#Nonwovens / Technical Textiles

2019-10-17

OUTLOOK 2019 closes as most successful edition ever

With a record number of delegates from across the nonwovens and related industries in attendance, OUTLOOK™ was again confirmed as a key industry event for the sector, showcasing EDANA’s mission to support the growth and promote the sustainable development of the industry.

Over 530 key stakeholders gather for premier nonwoven personal care products and hygiene conference

The conference examined emerging market trends, circularity and sustainability initiatives and new product developments during the first two days, with the final day featuring an interactive workshop on furthering stakeholder trust in the sector. Feedback from participants throughout the event emphasised satisfaction with the mix and quality of expert insight and the many opportunities to meet industry peers. With the conference attracting participants from across the whole supply chain and around the globe, OUTLOOK™ again confirmed its position as a unique must-attend event for nonwoven professionals.

The 18th edition of OUTLOOK™ opened with a keynote speech on trends in trade and technology from Robert Ward, Editorial Director of The Economist Intelligence Unit. A session dedicated to global perspectives followed with overviews of regional market drivers. The day closed with a session focusing on industry innovation and product development. Day 2 of the conference opened with an insightful presentation from Daria Krivonos of the Copenhagen Institute for Future Studies on the geopolitical challenges of the changing global landscape and what the coming years might bring. The rest of the second day focused on circularity with an examination of the challenges and opportunities of sustainability in the hygiene sector.

Alexander Koukoulas, President of A2K Consultants said he found the event had a “wonderful program, venue and execution. I now understand why Outlook has the reputation it so deservedly enjoys.” Nadine Khoury of Berry Global, echoed the support thanking the organisers for “amazing support in preparing for the conference and during the conference. It was an outstanding event and it was a pleasure to meet you!”

“This edition of OUTLOOK has again featured a very topical programme, directly addressing the current challenges in our industry, “said Pierre Wiertz, General Manager of EDANA. “Discussions on the circular economy strategy, transparency and trust in the supply chain were both thought-provoking and rewarding. It is very encouraging to witness the industry’s increasing readiness to engage in these topics and for EDANA to facilitate constructive dialogue on both strategic and practical solutions. I was also very enthused by the insight of significant industry players on key trends and some very exciting technical innovations in our sector.”

The next edition of OUTLOOK™ is scheduled to be held in Lisbon in September 2020.

Sustainability: European industry calls on EU to keep Single-Use Plastics Directive unchanged

A broad coalition of European industry associations, including EDANA, Euratex and Plastics Europe, has urged EU institutions to maintain the current legal framework of the Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD). In a joint statement, the organisations argue that reopening the Directive at this stage would create legal uncertainty, increase regulatory complexity and undermine investment, while its implementation across the European Union is still incomplete.

EDANA announces five new board members following 2026 Annual General Meeting

The EDANA Board of Governors is elected or re-elected at the Annual General Meeting by the member companies. The Governors are senior executives (business leaders) from member companies, based in different countries and representing different sectors of the nonwovens industry. The Board has central responsibility for guiding EDANA's overall strategy and approving its policies and priorities. It meets three times a year.

EDANA launches landmark continence report to mark the start of the World Continence Week

Today marks the official commencement of the World Continence Week. To honour this global awareness initiative, EDANA has published a comprehensive report titled "The Central Role of Absorbent Hygiene Products in the Management of Adult Urinary Incontinence: Benefits, Costs and Environmental Impact." The World Continence Week (WCW) is an annual global initiative dedicated to raising public awareness about incontinence and bladder or bowel health issues. Traditionally held in June, this awareness week aims to shed light on a condition that affects millions of people worldwide but is frequently kept secret due to widespread social stigma, embarrassment, and taboo.

ANDRITZ sets focus on textile recycling and durable nonwoven production technologies at ITMA Asia 2025

International technology Group ANDRITZ will be presenting its innovative nonwovens production and textile solutions at ITMA ASIA + CITME 2025 in Singapore, from October 28 to 31, 2025 (Hall 2, D106). ANDRITZ will showcase its MMCF production plants, textile sorting and recycling, bast fiber processing, needlepunch, airlay, and life-cycle service technologies, with a focus on sustainable solutions. Discover how these innovations can grow your business opportunities and support a greener future.

OUTLOOK™ 2025: Charting a sustainable and innovative future for the Nonwovens Industry

EDANA concluded its flagship event, OUTLOOK™ 2025, last week, marking it as a major success and addressing the biggest questions facing the industry. The three-day conference highlighted the urgent need for a unified approach to sustainability, regulation, and innovation in the absorbent hygiene and wipes sectors.

Global Nonwovens Alliance unveils Inaugural Board, advancing collaboration and growth worldwide

The Global Nonwovens Alliance (GNA), a tax-exempt federation jointly founded by INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, and EDANA, the Voice of Nonwovens, announces the appointment of its founding Board of Directors. This group of leaders represents some of the most influential executives across the nonwovens value chain and reflects GNA’s mission to foster global collaboration, innovation, and growth in the industry.

Rieter sees Barmag integration on track as orders and sales rise

The first half of 2026 was shaped by the successful completion of the largest acquisition in Rieter’s history. The Man-Made Fiber Division enables entry into the growth segment of man-made fibers and sustainably strengthens Rieter’s market position in the Asia region. The expanded Group is now the world’s leading system supplier for the processing of natural and man-made fibers. In the first half of the year, initial cost savings in material costs and operating expenses have already been realized. The targeted synergies are expected to amount to at least CHF 20 million by the end of the 2028 financial year. Due to the completion of the acquisition on February 2, 2026, the first half of the year for the Man-Made Fiber Division only amounts to five months.