#Textile chemistry

2015-04-23

Novozymes Q1 in line with expectations; 2015 outlook adjusted for currencies

Novozymes, the world’s largest producer of industrial enzymes, today announced its first quarter results for 2015. Sales in the first quarter of 2015 grew by 8% organically and by 18% in DKK compared with Q1 2014. EBIT grew by 6%, and the EBIT margin was 27.4%.

Adjusting for the one-time impact from The BioAg Alliance in Q1 2014, EBIT grew by ~20%, and the EBIT margin expanded by ~1 percentage point compared with Q1 2014. The EBIT margin expansion was mainly due to currencies. Net profit grew by 2%, and free cash flow before acquisitions came in at DKK 610 million.

The 2015 outlook is adjusted for currencies only. Organic sales growth is expected at 7-9%. Currencies are expected to provide further tailwind, and sales in DKK are now expected to increase by 16-18% compared with 13-15% at previous guidance. The expectation for EBIT growth is increased by 3 percentage points to 15-17%, and the EBIT margin is adjusted to ~27%. The expectation for net profit growth is increased to 11-13%, up from 10-12%. Expectations for net investments, cash flow and ROIC are unchanged.

“First-quarter sales and earnings were good and, overall, in line with our expectations at 8% organic sales growth and an EBIT margin above 27%”, says CEO Peder Holk Nielsen. “We see good developments within the agriculture and food markets but also detect a growing uncertainty in Household Care and Bioenergy, as customers navigate volatile currency, grain and energy markets. We're positive about the year as a whole and, due to the appreciation of the US dollar, we increase our outlook.”

Pic: The results as a graphic

Covestro to exhibit solutions for a more sustainable and productive textile industry at Techtextil 2026

Covestro will present a broad portfolio of material innovations for textile coatings, adhesive films and thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) at Techtextil 2026 (Hall 11.0, Booth C79). The exhibits will demonstrate how advanced solutions can enhance durability, recyclability and manufacturing efficiency across applications such as automotive, infrastructure, protective apparel and sportswear. A particular focus will be on more sustainable coating technologies, including antimicrobial systems based on INSQIN® in combination with AGXX from Heraeus Precious Metals, as well as the integration of Pontacol® thermoplastic adhesive films into Covestro’s offering.

Archroma expands denim possibilities at Kingpins Amsterdam

Archroma, a global leader in specialty chemicals, will present a portfolio of six sustainable denim innovations at Kingpins Amsterdam from April 15-16, 2026. Under the theme “Creating Possibilities in Denim”, the showcase reflects Archroma’s commitment to giving brands and mills solutions that are as commercially compelling as they are environmentally responsible.

New study shows low environmental impact by Cotton made in Africa Organic Cotton from Tanzania

Today, the Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF) is announcing the results of a comprehensive life-cycle analysis (LCA) for cotton produced in Tanzania under the Cotton made in Africa Organic (CmiA Organic) standard. The study emphasises the small ecological footprint of CmiA Organic verified cotton. This can largely be traced back to the absence of synthetic pesticides, artificial fertilisers, and artificial irrigation. Consequently, CmiA Organic cotton can help the textile industry meet regulatory requirements as well as science-based targets. The results also show that the consequences of climate change threaten the livelihoods of these cotton farmers, even though the type of agriculture they practise barely contributes to climate change.

PERFORMANCE DAYS proves its relevance as the industry’s key meeting point

Held on March 18–19, 2026, PERFORMANCE DAYS once again confirmed its position as a leading international platform for functional textiles. A total of 3.366 trade visitors and around 560 exhibitors gathered in Munich, with the event already kicking off successfully on DAY 0, which received highly positive feedback for its interactive format. Despite challenging conditions caused by the public transport strike in Munich, the event saw strong attendance and a consistently high level of activity across both exhibition days.