IFAI is now ATA
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) clarifies organic product standards
March 12th, 2020
GOTS has issued a statement in response to a recent claim by a company stating they hold a certification that’s “More important than organic” and “Textiles with the organic label can still be treated with toxic chemicals at a later stage of production.” While this is possible for uncertified products made from organic fibers, according […]
DSM announces partnership with SABIC and UPM Biofuels to create bio-based Dyneema®
March 12th, 2020
Royal DSM, a global science-based company in nutrition, health and sustainable living, SABIC, a global leader in the chemical industry, and UPM Biofuels, a leading producer of sustainable raw materials, recently announced a partnership that will help to reduce the environmental footprint of Dyneema®, the world’s strongest fiber. The collaboration will see Dyneema transition to […]
GOTS registers highest growth rate ever in 2019
March 4th, 2020
In 2019, the number of Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified facilities globally grew by 35 percent, from 5,760 to 7,765 located in 70 countries. The number demonstrates that GOTS successfully serves as a sustainable solution. The required certified organic fibers protect the climate by absorbing CO2, and every processing step, from field to fashion, must […]
Small businesses with diverse workforces perform better financially
February 12th, 2020
Small businesses with a diverse workforce are more innovative and financially successful, according to data gathered by SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors. Data indicates that businesses with more diverse management have 19% higher revenue and are more likely to outperform non-diverse businesses. Diverse teams are more innovative, and therefore, perform […]
SBA announces funding opportunity through the State Trade Expansion Program 2020
February 7th, 2020
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced the opening of the submission period for a funding opportunity through the State Trade Expansion Program. The purpose of the grant opportunity is to invite proposals for funding from eligible state entities interested in and capable of providing assistance, guidance and tools to qualified small businesses looking […]
Levi Strauss & Co. and Hohenstein collaborate to bring safer chemicals to the apparel industry
November 19th, 2019
Levi Strauss & Co. (LS&Co.) and Hohenstein have announced a collaboration to utilize the ECO PASSPORT by OEKO-TEX® certification system in the LS&Co. supply chain. This will amplify the capabilities of the Screened Chemistry program developed by LS&Co., helping establish a clearer pathway toward safer chemistry in the apparel industry by providing enhanced levels of […]
OFPANZ annual conference, July 25-27, New Zealand
May 22nd, 2019
The Outdoor Fabric Products Association of New Zealand (OFPANZ) will hold its 2019 Annual Conference at the Napier War Memorial Conference Center in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand, on July 25-27. The conference will bring together a diverse range of speakers and workshops, offering a variety of educational, social and professional networking opportunities, including the annual […]
Merger of Academy Awning and Zebra Awning announced
May 1st, 2019
Academy Awning Inc., Los Angeles, Calif., and Zebra Awning, San Francisco, Calif., have merged. Michael Spear, owner of Zebra Awning, a San Francisco fixture since the mid-1980s, will continue in the role of Northern California representative for the corporation. Michael Richman and Jim Richman, owners of Academy, will serve in their same capacities for the […]
IFAI announces call for board and leadership positions
April 22nd, 2019
The Leadership Development Committee of the Industrial Fabrics Association International (ATA) is now seeking candidates for positions on its Board of Directors and Division Advisory Boards. The current 1st Vice Chairman Kathy Schaefer, IFM (Glawe Tent and Awning Co.) is Chairman-elect and will automatically assume the duties of the Chairman of the Board in October. […]
New game apps teach safe lifting and materials handling practices
December 1st, 2018
The Center for Construction Research and Training, an OSHA Alliance Program participant, has launched a number of new safety resources, including free game apps to help educate employees on how to prevent injuries that result from manually lifting and moving heavy materials. Lifting heavy items is one of the leading causes of injury in the […]