#Yarn & Fiber

2019-09-12

The LYCRA Company launches LYCRA® FitSense™ Technology

The LYCRA Company, a leader in innovative fiber and technology solutions for the apparel industry, today announced the global launch of new LYCRA® FitSense™ technology. This groundbreaking innovation is a patented water-based dispersion that features the same molecule as LYCRA® fiber, but in liquid form.

LYCRA® FitSense™ technology is screen printed onto fabric containing LYCRA® fiber to deliver targeted lightweight support that can be combined with visual effects like patterns or color blocks. As a result, sewn-in panels or extra seams that may restrict movement and cause discomfort could be eliminated and the consumer’s need for great-fitting, ultra-comfortable garments is satisfied, giving support just where it is needed.

“We first offered LYCRA® FitSense™ technology to key customers in Europe and the U.S. and we’re so thrilled with the results that we’re launching it globally,” said Serge Vigouroux, executive vice president, new ventures & marketing at The LYCRA Company. “Customer feedback and product reviews have been extremely positive, and we’ve had many new inquiries from customers interested in adopting the technology.”

LYCRA® FitSense™ technology can transform activewear and athleisure apparel (leggings and tops) and intimate apparel (bras, sports bras, bralettes, underwear and shapewear) by adding lightweight power, soft shaping and lift, and targeted support without sacrificing comfort.

“This innovation is a game-changer for our apparel business that until now, focused primarily on fiber technologies,” said Vigouroux. “We are already looking into new formulas, additional application processes, and other apparel end uses to expand this technology further.”

LYCRA® FitSense™ technology offers printers, garment makers, brands and retailers a host of benefits. This solution helps streamline garment manufacturing, offers unlimited design possibilities that provide functional benefits, and differentiates garments by providing a premium offering made with a breakthrough innovation.

To learn more about LYCRA® FitSense™ technology and the value and benefits it adds to apparel, visit connect.lycra.com. If you will be at Intertextile from September 25-27, visit ZhiNan Zhou from The LYCRA Company at Booth E56 in Hall 4.1. For show information, visit Intertextile.com.

LYCRA® and FitSense™ are trademarks of The LYCRA Company.

Texprocess 2026: Automation, digitalisation and AI redefine textile processing

Making investment decisions in textile processing has become significantly more demanding. Increasing energy costs, a shortage of skilled labour and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties are compelling companies to focus on technologies that deliver clear gains in efficiency and process reliability. This applies equally to apparel manufacturing and to the processing of technical textiles and high-performance materials. As a result, modernisation initiatives are assessed more carefully – even as the need to upgrade production systems continues to intensify.

Techtextil 2026: Between innovation pressure & market reality

From 21 to 24 April 2026, Techtextil in Frankfurt am Main will once again become the central meeting point for the international technical textiles and nonwovens industry. Running in parallel, Texprocess will focus on the industrial implementation of textile processing technologies as the leading platform in this field. Together, the two trade fairs form a closely integrated presentation and working platform along the entire textile value chain – from material development to finished applications.

Between geopolitical pressure and industrial resilience

In this interview, Dr. Janpeter Horn (VDMA) discusses the current challenges facing textile machinery manufacturers, shaped by geopolitical tensions, regulatory developments and subdued investment. He also outlines why innovation strength, integrated solutions and strategic positioning remain key to global competitiveness.

From advanced fibres to eco‑focused yarns: Yarn Expo Autumn 2026 set to welcome global industry to Shanghai

From 25 – 27 August, Yarn Expo Autumn 2026 will return to the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) to reinforce its role as a key meeting point for the global yarn and fibre industry. With over 22,000 visitors, the previous edition gathered nearly 580 leading exhibitors from 16 countries and regions, showcasing advanced developments and creative applications that support innovative, sustainable textile design. The upcoming edition will not only present an extensive range of fibre and yarn products, but will also feature a comprehensive fringe programme, including industry forums and trend display areas, providing innovative upstream enterprises with a stage to introduce next‑generation materials and sustainable concepts.

Yarn Expo Spring 2026 concludes, connecting buyers with innovative selection of sustainable yarns and fibres

Yarn Expo Spring 2026 wrapped up successfully on 13 March, as a record-high of over 600 exhibitors from 12 countries and regions welcomed more than 25,000 visitors from 113 countries and regions. Held across 27,000 sqm in Hall 8.2 of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the fair highlighted the textile industry’s accelerating shift toward a lower-impact, more functional future. Exhibitors presented eco-friendly organic, regenerated and recycled yarns and fibres, alongside innovative options such as sweat-resistant and high-performance materials. A comprehensive fringe programme further enriched the event, offering practical market insights and new networking opportunities.

Lenzing advances its transformation: Higher EBITDA, stronger free cash flow and more than EUR 200 million in cost savings

The business performance of the Lenzing Group in 2025 was affected particularly in the second half of the year by external factors such as international tariff measures, subdued demand and declining market prices. As a result, revenue decreased slightly by 2.3 percent to EUR 2.6 billion, primarily due to lower fiber sales volumes and lower prices for fibers and pulp, which were further negatively impacted by currency developments. Nevertheless, thanks to the comprehensive Performance Program, Lenzing was able to improve its operating performance and key financial indicators compared with the previous year.

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles unveils Trends 2027 alongside new lifestyle zone and product expansion

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Autumn Edition 2026 will spotlight forward-looking design directions and evolving consumer demand, as the global home and lifestyle market continues to adapt to sustainability priorities, emotional well-being, and diversified living spaces. Taking place from 18 – 20 August 2026 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the fair will present its latest trend theme, ‘BREATHE UP!’, developed in collaboration with leading international trend forecaster NellyRodi™ Agency, alongside expanded product categories, and the debut of the Home Textiles Lifestyle Zone.

Itema to showcase weaving excellence at ITM 2026

From June 9 to 13, Itema will exhibit at ITM 2026 in Istanbul (Hall 8 – Stand 806D), unveiling a distinctive exhibition concept designed to highlight the Company’s expertise across the entire weaving value chain. For this year’s edition, Itema will introduce an innovative stand experience built around two core areas: advanced weaving and spare parts solutions and an immersive textile gallery featuring fabrics produced by Itema Customers worldwide.