of the advance. Once the shorts are done covering, the buying will have to come from some other source, otherwise upside momentum will stall.

A lot of the short covering seems to be tied to the selling of physical cotton. When basis-long positions get sold to mills, merchants buy back the futures short that was hedging the physical long position.

Read entire post NY cotton futures leap over holiday period @ Fibre2fashion

Signature decorative fabrics & trims on display at Calico

2012-01-05T23:01:00.000-08:00

Fabrics by Designer Charlotte Moss Debut at Calico Corners – Calico Home stores. Pretty patterns and updated classics in prints and jacquards arrive from noted designer, author and style-setter Charlotte Moss.

Interior designer Charlotte Moss has spent a lifetime creating elegant and inspired rooms. Now she has brought that signature style to her new collection of 92 decorative fabrics and 75 color-coordinated trims, all available at retail at the Calico Corners – Calico Home stores across the country and online.

With this collection, Moss brings to life her favorite designs in painterly patterns, pretty colors and a wonderful marriage of textures. "I approached this collection almost as if it were a wardrobe for rooms," explains Moss. "I feel fabrics should be instantly appealing, elegant and comfortable, and adaptable to different rooms and uses."

Making the collection well rounded—with lots of coordinates in wovens and prints and trimmings—was an important goal. "I want to inspire the customer to create her own vision—her look—with enough choices to do it easily and stylishly," adds Moss.

Many fabrics in the Charlotte Moss collection are inspired by antique textile documents and vintage clothing picked up on her travels. Other patterns are drawn from nature or adapted from motifs that she uses again and again in her residential design work.

Read more about Signature decorative fabrics & trims on display at Calico @ Fibre2fashion

Brazilian cotton exports may rise 42.4% in 2011

2012-01-04T22:34:00.000-08:00

In early 2011, sellers were optimistic regarding cotton prices and, in March, quotes hit record levels in both domestic and international markets. This led to an increase in the planted area and global supply moved up. The demand, however, has not followed the same pace. Cotton was traded at record values, so, purchasers were looking for cheaper alternatives.

Consequently, the demand for artificial fibers has grown, reducing the demand for cotton yarn. Cotton quotes shrank, but purchases of natural fibers, such as cotton, did not increase quickly as expected.

In the first three months of 2011, values in both the domestic and international markets upped, hitting a record in March, despite the low liquidity. In that time, agents wondered what limit quotes would hit.

Read more about Brazilian cotton exports may rise 42.4% in 2011 @ Fibre2fashion

ICAC estimates global cotton use to decline by 2%

2012-01-03T22:51:00.000-08:00

The International Cotton Advisory committee (ICAC) presented Global cotton production is forecast 8% higher in 2011/12, compared with 2010/11, at 26.8 million tons, whereas consumption could decline by 2% to 23.9 million tons.

As a result of the projected surplus of 2.9 million tons, global cotton stocks could rebound to 11.9 million tons by the end of 2011/12. This recovery follows two seasons of relatively tight global stocks.

Almost 40% of the gain in global stocks this season could take place in China, due to the rebuilding of the national reserve. Between October 8 and December 30, 2011, a total of 2.1 million tons of domestic cotton were purchased for the China national reserve. Daily purchases are continuing.

There is no limit to the amount of domestic cotton to be purchased by the national reserve this season. In addition, it is reported that about one million tons of non-Chinese cotton has been bought for the reserve; this cotton will be shipped to China over the next few months.

Read more about ICAC estimates global cotton use to decline by 2% @ Fibre2fashion

Solar machine to revolutionize Indian silk reeling

2012-01-02T21:31:00.000-08:00

The traditional tiring technique of reeling silk, under which first cocoons are soaked in a pot and then yarn is spun manually, is likely to come to an end with the launch of the Solar Multi Muga Reeling cum Spinning Machine.

The new machine is so devised that it can simultaneously carry out the reeling as well as spinning jobs for different varieties of silk like Mulberry, Muga, Eri and Tasar without any laborious human effort.

The new machine is a brain child of Mr. Manoharmayum Manihar Sharma, an innovator and a master craftsman of Adarsh Kartha (Marked) Industries based in Nongmeibung Pung Makhong, near Imphal, the capital of Northeast Indian State of Manipur.

The machine designed by Mr. Manihar uses a solar plate to operate, which has a capacity to charge 17 volt to 15 watt on a usual sunlit day.

In the absence of sunlight, the machine has a 12 volt-2 amp charger attached to it, which acts as a back-up to support its operations.

Read more about Solar machine to revolutionize Indian silk reeling @ Fibre2fashion

Oerlikon Saurer shows the Volkmann Heat-SET at Domotex 2012

2012-01-01T23:23:00.000-08:00

Domotex is the major trade fair for the floor covering industry and from 14th to 17th January 2012 is sure to once again attract the top specialist trade to Hanover. Visitors are welcomed to the Oerlikon Saurer Stand A31 in Hall 5. The Volkmann Product Line, the market leader for twisting and cabling systems for the production of carpet yarns, presents the new, innovative Heat-SET system.

With Heat-SET, the integration of heat-setting in the classic cabling process, the Volkmann Product Line sets a further milestone in carpet yarn manufacture. For the first time it is now possible to unite the process steps of cabling, heat-setting and winding in one work phase. Cabling and heat-setting are normally separate processes whereby the yarns are rewound respectively. The first step is the mechanical finish, followed by thermal stabilizing. Package handling and storage times should be taken into account.

Volkmann Heat-SET now combines the two finishing stages in a new method with only one rewinding process. This has many economic benefits; the production time is significantly reduced at the same time producing top quality, classic cabled BCF yarn.

Read entire post Oerlikon Saurer shows the Volkmann Heat-SET at Domotex 2012 @ Fibre2fashion

Unicef to launch child rights project in Sindh cotton areas

2011-12-30T22:00:00.000-08:00

In an attempt to eliminate child labour and present children with a better future, the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (Unicef) has decided to initiate a child rights project in the cotton farming areas of Khairpur and Ghotki districts in Sindh province of Pakistan.

An Unicef official at the District Commissioner’s office in Ghotki said the main reason behind selecting the two districts for their child rights project was that children of the area are deployed in cotton picking or such other tasks by their parents or other persons due to financial adversities.

The official further informed that Unicef intends to set up temporary schools in the region to impart knowledge to those children who are currently not getting education.

The project would also try to persuade members of union councils in the two districts to admit their children in temporary Unicef schools, he added.

Read entire post Unicef to launch child rights project in Sindh cotton areas @ Fibre2fashion

Cameroon raises cotton price to curb smuggling

2011-12-29T22:16:00.000-08:00

In an effort to deter cotton growers from smuggling their harvested crop to neighbouring Nigeria, Cameroon’ state firm SODECOTTON has raised its procurement price of raw cotton from last season’s 200 CFA francs per kg to 255 CFA francs (US$ 0.5) per kg, a rise of 27.5 percent.

SODECOTTON said the move is aimed at discouraging illegal export of raw cotton to bordering Nigeria in expectation of higher returns there.

It said Cameroon farmers illegally exported around 16 percent of their last season’s total production to Nigeria, where they reaped almost double the prices for their produce as compared to domestic market.

The state firm pre-finances the farmers’ by providing them fertilizers, seedlings and other inputs. In exchange, the farmers enter into a contract for selling their produce to the firm.

However, the farmers breached this agreement and preferred to illegally ship out their produce to Nigeria in expectation of better returns, which caused SODECOTTON to incur a loss of around 24 billion CFA francs (US$ 47.37 million) this year.

Read entire post Cameroon raises cotton price to curb smuggling @ Fibre2fashion

Wesley Mancini Rug Collection launched

2011-12-28T22:41:00.000-08:00

Wesley Mancini, Ltd., in partnership with Due Process Stable Trading Co., officially unveiled a selection of their new rug design offerings to members of the home furnishings industry at the bi-annual ITMA Showtime Market in High Point, NC on Tuesday, December 6.

With this most recent partnership, Due Process continues its trend to innovate and expand by becoming the first rug company to be accepted into the International Textile Market Association.

Membership with the ITMA will allow Due Process to bring the company's experience and product offerings to a new range of related industries which have never previously included floor coverings in their design catalogs or sales strategies, and help turn area rugs into an integral part of their overall business.

According to David Grasse, President of Due Process, "This partnership is an incredible opportunity for us and our clients. The rug industry is becoming increasingly driven by fashion."

"With fabrics at the forefront of the latest fashion trends, we are excited to be the first and only rug manufacturer to bridge the gap between these two industries in order to bring such desirable designs and patterns from Wesley Mancini to our rug offerings."

Read entire post Wesley Mancini Rug Collection launched @ Fibre2fashion

Samsung Total to set up one million tons PX plant

2011-12-27T22:51:00.000-08:00

Samsung Total Petrochemicals will invest US $1.44 billion to set up a greenfield paraxylene (PX) plant at its existing Daesan complex in South Korea.

The new plant which will have a PX capacity of one million metric tons is expected to be begin commercial operations in the third quarter of 2014.

Samsung Total is a joint venture between South Korea based Samsung Group and French chemical major Total Group.

With the addition of new PX capacity in 2014, PX capacity at Samsung Total will touch 1.6 million metric tons.

Read entire post Samsung Total to set up one million tons PX plant @ Fibre2fashion

‘Ensure women’s participation in Pakistan handicrafts’

2011-12-26T21:15:00.000-08:00

Stating that women have an important role to play in the country’s development, those participating in the Helping Hand Relief and Development (HHRD) programme laid emphasis on ensuring participation of women in the country’s handicraft industry.

Rural women from across the country participated in the programme and displayed their handicrafts, which greatly interested the people.

HHRD Country Director Fazal Ur Rehman said that in this modern age, it is not possible for any country to attain success and long term development without skill enhancement and technical training.

He added that promotion of technical and vocational skills is vital for sustainable growth of any country, and equally important is to impart skills to people and to motivate them to work and strive for excellence, to set an example for generations to come.

Mr. Rehman said that the programme is aimed at providing skill development training and enhancing the skills of rural women.

Read entire post ‘Ensure women’s participation in Pakistan handicrafts’ @ Fibre2fashion

NTC unveils new logo to revamp image

2011-12-25T22:10:00.000-08:00

As a part of its efforts aimed at earning itself a recognition as a world class textile firm, the state-owned National Textile Corporation (NTC) has adopted a new corporate logo that echoes its new image.

Unveiling the new logo, Union Textiles Minister Anand Sharma said the Government is determined to develop NTC as a world class environment-friendly integrated textile firm and a representative and leader of the industry.

The revival-cum-modernisation programme and unveiling of the new corporate logo form a part of these efforts, he said.

He said the current efforts would surely help the Corporation, which is a key textile industry player, to develop into an integrated enterprise with a capacity to satisfy the needs of the nation.

With its highly competitive revitalization strategy, NTC has remarkably emerged as a debt-free firm within just a short period of time, the Minister added.

The Minister also unveiled two refurbished stores of NTC via satellite link up. One of these stores is located in Delhi, while the other one is in Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore. This forms a part of refurbishing of the Corporation’s 93 outlets which would have the new look of NTC across the country.

Read entire post NTC unveils new logo to revamp image @ Fibre2fashion

‘Christmas mood’ - small gains in NY cotton market

2011-12-23T22:58:00.000-08:00

Plexus Cotton Limited reports that New York futures went nowhere this week in thin pre-holiday trading, as March edged up 95 points to close at 87.24 cents.

A look at the daily trading volume says it all, as the highest turnover amounted to just 9'136 contracts. Interestingly though, many of the traders that were active added new bets, because open interest increased by around 4'000 contracts since last Thursday. Obviously there are still some traders seeking protection against further declines, but there are also some new longs entering the market.

The Chinese Reserve continued its support by taking yet another 1.0 million statistical bales of domestic cotton into its stockpile, bringing the total amount to 8.2 million bales, not counting an estimated 4.5 million bales of imports. Many observers now feel that the Reserve will lift as many as 18.0 million bales of domestic and imported cotton off the market, which would be more than the global production surplus this season.

Read entire post ‘Christmas mood’ - small gains in NY cotton market @ Fibre2fashion

Low import duty hits Himachal silk growers

2011-12-22T22:09:00.000-08:00

The Central Government’s move of reducing import duty on raw silk from 30 percent to 5.15 percent through its 2011-12 Budget has come as a major blow to the sericulture industry of Himachal Pradesh.

The effects of the Central Government’s move were visible in the declining silk cocoon prices, as the autumn crop arrived in the market this year, Himachal Pradesh Minister for Industries Kishan Kapoor said.

He informed that the move has impacted livelihood of more than 9,000 sericulture farmers of Himachal Pradesh, who are directly engaged in cocoon cultivation in the State, particularly in lower hills of Mandi, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Sirmaur and Kangra districts.

Read entire post Low import duty hits Himachal silk growers @ Fibre2fashion

Chairman APTMA concerned over alarming decline in textile exports

2011-12-21T22:54:00.000-08:00

Chairman All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) has expressed deep concerns over alarming decline in textile exports during November 2011 due to energy shortage and high interest rate.

He said the five major sectors of textile industry, including cotton yarn, cotton cloth, knitwear, bed wear and towel have registered steep fall in quantity terms during November 2011.

Chairman APTMA said the textile exports of cotton yarn have declined by 11 percent in November 2011 against corresponding period, followed by 22 percent drop in cotton cloth, 38 percent in knitwear, 40 percent bed wear and 20 percent in towel in quantity terms.

He said the decline is worsening with every passing month since the start of new fiscal year, which means there is less production for exports in the country due to obvious reasons.

According to him, the APTMA has been crying over the situation since day one and the latest report of the SBP annual report has corroborated the APTMA concerns.

The SBP annual report has pointed out that the manufacturing sector has suffered a serious setback. The industrial growth was negative 0.1 percent in financial 2011 due to prolonged power outages and reduction in gas supplies.

Read entire post Chairman APTMA concerned over alarming decline in textile exports @ Fibre2fashion

Woolmark launches 'Wool Celebration' campaign to throw light on wool benefits

2011-12-20T22:33:00.000-08:00

Welcome winters this year with the ‘Wool Celebration’ campaign by Woolmark, subsidiary of Australian Wool Innovation Limited. This is a unique initiative by Woolmark, a not-for-profit company owned by 30,000 Australian woolgrowers to educate Indian consumers about the benefits of wool and the various attributes of Merino, world’s finest wool fabric.

‘Wool Celebration’ will be celebrated in the shopping malls across North India where leading brands and retailers offer quality woolen products.

The major brands closely associated with the initiative including Raymond, Monte Carlo, Reid & Taylor, Park Avenue, Gadoni of Italy, ColorPlus and Shingora among others will play a vital role in conveying the message to consumers via in- store promotions. Exciting events, games and fun activities will be organized in & around the malls to mark the celebrations.

Expressing his excitement on introducing this campaign to India, Mr. Amir Sheikh, Country Manager, India says “Wool is a premium fibre and products made of wool should have consumers’ full confidence. The campaign is an attempt by Woolmark Services India Private Limited, a subsidiary of Australian Wool Innovation, to educate Indian consumers about fine wool. We want Indian consumers to fall in love with wool all over yet again.”

He further adds, “Wool is not just a functional requirement but is becoming a fashion prerequisite of Indian consumers. The growing consumer demand for premium and differentiated products make it imminent to educate Indian consumers about versatility of wool and help them to buy best natural product.

Read entire post Woolmark launches 'Wool Celebration' campaign to throw light on wool benefits @ Fibre2fashion

China to assist African nations on cotton production

2011-12-19T21:26:00.002-08:00

China will be extending technical and financial support for cotton production over next few years to four leading African cotton producing countries (C4), namely, Burkina Faso, Mali, Benin and Chad.

The joint programme was announced by Chinese Commerce Minister Chen Deming and Ministers or representatives of the C4 countries.

Technical assistance in researches, sponsorship for training projects, technology transfer, experience sharing, and provision of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and agricultural machinery would all form a part of the two-way support programme.

Mr. Chen said some of the Chinese apparel and textile industries may shift to Africa in due course of time, and added that some such instances of relocation are visible at present.

Read entire post China to assist African nations on cotton production @ Fibre2fashion

Pleasing sales in Aussie wool market

2011-12-18T21:30:00.000-08:00

Australian Wool Industries Secretariat Inc (AWIS) releases wool sale report for the week ending 16th December 2011.

The Australian Wool Exchange (AWEX) Regional Indicators finished 2.2% higher, on average, in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle this week when the US exchange rate fell by 3.6%. These were the last sales prior to the three week Christmas break.

The market stated slowly on Tuesday, but gained strong momentum on Wednesday after reports of sales to China, and later sales in Europe. The upward movement continued on Thursday, when only the South sold. It was a pleasing finish prior to the three week Christmas break. The fall in the US exchange rate was helpful in a week of low global economic confidence.

The Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) has finished the first half of the season at 1189¢, 158¢ higher than in the same week last year. The season average of 1233¢ is 302¢ higher than the season average at the end of Week 24 last year.

The bigger rise in the Western Indicator was associated with increases of 36¢ and 53¢, respectively in the 18.0 and 18.5 AWEX Micron Price Guide (MPGs) in Fremantle on Tuesday.

Read entire post Pleasing sales in Aussie wool market @ Fibre2fashion

WA growers to benefit from new Spearwood wool store

2011-12-16T21:06:00.000-08:00

Elders Limited has welcomed the announcement by AWH Pty Ltd to relocate to a modern warehousing facility within the Spearwood Distribution Park in mid-2012.

Elders Zone General Manager – West, James Cornish said West Australian wool growers will benefit from Elders and the selling centre moving into the new facility, just 200m from the current location.

“Having our show floor, selling centre and offices all in the same building will provide efficiencies for wool growers and all who use the facility,” he said.

The new wool store and selling centre has state of the art unloading facilities and is designed to have a quick turnaround for unloading of both large and small trucks and facilities for clients to inspect their wool alongside representatives from global wool buyers.

“Elders looks forward to meeting our clients at the new facility in 2012 and providing them with the opportunity to see first hand this latest investment in the WA wool industry,” James saiid.

“The wool industry has changed significantly over recent decades and the move to a modern and consolidated facility is a sign that wool handlers and brokers are adapting to grower requirements,” he said.

Read entire post WA growers to benefit from new Spearwood wool store @ Fibre2fashion

Teijin begins recovery efforts at polyester units

2011-12-15T22:55:00.000-08:00

Teijin Limited announced that efforts to restore operations have begun at three facilities in Thailand, where operations have been suspended due to flooding since October.

The facilities are Teijin Polyester (Thailand) Limited in Pathum Thani Province, Teijin (Thailand) Limited in the Bang Pa-in Industrial Estate and Teijin Cord (Thailand) Co., Ltd. in the Rojana Industrial Park, the latter two both located in Ayutthaya Province.

Efforts to identify the level of damage to facilities and equipment are underway, following the complete removal of floodwaters from the facilities in the end of November. Teijin plans to increase the number of technical staff dispatched from Japan to support the earliest possible resumption of operations.

To minimize the impact on supply chains and deliveries, which vary by customer and product, Teijin has shifted fiber production to other plants outside Thailand, including Teijin Fibers’ Matsuyama Plant in Japan, Tifico Fiber Indonesia Tbk in Indonesia and manufacturers in Taiwan.

Although Teijin personnel have been affected by the flooding, no casualty has been reported among group employees or their families.

If Teijin concludes that group performance is expected to experience a significant impact due to the effects of the flooding, relevant information will be disclosed immediately.

Teijin is a global technology-driven group operating in eight main fields: aramid fibers, carbon fibers & composites, polyester fibers, plastics, films, medical & pharmaceuticals, fiber products marketing and IT businesses.

Read more about Teijin begins recovery efforts at polyester units @ Fibre2fashion

Cotton Fabric Cleans Itself When Exposed to Ordinary Sunlight

2011-12-14T23:35:00.000-08:00

Washington, Dec 15 (IANS) Scientists from China are developing a cotton fabric that can clean itself of stains and bugs when exposed to ordinary sunlight.

Environmental researchers Mingce Long and Deyong Wu, from Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Hubei University for Nationalities, China, say their fabric uses a coating made from a compound of titanium dioxide, the white material used in white paint, foods and sunscreen lotions.

Titanium dioxide breaks down dirt and kills microbes when exposed to some type of light. It is used in self-cleaning windows, kitchen and bathroom tiles, odour-free socks and other products, the journal Applied Materials & Interfaces reported.

Self-cleaning cotton fabrics have been made in the past, but they self-clean thoroughly only when exposed to ultraviolet rays.

A new cotton fabric has been developed that cleans itself when exposed to ordinary sunlight, said a statement of the American Chemical Society.

Their report describes cotton fabric coated with nanoparticles made from a compound of titanium dioxide and nitrogen, said the statement.

The report shows how the fabric coated with the material removes an orange dye stain when exposed to sunlight. Dispersing the nanoparticles composed of silver and iodine accelerates the discoloration process. The coating remains intact after washing and drying.

View more Textile News at Fibre2fashion

‘We specialize in tailor-made solutions’ – Parth, KB Corp

2011-12-14T21:31:00.000-08:00

“Share your idea of any textile equipment or machine with us and our excellent R&D team will design and deliver a tailor-made solution”, says a confident Parth Panchal. Parth aged 29, is Director (Sales) and also overlooks export sales of KB Corporation, a textile machinery and equipment manufacturer.

KB Corporation established in 1967 by Mr JR Panchal, offers complete range of dyeing to drying machines in batch/continuous form. It also has in its product portfolio, size preparation equipments and colour kitchen equipments for denim production. It also specializes in delivering tailor-made solutions for the wet processing & finishing industry.

The major product mix of KB Corporation includes, Cabinet Yarn Dyeing Machine, Continues Yarn Dryers, Hydro extractor, Continuous Dryer, Size Preparation Vessels, Size Storage Vessels, Braiding Machines, etc.

Ahmedabad based, KB Corporation was one of the early pioneers of open-width machines in the mid-1970s, when the technology at that time in use was, rope dyeing and bleaching. It has a modern machinery production plant and is also in the process of setting up a new plant nearby Ahmedabad.

Within India, KB Corporation supplies to prestigious textile majors like Arvind, Raymond, Soma Textiles, Ashima Syntex, Reliance Industries, Asarwa Mills, etc.

Read entire post ‘We specialize in tailor-made solutions’ – Parth, KB Corp @ Fibre2fashion

Impact of Thai Floods on Toray’s Operations

2011-12-13T22:13:00.000-08:00

Toray Industries Inc. announced the latest situation regarding the impact of the large-scale floods in Thailand on Toray Group’s operations, the details of which are described below.

Damage Status
Ayutthaya Plant of Thai Toray Synthetics Co., Ltd. (TTS), which halted operations on the evening of October 6, began its restoration works on November 28 and is expected to restart from the end of March 2012.

TTS’s Bangkok Plant, which also halted operations on October 26 as areas near the plant got inundated (no flooding in the plant), began its restoration works on November 17 and has resumed production on December 1.

The plants of Thai Toray Textile Mills (TTTM) and TTS in Nakhon Pathom, wihch also suspended their operations for a similar reason by November 1 (partially flooded), have resumed production at TTTM on November 21 and TTS on December 4.

There has been no material or personnel damage due to the floods at Toray group companies or plants other than at Ayutthaya Plant and Nakhon Pathom Plant of TTS.

All the employees on dispatch from Toray to Thailand who had temporarily returned to Japan are back in Thailand by November 17.

Their families are also in the process of returning.

Impact on Fiber Product (Yarns) Supply
Toray has been earnestly responding to the impact on fiber product (yarn) supply following the closedown of the above plants by increasing production at group companies and replacing the products with other types of products. At the same time, the company expects only a minimal impact on supply in the Japanese market, partly because of the small volume of yarn exports from TTS to the Japanese market.

Read entire post Impact of Thai Floods on Toray’s Operations @ Fibre2fashion

In January 2012 - New LYCRA fibre technology to be launched

2011-12-12T21:08:00.000-08:00

INVISTA, one of the world's largest integrated producers of polymers and fibres, will announce a cutting-edge advancement in LYCRA fibre technology in Paris in January. The innovation, called LYCRA fibre with W Technology, is designed to offer the European fabric industry a new level of performance in an elastane fibre for intimate apparel, offering improved whiteness retention, uniformity and brilliant colour clarity for fabrics and garments.

For the intimate apparel industry, this technology will enhance styling flexibility with increased confidence, and will be the foundation for both whites and fashion colours. It will be ideal for both warp and circular knit fabrics, delivering visible improvements and allowing robust mill processing.
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“This new product will provide a solution for more attractive garments with higher visual impact, which is especially important for moulded garments,” said Steve Stewart, INVISTA Apparel Global Director of Intimate Apparel & Swimwear. “In a market where excellent whites and fashion colours are a requirement, LYCRA fibre with W Technology will be key to providing customers with quality they can see,” he said.

“It will incorporate new spinning, luster, and dye-uptake technologies to make the fibre the invisible secret that delivers truly visible improvements,” Stewart added.

Read entire post In January 2012 - New LYCRA fibre technology to be launched @ Fibre2fashion

We need to find urgent solution to cotton issue - AProCA

2011-12-11T22:55:00.000-08:00

The Doha Round has ten years. Ten years now that what was supposed to make international trade a development tool for all the members of the World Trade Organization and more specifically the poor countries, sounds like a mirage. Ten years
Meetings come one after another and that discussions tall. Ten years of missed appointment and betrayed hopes.

- Gathered in General Assembly December 6, 2011 in Banjul, Republic of the Gambia,
- Recognizing the predominant place of cotton in the economies of cotton-producing countries,
- Recognizing the adverse effects of the subsidies granted by rich countries to their producers in the global cotton market, adversely affecting the development of the African cotton sector and their contribution to national economies,
- Recognizing the bottlenecks in international trade negotiations under the World Trade Organization (WTO) on Doha Round,

We, cotton producers, grouped in the Association of African Cotton Producers (AProCA), are launching urgent appeal to governments and all stakeholders involved in international trade negotiations to a swift conclusion of the Doha Round.

Read entire post We need to find urgent solution to cotton issue - AProCA @ Fibre2fashion

20 years bioRe

2011-12-08T21:19:00.000-08:00

The production of fashionable textiles from fair-trade organic cotton through a controlled and transparent process chain. The idealistic project which started in 1991 has long since been transformed into a successful enterprise.

Today, Remei AG is coordinating 48 businesses, which means that we have a responsibility for approximately eighty to a hundred thousand people, above all over 8000 farmers in India and Tanzania. Numerous projects have been completed successfully, such as building some 2560 biogas plants, 2500 fuel-efficient smokeless stoves, 20 village schools, and a training centre in India and one in Tanzania to promote organic cultivation.

It will going to celebrate its 20th jubilee.

All of which stands as proof of the single most important fact – that it is indeed possible to profitably produce and sell cotton while observing the precepts of fairness, ecology, and economy. We have made a lot of improvements – however, one thing remains the same:

Patrick Hohmann, CEO Remei AG: Our vision: Ready to wear fashion, ready to take responsibility.

We would like to thank all our customers, partners and business associates for their belief, idealism and daily commitment to making the success of bioRe possible and we hope for your continuous support.

Read entire post 20 years bioRe @ Fibre2fashion

First International Fair of cotton products starts in Turkmenistan

2011-12-07T22:23:00.000-08:00

The first International Fair of domestic cotton products began in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan.

The fair is intended at generating higher global awareness regarding the country’s accomplishment in agricultural sector, experience sharing with world’s top-most manufacturers and deliberating with foreign firms and enterprises on cooperation issues.

Inaugurating the fair, Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov highlighted cotton as one of the key export-oriented agricultural product of the country.

He said each year textile industry base of Turkmenistan if further strengthened and several new businesses have been established and projects commissioned during the past few years. As a result, the country is able to gradually enhance its volume of cotton production.

Read entire post First International Fair of cotton products starts in Turkmenistan @ Fibre2fashion

Fourth Silk Mark Expo opens in Chennai

2011-12-06T22:58:00.000-08:00

The fourth edition of the Silk Mark Expo organized by the Chennai chapter of Silk Mark Organisation of India (SMOI) opened on December 7 in Chennai.

The aim of the expo is to generate awareness regarding the Silk Mark, a quality assurance label, and to promote the silk industry. The exhibition will continue till December 12.

Several authorised users of the quality mark from 16 States are exhibiting their silk products prepared from Tussar, Muga, Mulberry and Eri varieties of silk through over 60 stalls set up at the Expo, Mr. PM Pandi, Deputy Director (Insp.) and Senior Executive, SMOI Regional Development Office, said.

In a move to generate awareness amongst buyers and to help people learn about genuine silk, a number of contests are being organized during the event whereby people would be asked to identify samples of mixed silk, non-silk and pure silk. Besides, silk testing facilities are also being offered at the Expo, Mr. Pandi said.

Funded by Central Silk Board, Union Ministry of Textiles, SMOI is trying to generate awareness regarding the Silk Mark which is intended to help the customers to identify genuine silk.

Mr. Pandi said SMOI allows the use of Silk Mark on the products of the members only after they have established credentials as producers, retailers and exporters of authenticate silk. Presently, 400 authorised Silk Mark users are registered with the Chennai chapter of SMOI.

Read entire post Fourth Silk Mark Expo opens in Chennai @ Fibre2fashion

Over 600 industrial units shut over gas load shedding in Faisalabad

2011-12-06T01:23:00.000-08:00

Annoyed by the abrupt announcement made by the Sui Northern Gas Pipeline Limited (SNGPL) to increase the gas load-shedding from the earlier three days per week to four days a week, several textile industries in Pakistan’s Faisalabad have shutdown.

To protest against the SNGPL’s decision, over 600 industries, majority of them being value-added and export-oriented textile units, have closed. Besides industrialists, the protest is being supported by textile associations.

As claimed by the textile industry of the north zone, a steady rise in load-shedding coupled with low gas pressure is adding to the woes of the entrepreneurs as well as public. Moreover, the daily wage workers associated with the industry now would also have to endure a four-day per week redundancy.

Christmas export orders are very important for textile industry as the EU and the US buyers place bulk orders for made ups, textiles and garments during this period to meet requirements of domestic retailers and other customers who look forward to shop for their winter apparels in the month of December.

Read entire post Over 600 industrial units shut over gas load shedding in Faisalabad @ Fibre2fashion

IFAI Expo Asia 2012 postponed

2011-12-04T21:26:00.000-08:00

The Industrial Fabrics Association International announced that due to the uncertainty of the completion of construction at the Suntec Center, and the continuing softness of the global economy, it will postpone its IFAI Expo Asia 2012 trade event originally scheduled for 26-28 June at the Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

According to IFAI's conference management vice president Todd Lindemann, "This decision will allow us to evaluate the date and venue for the event. We expect the second edition of IFAI Expo Asia to be bigger and draw larger attendance, and we are carefully planning for that success."

IFAI Expo Asia 2011 had a strong premiere 22-25 March 2011 in Singapore at the Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre. The combined specialty fabrics trade exhibition and symposiums covered the spectrum of the cutting-edge developments occurring in the industry.

Read more about IFAI Expo Asia 2012 postponed @ Fibre2fashion

Quite increase in New York cotton futures

2011-12-02T21:33:00.000-08:00

Plexus Cotton Limited reports that NY futures have moved considerably lower since our last report on November 17, with March dropping 518 points to close at 91.30 cents.

The bearish wave, which has been gathering momentum in recent weeks, became potent enough to breach the "Chinese Wall" of support, taking prices to new 14-month lows. The move was all the more impressive since it happened in the face of very strong US export sales, totaling more than 2.5 million statistical bales over a 3-week period. But as the old saying goes - "it's not the news itself that matters, but how the market reacts to the news"!

Interestingly, it was the speculators that were responsible for the selling, as they either bailed out of long positions or added new shorts in reaction to a technical breakdown in cotton and all the uncertainty surrounding the sovereign debt crisis. In the week of November 22, during which the market dropped 10 cents in just three days, large and small speculators sold 11'386 contracts net, while the trade (+10'707 contracts) and index funds (+679 contracts) were net buyers.

Read entire post Quite increase in New York cotton futures @ Fibre2fashion

Bemz launches "Loose Fit - Urban', a new style of unique, contemporary slipcovers for IKEA furniture

2011-11-29T23:12:00.000-08:00

Bemz, the Swedish company that allows customers to personalize their IKEA sofas and chairs announced the addition of "Loose Fit – Urban" 100% washed linen slipcovers to the successful Loose Fit range. The "Loose Fit – Urban" style will be available as slipcovers on the Bemz website for the Karlanda, Karlstad, Klippan, Henriksdal, Nils, Klappsta and Kivik furniture ranges beginning early 2012.

The Urban look is characterized by an edgier, more metropolitan influence in contrast to its kinder rural counterpart, the "Loose Fit – Country Style". Bemz's new slipcovers take their cues from the latest in interior design trends: subdued and elegant with a sophisticated, slightly looser fit. The seams are purposely apparent, with every aspect of the cover cut and sewn by hand using extreme precision and care.

"The Loose Fit collection allows our customers to transform an IKEA sofa using both color and form in an exciting way," says Lesley Pennington, CEO and founder of Bemz. "It will be great to see how the Bemz fans adopt this new urban look and make it their own."

The Loose fit collection, now consisting of the Urban and the popular Country styles, are manufactured using exclusive Rosendal Pure Washed linen from Belgium, a country with a centuries-old tradition of flax cultivation and processing.

The fabric is pre-washed to give it that soft, vintage-like, wrinkled look. The slipcovers are available in a variety of colors: Absolute White, Soft White, Unbleached, Medium Grey, Brown, Sage and Lavender. With the latest additions, there are over 180 fabrics to choose from on the Bemz website.

Read entire post Bemz launches "Loose Fit - Urban', a new style of unique, contemporary slipcovers for IKEA furniture @ Fibre2fashion

Unpaid drawback claims affects Pakistani textile exporters

2011-11-28T21:46:00.000-08:00

The Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA) has claimed that working capital of the country’s textile exporters’ worth about PKR 25 billion is blocked under several duty drawback schemes, which is affecting the country’s exports and is also causing a negative effect on the nation’s economy.

After the end of quota system in textile trade, exporters were provided with research and development facilities in order to help them enhance their exports. However, the facility was suspended after a couple of years in 2008, following which some refund claims are still lying unpaid, which is causing the exporters to suffer financial crisis and is also hampering their business flow as their working capital remains blocked.

Meanwhile, with a view to help the textile exporters, the present Government introduced another drawback of local taxes and levies (DLTL) scheme under its Textile Policy in 2009. The scheme met with positive response from the side of exporters and the country’s overall exports surged above US$ 24 billion, while textile exports jumped above US$ 13 billion.

However, the drawback facility as promised under the scheme was not honoured fully and just 14.67 percent of the claims submitted by the exporters have been paid till now, due to which considerable amount of working capital of the exporters is still blocked with the Government.

Read entire post Unpaid drawback claims affects Pakistani textile exporters @ Fibre2fashion

Soft trading in Aussie wool market

2011-11-27T21:41:00.000-08:00

Australian Wool Industries Secretariat Inc (AWIS) releases wool sale report for the week ending 25th November 11.

The Australian Wool Exchange (AWEX) Regional Indicators finished 0.7% lower, on average, at sales in Newcastle, Melbourne and Fremantle this week when the US exchange rate fell by 3.7%.

It was another market that finished in a different manner to the way it started. All Regional Indicators were down in both currencies on their first days of selling, with the fall in A¢ partly buffered by the fall in the US exchange rate. The situation reversed on Thursday, when demand was strong from the start, and the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) rose by 2¢ in US¢ and by 18¢ in A¢.

The fall on Tuesday was not unexpected, given the general global financial concerns and the soft finish the previous week. However, the upturn on Thursday surprised most people, as the global economic outlook was unchanged on Wednesday night. There were trade reports of inquiry from China and Italy on Wednesday night.

Read entire post Soft trading in Aussie wool market @ Fibre2fashion

Silk & cotton items on display at Sikkim Handloom Expo

2011-11-25T21:38:00.000-08:00

A handloom and handicrafts expo showcasing exquisite silk and cotton handloom items manually prepared by artisans of various States is going on in Gangtok, the capital of Indian State of Sikkim.

The Special Handloom Expo 2011, organized by Sikkim Handloom and Handicrafts Corporation Ltd., under the aegis of Development Commissioner (Handloom), Ministry of Textiles Government of India, would run till December 10.

Handloom artisans from seven States including Bihar, Nagaland, Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, Sikkim and West Bengal are showcasing their products at 40 stalls set up at the expo.

Besides, there is also a theme pavilion exhibiting traditional wears of various ethnic communities of the State like Nepali, Bhutia and Lepcha. The pavilion also showcases the handloom, Lukuni and Angora weaves.

Read entire post Silk & cotton items on display at Sikkim Handloom Expo @ Fibre2fashion

JX Nippon Kawasaki cracker to go offstream in Aug ‘12

2011-11-24T21:35:00.000-08:00

Japan-based, JX Nippon Oil & Energy which operates a naphtha cracker plant, has planned a maintenance turnaround at the cracker in the third quarter of 2012.

This was informed to fibre2fashion by a company offical who added that, currently the plant located in Kawasaki is operating at normal capacity rates.

The cracker will be taken off-stream on August 12, 2012 and will remain shutdown till October 1, 2012.

The naphtha cracker has a production capacity of 460,000 mt / year

Read more about JX Nippon Kawasaki cracker to go offstream in Aug ‘12 @ Fibre2fashion

Sri Lankan govt to remove customs duty on yarn

2011-11-23T21:30:00.000-08:00

With a view to stimulate expansion of the country’s textile sector, Sri Lankan Government has decided to withdraw customs duty on yarn from January 2012.

The Government has also resolved to end Value Added Tax (VAT) on import of machinery required in textile manufacturing to enhance the country’s production capacity and boost export potential.

Releasing the Government’s new Budget Plan for 2012 in Sri Jayawardenapura-Kotte, President Mahinda Rajapaksa announced a series of new fiscal policies and taxation measures with the objective of boosting exports and strengthening the country’s economy.

The measures include devaluation of Sri Lanka’s national currency by three percent in order to increase the nation’s global competitiveness and boost export volumes.

Read entire post Sri Lankan govt to remove customs duty on yarn @ Fibre2fashion

Beaulieu Preparing Itself for Strength in 2012

2011-11-22T21:27:00.000-08:00

Beaulieu of America, the nation’s 3rd largest carpet mill and largest sole carpet producer, has announced additional changes as it prepares for 2012. Ralph Boe, president and CEO announced that Jeff Meadows, Chief Marketing Officer and James Lesslie, Chief Operations Officer have left the company effective immediately.

Both executives have left to pursue other interests, according to Boe. “Change is something that is inevitable,” observed Boe. “so like any company, we must adjust, do what’s necessary and move on. We thank them for their valued service and leadership to Beaulieu and wish them both very well.”

Mr. Boe acknowledges that this latest announcement follows stories about three facility closings in the last several weeks that has put the spotlight on Beaulieu. “It’s very important that people don’t read anything into all these recent events,” advised Boe. “These moves were necessary to adjust capacity with the market demand. Beaulieu now enters 2012 well positioned. We announced securing a $230 million loan refinance in October and we’re showing strong performance in several areas.”

As evidence, the company points to its new HealthyTouch and CCA Global Resista Refresh lines placed into almost 6,000 dealers with the highest rate of sales for any launch in Beaulieu’s history. Additionally, Beaulieu’s STAINMASTER with Magic Fresh odor reducer is out-performing its previous STAINMASTER collection 2 to 1. On the commercial side, Beaulieu is also seeing growth with both its Nexterra-backed modular tiles and Aqua in hospitality.

Read entire post Beaulieu Preparing Itself for Strength in 2012 @ Fibre2fashion

Taiwanese textile industry seek to increase tie-ups with Indian cos

2011-11-21T21:16:00.000-08:00

Taiwan, one of the world’s leading textile exporters, is looking forward to enhance its business association with textile firms in India.

In view of the same, 13 leading textile firms from Taiwan exhibited their most modern textile products at a two-day Taiwan Textile Fair organized in Mumbai by the Taiwan Textile Federation in association with the Bureau of Foreign Trade, Taiwan and supported by major textile associations of India like the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) and Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC).

Jennifer Liu, Project Manager, Taiwan Textile Federation, said the fair was intended to help the Taiwanese entrepreneurs to tap the real time opportunities in the Indian apparel sector as they explore new business opportunities for the textile and garment industry.

While the Indian apparel market is growing at an annual rate of 10 percent, rural and semi-urban markets of the country are advancing at a faster pace than anticipated. Also, an increasing number of urban customers are looking for branded and lifestyle goods. So, the market is sure to advance at a higher pace than ever before.

Read entire post Taiwanese textile industry seek to increase tie-ups with Indian cos @ Fibre2fashion

COTTON USA Conference in Istanbul Covers “Sourcing In A Volatile World”

2011-11-20T23:08:00.000-08:00

Cotton Council International (CCI) and Cotton Incorporated hosted suppliers of U.S. cotton, the Turkish textile industry, and their downstream customers in the brand and retail sectors at a one-day conference titled "Sourcing In A Volatile World" in Istanbul.

The conference provided opportunities for buyers and sellers of U.S. cotton to discuss the current market situation and how fast-changing raw material prices are pushing the entire textile and garment industry to look for new ways of doing business with their customers.

The conference brought together over 100 senior executives to hear the latest reports on U.S. and world cotton production for the current season, as harvesting is well completed in the Northern Hemisphere.

In today's volatile global economic environment, suppliers and buyers of U.S. cotton discussed the challenges and alternative solutions to sourcing U.S. cotton. Included on the conference agenda was how businesses can build a more efficient cotton supply chain during times of record cotton price movements, limited availability and sourcing challenges.

Read entire post COTTON USA Conference in Istanbul Covers “Sourcing In A Volatile World” @ Fibre2fashion

Vijayawada : Textile Traditions Of AP On Display At Handloom Expo

2011-11-16T22:24:00.000-08:00

A whole range of traditional handlooms like Dharmavaram, Mangalagiri, Kuppadam, Pochampalli, Uppada, Chirala, Gadwal and Guntur are being showcased at the National Handloom Expo being held in Vijayawada city of the south Indian State of Andhra Pradesh.

For those not aware about the State’s rich textile heritage these are just names of places. However, those eager to learn about the art and the technique used by the weavers at these places for preparing one of the finest textiles, the Theme Pavilion at the expo is the best place.

In addition to live demonstration of the strenuous techniques of Uppada Jamadani weaving, Kalamkari block printing and Tie and dye Jamadani, the Vijayawada Weavers’ Service Centre (WSC) is also showcasing various customary and experimental samples of dress materials, saris and bed spreads which have been tidily labelled so that one can read and educate himself.

The speciality of the saris put up on display by the WSC is that these were woven at the Centre by weavers from different places who combined different weaving techniques to produce these saris. For instance, one whole sari was woven using the technique used to weave Gadwal saris, while its border was woven by weavers of East Godavari with the use of Kuppadam technique.

Read entire post Vijayawada : Textile Traditions Of AP On Display At Handloom Expo @ Fibre2fashion

Fifth World Cotton Conference (WCRC-5) Completed

2011-11-15T21:46:00.000-08:00

The Fifth World Cotton Research Conference (WCRC-5) was completed last Friday in India, after five days of paper presentations from November 7-11, 2011 in Mumbai followed by two days of technical tour to cotton areas near Nagpur. The WCRC-5 included 654 researchers associated with all facets of cotton technology, from breeding and agronomy to fiber quality and ginning.

A total of 322 scientific papers were presented. The scientists passed a resolution supporting the creation of a global network of cotton stakeholder organizations. The network will operate through nodes associated with cotton organizations and institutes to support globally accessible, stakeholder-supported specialist training and collaborative research.

Areas of particular importance to be addressed by the network will include biosecurity in relation to diseases, biotic and abiotic stress tolerance, and conservation and accessibility of genetic resources.

Simultaneously, the scientists endorsed the creation of an International Cotton Researchers Association to work with the International Cotton Advisory committee (ICAC) Secretariat to plan and promote the creation of the global cotton researchers network and to manage the agendas of future World Cotton Research Conferences.

Read entire post Fifth World Cotton Conference (WCRC-5) Completed @ Fibre2fashion

Karnataka Govt Announces Support For Silk Cocoon Growers

2011-11-14T22:02:00.000-08:00

The Karnataka government has come to the rescue of silk growers in the State, who have been enduring a vertical fall in silk cocoon prices since March this year.

The government has announced that it would pay a support price of Rs. 30 per kg whenever the silk prices drop below Rs. 160 per kg.

Experiencing a drastic fall of almost 62.5 percent, the price of cocoons has dropped from Rs. 160 per kg during the first quarter of this year to Rs. 60 per kg at present.

The government has come out with a market intervention package of Rs. 50 million to help the silk growers who are suffering severe financial crisis due to a fall in silk prices and has announced that additional sums would also be released based on the seriousness of the situation, BN Bachegowda, Minister for Sericulture and Labour said.

He informed that the market intervention scheme has become effective from November 1, 2011 and added that the State government has already released Rs. 120 million to the Silk Marketing Board to help it stabilize the prices. Besides, it has even extended an assurance of raising a fund of Rs. 250 million from the commercial banks.

Read entire post Karnataka Govt Announces Support For Silk Cocoon Growers @ Fibre2fashion

Micron Price Guides Drops

2011-11-13T23:10:00.000-08:00

Australian Wool Industries Secretariat Inc (AWIS) releases wool sale report for the week ending November 11.

The Australian Wool Exchange (AWEX) Regional Indicators finished 0.5% lower, on average, at sales in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle this week when the US exchange rate fell by 1%.

The Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) at 1219¢ was 18.1% higher than in the same week last year; and the season average Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) of 1247¢ is 38.1% higher than the season average at the end of Week 19 last season.

Although down, the market performed well this week under the circumstances that developed in Italy during the week. The market eased. But, it performed better than global share markets, which eased by 2 to 3% on Thursday (and by 2.3% in Australia). Overall falls in the individual Micron Price Guides were generally small for the week and there were small gains among the broader Merinos.

Read entire post Micron Price Guides Drops @ Fibre2fashion

Prompt Delivery Preferred - Bremen Cotton Exchange

2011-11-10T21:41:00.000-08:00

Bremen Cotton Exchange says cotton deliveries for near dates or by December the latest were of interest for the spinning industry on the domestic market. Just slightly decreasing prices, the impact of cheap import yarns as well as existing stocks continuously led to a wait-and-see-attitude of the processor.

The prices have not yet reached the level where spinning industries satisfy their long-term demand; maybe hopes for dropping prices in the future have played a role, too. Due to the unsecure economic development in Europe there was hardly any stimulation by further steps of the textile chain in general. Contracts were only closed at fitting prices and for the satisfaction of current orders.

Read entire post Prompt Delivery Preferred - Bremen Cotton Exchange @ Fibre2fashion

Wool Is The Winner & Its All About Comfort

2011-11-09T23:10:00.000-08:00

The results are in and wool is the winner – objective testing has shown that ultrafine wool garments can outperform 100 per cent cashmere and high quality cotton for comfort and softness.

The Cooperative Research Centre for Sheep Industry Innovation (Sheep CRC) commissioned the manufacture of select ultrafine wool fabrics to provide a set of benchmarks for the measurement of next to skin comfort and handle. The Sheep CRC is a collaboration of industry, government and the commercial sector, which is working to increase productivity and profitability of the industry through new technologies for adoption by both the meat and wool supply chains.

“It is the first time that ultrafine wool knitwear has been shown, using objective testing, to be superior to other natural fibres in terms of functional qualities valued by consumers,” Sheep CRC chief executive officer Professor James Rowe said.

“Wools in the ultrafine micron category, used for the manufacture of these test garments, represent about two per cent of the Australian wool clip and therefore constitute a very rare and valuable fibre resource.”

To establish a performance benchmark for wool garments, the Sheep CRC provided wool buyers with fleece specifications for the purchase of four bales of ultrafine wool (14-15.7 micron) through normal market channels. After purchase the bales were identified as CRC 1 to 4 and sent to Italy for processing through to fabric.

Read entire post Wool Is The Winner & Its All About Comfort @ Fibre2fashion

China To Import 3.3 Million Tonne Of Cotton This Year

2011-11-08T20:51:00.000-08:00

China is expected to import more cotton this year as the domestic production of the crop is likely to be less than that required for its local consumption.

During the current Chinese cotton year, calculated from August to July, cotton production in China is estimated to be around 7 million tons compared to its domestic requirement of 10 million tons, according to Terry Townsend, Executive Director at International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC).

Speaking on the sidelines of World Cotton Research Conference in Mumbai, Mr. Townsend said China is likely to import about 3.3 million tons of cotton this year compared to its import of 2.7 million tons last year, a rise of 22.22 percent year-on-year.

Read entire post China To Import 3.3 Million Tonne Of Cotton This Year @ Fibre2fashion

Ruddick Completes Sale of A&E Biz To KPS Capital

2011-11-07T21:34:00.000-08:00

Ruddick Corporation announced that it has completed the previously announced sale to two newly formed affiliates of KPS Capital Partners, LP of all of the Company's ownership interest in its American & Efird business, for $180 million in cash consideration, subject to adjustments for working capital and certain liabilities, including under funded pension liability and foreign debt as previously disclosed.

Ruddick Corporation is the parent company of Harris Teeter, Inc., a leading regional supermarket chain with operations in eight states primarily in the southeastern and mid-Atlantic United States, and the District of Columbia.

Aerican & Efird (A&E) is one of the world's largest global manufacturers and distributors of industrial sewing thread, embroidery thread and technical textiles, produced from natural and synthetic fibers.

Read more about Ruddick Completes Sale of A&E Biz To KPS Capital @ Fibre2fashion

Centre Gives Nod For Gulbarga Textiles Park

2011-11-06T21:11:00.000-08:00

The Karnataka government’s proposal for setting up a textiles park at Gulbarga has been given a nod by the Central Government, the State Textiles Minister, Mr. R Varthur Prakash has revealed.

The Minister stated that the Centre would provide Rs. 400 million by way of assistance for setting up the park. He informed that the State has also urged the Centre to set up such parks in Bellary, Kolar, Belgaum, Tumkur, Chikkaballapura and Chitradurga.

Mr. Prakash said the State has met with good response at the Technotex 2011, an international seminar on technical textiles held in Mumbai, where Karnataka was a partner State.

He added that the State is likely to attract investments worth around five billion rupees. He further said that the State would provide a power subsidy of one rupee per unit to the industries setting up their units in textile parks of the State.

Presently, the State houses around 2,500 garment units in its textile parks, in addition to around 55,000 handlooms and 1.007 million powerlooms.

Read entire post Centre Gives Nod For Gulbarga Textiles Park @ Fibre2fashion

East African Cotton Farmers Losing Out Due To Absence Of Business Link

2011-11-04T22:54:00.000-07:00

Cotton farmers in east Africa do not gain from the high international cotton prices due to absence of a link between them and garment producers and designers in world’s leading fashion centres, African Cotton and Textile Industries Federation (ACTIF) Chairman, Jaswinder Bedi ,has said.

Speaking at the East African Cotton, Textile and Apparel (CTA) conference in Mombasa, the second-largest city in Kenya, Mr. Bedi said the absence of a link between the local Kenyan farmers and clothing manufacturers and designers is also a hurdle in the revival of Kenya’s domestic cotton industry.

While cotton prices prevailed at around Sh100 per kg in international market, farmers in Kenya fetched only around Sh20 to Sh65 per kg, he said.

He added that high cost of inputs prevents cotton production, as just pesticides alone constitute a one-third of the farmer’s input cost.

The conference organized by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), Kenyatta University and ACTIF was aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the cotton crop with the help of skill development, enabling legislation and innovation.

Read entire post East African Cotton Farmers Losing Out Due To Absence Of Business Link @ Fibre2fashion

Australian Namoi in JV with China state cotton firm

2011-11-03T22:08:00.000-07:00

Australia’s Namoi Cotton Co-operative Ltd has entered into a 50-50 joint venture with China National Cotton Group Corp (CNCGC), a China state cotton firm, which will help the Australian firm market its produce across the globe through 2012-2017.

Namoi, Australia’s leading cotton processor, has registered loss this year in spite of the country witnessing record cotton production and high prices of fibre.

The current deal is expected to improve the balance sheet of the Australian cotton processor and place it in a better position to compete with other leading companies in the global cotton trade.

The Australian firm registered a net loss of US$ 58.5 million during the six months ended August 31, 2011, which it attributed to unparalleled volatility in cotton prices and increased cost of borrowings.

The Australian firm recorded loss in spite of the country producing a historic four million bales (4.4 bales = 1 ton) of cotton during the current year.

Read entire post Australian Namoi in JV with China state cotton firm @ Fibre2fashion

Prices Of All Long Wool Types Surge

2011-11-02T23:22:00.000-07:00

The wool market continued its upward trend at this week’s sale and the Cape Wools Merino indicator gained 3.9% on last week to close at R104,03/kg (clean) – an increase of 13% on the opening sale.

Supply concerns appear to be a major driving force with supplies in the main consuming countries currently at fairly low levels. The Australian market also saw an increase in prices.

The rand was slightly weaker against the US dollar, dropping 0.8% compared with last week’s average rate, trading at R7,95. It was 0.4% weaker against the euro at almost R10,95.

There was good competition from the various sectors of the trade and 96% of the offering of 10 369 bales was sold. Major buyers were Modiano SA (3 927 bales), Standard Wool SA (3 084 bales), Stucken & Co (1 189 bales) and Lempriere SA (1 014 bales).

Read more about Prices Of All Long Wool Types Surge @ Fibre2fashion

23rd Annual Conference for Textile and Apparel Importers

2011-11-02T02:13:00.000-07:00

The United States Association of Importers of Textiles and Apparel (USA-ITA) and the American Import Shippers Association, Inc. (AISA) will host the 23rd Annual Textile and Apparel Importer Trade and Transportation Conference on Tuesday, November 8th, in New York City.

This year, the conference will feature top Obama Administration officials, Congressional leaders, USA-ITA and AISA leadership and counsel, and industry executives discussing transportation, sourcing, supply-chain logistics, and the recently passed trade legislation, among other topics.

The confirmed Administration speakers include: Kim Glas, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Textiles and Apparel at the U.S. Department of Commerce; John Leonard, Director of Textile Enforcement at U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and Gail Strickler, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Textiles at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.

The confirmed Capitol Hill speakers include: U.S. Representative Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Paul DeLaney, International Trade Counsel for the U.S. Senate Finance Committee; and Brock McCleary, Deputy Political Director for the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC).

Read more about 23rd Annual Conference for Textile and Apparel Importers @ Fibre2fashion

NTA’s VP To Visit Three Textile Manufacturing Facilities

2011-10-31T22:01:00.000-07:00

David Trumbull, Vice President, international trade, National Textile Association, has been invited by the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Textiles and the Chinese Ministry of Commerce to speak on November 1, 2011 at the China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) in Guangzhou, China. While in China Mr. Trumbull is scheduled to visit three textile manufacturing facilities.

The National Textile Association is the nation's oldest and largest association of fabric-forming companies. Our members knit and weave fabric in the U.S.; supply fibers, yarns to the fabric-forming industry; or supply other materials or services to the American textile industry.

Read more about NTA’s VP To Visit Three Textile Manufacturing Facilities @ Fibre2fashion

Iconix Partners with J.C. Penney on Royal Velvet

2011-10-30T23:08:00.000-07:00

Iconix Brand Group, Inc. announced it has entered into a multi-year license agreement with J. C. Penney Company, Inc., one of America's leading retailers for its home brand, Royal Velvet. Royal Velvet is a premium home brand offering classic and sophisticated designs with an updated touch to consumers at every stage of their lives from first apartment and beyond.

The initial launch of Royal Velvet at JCPenney will consist of sheets, fashion bedding, blankets, pillows, towels, rugs, bath coordinates and windows to debut spring 2012 in all JCPenney stores and online at jcp's website. The launch will be supported with a multi-media marketing campaign including print, digital, outdoor and in-store collaterals.

"JCPenney is recognized by consumers as the go-to destination for home goods and this is an immense opportunity for Royal Velvet," commented Neil Cole, CEO, Iconix. "We are thrilled to be working with JCPenney on our Royal Velvet brand as we share the same vision and recognize the growth potential for this iconic brand," Cole added.

Read more about Iconix Partners with J.C. Penney on Royal Velvet @ Fibre2fashion

Creation Of JJ38/11 The First Fabric With 80 Gauge

2011-10-25T00:12:00.000-07:00

An exclusive collaboration among five of the biggest players in the textile market was created with the view of presenting a brand new fabric, definitely one of its kind, an extraordinary mix of technology, research, innovation, commitment, passion and excellent quality.

Jersey Lomellina, Santoni, Groz-Beckert, Fulgar and LYCRA are the pioneers who started off a revolution in terms of technologies and style. An innovative and daring approach to business and a strict collaboration have allowed us to study, design, test and manufacture a jersey fabric with unique and extraordinary features (temporarily trademarked as “JJ38/11”).

Several decades of experience, cutting-edge technologies and the prestige of the aforesaid five market leaders have originated a real change in the world of jersey fabrics.

Indeed, JJ38/11 is the first fabric with a 80 gauge, and it can therefore ensure unprecedented lightness, softness and pleasure. Its excellent cover and 200% bi-directional stretch add an extra value to JL latest creation.

Easy care, shape retention, pilling resistance, fast drying and excellent cover are the technical features that make this fabric so “ extraordinary” : it keeps your skin fresh and dry all day long and is absolutely amazing to the touch.

Read entire post Creation Of JJ38/11 The First Fabric With 80 Gauge @ Fibre2fashion

Good Week For The Fine Wools

2011-10-23T22:37:00.000-07:00

The AWEX Regional Indicators finished 0.1% lower, on average, at sales in Newcastle, Melbourne and Fremantle this week when the US exchange rate fell by 0.2%.

The market continued in the steadier pattern of the previous two weeks. The closing EMI was down by 0.2% this week, following the 0.3% fall in Week 15 and the 2.4% fall in Week 14. The EMI, although down by 14.9% since the start of the season, is 24.8% above the same week last year.

43,416 bales were on offer, compared with 40,969 bales last week. 13.1% were passed in, comprised of 15.2% in Newcastle, 12.0% in Melbourne and 12.8% in Fremantle. Pass-in rates for Merino fleece and skirtings were 16.0% and 6.3%, respectively. 37,719 bales were cleared to the trade.

The New Zealand Merino Company also offered 2,045 bales in Melbourne on Wednesday of which 28.2% were passed in.

Differences between the size of the offerings this year and last year have begun to change. This year’s early season offerings were well above last year. They were up figure 13.3% after Week 12. The difference has now fallen to plus 9.9% on a progressive basis; and this week’s offering was down by 2.7% from last year.

The early season differences were due to the impact of rain delayed shearings in the first three months of last season. There were fewer wet weather interruptions to this year’s shearings. The subsequent “catch up” last year in the period from October up to Christmas means that the year-on-year progressive differences will gradually become smaller over the next few weeks.

Read entire post Good Week For The Fine Wools @ Fibre2fashion

PTEA Seeks International Flight Operations From Faisalabad

2011-10-21T22:33:00.000-07:00

Textile exporters in Pakistan have demanded operation of direct international flights to and from Faisalabad, the country’s biggest textile hub. They have also called for relocation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) offices from airport to the city.

Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA) Chairman, Rana Arif Tauseef, while making these demands, said Faisalabad, apart from being Pakistan’s third largest city, is also an internationally recognized textile centre and export originating destination.

He said a great deal of overseas buyers visit Faisalabad, and also domestic exporters too pay frequent visits to Europe and USA and export textiles worth four billion USD, each year.

Due to unavailability of direct international flights from Faisalabad, the textile exporters either need to take the route of Karachi and board an international flight from there, or reach Lahore airport by road and take flight from there, he added.

Read more about PTEA Seeks International Flight Operations From Faisalabad @ Fibre2fashion

Tempur Pedic International's CEO Discusses Q3 2011 Results

2011-10-20T22:58:00.000-07:00

Tempur-Pedic International Inc, the leading manufacturer, marketer and distributor of premium mattresses and pillows worldwide, announced financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2011. The Company also increased full year 2011 financial guidance and announced an increase to its existing share repurchase authorization.

Financial Summary
Earnings per diluted share (EPS) increased 45% to $0.90 in the third quarter of 2011 as compared to $0.62 in the third quarter of 2010. The Company reported net income of $61.9 million in the third quarter of 2011 as compared to $44.2 million in the third quarter of 2010.

Net sales increased 30% to $383.1 million in the third quarter of 2011 from $295.8 million in the third quarter of 2010. On a constant currency basis, net sales increased 26%. Net sales in the North American segment increased 30%, while International segment net sales increased 28%. On a constant currency basis, International segment net sales increased 15%.
Mattress sales increased 28% globally.

Mattress sales increased 28% in the North American segment and 31% in the International segment. On a constant currency basis, International mattress sales increased 18%. Pillow sales increased 12% globally. Pillow sales increased 5% in North America and 21% in the International segment. On a constant currency basis, International pillow sales increased 9%.

Read more about Tempur Pedic International's CEO Discusses Q3 2011 Results @ Fibre2fashion

Sutlej Textiles Q2 net dips 70.92%

2011-10-19T23:14:00.000-07:00

Sutlej Textiles and Industries, one of India's leading textile producers with a value-chain extending from yarns to fabrics to garments to home textile, has posted a decline of 70.92 percent year-on-year in its net profit in the second quarter of current fiscal 2011-12.

The company made a net profit of Rs. 66 million in the quarter ended September 30, 2011, as against a net profit of Rs. 227 million during the corresponding period of previous fiscal.

The net sales of the company, however, increased to Rs. 4.177 billion during the July-September period, compared to net sales of Rs. 3.809 billion during the same period in fiscal 2010-11.

Sutlej Textiles operates two spinning units at Kathua (J&K) and Bhawanimandi (Rajasthan), with the combined capacity being 253,000 spindles. The company also annually produces 20 million metres of processed fabrics, 1.6 million trousers and 2 million metres of home textile furnishing at its Daheli unit in Gujarat.

Read more about Sutlej Textiles Q2 net dips 70.92% @ Fibre2fashion

Armenian Prime Minister in support of local textile industry

2011-10-18T22:42:00.000-07:00

Armenian Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan has made an appeal to the Government officials to wear domestically produced suits, to help the domestic textile industry.

Inaugurating a two-day exhibition of domestic textile products at Yerevan, the Prime Minister said members of Government should don domestically produced suits, and thereby further the textile industry with an opportunity to produce more large-sized suits, while ensuring production of quality goods in domestic market.

He was briefed about the variety of items on display at the expo. However, he showed special interest in the exhibition area where domestic firms, involved in the production of suits for men, were showcasing their items.

The Prime Minister expressed keenness to learn about the consumer market for textile goods that are mainly shipped to Germany, Italy and the US. He also enquired about the issues that the textile industrialists are facing in promotion and development of their goods in the local market.

Read more about Armenian Prime Minister in support of local textile industry @ Fibre2fashion

Index for cotton plunges 4.5% in partial of October

2011-10-17T22:55:00.000-07:00

Cotton prices in the Brazilian market have been decreasing since early October. Center for Advanced Studies on Applied Economics (CEPEA)/ESALQ Index for cotton type 41-4 (delivered in São Paulo city, payment in 8 days) dropped 4.54% in the partial of October (Sept. 30 to Oct. 14), closing at 1.7543 real or 1.0128 dollar per pound on Oct. 14. On balance, only a few trades have been closed, mainly when cotton growers were more flexible concerning prices. Purchasers were pressing quotes down, since some of them were still receiving the product from contracts and/or not able to transfer prices of the raw material to the final product. Many purchasers remained only observing the behavior of the market.

Overall, the cotton available in the spot market was also considered of low quality, which also limits trades. Buyers were mostly interested in the high quality cotton, which has low supply.

According to Secex (Foreign Trade Secretariat), 140.4 thousand tons of cotton were exported, an increase of 19.5% compared to August (117.5 thousand tons). Comparing to September 2010, the volume upped 55.8%. In 2011, shipments have amounted 335.7 thousand tons, 5.7% more than in the same period last year.

Read more about Index for cotton plunges 4.5% in partial of October @ Fibre2fashion

'Ahimsa' silk to be produced in Indore

2011-10-16T22:33:00.000-07:00

Indore has been selected by the Forest and Sericulture Departments for undertaking production of Tussar silk from Antheraea Pernyi genes of worms.

Tussar is popularly known by its Sanskrit name ‘kosa’ and is cherished for its natural golden colour and texture. It is extracted from cocoon only after the silk worm larva leaves it, and hence, it is also known as ‘Ahimsa’ silk, or non-violent silk.

The proposal for setting up a Tussar silk production unit on an area of 950 hectare in Indore circle has been devised under the Vanya Scheme, PC Dubey, Chief conservator of forest (territorial) said. The project has been launched from Tincha village in Indore district.

Around 600 hectares of the proposed area would be in other districts of Indore circle, while efforts would be made to procure 350 hectares of land under the scheme in Indore district.

As per the estimates of Sericulture Assistant Director SS Thakur, if the proposed project goes on successfully, it would facilitate collection of around 20 to 25 million cocoons from Indore circle.

According to Sericulture Field Officer AK Verma, the Antheraea Pernyi worms are found on leaves of arjun, legestromia, saja and wild berry trees which are naturally found in clusters in the wilds of Indore forest circle.

Read entire post 'Ahimsa' silk to be produced in Indore @ Fibre2fashion

Made in Pakistan carpets back in demand

2011-10-15T01:47:00.000-07:00

Pakistan made hand knotted carpets are again in demand due to the efforts of Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA).

While speaking at the Pakistan Hand Knotted Carpets Exhibition 2011, Commerce Minister Makhdoom Amin Fahim congratulated PCMEA for being able to attract customers in the US and Europe towards hand-made carpets with ‘Made in Pakistan’ label.

Pakistan Hand Knotted Carpets Exhibition was jointly organized by the PCMEA and Trading Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).

The Minister said hand-knotted carpets play a major role in alleviation of rural poverty and generating employment opportunities for women in the country.

PCMEA Chairman Kahlid Saeed informed that 85 overseas buyers from different corners of the world visited the Expo.

Factors like global financial crunch and a drop in the purchasing power of the buyers in Western markets have adversely affected carpet exports and resultantly the earnings of the weavers in Pakistan, Mr. Saeed said and thus requested a special mark-up for the industry.

Read more about Made in Pakistan carpets back in demand @ Fibre2fashion

TechnicalTextile.Net receives tremendous response at Techtextil India

2011-10-14T05:14:00.001-07:00

TechnicalTextile.Net, the first ever Global Portal with detailed information for over 200 products in the technical textiles and nonwovens sector participated in the recently concluded Techtextil India held in Mumbai. The company received tremendous response from domestic and international visitors and attracted around 1,200 visitors during the three-day event.

Most of the visitors were from textile companies who were looking to diversify their business and enter into the nascent but lucrative segment of technical textiles. Project and Market Reports on Spunbond Nonwovens and Baby Diapers offered by the company were the key attraction for the visitors. Among visitors, upcoming entrepreneurs from Surat and Icchalkaranji textile hubs too visited the stall to gain knowledge about the technical textiles products.

The booth was visited by representatives of Major Indian and Global companies like, Siyarams, Arvind, Century Rayon, Indorama Ventures, SRF, Clariant, Huntsman, Garware, Dow Chemicals, Teijin, Staubli, and others.

Among senior Industry stalwarts, Mr Dilip Jiwrajka, MD of the Rs 64 billion plus Alok Industries took keen interest and discussed the future and prospects about the industry with Dr. PR Roy, our Director.

Read More about TechnicalTextile.Net receives tremendous response at Techtextil India @ TechnicalTextile.Net

Cape Wool market strengthens

2011-10-12T23:27:00.000-07:00

The wool market changed direction at this week’s auction after falling sharply over the previous two weeks, and the Cape Wools’ Merino indicator gained 3.4% on last week to close at R89,58/kg (clean).

Although it is just under the key R90/kg level, it still is up 46% on the same sale last season. The Australian market has also steadied with a slight increase in prices.

Prices increased despite a stronger rand, which was up 3.3% against the US dollar compared with last week’s sale and was trading at R7,79. At R10,69, the rand was 0.4% stronger against the euro.

A fresh seasonal high of R137/kg (greasy) was obtained for a bale of 15,8 microns belonging to Mike Palmer of the farm Albany in the Grahamstown district. The previous high was R132/kg.

A total of 7 815 bales was offered of which 96% was sold. Major buyers were Standard Wool SA (2 633 bales), Modiano SA (1 873 bales), Stucken & Co (1 511 bales) and Lempriere SA (1 050 bales).

Read entire post Cape Wool market strengthens @ Fibre2fashion

Cotton researchers win CSIRO's top award

2011-10-12T03:32:00.000-07:00

Based in Narrabri, NSW, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Plant Industry's Cotton Breeding and Biotechnology Team spent years developing the new more environmentally friendly, disease-resistant, high-yield variety – Sicot 71BRF.

CSIRO Chairman, Simon McKeon, said the team's success in producing a variety which now – just two years after its commercial release – dominates the industry landscape, highlights CSIRO's continuing ability to deliver the advancements required to maintain the Australian industry's competitiveness.

"In providing a highly desirable package of advantages over other cotton varieties, the team has delivered significant economic, social and environmental benefits to growers throughout Australia," Mr McKeon said.

"In 2010–11 the industry’s high adoption rate of Sicot 71BRF benefited the industry and the regional communities dependent on cotton production (gross value $1.7b; marginal value $61m), and the flow-on is helping many rural communities recover from a period of decline brought on by prolonged drought.

"The team's research also shows more yield is being obtained with the same water inputs – so, Sicot 71BRF is contributing to a better environmental profile for cotton."

Read more about Cotton researchers win CSIRO's top award @ Fibre2fashion

Evonik to build hydrogen peroxide plant in China

2011-10-10T23:56:00.000-07:00

Evonik Industries will build a new production plant for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in Jilin Province in northeastern China. An investment of more than one hundred million Euro in the project sees Evonik moving another step forward in its endeavor to access new sales markets for this environmentally friendly oxidant.

Scheduled to be completed by the end of 2013, the plant will boast an annual production capacity of 230,000 metric tons, thus increasing Evonik’s current overall annual capacity of around 600,000 tons for H2O2 production by nearly 40 percent. The Group believes it is the world’s second largest manufacturer of hydrogen peroxide.

Evonik will supply its H2O2 from Jilin directly to the adjacent propylene oxide plant run by Jishen Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. via a pipeline that will link the two facilities. A long-term supply agreement has already been concluded between the companies. Jishen will use innovative technology—the so-called HPPO process— to make propylene oxide from the hydrogen peroxide.

Evonik and ThyssenKrupp Uhde GmbH, a Dortmund/Germany based engineering firm, this summer entered a licensing agreement with Jishen Chemical Industry Co. Ltd. for its use of the HPPO process. Propylene oxide is mainly used in manufacturing polyurethane intermediates. The polyurethanes then go into making things like upholstery for car seats or furniture. The HPPO process was developed by Evonik in collaboration with Uhde.

“Our investment in Jilin”, explains Dr. Dahai Yu, member of the Evonik Executive Board, “is an excellent example of how we’re developing innovative technology in order to enable us to access new sales markets for hydrogen peroxide. This move is also part of our growth strategy that sees us making targeted investments in Asia and that will help us to achieve growth in that region.”

Read more about Evonik to build hydrogen peroxide plant in China @ Fibre2fashion

Kashmiri handicrafts important for J&K economy

2011-10-10T03:41:00.000-07:00

Kashmiri handicrafts are important for the economy of the Indian State of Jammu & Kashmir, Chief Secretary Madhav Lal has said.

During a visit to the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT) at Nowshera, Mr. Madhav Lal stressed on the need to expand the market for Kashmiri handicrafts. He said the design and development of handicrafts can be further improved through the use of modern technology. He added that the old heritage needs to be promoted along with new trends.

The Chief Secretary was shown new designing techniques developed by IICT for various Kashmiri handicrafts. He showed keen interest in the new loom designed by the IICT, which weavers are finding suitable to work with.

Mr. Lal said the handicrafts sector offers plenty of opportunities to the educated youth to earn their livelihood. He asked the State handicrafts department to increase its efforts to attract the educated youth towards employment opportunities and to conduct skill-based training programmes and workshops to support new generation of artisans.

Zubair Ahmad Mir, Director IICT, said the institute is developing computerized designed script and carpet design with the help of software and as per market requirements, the services are provided on nominal charges.

Read entire post Kashmiri handicrafts important for J&K economy @ Fibre2fashion

Teijin Fibers Takes Energy saving initiative

2011-10-08T01:48:00.000-07:00

A Japanese government-sponsored initiative known as Cool Biz has encouraged companies to allow employees to dress more casually, including shedding the traditional suit coat and tie, in an effort to save energy for the past several summers.

This year, however, in the aftermath of the March 11 disaster and resulting decline in electrical power production, an updated version of the energy initiative, called Setsuden (power-conserving) Biz, encouraged office people to replace their business attire with genuine loose-fitting, built-for-comfort casual clothing. The program is said to have helped stimulate the Japanese apparel and retail markets.

A wide variety of special materials were used to produce extra-comfortable clothing, including sweat-absorption, quick-drying and heat-shielding materials for innerwear, sportswear, uniforms and fashion wear this summer. Teijin Fibers Limited, the Teijin group’s polyester fiber company, was proud to do its part by offering functional materials with special properties.

These included textiles made of fibers that expand when moist and contract when dry, helping to increase ventilation and disperse steam, and curtain materials with heat-shielding properties.

The need to conserve energy will remain high in Japan during cooler times of the year. Teijin Fibers is already working to help save energy further, this time with heat-retentive, thermal-insulating and wind-blocking materials for clothing.

The following is a list of innovative energy-saving products that Teijin Fibers is supplying for this year’s autumn and winter season lineups: Heat-retentive material incorporating Teijin’s unique polymer technology to absorb infrared radiation from the sun and convert it into thermal energy.

Read entire post Teijin Fibers Takes Energy saving initiative @ Fibre2fashion

Officially Launched ICA-Bremen Centre of Excellence

2011-10-07T02:03:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday 4 October 2011, at a special meeting in Bremen, Germany, the International Cotton Association (ICA) and the Bremer Baumwollboerse (BBB) signed the final contract to officially launch the ‘ICA Bremen International Quality Testing and Research Centre'.

The centre, known as ‘ICA Bremen' for short, is now fully operational and able to offer its expert services to the global cotton community in areas of quality testing, training and research.

Operating from existing, state of the art laboratory facilities in Bremen, ICA Bremen combines the global reach of the ICA with the quality expertise of Bremer Baumwollboerse and the Bremen Fibre Institute (FIBRE) to position itself as a ‘centre of excellence'.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, ICA President, Mr Ray Butler said: "The signing of the ICA Bremen contract marks a significant day in the cotton world, establishing the joint venture between the ICA and BBB as a global centre for cotton quality related matters. Through the combined expertise of both organisations and the support of Bremen Faserinstitut, which has a worldwide reputation in fibre and textile research, ICA Bremen can now begin to offer its leading services to the cotton industry."

Read more about Officially Launched ICA-Bremen Centre of Excellence @ Fibre2fashion

Sanogiene - Kills 99.99% of bacteria on textiles

2011-10-05T04:46:00.000-07:00

In the United States, Healthcare Acquired Infections (HAIs) account for countless lives lost and billions of dollars expended each year. In response, BioMedProtect, LLC co-founders Ronald Pass, Chairman/CEO, and Dr. Howard Rosing, President/CMO, have announced the introduction of effective, affordable and EPA-approved Sanogiene Antimicrobial Process for textiles to the international healthcare community. Patented Sanogiene is proven safe with an ongoing effective kill rate of over 99.99% on new and existing garments and soft goods against the most dangerous bacteria of our time.

The antimicrobial effectiveness of Sanogiene begins immediately to eliminate MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) staph bacteria – perhaps the best-known HAI – as well as Escherichia Coli, Klebsiella, Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE) and Clostridium Difficile. Sanogiene protects and preserves garments and textiles from contamination by the bacteria that cause HAIs.

As reported in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology, bacteria can survive for extended periods of time on untreated medical garments such as hospital gowns, scrubs, lab coats, privacy curtains, bed linens and all types of soft goods regularly used in hospitals, clinics and medical office environments. In studies reported in the American Journal of Infection Control, up to 60% of hospital staff uniforms are colonized with potentially pathogenic bacteria, including drug-resistant organisms. In fact, healthcare providers’ garments have been found to regularly harbor dangerous pathogens. And, cross contamination contributes to HAIs. This is especially prevalent between caregiver, textile and patient

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the United States one in 20 hospital-acquired infections are fatal. Researchers from the University of Iowa disclosed that disease-causing bugs, including drug-resistant varieties such as MRSA and VRE, were found on 95% of hospital room privacy curtains tested.

Read more on Sanogiene - Kills 99.99% of bacteria on textiles @ Fibre2fashion

Campaign on sustainability in textiles from Fibre2fashion

2011-10-04T03:49:00.000-07:00

“Move towards greener pastures”.

After all green is the only colour which will drive the textile industry in the near future.

In an effort to contribute to the cause of making the entire textile value-chain greener, Fibre2fashion - the world’s largest global textile, apparel and fashion industry B2B portal is launching an Impact Feature on 'Latest Issues and Innovations in Textile Sustainability'.

The challenge to make textile processes sustainable is becoming a pressing reality. An enlightened few have already adopted sustainable means of production, but the rest too need to pick up the challenge of making their processes environmentally friendly.

Globally acclaimed apparel retailers, pushed by various non-governmental agencies like Greenpeace and environmentally-conscious customers have already started the process of walking the talk and are re-looking in to their supply chain processes to make it greener.

A study conducted by University of Missouri researchers reveals that, consumers are willing to pay 15-20 percent more for products produced by sustainable measures. This could prove to one good very reason for companies across the textile-value chain to adopt sustainable initiatives.

Read Entire Post Campaign on sustainability in textiles from Fibre2fashion

Technicaltextile.Net Unveils Project Costing Report on Spunbond Nonwoven

2011-08-29T22:07:00.001-07:00

Project Report, Nonwoven Report for Spunbond Nonwoven Fabric Manufacturing in India. Developing economies like India, China, Brazil, Russia and some other Asian & African Countries shows great promise in coming years for technical textiles and Nonwoven Textiles industries. As these economies, investing heavily in infrastructure, healthcare, and also government policies for these countries encourages SMEs to invest more in this sector.

Indian technical textiles industry is projected to grow from current estimated Rs. 570 billion ($12.67 billion) in 2010-11 (FICCI-Wazir Advisors-Ernst & Young Knowledge joint paper) to Rs. 1.4 trillion by 2016-17 according to research paper. And nonwoven is one of key component of technical textiles.

India’s nonwoven market is growing at a rate of 8-10%. At present, the production of Nonwoven in India is touching 190000 tons out of this Spun bond nonwoven fabrics production is approximately 83000 Tons. As per the expert report, the per capita Nonwoven fabric consumption in India is 155 gm; which will touch to 350 gm by 2015 and 600 gm by 2020.

In order that Indian entrepreneurs may capitalize on this very lucrative market prospect, Technicaltextile.net – a portal exclusively for the burgeoning technical textiles sector, has unveiled a project report on Costing and Profitability Report for Spun bond Nonwoven Fabric Manufacturing in India exclusively for the Indian market.

Nonwoven project report includes the detailed costing and profitability for new ventures for 20 years. All the data will be provided in a programmed excel sheet. One just needs to input variable prices to get the final profitability calculations. In short, the nonwoven project report from technicaltextile.net is a one-stop solution for those Indian entrepreneurs wishing to encash the lucrative proposition of setting up a spun bond nonwoven manufacturing facility, without the hassles of appointing a project consultant and collecting relevant data from various sources.

Y-Stuff, a fashion label for youth by Y-Films (Yash Raj Films)

2011-05-17T01:19:00.000-07:00

Y-Films is committed to breaking a genre and creating and building an audience. The idea is to detonate boundaries. And most importantly, do it with style. Which basically means that Y-Films is more than just a film production house. It is an attitude. And if it is an attitude, it must be available in small, medium and large and it must be worn.

That’s how Y-Stuff was born. The official clothing line of the coolest film production house in Bollywood. The first collection from the label is inspired by our movie, Luv Ka The End.

The clothing range captures moments from the gory and bloody viral ‘Teddy Series’ and also echoes the rebellious spirit of the brand. Some really funny lines and sexy designs found their way to a whole range of merchandise like tees, boxers and bags.

Now that we had the stuff, we had to take it to the world. And we partnered with one of the biggest and most popular clothing retail chains in the country, The Loot stores. The Loot stores is a discount based chain that enables us to reach out to our audience keeping their pocket money in mind. Y-Stuff is now available in 60 Loot stores across India. But that is just on-ground. For a generation that spends most of its time online, we had to reach out to them there too. Y-Stuff is also retailed online via major online selling platforms such as Seventymm, Groupon, Bookmyshow, Fashion and u, and Naaptol. These platforms attract a total traffic of nearly 25 lakh users and that is a huge potential for us as a brand to spread the good word.

On the event of the launch of Y-Stuff, Ashish Patil, Creative and Business Head, Y-Films commented “You need not just see Y-Films… now you can wear it too”

Now that you know where to get it, go get your hands on it!

Y-Films is the dynamic, vibrant start-up at the intersection of films, creativity and youth culture that hopes to challenge the norm and detonate boundaries.

YRF Studios is spearheaded by Yash Chopra – a leading light of the Indian entertainment industry for the last five decades.

Read more on Y-Stuff, a fashion label for youth by Y-Films (Yash Raj Films) @ Fibre2fashion

Cotton production & consumption to expand in 2011/12

2011-05-16T03:55:00.000-07:00

The first U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) cotton forecast for 2011/12 projects growth in both world cotton production and consumption, with production exceeding consumption for the first time in 7 years. Global production is forecast to rise to a record of about 125 million bales, 10 million above 2010/11.

The nearly 9-percent growth rate for 2011/12 pushes the anticipated crop nearly 12 million bales above the 5- year average. Cotton production in 2011/12 is forecast to increase in most of the major producing countries, led by India, China, and Pakistan.

World cotton consumption for 2011/12 is projected at 119.5 million bales, 3 million higher than 2010/11 and the largest since 2007/08.

Growth similar to the long-term average is supported by improving global economic conditions, cotton product demand in developing countries, and the expectation of a bumper crop. Cotton mill use in 2011/12 is forecast to expand in the major consuming countries, led by China and India.

Original Source: Cotton production & consumption to expand in 2011/12 @ Fibre2fashion

Awareness program on ‘Silk Mark’ opens in Kerala

2011-05-12T05:25:00.000-07:00

A seven-day silk awareness programme was inaugurated at north Paravoor in Kerala.

The programme has been organized by the Silk Mark Organisation of India together with Charutha silks. On display at the expo are natural silk items and weavings of pure silk.

A senior official of the Silk Mark, Babu Giridharan, stated that, the event has been organized with a view to generate awareness amongst people on the modes through which they can differentiate pure silk from imitation.

Experts from the organization would enlighten the visitors at the fair on various modes through which they can identify authentic silk.

Silk Mark is a mark for quality assurance that the Silk Mark Organisation of India provides, which is a society supported by the Central Silk Board, an apex body for development of silk industry in India.

Many able textile experts with proficiency in silk testing and industry experience are associated with the Silk Mark Organization, which operates 10 centres across India, with it’s headquarter in Bangalore.

The organization functions with an aim to safeguard the interests of the producers, traders and buyers of pure silk. Also, it proposes to create and develop brand equity for Indian silk.

On display at the fair are an attractive collection of silk saris, men’s wear, women’s wear and traditional wear. Further, the craftsmen are also showcasing their skills at the expo by giving a demo of weaving their intricate designs.

Read more on Awareness program on ‘Silk Mark’ opens in Kerala @ Fibre2fashion

World Apparel Fiber Consumption Survey by ICAC

2011-05-09T02:15:00.000-07:00

The 2011 FAO/ICAC survey, prepared jointly by the Trade and Markets Division of the Economic and Social Department of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC), is the third joint edition since the annual survey done by FAO alone was discontinued in 1995. The second joint edition covered the years 1992, 1996, and 2000 through 2004. The present FAO/ICAC survey covers the years 1992, 1996 and 2000 through 2008 for both developing and developed countries.

World fibre consumption has been steadily trending up over several decades. Per capita consumption was about 3.7 kilogram in 1950 and climbed to 104 kilogram in 2008. Given the nature of the final products of fibres, clothing and textiles, fibre consumption is sensitive to the global economic situation. The World Apparel Fibre Consumption Survey during 2004 - 2008 recently completed by the Economic and Social Development Department of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (EST/FAa) and the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) revealed the latest developments in world fibre consumption.

Global Economic Trends affected Fibre Consumption

Final products of fibres can be grouped into three major categories clothing, textiles for home and for industrial uses. These final products respond differently to changes in income and prices, depending on whether they are consumed as necessary goods, luxury goods, or durable goods. Therefore, world total fibre consumption is exposed to the influence of global economic developments.

Encompassing an annual average growth of the world gross domestic product (GDP) of 4.2% during 2000 - 2007, per capita world fibre consumption increased by nearly 35%, from 8.3 kilograms in 2000 to 11.1 kilograms in 2007. However, the economic stagnation in developed countries in 2008 resulted in a reduced rate of GDP growth for the world (3%), and a 64% contraction in per capita world fibre consumption, to 104 kilograms.

Read more on World Apparel Fiber Consumption Survey by ICAC @ Fibre2fashion

Bassett completes sale of International Home Furnishings Center

2011-05-04T04:46:00.000-07:00

Bassett Furniture Industries Inc announced the successful completion of the sale of its interest in the International Home Furnishing Center (IHFC) in High Point, N.C. The total value of the deal was $275 million which includes $175 million in contemplated cash proceeds for Bassett and its partners, and the assumption of $100 million of existing IHFC debt by the acquirer. After set-aside escrows for an ongoing tax audit of IHFC and representations and warranties, legal fees and other transaction costs, Bassett realized a pre-tax distribution of approximately $74 million from the sale.

In the transaction, Bassett invested $2.4 million in return for a minority stake in the newly formed company, International Market Centers, L. P. (IMC). IMC's initial portfolio of assets consists of a total of 13 buildings encompassing more than 10 million gross square feet, including the IHFC and the Market Square Complex in High Point as well as all of the World Market Center buildings in Las Vegas.

This platform constitutes the world's largest network of premium business-to-business home furnishings, gift, and home décor showroom space. IMC is majority owned by funds managed by Bain Capital Partners and a subsidiary of certain investment funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. Joining Bassett as investors in IMC are the Related Companies and affiliates of Network World Market Center.

Bassett made an investment in the IHFC, the world's premier wholesale furniture showroom, more than 25 years ago. That investment has paid off handsomely over the years, primarily in the form of IHFC dividends that were paid to its shareholders. Robert H. Spilman Jr., Bassett President and CEO, commented that "this transaction represents a successful conclusion to that investment and is a testimony to the sound management practices employed by the IHFC leadership and its associates, especially in a difficult period for the home furnishings industry.

Read more on Bassett completes sale of International Home Furnishings Center @ Fibre2fashion

Arvind Ltd eyes 100 exclusive stores this year

2011-05-04T02:20:00.000-07:00

Arvind Ltd., a leading denim producer and retailer in India, unveiled its first 'Arvind Experience Store' at Baroda in Gujarat, which is the firm’s eighth outlet in the country.

The company intends to launch in all 100 such outlets pan-India, through 2011-12.

Mr Sanjay Lalbhai, Chairman and Managing Director of Arvind Ltd. while speaking about the company’s future plans said that, they have already launched seven such outlets in Andhra Pradesh, and with launch of the first outlet in Gujarat, they are eyeing to launch another 92 outlets nationwide to take the total number of outlets to 100 by close of current fiscal year.

‘Arvind Experience Store’ is a prototype for the fabric retail channel. The store supports a contemporary and innovative layout, and on display is the entire range of Arvind products. The store, offers tailoring and complete lifestyle solution.

The Baroda outlet is spread out on an area of 2000 sq ft and displays top-notch brands like Flying Machine, US POLO and Arrow.

Speaking further, Sanjay said that, Arvind Denim Labs, a concept unique to the Arvind outlet, for the first time would specially stitch washed jeans for their customers. Each of these orders would be specially customized as per customer’s preferences and specifications. Alongside this, the company also has launched hand-crafted bespoke denim in India for the first time.

The denim segment of these new Arvind stores would have a special section particularly catering to the youth and formal wear.

Original Source: Arvind Ltd eyes 100 exclusive stores this year @ Fibre2fashion

60 contract manufacturers @ Texprocess Source it!

2011-05-03T03:27:00.000-07:00

The response to Texprocess Source it! has been very good: over 60 contract manufacturers have signed up to make presentations at the sourcing area of Texprocess, the new leading international trade fair for processing textiles and other flexible materials in Frankfurt am Main from 24 to 27 May 2011. The exhibitors are national pavilions and production companies from Egypt, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Italy, Lithuania, Lesotho, Kenya, Columbia, Mauritius, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Tunisia, Turkey and Vietnam. The focus of the presentations will be on technical expertise and the sourcing situation in the individual countries.

For Detlef Braun, Member of the Board of Management of Messe Frankfurt, this is a great success. “Particularly against the background of the upheavals taking place in the procurement markets, we offer the apparel industry access to future-oriented markets via the contract manufacturers from Eastern Europe, Africa and Latin America represented at Source it!. The idea of generating synergies with a sourcing platform at a technology fair has borne fruit.”

Messe Frankfurt offers an opportunity to make optimum preparations for Source it! with an online platform called i-tex – apparel sourcing system. Before the fair, fashion companies can research into which companies are of interest to them on the internet.

To do so, they only have to register free of cost with the i-tex online portal and complete a profile outlining, inter alia, which products they want to have made, i.e., men’s wear, women’s wear, children’s wear, sportswear, home textiles, etc. They then receive a list of companies that match their criteria. Hence, they can get in touch with the contract manufacturers concerned and make appointments with them before leaving for the fair. The contract manufacturers taking part in Source it! also create a profile for the business platform.

Read more on 60 contract manufacturers @ Texprocess Source it! @ Fibre2fashion

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles Spring receives (+ve) response

2011-05-02T05:48:00.000-07:00

Intertexitle Shanghai Home Textiles Spring 2011 fair received positive comments from exhibitors and visitors.

“To accommodate the sourcing period of the Chinese domestic market, the new fair was strategically held during the Spring season. The positive feedback received from the participants confirmed the show to be a success,” said Ms Wendy Wen, Director Trade Fairs for Messe Frankfurt (HK) Co Ltd, organiser of Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles Spring. The fair held from 2 – 4 April 2011 at INTEX Shanghai and ShanghaiMart welcomed 9,755 visitors, as well as 219 suppliers from Austria, China, Korea, Hong Kong, Japan and the USA.

Out of the 9,755 buyers, 96% were from China and the majority of them had come to source for their new home furnishing collections.

“We are a retail shop in Wuxi selling mid to high-end curtains. To meet with the demand of our customers, I find it necessary to source in the Spring market. This fair offers a good variety of choice; I have made many orders this morning. To fulfil my sourcing need, I see this is a must-attend event,” said Ms Qi Wen, owner of Wuxi Ruyi Curtain, China.

The majority of the exhibitors were also pleased with this arrangement. Mr Alex Wong from Hong Kong based Tatty Functional Textile chose this new fair to promote their newly designed 3D pattern upholstery fabrics which is unique in the home textile market. “We believe Spring, notably March is the best sourcing time in China as this is the time when the brands and manufacturers prepare for the next season’s collection,” said Mr Wong.

Same for the US based fibre company INVISTA, they used the fair to launch their new product DACRON. This material can be used in pillows and mattresses to provide extra warmth and comfort.

Read more on Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles Spring receives (+ve) response @ Fibre2fashion

P.T. Toray Polytech to produce materials for diapers industry

2011-04-28T02:48:00.000-07:00

Toray Industries Inc and Toray Advanced Materials Korea Inc announced that the companies have decided to enter the high-performance polypropylene spunbond business in Indonesia. The companies plan to establish P.T. Toray Polytech Jakarta (TPJ) in the group’s site in Tangerang, Indonesia, in September this year and build a production facility with an annual capacity of approximately 20,000 tons. The new plant is expected to start full-scale operations in June 2013.

Demand for disposable baby diapers is expected to grow at a rapid pace in the ASEAN countries on the back of high economic growth and changes to lifestyle brought about by rising national incomes. Particularly in Indonesia, the market for disposable baby diapers is estimated to grow at a pace of 14% a year, increasing approximately from 1.9 billion diapers in 2010 to 3.7 billion diapers in 2015, prompting major hygiene product manufacturers to build new production facilities and expand existing facilities. These manufacturers have been looking to procure raw materials locally, and the demand for polypropylene spunbond is expected to reach approximately 84,000 tons a year in 2015 in the ASEAN region.

Toray Group’s polypropylene spunbond business boasts an annual production capacity of about 43,000 tons at TAK in Korea and 38,000 tons at Toray Polytech (Nantong) Co., Ltd. (TPN) in China, and the product is sold to a number of countries in the Asian market including Japan, Korea, China and ASEAN nations. The Group has decided to build an additional production facility with an annual capacity of 20,000 tons a year at TPN (to be operated from July 2012). The new facility in Indonesia will bring Toray Group’s total polypropylene spunbond production capacity to about 121,000 tons a year in 2013. This would further enable the Group to drive forward sales expansion in emerging markets such as the booming Chinese and ASEAN markets.

Read more on P.T. Toray Polytech to produce materials for diapers industry @ Fibre2fashion

ATC opens pillow manufacturing facility in Tifton

2011-04-27T03:04:00.000-07:00

American Textile Company (ATC) officially marks the opening of its new Tifton, Ga. manufacturing facility with a grand opening celebration. As a major manufacturer of basic bedding, ATC chose Tifton as a manufacturing location to strategically service the Company's customers in the Southeast. The 218,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility will manufacture bed pillows, one of the key product categories for future product expansion by the Company. The opening of the Tifton facility finalizes ATC's nationwide pillow manufacturing strategy.

The facility will employ 65 people initially. "In a remarkably short time, the Company has completed facility renovations and brought manufacturing capabilities online. The efforts of these dedicated employees have enabled us to begin manufacturing pillows immediately," commented Mark Bachner, Senior Vice President of Operations for ATC.

"Today's grand opening symbolizes American Textile Company's commitment to providing quality service to our customers throughout the U.S. and Canada," said Lance Ruttenberg, President and Chief Operating Officer. "By manufacturing and shipping pillows from strategically planned locations throughout the country, we have reduced transportation costs for many of our customers and reduced delivery times."

American Textile Company is a leading supplier of quality mattress and pillow protectors, bed pillows and mattress pads that improve the quality of sleep.

Read more on ATC opens pillow manufacturing facility in Tifton @ Fibre2fashion

Textiles Intelligence - UK and Fibre2fashion - India enters into a Strategic Alliance

2011-04-25T23:55:00.000-07:00

Robin Anson, Managing Director of Textiles Intelligence in the UK, and Dr PR Roy, Director of Fibre2Fashion in India, are proud to announce a strategic alliance between their organisations. The aim of the alliance is to provide the South Asian textile and apparel industry with research-based information to support their strategic planning. The alliance will take effect from April 2011.

Mr Anson and Dr Roy share the view that, with the current shift of the textile and clothing industry to Asia, it was logical for both organisations to join together in order to provide the necessary insight and strategy advice to assist the needs of emerging markets in South Asia. Dr Roy is excited to have Textiles Intelligence, a global knowledge leader in the field, as a partner of Fibre2Fashion.

Companies in South Asia will be able to gain access to research-based knowledge and information through two new printed publications, namely Textile and Apparel Outlook South Asia and Technical Textiles and Performance Apparel South Asia.

Durst Phototechnik invests in Digital Textile Printing

2011-04-25T03:17:00.000-07:00

Durst Phototechnik AG, the leading manufacturer of industrial digital printing equipment, is presenting its new Textile Business Unit at the FESPA trade show in Hamburg (May 24-27). This new division of the company, headed by Christoph Gamper, is working on the next generation of digital printing technologies for textiles.

The Durst Textile Team, based at the company's development facility in Kufstein, Austria, has been entrusted with the task of designing the high-performance textile machine and coordinating Durst's proprietary Quadro printhead technology with the relevant textile specifications. In parallel with this, specialists at the Research Center in Lienz, Austria, are testing high-grade inks for textile printing based on dispersion, reactive and acid inks. The aim of this project, entitled Kappa, is to have a powerful digital textile printer – with a printing speed well in excess of 500 m2/hr and with excellent printing quality – ready for presentation at the ITMA 2011 trade show in Barcelona.

As Christoph Gamper, Segment Manager Textile at Durst Phototechnik AG, explains: "With the Kappa project, we will be moving digital textile technology a significant step forward. Although Digital Textile has made a name for itself in the fields of design sampling and soft signage, it still plays a comparatively minor role in the global textile supply chain.

The benefits of digital printing technology are well known right across the market but, lacking effective solutions, Digital Textile is simply not perceived as a genuine alternative to or as a supplement to traditional finishing processes. Particularly with the European textile sector in mind, Digital Textile offers the opportunity of responding swiftly to customers' changing requirements and achieving diversification and an edge over the Asian-based mass producers. We are confident that a new era for textile printing will be ushered in at ITMA 2011."

Read more on Durst Phototechnik invests in Digital Textile Printing @ Fibre2fashion

Arvind - Birla Cellulose team up for ‘Excel Denim’

2011-04-21T23:31:00.000-07:00

Arvind Ltd, the textile major has inked an exclusive deal with Birla Cellulose, a subsidiary of Aditya Birla Group, to produce the world’s smoothest denim fabric for women. The deal marks the diversification of the textile giant into the women’s wear segment.

Arvind would produce the fabric, ‘Excel Denim’ at its Ahmedabad-based plant, housing an annual capacity of 120 million metres of denim fabric.

Whereas, Birla Cellulose would engage itself in the R&D for creation of the fibre out of the super refined wood pulp, Arvind would be involved in production and selling the fabric in the local as well as foreign markets.

Mr Aamir Akhtar, CEO - Arvind Denims said that, he views the association as a major development which would boost the business of both the companies. Arvind is diversifying to make headway into the value-added women’s wear segment with launch of a distinct product and Excel Denim, greatly supports the firm’s plans, he added.

Leading denim jeans retailers including Diesel, Levi’s, Energie, Pepe and Tommy Hilfiger count themselves among the clientele of Arvind, the world’s leading denim Manufacturer.

Read more on Arvind - Birla Cellulose team up for ‘Excel Denim’ @ Fibre2fashion

Huntsman introduces fluorescent disperse dye series

2011-04-20T00:03:00.000-07:00

The TERASIL FF disperse range from Huntsman Textile Effects sheds the right light on problems associated with the need for visibility in certain situations with “luminous” solutions to achieve durable high visibility performance on PES fabrics and its blends.

Within this range, Huntsman Textile Effects offers three special fluorescent dyes (TERASIL Flavine 10GFF, Red GFF and Red 3BFF) that are specific for personal protective equipment (PPE) and work wear, as well as combined with TERASIL brilliant disperse dyes, to achieve luminous fashion shades for high visibility sports and leisure wear.

Three select TERASIL FF fluorescent dyestuffs designed for PPE and work wear fulfil the main European and American safety requirements (EN 471, ANSI/ISEA 107-2010), and, in combination with select TERASIL brilliant disperse dyes achieve luminous fashion shades for high visibility sports and leisure wear according to norm EN 1150.

The TERASIL FF range is only available as high quality disperse dyes that give dyers and consumers the freedom of wide color choice, with the security that the fluorescent brilliance does not fade thanks to high wash and light fastness.

Read more on Huntsman introduces fluorescent disperse dye series @ Fibre2fashion

BARBIERI electronic will surprise at FESPA Digital 2011

2011-04-19T04:42:00.000-07:00

BARBIERI electronic for the forthcoming FESPA digital 2011 in Hamburg, Germany from the May 24-27, 2011 has something very special to show. Visitors of Barbieri booth (hall A1, booth C30) will be the first ones to see the market launch of their brand-new measuring device.

Besides the Spectro LFP and Spectro Swing, BARBIERI electronic will present their new model of spectrophotometers which is specially designed for a wide range of Large Format Printing applications.

BARBIERI electronic is known for his high quality, most accurate measuring devices specially tailored to the needs of print professionals. The Spectro LFP is the de facto measuring standard for the large format, flatbed and industrial printing. The Spectro Swing is the device for all aqueous and solvent printers.

BARBIERI electronic also in future sticks to his principles by offering special solutions for special needs. Following this philosophy at FESPA Digital 2011 a novelty will be presented which many professional printers and printing related professionals were waiting for since long time.

Read more on BARBIERI electronic will surprise at FESPA Digital 2011 @ Fibre2fashion

Explore casual fashion with a twist this season at ICONIC

2011-04-18T03:17:00.000-07:00

Fashion this season is all about comfort and individual styling where collections of basics-with-a-twist are paired alongside more elaborate pieces thereby creating fuss-free looks definite with distinctive style. ICONIC’s Spring Summer 2011 collection is not only exotic but classic and undeniably fitting for the season.

With plenty of all-white outfits and subdued pastels rounding out the collection the fashion collections echo the changing moods and styles of SS’11 exploring prominent themes of ‘Nostalgia’ and ‘Color Pops’ for women while men experience fashion with trends like ‘Summer Shady’, ‘Cargo Madness’ amongst others.

Spring/Summer 2011 will not only be driven by trends created on catwalks but also individual style which will find flavor in colours, fabrics, patterns and silhouettes. Cotton and cotton/nylon blend fabrics bring out the colours and set the mood for the season. The colour palette is varied and witnesses a revival with mint, coral, yellow, purple, lipstick red and hot pink which is very in the style of Katy Perry.

Chambrays, seersuckers, oxfords and piques are soft and washed, but not vintage. While denim is here to stay the fabrics are supple and all about comfort stretch. New Japanese inspired liberty prints update the classics in a light and carefree spirit while dense prints in floral or abstract forms bring retro wallpaper to life and knits are featured in lightweight jersey or lace-like patterns.

Read more on Explore casual fashion with a twist this season at ICONIC @ Fibre2fashion