#Textile processing

2025-03-06

KSL Joining Technology GmbH: new company to strengthen high-tech textile solutions

KSL, a leading name in automated and robot-supported solutions for textile materials, leather, and composites, has announced the formation of a new independent company, KSL Joining Technology GmbH. This strategic move aims to strengthen the KSL brand, enhance innovation, and expand its high-tech product offerings in the global market.

KSL and Pfaff at Texprocess 2024 © 2025 KSL Joining Technology

KSL Joining Technology GmbH officially established

As of February 26, 2025, all KSL activities will be conducted under the newly founded KSL Joining Technology GmbH, headquartered in Bensheim, Germany:

KSL Joining Technology GmbH

Bertha-Benz-Straße 4, 64625 Bensheim, Germany

Tel.: +49 (0) 6251 9620-0

The transition aims to increase market visibility, drive technological advancements, and provide faster and more efficient solutions for customers and partners.

Focus on automation and process optimization

KSL remains committed to state-of-the-art robotics and control technology, enabling customers to automate both partial and complete processes while minimizing operator intervention. This ensures:

+ Higher productivity

+ Greater process reliability

+ Seamless automation in textile and composite manufacturing

Continuing partnership

The restructuring does not impact PFAFF Industriesysteme und Maschinen GmbH, to which KSL previously belonged. Moving forward, both KSL Joining Technology GmbH and PFAFF Industriesysteme und Maschinen GmbH will operate as 100% subsidiaries of the SGG Group, under the umbrella of the Dürkopp Adler Group.

Driving the future of high-tech textile solutions

With this transformation, KSL is positioning itself for further growth and technological leadership in the highly dynamic textile industry. The company looks forward to continuing its commitment to innovation, precision, and automation, shaping the future alongside its global customers and partners.

Fashion for Good launches DW(O)R-X to navigate the emerging landscape of PFAS-free finishes

Fashion for Good announced the launch of Project DW(O)R-X, a collaborative initiative designed to benchmark PFAS alternative durable water- and oil-repellent (DW(O)R) chemistries. Responding to growing market demand for alternatives to PFAS‑based finishes, the project aims to generate reliable, comparable data that can support informed sourcing decisions and the assessment of emerging chemistries.

YKK develops concept EXCELLA® zipper tape using nonwoven fabric partially derived from used clothing

YKK Corporation has developed a concept version of its premium EXCELLA® zipper series made from nonwoven fabric sheets created by fiberizing used clothing and other textile materials. Based on a proposal by fashion designer Yuima Nakazato, this item was created as a result of collaboration between Nakazato, Seiko Epson Corporation and YKK. The concept zipper was incorporated as a material component for pieces in the newest YUIMA NAKAZATO Couture Collection, “INFERNO,” which was unveiled in Paris, France on July 8, 2026.

Dedicated car seat model of SHIMA SEIKI’s P-CAM® R Cutting Machine unveiled

Leading Japanese textile solutions provider SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan, showed a special version of its P-CAM® R multi-ply computerized cutting machine dedicated to the production of car seats for the first time, at a private exhibition held over two days on Thursday, July 2nd and Friday, July 3rd at the Kariya City Industrial Promotion Center in Aichi Prefecture.

More patterns, less effort: the MULTI-MATIC® at Rohleder

Rohleder is one of Europe’s most modern weaving mills. For over 80 years, the family-owned company has been developing and manufacturing premium fabrics for brands, retailers and private customers – 100% Made in Germany. This success is made possible by a consistent focus on design, quality, and functionality, as well as by continuous investment in state-of-the-art production facilities. Rohleder also relies on innovative technologies in warp preparation and has been collaborating with KARL MAYER for many years. As recently as 2023, a MULTI-MATIC® was delivered to the company’s headquarters in Konradsreuth.

BASF opens global diaper and superabsorbents performance lab in Mumbai

BASF has officially inaugurated its new Performance Lab for diapers and superabsorbents (SAP) in Mumbai on August 18, 2026, which will provide technical and application services to superabsorbent customers globally. The new lab of BASF’s Hygiene Solutions business has been established in less than a year and is part of BASF’s Innovation Campus Asia Pacific in Mumbai, BASF’s second largest R&D site in Asia Pacific established in 2017 under BASF Chemicals India Private Limited.

Naia™ from Eastman strengthens western hemisphere textile connections at Apparel Sourcing Show Guatemala

As brands and retailers explore more diversified and responsive sourcing networks, the Naia™ brand from Eastman is strengthening its engagement with the textile and apparel value chain across the western hemisphere. From August 18–20, the company will participate for the first time in Apparel Sourcing Show Guatemala, a regional meeting point for apparel sourcing, manufacturing and nearshoring.

Dornbirn GFC 2026 expands conference program with new thematic sessions

For 65 years, Dornbirn GFC has stood for innovation and is one of the world’s leading conferences in the fiber industry. From September 16 to 18, 2026, the international fiber community will meet in Dornbirn, Austria, to discuss current trends, technological developments, and forward-looking solutions. More than 600 experts from industry and academia from over 30 countries are expected to attend. With around 100 presentations by renowned speakers, a 2,5-day conference program, and three parallel presentation rooms with moderated sessions, Dornbirn GFC provides a first-class platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and international collaboration. Together, participants will generate ideas and impulses that will sustainably shape the future of the global fiber industry.