TW Special Report

Textile industry associations want the textile industry to know they are talking. With a desire to work more collaboratively on industry initiatives and events that are beneficial to all their respective members, 11 associations — Advanced Textiles Association (ATA), American Textile Machinery Association (ATMA), Americas Apparel Producers’ Network (AAPN), American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC), Association of the Nonwovens Fabrics Industry (INDA), the Nonwovens Institute (NWI), North American Linen Association (NALA), SEAMS – The Association & Voice of the U.S. Sewn Products Industry, Southern Textile Association (STA), Sewn Products Equipment and Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA), and Synthetic Yarn & Fabric Association (SYFA) — recently got together to discuss ways to benefit the industry.

“We all represent various segments of the textiles and sewn products industry,” said Maggie McDonald, vice president, Communications, SPESA. “But we all agree that collaboration and building on synergies is what will propel our industry into its next chapter.”

This “Alphabet Soup Collective,” as the group has affectionately named itself, was officially launched during Techtextil North America held in Raleigh August 20-22, 2024. One of the first ideas for the collective was to co-host a social event open to all members of the textile industry including current association members as well as non-members wanting to learn more. The result, the inaugural Alphabet Soup Shindig, was held at the Whiskey Kitchen in Raleigh, Wednesday, August 21, 2024. This first-of-its-kind, sold-out event gathered people from all aspects of the industry in one place at the same time to network, learn and collaborate. Attendance far exceeded expectations, illustrating a hunger for these types of cross-industry networking opportunities.

Twelve sponsors were instrumental in making the shindig happen, and the organizers are very grateful to these companies:

• American & Efird;
• Asheboro Elastics Corp. (AEC);
• Baxter Mill Archives;
• Better Than Found;
• Coker & Associates;
• Contempora Fabrics;
• Danbartex;
• Gribbin Strategic;
• Itema America Inc.;
• MajorSage Business Coaching;
• MMI Textiles; and
• North Carolina Textile Foundation at NC State University.

Ben Talbert, president and CEO of Greenville, S.C.-based Better Than Found Search Group, one of the event sponsors, said: “Better than Found Search Group (BTF) was proud to sponsor this event. A big thank you to Devin Steele with STA and Maggie McDonald with SPESA for putting together one of the best trade show social events I have attended. The textile community is a family, and this felt like our reunion.”

Organizers also shared the following event feedback posted on Linkedin by Graham Page, co-founder and president of iAtelier Corp. and principal at AlchemyX LLC. “That was hands down, the best industry networking event I have ever attended,” Page said. “Where else can you connect with the entire industry from start to finish, from fiber to retail? The energy was palpable. This sort of thinking is exactly what is needed in these difficult times in our broader industry. Innovation happens when you mix people and ideas to address big challenges. Kudos to the team that pulled this together.”

As McDonald noted: “Good people, good networking, good vibes, AND good weather. Doesn’t get much better.”

The Alphabet Soup Collective will continue its conversations as it looks for ways to collaborate, streamline events and gather the industry in productive, beneficial ways for all involved. Questions, suggestions, feedback and ideas all are welcomed.

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August 27, 2024

“While the demand for “Made in America” products continues to increase, so do the challenges we face. The SEAMS 2024 Board of Directors looks to continue its support of our members by being the biggest advocate and voice for the domestic sewn products industry”, stated Britt Moore, SEAMS president. “Our driven and talented board spans all facets of the supply chain throughout the US Market and has had the honor of being led by Ron Roach for the past two years. His insightful leadership and forward thinking have been invaluable during this time, and I would like to thank him for all his devotion and support. We look forward to advancing SEAMS in 2024 as we work to grow our membership and expand on several industry-focused events and hosting our two SEAMS conferences for 2024.”

We thank our Board for all that was accomplished in 2023 and look forward to another successful year. We are honored to announce the 2024 Board of Directors – welcoming those that are new to the board (designated by*) as follows:

Executive Committee:

• Britt Moore, Minnesota Knitting Mills, SEAMS President
• Brent Jones, Henderson Machinery, SEAMS Vice-President
• Jim Hopkins, Hamrick Mills, SEAMS Secretary/Treasurer
• Ron Roach, Contempora Fabrics, SEAMS Ex-Officio

Education Director a three-year term by appointment:

• Alex Whitley, Contempora Fabrics

Supplier Directors serving a three-year term by appointment:

• Tanya Wade, Manufacturing Solutions Center
• Ryan Smith, Printcraft Company
• Stacey Bridges, Hanes Dye and Finishing
• Xochil Herrera Scheer*, The Chicago Pattern Maker

Manufacturing/Contractor Directors serving a one-year term by appointment:

• Anthony Marini, Heartland Manufacturing
• Marty Bailey, TSG Apparel
• Mindy Martell, Clothier Design Source
• Brian Alhanati*, Custom Fab USA
• Steven Hawkins*, America Knits

Executive Director

• Will Duncan, Will Duncan & Associates 2017- Present

Posted: January 30, 2024

Source: SEAMS, the National Association for the U.S. Sewn Products Industry

“SEAMS 2018 Board of Directors reflects our dedication to promoting sound economic growth for our members and leading the resurgence of “Made in America” on the world stage,” said Matt Poovey, newly elected President of SEAMS. “Our board includes leaders from some of America’s foremost brands, manufacturers and suppliers in the sewn products industry. These top executives will serve our membership well through progressive and timely educational programs, dissemination of information on government regulations/legislation impacting the industry, and adding increased value to control costs and achieve business improvements that were never available before in the U.S.”

Four Executive Directors were confirmed by a member vote to a two-year term on the board:

• President – Matt Poovey, Champion Thread Co.;
• Vice President – Jeoff Bodenhorst Jr, Lebanon Apparel Corp.;
• Secretary/Treasurer – Patrick Hickey, Minnesota Knitting Mills; and
• Ex-Officio Officer – Jeremy Wootten, HomTex Inc.

One Education Director serving a three-year term by appointment:

• Geoff Senko, MMI Textiles.

Two Supplier Directors serving a three-year term by appointment:

• Cameron Hamrick, Hamrick Mills; and
• Ron Roach, Contempora Fabrics.

Six Manufacturing/Contractor Directors serving a one-year term by appointment:

• Gloria Barbee, Grand Forest Inc.;
• Jackson Burnett, Vapor Apparel;
• Tim Shirley, Mt. Vernon Mills;
• Wayne Wilson, Prime Medical;
• Chris Marsh, Hemmingway Apparel Mfg.; and
• Dennis Jackson, Venus Group.

Posted January 10, 2018

Source: SEAMS

The website also delivers stronger brand storytelling for the new digital world with a comprehensive member search, extensive resource section, news and events, and industry educational best practices. The new website is live today and is located at the same address: www.seams.org

“We are excited about the launch of our updated brand, new website and the robust information it provides the industry,” said Jeremy Wootten, president of SEAMS. “SEAMS is dedicated to promoting sound economic growth for our members and leading the resurgence of “Made in America” on the world stage. We believe that this new site will allow our visitors to have a very informative experience as we continue to grow and increase our member’s market presence.”

“The new site features the industry’s only ‘Make Something/Source Something Power Search’ to quickly find its U.S. member base,” stated Will Duncan, executive director, SEAMS. “And the new brand reflects who we are as an association and giving back, the market we serve, and the innovation that comes from the members.”

“This fresh new look for the Association with its mobile-responsiveness and easy-to-navigate design, improved design features and educational resourcefulness, really adds business value for our membership and sewn products industry at large,” added Wootten.

Posted November 30, 2017

Source: SEAMS

Will Duncan, a known industry leader and a recognized speaker and fashion industry consultant has over 30 years’ experience in management development, process improvement, team-based manufacturing, plant engineering and lean manufacturing. Duncan was previously executive vice president at [TC]² where he managed the consulting practice.

“Today marks a true milestone for SEAMS and an incredible investment in our future,” said Jeremy Wootten, President of SEAMS. “The appointment of Will Duncan and his team to manage this organization and day-to-day operations reinforces our position as the leading association, voice and authority of the U.S. textile/sewn products industry. SEAMS is dedicated to promoting sound economic growth for our members and leading the resurgence of “Made in America” on the world stage.”

“I am honored that the SEAMS Board of Directors chose me to lead this exponential growth initiative,” stated Duncan. “We will support this resurging industry through progressive and timely educational programs, dissemination of information on government regulations and legislation impacting the industry, and adding increased value to our members. We will also facilitate benefit and service offerings that enable our members to control costs and achieve business improvements that were never available before now.”

“As a not-for-profit organization, SEAMS constantly endeavors to develop solutions for today’s major industry issues of our member companies, which comprise of contract and brand manufacturers, suppliers of related products and services, and other industry professionals and organizations,” added Wootten. “SEAMS ability to serve as the major bridge for linking Retailers/Brands to the U.S. manufacturing supplier base is more critical than ever. The connected consumer, direct to consumer and “Made in America” models have changed our industry and we want to support our members to be better prepared to tackle these new initiatives.”

Posted June 5, 2017

Source: SEAMS, the National Association for the Sewn Products and Textile Industries

Sharon Graubard, Founder & Creative Director of MintModa, will deliver the keynote presentation entitled “Sewn in the USA: Making Meaningful Products for a New Era” to explain how products and companies can tell a compelling story that will engage users and motivate business; and how certain emotional, sensory and aesthetic drivers can make clothing and brands meaningful and desirable.

Milliken Vice President of Human Resources Dan Garrison will share his experiences on “Attracting and Retaining Talent”. He will discuss direct hiring, staffing agencies, and other innovative HR recruiting practices; as well as employee onboarding, training, engagement, and company culture.

In “The World of Trade Shows” interview, Dennis Smith, President of Messe Frankfurt USA/Mexico, will answer questions posed by moderator Will Duncan, CEO of Will Duncan and Associates, on the future of trade shows and provide insight into how show exhibitors can better leverage their investment dollars and attendees can more effectively perform show coverage.

AAFA Executive Vice President Steve Lamar will tell attendees “What’s Up in Washington?”  What new tax and trade initiatives can we expect? What are other regulatory changes planned? And most importantly, how will the resurgence in domestic manufacturing respond to these new policies?

William D’Arienzo, Ph.D., CEO of WDA Brand Marketing will discuss “The Supply Chain Revolution: What the Future Holds for SEAMS Members”. He will share how, in the future, “Supply Chains” will morph into “Supply Systems” and “Competitors” will become “Collaborators”.

A panel discussion on “Opportunities in Non-Apparel Sewn Products” will feature Frank Henderson, President of Henderson Sewing Machine Co.; Pat Hickey, Acting President and Director of Minnesota Knitting Mills; Sherry Scyphers Hungate, Vice President at Goodwill Industries of South Florida; Jeremy Wooten, President of HomTex; and Rick Ludolph, President of Productive Solutions.

Attendees will have the option to choose to attend one of three concurrent breakout sessions that will cover “Availability of US Textiles”, led by Ron Roach, President of Contempora Fabrics; “Value-Added Contract Services”, facilitated by Jackson Burnett, President of Vapor Apparel; and “Domestic Production and the Trade War”, moderated by Michael M. Woody, CEO of Trans-Tex, LLC.

SEAMS Conference attendees will have the opportunity to introduce their company to all attendees, meet industry-focused benefits providers, and visit special products/services displays during the conference. A local plant tour of IFB Solutions, a golf outing, and a dinner reception will precede the one-day conference session. Textile and sewn products industry professionals may learn more and register to attend by visiting the SEAMS website or phoning +1-803-642-1111.

Posted April 19, 2017

Source: SEAMS, the National Association for the U.S. Sewn Products and Textile Industries

According to SEAMS and HomTex Inc. President Jeremy Wootten, “While we will pay tribute to the first 50 years of SEAMS members and industry leadership, we are focusing our conference agenda on how our members and guests can best prepare for and embrace the future. We are happy to be returning to the beautiful and historic Grove Park Inn in Asheville with a newly streamlined agenda that will allow more people to attend and enjoy this wonderful venue. We invite all industry professionals and executives to join us in what promises to be a highly productive and enjoyable industry event.”

Speakers and session details will be announced as they are confirmed at www.seams.org. Highlights of the planned conference agenda include:

• Keynote Presentation: trends and predictions delivered by a noted futurist.
• Feature Presentations: covering trade, government relations, human resources and more.
• Breakout Sessions: several relevant industry topics to choose from.
• Panel Discussion: update on trends in military, automotive, industrial and other segments.

To accommodate even the busiest attendees, a new single-day — Wednesday 17th — conference program will be preceded by an optional plant tour, golf outing, opening reception and dinner on Tuesday 16th. SEAMS Conference attendees will have the opportunity to introduce their company to all attendees, meet industry-focused benefits providers, and visit special products/services displays during the conference.

Posted February 28, 2017

Source: SEAMS

The National Association for the U.S. Sewn Products Industry (SEAMS), Aiken, S.C., recently formed the SEAMS Government Committee to assist the association’s members when doing business with federal, state and local governments. Participation in the committee is open to all SEAMS members.

“Our committee aims to expand SEAMS members’ knowledge in identifying, securing and maintaining government contracts; thereby expanding production opportunities and capabilities for our members,” said Committee Chair Geoff Senko, MMI Textiles Inc. “As we become a recognized resource for informing and connecting our members with this market, we also expect to attract more U.S.-based manufacturers and government agencies to participate in SEAMS events and membership.”

July/August 2015

COLUMBIA, S.C. — April 15, 2014 – SEAMS, the National Association for the U.S. Sewn Products Industry, will present its largest-ever Supply Chain USA Pavilion at the Texprocess Americas trade show on May 13-15 in Atlanta, Georgia. The 2014 edition of Supply Chain USA will comprise more than 35 individual company exhibits featuring full package and contract manufacturing services, textiles and fabrics, findings and trim, and a wide range of supplies and other supply chain services. In conjunction with the show, the organization will again host its popular Supply Chain USA Networking Reception on the evening of Wednesday, May 14 at the OMNI Hotel at CNN Center.

Industry professionals are invited to learn more about the Supply Chain USA Pavilion and register for the Networking Reception by visiting the SEAMS website at http://www.seams.org.

“We are pleased to see such tremendous growth and interest in both of these events,” announced SEAMS Executive Director Sarah Friedman. “As more and more companies re-shore production and rediscover the many benefits that a local and responsive USA supply chain has to offer, the pavilion has become a one-stop resource and major destination for show attendees. In addition to visiting the exhibits, many sourcing, production, procurement and other industry professionals and executives tell us that they enjoy taking part in a more intimate networking event that enables them to build and strengthen key business relationships.”

Located just inside the main entrance to the industry’s largest North American trade show, Supply Chain USA will feature exhibits of cut and sew manufacturing, finished products, textiles and fabrics, threads and yarns, findings and trim, labels and narrow fabrics, packaging and distribution, and many other sewn products components and services.

Within steps of the show venue, The Supply Chain USA Networking Reception will be held just after show hours on Wednesday May 15 from 5:30 until 7:00 PM (EDT) on the beautiful Omni Hotel Terrace A overlooking the CNN Center. More than 200 industry professionals are expected to attend.

Posted April 22, 2014

Source: SEAMS
 

COLUMBIA, S.C. — April 09, 2013 — SEAMS, the National Association for the U.S. Sewn Products
Industry, is now accepting registrations for its Spring 2013 Networking Conference planned for
April 26-27 at the historic Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina. Entitled “The Reshoring
Wave,” the event is expected to attract professionals from virtually every segment of the diverse
fashion and industrial sewn products industry to discuss and learn about ways they can leverage the
opportunities brought about as a growing number of retailers, brands, and OEMs move production back
to the United States and the Western Hemisphere. Conference information and registration is
available by phone at 1-803-772-5861 or through the SEAMS website at http://www.seams.org.

“Reshoring is top of mind for SEAMS members and the customers they serve,” explains SEAMS
Executive Director Sarah Friedman, “We have put together a concise agenda that will engage
attendees in the discussion and deliver practical strategies they can use to position their
companies to benefit from these and other new business opportunities that are available in a
recovering economy. Whether they design, sell, or produce apparel, military gear, or industrial
softgoods, all industry professionals are invited to take part in this timely and important event.”

Scheduled presentations include:

– Reshoring: Practical Steps Manufacturers Can Take – Margaret Bishop, Adjunct Professor,
Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)

– Attracting New Business: Practical Tips for Brands, Manufacturers, and Suppliers – Rick
Ludolph, President, Productive Solutions LLC

– Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Update – Mike Hubbard, Vice President, National Council of
Textile Organizations (NCTO)

Panel Discussions:

– Reshoring Business – Keith Crisco, Matt Anglemyer, Patrick Hickey, Frank Henderson,

– Onshoring: Things are Happening in the US – Dan St. Louis, Micaiah Bethune, Molly
Hemstreet, Elroy Pierce

Attendees will also enjoy peer and professional networking opportunities, including an
opportunity to introduce their business to all attendees, a special networking reception, and ample
breaks. Social events will include a group dinner complete with entertainment and door prizes and a
pre-conference (April 25) putting contest and golf outing. SEAMS members will be introduced to the
recently installed board of directors and receive association business and upcoming tradeshow and
event updates.

Source: SEAMS