#Knitting & Hosiery

2019-08-28

More scope – thanks to a modular design

In 2016, KARL MAYER launched its OJ machine series under the brandname of LACE.EXPRESS, which was aimed specifically at the special requirements of the clothing market. At ITMA 2019, this manufacturer presented a complete, self-contained machine platform for the intimate apparel sector, which greatly impressed the visitors.

The LACE.EXPRESS, with its flexible platform concept and width of 134", is now targeting the intimates sector

A special feature of the range is that the models in the series are all compatible with each other. In keeping with the motto, “Create your own production machine”, every machine can be equipped to the technical level of its high-bar neighbours within the platform. Low-bar items can be produced on high-bar machines, without adapting the pattern data. This enables the customer to benefit from maximum flexibility.

Maximum productivity and the ability to adapt to specific requirements

This new machine platform combines the OJ models with different bar configurations in a uniform layout. The range includes the OJ 91/1, OJ 85/1, OJ 65/1, OJ 59/1 and OJ 42/1. All the models are available as B and F versions. The available gauges are E 24 and E 18 and the working width is 134", which are perfect for the intimate apparel sector. This modular platform concept enables the machines to be upgraded into higher bar versions.

For example, an upgrade kit is available for changing an OJ 42/1 into an OJ 91/1 – to expand the range of patterns it can produce. The patterns are also compatible with an increasing number of bars. Customers can change the design from an OJ 42/1 to an OJ 91/1, without having to make any modifications. This unique flexibility is complemented by an exceptionally high production rate. The machines increase output by 100 % for the same investment, compared to their predecessors. Customers are also able to profit from the general benefits of the LACE.EXPRESS series. LEO® reduces the energy consumption of the LACE.EXPRESS machines by 40 %, compared to the previous models. A mobile operator user interface simplifies the setting-up of the string bars and improves the view for monitoring production.

Start of production – with new machines appearing at specific time intervals

As the first model in the new LACE.EXPRESS platform, the OJ 91/1 is available immediately as F and B versions. The first lowbar machines will be available from October onwards.

New business momentum for the Turkish warp knitting industry

Warp knitting companies can look forward to new opportunities for their business development when they visit the KARL MAYER stand at ITM. At the important trade fair in Istanbul, the industry leader will be presenting selected solutions to support customers in a market that is as important as it is difficult. The focus will be on flexibility and speed.

KARL MAYER's HKS 2-SE Expands Possibilities for Premium Stretch WARP KNITS

Warp knitted fabrics with a woven look are more in demand than ever in the fashion and apparel industries. Stretch WARP KNITS, in particular, impress with their freedom of movement, breathability, and virtually wrinkle-free wear – thereby opening up new style worlds such as smart casual or business casual. When it comes to the highly efficient production of premium-quality stretch WARP KNITS, the HKS 2-SE has long been the machine of choice. KARL MAYER’s best-selling tricot machine produces standard elastic fabrics characterized by high gauges, smooth, delicate surfaces, and a soft hand feel.

Footwear innovation enabled by warp knitting technology– insights from New Balance

The future of the athletic shoe is increasingly being shaped on warp knitting machines. For KARL MAYER, the footwear industry is one of the most important growth markets – and one of the sectors where innovative textiles can realize their full potential. In his keynote address at the opening of KARL MAYER’s TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTER in Obertshausen in April, Vishnu Prakash Muthusamy, Senior Textile and Materials Engineer at New Balance, explained the opportunities that warp knitting technology opens up for performance, sustainability, and faster development processes, and why textile manufacturers are transitioning from suppliers to development partners.

ITM 2026: Mayer & Cie. Global presents itself successfully at international industry trade fair

Mayer & Cie. Global has used ITM 2026 in Istanbul for its first major international appearance since the restart. Together with the Turkish representative Mayer Mümessillik, the company presented its premium circular knitting machines "Made in Germany", explained its future positioning within the group of companies and held talks with customers and representatives from numerous markets. The response to the restart was positive. The clear orientation of the company, the reliable worldwide network of representatives and the resumption of service and spare parts supply were welcomed by customers.

ALADIN paves the way for circular and demand-driven textile production in Europe

Textile production can be organized sustainably by utilizing short supply chains and preventing overproduction. This can already be achieved today by intelligently connecting and efficiently utilizing existing infrastructure. At the same time, production becomes circular when innovative technologies and materials are used that enable high-quality recycling. The ALADIN research project, launched in May 2026 and co-funded with five million euros under the EU Horizon Europe program, is creating the conditions for this.

Katharina Obergruber appointed to the Management Board of Sandler AG

The Supervisory Board of Sandler AG has appointed Katharina Obergruber to the company’s Management Board. Effective September 1, 2026, the Board will consist of Philipp Ebbinghaus (CEO), Dr. Ulrich Hornfeck (currently CCO, future COO), and Katharina Obergruber (CCO). Katharina Obergruber, currently Chief Sales Officer Hygiene and member of the Management Team of Sandler AG, will assume responsibility for all sales activities as Chief Commercial Officer. She will assume this role from Dr. Ulrich Hornfeck, who will focus primarily on production and supply chain topics.

Ence and ShareTex begin initial testing of the ATENEA innovation project to promote textile recycling in Spain

Ence and ShareTex are making progress on the Atenea R&D project, which aims to develop a complete value chain for textile recycling in Spain. Specifically, the goal of the ATENEA project—which is funded by the Center for Technological Development and Innovation (CDTI)—is to connect all the necessary stages for the recovery of textile waste, from collection and management, through recycling and transformation into new raw materials, to their incorporation into new textile products.

DePoly Inaugurates its Showcase Plant in Monthey Switzerland

What if used plastic bottles, PET packaging material and polyester textiles could become raw materials just as high performing as virgin resources? That is the ambition of DePoly, a circular materials company based in Sion, Switzerland which inaugurated its Showcase Plant in Monthey on July 6th & 7th. The first depolymerization facility of its kind and scale in Switzerland, this industrial Showcase Plant represents a major milestone in the company's growth and its journey toward commercialization.