#Sustainability

2022-09-22

TENCEL™ Modal fiber with Indigo Color technology won 2022 ITMF Award for Sustainability and Innovation

Lenzing, the world’s leading supplier of sustainably produced specialty fibers, has been recognized in The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF)’s ITMF Awards 2022 for its unwavering commitment towards paving sustainable practices for the denim industry. Paving a clear path towards a more sustainable denim industry, TENCEL™ Modal fiber with Indigo Color technology was presented with the award for Sustainability and Innovation at the ITMF Annual Conference today in Davos, Switzerland.

The Indigo Color technology features an innovative one-step, spun-dyeing process that delivers superior color fastness relative to conventional indigo dyeing

Significant savings achieved in water, electricity and chemical usage during fiber production process enhances sustainability of finished products

First launched in 2021, TENCEL™ Modal fiber with Indigo Color technology has been established as the foremost fiber solution to address the demand for more eco-responsible fiber alternatives among denim brands and retailers. The new technology incorporates indigo pigment directly into TENCEL™ branded modal fibers using a one-step, spun-dyeing process. Such process delivers superior color fastness relative to conventional indigo dyeing. Compared with traditional rope-dyed indigo yarns, the production of TENCEL™ Modal fiber with Indigo Color technology saves around 99% of water and electricity, 80% of chemicals and even 100% of heat energy, significantly reducing the ecological footprint of denim products.

“At Lenzing, sustainability and innovation are key drivers of our business, and it is truly an honor to be recognized by industry players and the ITMF Awards. Through a blend of eco-responsible materials and pioneering technology, we created a new benchmark for the denim industry with TENCEL™ Modal with Indigo Color technology. We will continue to innovate our fiber offerings to address the rising demand for eco-responsible alternatives. With each fiber innovation, we are one step closer to reducing environmental impact of our textile industry ecosystem,” said Florian Heubrandner, Vice President Global Textiles Business at Lenzing AG.

TENCEL™ Modal with Indigo Color technology fibers offer virtually endless possibilities, from denim to outerwear, active attire and footwear. Without the worry about harmful chemicals, the new fibers can even open up applications for indigo in baby items, such as clothing and sheets.

“While we continue to explore different washes, effects and fiber blends, we are open for innovation and what can be done. Beyond the denim market there are already commercial programs in knitwear. With so many great minds and new ideas out in the market, this is an excellent opportunity to experiment with something new and lower the environmental footprint,” said Tricia Carey, Director of Global Business Development Denim and Americas, Lenzing AG.

To date, TENCEL™ Modal with Indigo technology has been designated BioPreferred® by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and was certified with the EU Ecolabel.

Lenzing reports improved half-year results and advances strategic transformation

Despite a persistently challenging market environment in the first half of 2026, characterized by volatile energy and raw material prices, subdued global consumer demand and intensified competition from Asia, the Lenzing Group significantly improved its financial performance. Net result after tax more than doubled to EUR 35.6 million, compared with EUR 15.2 million in the first half of 2025. Free cash flow increased to EUR 45.8 million, while EBITDA amounted to EUR 239.2 million. Revenue totaled EUR 1.27 billion, compared with EUR 1.34 billion in the previous year.

TENCEL™ Lyocell - HV100 achieves global denim availability in six months; Vol. 2 debuts at Kingpins Amsterdam

When TENCEL™ Lyocell - HV100 debuted at last year’s Kingpins Amsterdam in October, 17 mill partners across five countries presented fabrics featuring the new fiber. Just six months on, participation has more than doubled, evolving into a global network that spans nine countries and four continents, signaling both strong industry momentum and growing demand.

Textile Exchange reports growth in certifications and industry engagement

Textile Exchange has published its 2025 Annual Report, highlighting continued growth in certified sites, industry participation and the development of its standards and membership structure. According to the report, more than 100,000 sites worldwide are now certified to Textile Exchange standards, more than three times the number recorded in 2020. Preliminary figures also indicate 12% year-on-year growth across the organization's current standards, including the Global Recycled Standard (GRS), Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) and the Responsible Animal Fiber standards.

More patterns, less effort: the MULTI-MATIC® at Rohleder

Rohleder is one of Europe’s most modern weaving mills. For over 80 years, the family-owned company has been developing and manufacturing premium fabrics for brands, retailers and private customers – 100% Made in Germany. This success is made possible by a consistent focus on design, quality, and functionality, as well as by continuous investment in state-of-the-art production facilities. Rohleder also relies on innovative technologies in warp preparation and has been collaborating with KARL MAYER for many years. As recently as 2023, a MULTI-MATIC® was delivered to the company’s headquarters in Konradsreuth.

BASF opens global diaper and superabsorbents performance lab in Mumbai

BASF has officially inaugurated its new Performance Lab for diapers and superabsorbents (SAP) in Mumbai on August 18, 2026, which will provide technical and application services to superabsorbent customers globally. The new lab of BASF’s Hygiene Solutions business has been established in less than a year and is part of BASF’s Innovation Campus Asia Pacific in Mumbai, BASF’s second largest R&D site in Asia Pacific established in 2017 under BASF Chemicals India Private Limited.

Naia™ from Eastman strengthens western hemisphere textile connections at Apparel Sourcing Show Guatemala

As brands and retailers explore more diversified and responsive sourcing networks, the Naia™ brand from Eastman is strengthening its engagement with the textile and apparel value chain across the western hemisphere. From August 18–20, the company will participate for the first time in Apparel Sourcing Show Guatemala, a regional meeting point for apparel sourcing, manufacturing and nearshoring.

Dornbirn GFC 2026 expands conference program with new thematic sessions

For 65 years, Dornbirn GFC has stood for innovation and is one of the world’s leading conferences in the fiber industry. From September 16 to 18, 2026, the international fiber community will meet in Dornbirn, Austria, to discuss current trends, technological developments, and forward-looking solutions. More than 600 experts from industry and academia from over 30 countries are expected to attend. With around 100 presentations by renowned speakers, a 2,5-day conference program, and three parallel presentation rooms with moderated sessions, Dornbirn GFC provides a first-class platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and international collaboration. Together, participants will generate ideas and impulses that will sustainably shape the future of the global fiber industry.