retail sector news

22nd Aug 2024

BASF, PCPB, ICPPE, Syngenta have developed a new ISO 27065 certified protective garment for Kenyan farmers to enhance safety and comfort. The garment, tested for durability and comfort, addresses heat stress and aims to improve PPE adoption. This initiative, supported by local stakeholders, promotes safe agricultural practices and sustainability in ...

22nd Aug 2024

Hygienix 2024, beginning from November 18, will focus on ‘Driving Absorbent Hygiene Product Innovation’ with pre-conference webinars and workshops on key topics like Non-PFAS technology and AI in sustainability. The event will feature the Hygienix Innovation Award, with presentations from finalists on November 19 and the winner announced on November...

20th Aug 2024

Michelman is expanding its PFAS-free Unyte portfolio, which includes water-based surface modifiers for both woven and nonwoven technical textiles. As regulations against PFAS tighten, Michelman’s Unyte solutions support manufacturers in meeting new standards while maintaining performance, helping advance sustainability in technical textiles.

19th Aug 2024

The Responsible Flushing Alliance (RFA) has added Crown Abbey, an R&D consultancy, to its coalition. Crown Abbey will support RFA’s #FlushSmart campaign to educate on proper flushing practices and environmental stewardship. This addition brings RFA’s membership to 38 since 2020, enhancing efforts to promote the ‘Do Not Flush’ symbol on...

17th Aug 2024

AmorSui, a PPE brand focused on sustainability, has raised $3.5 million in seed funding from investors like Gold House Ventures and The MBA Fund. Founded by Beau Wangtrakuldee after a chemical-spill accident, AmorSui aims to create reusable, recyclable PPE to reduce the carbon footprint of medical supplies. The funding will accelerate product...

17th Aug 2024

PolyU researchers have developed innovative soft robotic clothing that adapts to ambient temperatures for enhanced protection and comfort in extreme heat. Inspired by natural thermal regulation in pigeons, this clothing features soft actuators embedded with a thermo-responsive fluid, improving thermal resistance and keeping inner temperatures cooler.

16th Aug 2024

Rocket Lab has begun installing a 99-ton automated fibre placement (AFP) machine at its Middle River, MD facility. This machine, the largest of its kind, will automate the production of Neutron rocket's carbon composite structures, including stages and fairings. It features real-time defect detection and will save over 150,000 manufacturing hours.

16th Aug 2024

Spinnova and Valmet have signed an exclusive partnership agreement for Valmet to supply process equipment to Spinnova’s technology customers. The deal aims to reduce fibre production costs and enhance competitiveness but is not expected to impact Spinnova’s 2024 financials significantly. It builds on previous projects and aims to advance fibre...

15th Aug 2024

A study by ifo found that Germany's 2020 VAT reduction on sanitary pads and tampons from 19 to 7 per cent, aimed at reducing tax discrimination, was fully passed on to consumers. However, companies simultaneously raised prices for panty liners, which were not included in the tax cut. This increase has offset the intended financial relief for women.