Vanguard PaiLung, a leading circular knitting machine manufacturer, will exhibit its latest innovations, including a recently-developed high-speed open-width machine for elastic jersey fabrics, at ITMA from June 20-26, in Barcelona, Spain. Established in 1916 as Vanguard Supreme Machinery Company, the company was acquired by Taiwan’s PaiLung Machinery in 2009.

Vanguard specialises in high-speed machines producing single jersey, including 4-track pattern possibilities, elastic jersey, rib, and three-end fleece models, with an emphasis on full-range machines up to 42”, according to a press release by the company.

Besides Vanguard PaiLung’s strong presence in Central America and Mexico, where it also operates an office for customer service, the company has successfully placed many machines in fast-growing markets such as Bangladesh, India and Southeast Asia. The company also has a solid customer base in South America, where growing sales in Brazil are an important focus for the future.

“High-volume knitting technology is in demand in these markets, and there is vast potential for our machines,” said Uwe Heintel, VP international sales of Vanguard.

Vanguard machines are firmly established as the choice for major North American brands such as Hanesbrands, Gildan, and Fruit of the Loom. “True American manufacturing starts with American machinery,” said Heintel. “Vanguard is a true American story, still manufactured in North Carolina.”

Vanguard’s high-speed machines perform in body sizes as well as in large diameters on highest speed factors up to 1900. According to Heintel, Vanguard’s high-speed jersey machines are capable of knitting plain jersey at 60 rpm. The company’s jumbo high-frame machines can churn out 230 kilo rolls.

“It’s not how fast you knit, it’s how well you knit fast,” added Heintel. “In an era of uncertain tariffs, shifting sourcing patterns, rising prices, and narrow profit margins, Vanguard’s speed and efficiency offers mills, manufacturers, and brands a unique opportunity to be successful.” (PC)