#Spinning

2025-01-09

Frrok Prenka joins Graf as CEO: Leading into the future

With the start of 2025, Frrok Prenka takes on his new role as CEO of Graf Group. With outstanding experience in leading global teams and driving operational excellence, he is more than ready to steer Graf toward a promising future.

Frrok Prenka, CEO Graf Group © 2025 Graf & Cie

In his first message, Frrok shares his heartfelt New Year’s wishes:

"As we step into 2025, I am thrilled to join the Graf family and lead this exceptional team. The New Year is a time of fresh opportunities, and I am confident that, together, we will achieve remarkable milestones. I wish you all a healthy, successful and inspiring year ahead. Let’s embrace this new beginning with determination and enthusiasm."

Frrok brings with him a proven track record of leadership, having held key positions such as Chief Operating Officer at Neustark AG and Managing Director at Schindler Group. With his deep expertise in supply chain management, manufacturing and strategic leadership, Frrok has consistently demonstrated an ability to navigate complex operational landscapes while driving innovation. These skills will be playing a key role in shaping Graf’s future.

Rieter responds to higher raw material prices

Global political and economic developments have been leading to rising raw material and energy costs for some time. The textile machinery industry is also affected by this trend. Rieter machines and components consist to a large extent of steel, copper, aluminum and electronics. These materials in particular have seen higher demand and higher prices in recent months.

The hub of smart and sustainable transformation in yarn technologies: ITM 2026

With global fiber production projected to reach 169 million tons by 2030, yarn manufacturing is becoming one of the most strategic fields within the textile machinery industry. Located in Halls 6, 7, and 10, the Yarn Hall at ITM 2026 is set to bring together industry professionals with innovative solutions developed around automation, energy efficiency, digitalization, and circular production.

Esquel Group adds two new extra-long staple cotton varieties approved

Esquel Group’s Xinjiang Research & Development Center has successfully developed two new Sea Island cotton (Extra-Long-Staple cotton, ELS cotton) varieties named “Yuan Loong 37” and “Yuan Loong 42,” which have been officially approved and granted registration numbers. Both varieties have also obtained Plant Variety Rights certificates, marking another significant breakthrough for the Group in cotton breeding and commercial application.

Itema America acquires Palmetto Loom Reed, strengthening local manufacturing and service in the U.S.

Itema America, the U.S. subsidiary of Italy-based Itema Group, has acquired – through an Assets Purchase Agreement – Palmetto Loom Reed, a Greenville, South Carolina-based manufacturer of weaving reeds and one of the last remaining domestic producers of these precision components in the United States.

Reju announces site selection for French Regeneration Hub in Lacq advancing Europe’s circular textile infrastructure

Reju, the textile-to-textile regeneration company based in France, announces the site selection for an industrial sized Regeneration Hub, in Lacq, in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, on the Induslacq platform. Reju, a Technip Energies owned company, is deepening its roots in France through the development of this new Regeneration Hub.

lululemon introduces Unrestricted Power™ — A new sensation for strength training

lululemon (NASDAQ: LULU) has unveiled Unrestricted Power™, a new innovation platform engineered for heavy lifts and demanding gym sessions. The assortment, which launches in North America, is backed by thousands of hours of research and development, providing secure support without compromising comfort and mobility, enabling a distraction-free fit built to match every move.