News
Monday Member Spotlight: Advanced Distribution Technologies, Inc.
SPESA Speaks
May 10, 2021
This month's Monday Member Spotlight goes out to Advanced Distribution Technologies, Inc. (A.D.T.)! Founded in 1994, A.D.T. offers high-quality products to both manufacturers and contractors...
read moreHow Supply Chains Adapt to a New Normal
SPESA Speaks
May 5, 2021
In this month's Behind the Seams issues, we’ll dive into some of the key trends we’ve seen when it comes to shifts in supply chain strategy...
read moreCGS Welcomes Daniella Ambrogi as Global Marketing Director
SPESA In The News
April 1, 2021 - California Apparel News
A board member of the Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas and the Americas Apparel Producers Network technology committee, Ambrogi worked previously with the technology firm Lectra as the vice president of marketing in North America. Ambrogi’s appointment at CGS comes at a time when the fashion and apparel industry is still adapting to the adoption of necessary technologies...
read moreSPESA's State of the Union Address
SPESA Speaks
April 1, 2021
As is now our tradition, we want to take this opportunity to reflect on our past year and highlight some of the opportunities and challenges we expect to come...
read moreSPESA’s Team Advances in Global Reskilling Competition
SPESA In The News
March 25, 2021 - eTextileCommunications
The current lack of skilled workers and limited workforce development resources, particularly in the technician, engineering and mechanic positions, are among the largest obstacles for both our members and their customers interested in manufacturing in the United States...
read moreTeam RE: Reskill, Rebuild, Remake Advances to the Next Round of the $5M XPRIZE Rapid Reskilling Competition
SPESA Press Releases
March 22, 2021
SPESA announced today that Team RE: Reskill, Rebuild, Remake is one of 10 teams from 4 countries advancing as qualified teams in the XPRIZE Rapid Reskilling competition...
read moreEarly Bird Registration Now Open for Techtextil North America 2021
SPESA Press Releases
March 16, 2021
Early bird registration for Techtextil North America 2021, being held August 23-25, 2021 in Raleigh, North Carolina, has officially opened...
read moreTechtextil North America & Texprocess Americas to Pivot to New Event Cycle After 2022
SPESA Press Releases
March 10, 2021
Co-located events Techtextil North America and Texprocess Americas will change their event cycle and shift permanently to odd years after the 2022 editions...
read moreTrivia not Trivial: Women in the Sewn Products Industry
SPESA Speaks
March 3, 2021
In honor of Women’s History Month, this month’s Behind the Seams issues explore women in the sewn products industry...
read moreTechtextil and Texprocess Americas Shows Pivot Upcoming Schedule
SPESA In The News
March 2, 2021 - Sourcing Journal
The Covid-19 pandemic has caused many a pivot, and trade show schedules are no exception...
read moreLearning About Diversity in the Sewn Products Industry
SPESA Speaks
February 3, 2021
Our theme for this month’s issues of Behind the Seams is diversity — a term that much like sustainability, social responsibility, and other buzzwords, can mean different things to different people...
read moreWhat’s New for Behind the Seams in 2021?
SPESA Speaks
February 1, 2021
We’re charging headfirst into a new year, which also means new features and updates for Behind the Seams. Take a look a few opportunities that could help you highlight your business, expand your customer base, and position yourself to come out of the gate swinging in 2021...
read moreIndustry Coalition Urges Biden, Congress on PPE Policy Priorities
SPESA In The News
February 1, 2021 - Sourcing Journal
In a letter to the 46th president and congressional leaders, the group representing manufacturers and workers who stepped up to make essential personal protective equipment and other products throughout the Covid-19 pandemic outlined recommendations on specific policy initiatives to re-establish a permanent PPE industry in the United States...
read moreIndustry and Union Coalition Outlines Policy Recommendations in Letters to President Biden, Congressional Leaders
SPESA Press Releases
January 29, 2021
A broad coalition of industry organizations and labor unions, representing a broad spectrum of manufacturers and workers who stepped up to make essential PPE and other products throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, sent letters today to President Biden and congressional leaders outlining recommendations on specific policy initiatives that must be adopted to re-establish a permanent PPE industry in the United States...
read moreTechtextil North America 2021 to Reunite Technology Rich Textile Industry, Provide First-Class Education and Networking Opportunities
SPESA In The News
January 28, 2021
As the first major textile event since COVID-19 put the brakes on trade shows in early 2020, Techtextil North America returns to Raleigh August 23-25, 2021, to reunite an industry hungry for in-person business interactions...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Eton Systems
SPESA Speaks
January 25, 2021
For our first Monday Member Spotlight of 2021, we are featuring Eton Systems AB, a leading Swedish company producing intelligent overhead conveyor systems that give customers a space-efficient solution with improved productivity, real-time data sharing, and sequencing opportunity...
read moreLooking Into The Future
SPESA Speaks
January 6, 2021
For our first Behind the Seams issue of 2021, we wanted to explore the future of the industry. And let me tell you, nothing makes you think of the future more than a fresh-faced one-week-old looking up at you, wondering why you look so tired...
read moreTexprocess Americas and Techtextil North America Take Textile Education Online
SPESA In The News
December 29, 2020 - Sourcing Journal
Trade show organizer Messe Frankfurt North America is adapting its Techtextil North America and Texprocess Americas shows for the Covid era. The Sewn Products track, supported by SPESA, will focus on how production is changing in different tiers of the supply chain...
read moreCounting Down the Most Popular BTS Articles of 2020
SPESA Speaks
December 17, 2020
Despite everything, we’ve learned a lot this year. And we hope to have helped you learn a few things too. Take a look at the most popular Behind the Seams original articles of 2020...
read moreHappy Holidays from SPESA!
SPESA Speaks
December 14, 2020
It is a bit difficult to write a conclusion for a year that felt like it both lasted a decade and yet somehow should still be March. But we’ll give it a whirl...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Dunlap Sunbrand International
SPESA Speaks
December 7, 2020
Our final Member Spotlight nominee of 2020 is Dunlap Sunbrand International, a worldwide distribution company with offices throughout the Western Hemisphere providing sewing, cutting, pressing and finishing equipment, parts, needles and supplies...
read moreLooking Back on a Year Like No Other
SPESA Speaks
December 2, 2020
For this month's Behind the Seams SPESA Speaks, we looked back at some of the most-discussed topics of 2020...
read moreSomething to Look Forward to!
SPESA Speaks
November 16, 2020
This year has been rough, but it can't last forever. Here is a list of exciting upcoming events for SPESA members and the sewn products industry...
read moreSPESA Marks 30th Anniversary at Virtual Executive Conference
SPESA In The News
November 12, 2020 - eTextile Communications
Nearly 150 attendees registered for SPESA’s first-ever Virtual Executive Conference, which took place October 29-30 and was held in lieu of its in-person event scheduled to occur in Boston...
read more2020 SPESA Virtual Executive Conference Recap
SPESA Speaks
November 12, 2020
Over the course of two days we heard from speakers discussing a wide range of topics, from economics to politics to technology to sourcing. We embraced our original theme, exploring the past, present, and future of the industry, and highlighted how and why our future now looks very different than we expected...
read moreSewing Technologies & 3-D Printing Coming Up In November for Techtextil North America & Texprocess Americas Virtual Symposium
SPESA Press Releases
November 11, 2020
The Techtextil North America and Texprocess Americas Virtual Symposium continues this month with two sessions featuring the latest textile industry trends, technologies and their applications...
read morePolitics, Policy, and the Sewn Products Industry
SPESA Speaks
November 4, 2020
While we now wait for the last votes to be counted across the U.S., we're reminded of how important this and all elections are for our country. That is why we are dedicating this month's Behind the Seams issues to politics and policy...
read moreSPESA Announces Newly Elected Board Members
SPESA Press Releases
November 4, 2020
The Sewn Products Equipment and Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA) announced the re-election of six members to its Board of Directors, following a vote by its membership on October 30, 2020...
read moreSPESA Board Election Results
SPESA Speaks
November 2, 2020
During the SPESA Business Meeting, the membership voted to approve the slate of candidates nominated for the SPESA Board of Directors. Please join us in congratulating the Class of 2023...
read moreState of SPESA Remarks
SPESA Speaks
October 30, 2020
SPESA President Michael McDonald addressed attendees at the SPESA Business Meeting October 30, 2020...
read more2020 Executive Conference Opening Remarks
SPESA Speaks
October 29, 2020
SPESA Chairwoman Nina McCormack welcomed attendees to the 2020 SPESA Virtual Executive Conference October 29th and shared her hopes for the SPESA membership and the sewn products industry moving forward...
read moreFirst-ever SPESA Virtual Executive Conference to Start Today
SPESA In The News
October 29, 2020 - Apparel Resources
SPESA is all set to start its first-ever virtual executive conference today which will continue till 30 October. As SPESA celebrates its 30 years of evolution, the 2-day conference will aim at discussing the new future of sewn product industry post-COVID-19, while talking about the industry’s past as well as present developments at the same time...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Methods Workshop
SPESA Speaks
October 12, 2020
This month's Member Spotlight goes to Methods Workshop - a leading developer and provider of engineering and costing software solutions for the global fashion and sewn products industries...
read moreSPESA to Host Its First Ever Virtual Executive Conference Later This Month
SPESA Press Releases
October 7, 2020
SPESA announced in September that registration was open for its 2020 Virtual Executive Conference, taking place October 29 & 30. The two-day event is free for both members and nonmembers to attend...
read moreA Look at the Past, Present, and Future of the Industry
SPESA Speaks
October 7, 2020
Each month, Behind the Seams explores a different aspect of the sewn products industry. This month's SPESA Speaks was penned by SPESA Chairwoman Nina McCormack...
read moreMOTIF Releases The State of Skills in the Apparel Industry 2020 Report
SPESA In The News
September 30, 2020 - MOTIF
Over 900 professionals from all parts of the apparel value chain took part in the second global MOTIF State of Skills in the Apparel Industry 2020 survey supported by 19 industry associations, including SPESA. The survey Report provides insights on the state of skills and training trends and reflects on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis on professional learning to inform business and talent development strategies...
read moreAnnouncing the 2020 Techtextil North America and Texprocess Americas Virtual Symposium
SPESA In The News
September 16, 2020 - Behind the Seams
The 2020 Techtextil North America and Texprocess Americas Symposiums have gone virtual. Like the in-person events, this monthly series will provide attendees the opportunity to learn from the brightest minds in both industry and academia...
read moreA Wrinkle in the Plan: Is Cut-and-Sew a Barrier to Reshoring in the Textiles Industry?
SPESA In The News
September 14, 2020 - PrintingNews
One result of the current pandemic has been an increased focus on how to restructure the textiles industry’s fragile global supply chain. Brands and retailers appear to be thinking more seriously about how and what to reshore. And a growing number of industry manufacturers are either establishing microfactories for on-demand production or augmenting conventional manufacturing with digital components...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: SourceAmerica
SPESA Speaks
September 14, 2020
SourceAmerica is a national nonprofit agency that connects government and corporate customers to a network of over 700 nonprofit agencies that hire and employ professionals with disabilities. It supports its member nonprofits with contract opportunities, training, and workforce development programs...
read moreSPESA Continues to Support the Sewn Products Industry in the Time of COVID-19
SPESA In The News
September 14, 2020 - WhatTheyThink
Guest contributor Michael McDonald, president of SPESA, provides an update of how the association has been helping its members in the sewn products industry cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, and what its updated roster of events looks like...
read moreWorkforce Development and the Sewn Products Industry
SPESA Speaks
September 2, 2020
Each month, Behind the Seams explores a different aspect of the sewn products industry. For September, we're looking at workforce development...
read morePivoting to the PPE Textile Products Market
SPESA In The News
September 1, 2020 - Specialty Fabrics Review
How the manufacturing of medical protective gear is challenging U.S.-based textile businesses — and throwing them a lifeline...
read moreMichael McDonald Shares Insights on Current and Future Sewn Products
SPESA In The News
August 27, 2020 - WhatTheyThink
Michael McDonald, President of SPESA, provides background on the organization and discusses the latest developments in cut-and-sew automation with an emphasis on the "last mile" of sewing. He also discusses the need to attract new talent to the industry and cites some of the activities that are helping to do so...
read moreSPESA Support
SPESA In The News
August 12, 2020 - PrintingNews
It was going to be a big year for the Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas. Originally established in 1990, this time was going to be dedicated to celebrating a 30-year milestone for the organization, exploring lessons learned and looking toward the future and where it is headed next...
read moreTechnology and Its Role in Shaping the World and the Industry
SPESA Speaks
August 5, 2020
Each month, Behind the Seams explores a different aspect of the sewn products industry. For August, we're diving into technology...
read moreSPESA & VDMA Joint Webinar July 29th
SPESA Speaks
July 28, 2020
SPESA and VDMA Textile Care, Fabric and Leather Technology (TFL) are hosting a members-only joint webinar, Wednesday, July 29th, on the role Covid-19 has played in disrupting the sewn products industry and how the U.S. and Europe have responded to the crisis...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Agencia J.E. Handal
SPESA Speaks
July 20, 2020
This month's spotlight goes out to Honduras-based Agencia J.E. Handal, S.A de C.V., a company that has been dedicated to serving the garment industry since 1971...
read moreDOD PPE Virtual Information Days
SPESA Speaks
July 16, 2020
On Tuesday, July 14, and Wednesday, July 15, the Department of Defense’s COVID-19 Joint Acquisition Task Force and the Defense Logistics Agency hosted a virtual information day regarding current and future demand for personal protective equipment...
read moreUpdated: COVID-19 Resources for SPESA Members
SPESA Speaks
July 15, 2020
The past few months have presented innumerable challenges for several industries, including ours. We’ve compiled a handful of resources that we hope will help you and your company navigate these new waters...
read moreReport on the Current Situation of the Global Garment Industry in Terms of the Coronavirus Disaster
SPESA In The News
July 15, 2020
J.S.N. International interviewed prominent figures involved in the global garment industry, including SPESA President Michael McDonald, regarding the current situation of the industry in terms of the Covid-19 disaster as well as the industry's outlook...
read moreTechtextil North America & Texprocess Americas 2020 Postponed Until Next Editions
SPESA In The News
July 14, 2020
The organizers of Techtextil North America and Texprocess Americas have announced that the co-located events have been postponed beyond 2020...
read moreSneak Peek at the New Behind the Seams
SPESA Speaks
June 29, 2020
This week, SPESA will be launching a new version of the Behind the Seams newsletter. Take a sneak peek at the first issue and a learn more about the content you can expect from SPESA going forward...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Automatex
SPESA Speaks
June 29, 2020
Getting a head start on our Canada Day celebrations, we are highlighting Canadian member Automatex, Inc...
read more2020 SPESA Executive Conference
SPESA Speaks
June 25, 2020
Based on member feedback, discussions with SPESA’s Board of Directors, and in consideration for our members’ health and business priorities, we have decided to postpone the 2020 SPESA Executive Conference.
read moreOne Billion Gowns by August
SPESA In The News
June 10, 2020 - Textile Insight
The COVID-19 pandemic could well have been the demise of the U.S. textile and apparel industry. Instead, it has presented the industry with an opportunity to respond in a cooperative effort that may harbinger the development of a robust vertical supply chain in the U.S. and Western Hemisphere...
read moreSPESA Members Respond to COVID-19
SPESA Speaks
June 1, 2020
Every day we open the news and see some new story about businesses upending their operations to help protect their communities and fight the spread of COVID-19. We are incredibly proud of the SPESA members who have stepped up. And we want everyone to know it...
read moreU.S. Apparel Industry Relies on Collaborative Efforts to Remain Competitive
SPESA In The News
May 28, 2020 - California Apparel News
The movement to support domestic manufacturing in the United States was growing prior to the outbreak of COVID-19 at a slow yet steady pace. With supply chains disrupted and early shortages of personal protective equipment, apparel makers were faced with difficult decisions...
read moreWebinars successfully unmasking PPE issue
SPESA In The News
May 21, 2020 - eTextile Communications
As we wade through these uncharted waters, one of the best learning opportunities for me has been to attend a number of webinars around the topic, including a series hosted by N.C. State University’s Wilson College of Textiles, in partnership with IFAI, SEAMS, SPESA and IPC...
read moreIt Took a Crisis to Really Come Together - What Lessons Can We Take From This to Rebalance Our American Supply Chain?
SPESA In The News
May 21, 2020 - Jill Coleman (LinkedIn Post)
Apparel industry associations heard the “call to action” and brought silos together to act as a vertical supply chain. Barriers between competitors, brands, suppliers and industry associations have been removed. This industry of very smart people came together to service their new “consumer”--information was being shared openly...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: PAAT
SPESA Speaks
May 18, 2020
This month, we are featuring SPESA member PAAT, a global technology startup that addresses the technological inefficiencies that affect the fashion & apparel industry...
read moreOnPoint Manufacturing Utilizes Technology in PPE Transition
SPESA Speaks
May 18, 2020
As companies across the globe look to transition to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) production, Alabama-based OnPoint Manufacturing seems to have figured it out with remarkable speed. We recently spoke with Kirby Best, who heads up both OnPoint and SPESA member PAAT, to learn more about the company’s ongoing efforts...
read moreFashion Industry Efforts to Address Global PPE Shortages
SPESA In The News
May 13, 2020 - Just-Style
NC State's Wilson College of Textiles has partnered with IFAI — with sponsorship from IPC, SEAMS, and SPESA — to create a series of webinars on PPE production and design. Webinars include an introduction to PPE production and nonwovens technology in the production of PPE...
read moreIn Another World
SPESA Speaks
May 12, 2020
In another world, we would be in Atlanta right now, welcoming exhibitors and visitors to Texprocess Americas 2020. But instead we are at home, in sweatpants, balancing work, kids, roommates, and a panic-inducing news cycle...
read moreSPESA Member News: The Fox Company Announces New Hire
SPESA In The News
May 7, 2020
The Fox Company announces that Calvin Hampton has joined the Fox Team in the capacity of senior sales and technical manager...
read moreHenderson Sewing Machine quickly introduces PPE production systems
SPESA In The News
April 30, 2020 - eTextile Communications
The leadership and technical teams at Henderson Sewing Machine Co., Andalusia, Ala., had to quickly pivot from its normal products into PPE manufacturing technologies in order to support the cause, according to President & CEO Frank Henderson...
read moreGerber Technology’s PPE Task Force came together quickly
SPESA In The News
April 30, 2020 - eTextile Communications
What began as an idea at Gerber Technology quickly blossomed – literally over a weekend – into something big as it relates to addressing the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) shortage...
read moreTariff Deferral Update for SPESA Members
SPESA Speaks
April 27, 2020
You likely heard about the tariff deferral announced by President Trump on April 19th for products imported into the United States. Unfortunately, the decision will have little impact on SPESA members as it does not affect any of the products coming from China subject to the 301 tariffs...
read moreTechnology Opens New Channels for Supply Chain Communication
SPESA In The News
April 21, 2020 - Just-Style
With Covid-19 putting a stop to all non-essential travel, global supply chains are being put to the test as brands and retailers have to rethink how they work, how they communicate with their manufacturers on placing orders and product design, and with business associates globally. Technology is now taking a front seat and software companies are stepping in to help bridge the gap...
read moreAchievements & Challenges of Rapid Response Efforts
SPESA In The News
April 17, 2020 - Textile Insight Extra
Navigating today’s uncharted path of domestic production of PPE is not for the faint of heart, but textile execs say that collaboration – even with competitors – along with willingness to learn and evolve during an ever-changing crisis situation is bringing impressive results...
read moreIt’s a New Day, a New Time
SPESA In The News
April 16, 2020
eTextile Communications: Over the last few weeks, the sewn products, textiles and apparel industry and many of its suppliers have demonstrated all that is possible when everyone comes together with a common purpose to address a major crisis. And for this industry in the U.S., the possibilities appear endless...
read moreSPESA Member News: Consew Announces Commitment to Assist with Efforts to Produce Face Masks and Other PPEs
SPESA In The News
April 16, 2020
Consew, a leading manufacturer of industrial sewing machines for heavy industrial use, announces its commitment to assist with efforts in transforming manufacturing plants to produce face masks and other PPE (personal protective equipment) products...
Monday Member Spotlight: Consew
SPESA Speaks
April 13, 2020
In February, the SPESA team traveled to Florida to meet with our Board of Directors, host a SPESA After Hours, and visit with current and prospective members. One of the highlights of the trip was an opportunity to tour the Consew facility in Doral and learn more about the company’s operations and amazing team...
read moreGerber Technology Brings Together Industry Suppliers to Increase Production and Availability of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
SPESA In The News
April 8, 2020 - Gerber Technology Press Release
Gerber’s PPE Task Force has brought more than 600 companies and leading associations together to fight COVID-19...
read moreAmericas Apparel Producers’ Network (AAPN) Online Coronavirus Sourcing Center Views Surpass 10,000
SPESA In The News
April 3, 2020 - Textile World
The Americas Apparel Producers’ Network’s (AAPN’s) online Sourcing Center continues to produce for the medical community during the coronavirus crisis. Users have come from every corner of the industry including members of NAUMD (uniforms), IFAI (fabric), INDA (nonwovens), SPESA (equipment), SEAMS (regional) and AAFA (lobby)...
read moreA Message from SPESA on COVID-19
SPESA Speaks
March 30, 2020
As with the rest of the world, we are facing an unprecedented challenge. The spread of COVID-19 has impacted our industry, our business, and our day-to-day lives. We are quickly learning a hard lesson about adaptability and prioritization and it hasn’t been easy. But at the end of the day, we know our priority is you. And the decisions being made are about protecting your health and wellbeing...
read moreSPESA to Host 2020 Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Conference this April in Detroit, Michigan
SPESA Press Releases
February 25, 2020
The Sewn Products Equipment and Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA) will host its 10th Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Conference on Tuesday, April 7 in Detroit, Michigan, bringing together both suppliers and manufacturers to discuss current and emerging innovation in the sewn products industry...
read moreSPESA Speaks About Texprocess Americas
SPESA Speaks
February 6, 2020
We asked a few past exhibitors why they plan to attend Texprocess Americas and why you should too. Here's what they had to say...
read moreSPESA Members Showcase at Colombiatex 2020
SPESA Speaks
February 5, 2020
SPESA attended the annual Colombiatex de las Américas January 21-23 in Medellin, Colombia. As is its tradition, SPESA utilized its 2020 Colombiatex booth to highlight its members...
read moreSPESA's 2020 State of the Union Address
SPESA Speaks
February 4, 2020
You may or may not know this, but SPESA will reach a significant milestone in 2020. It will officially turn 30-years-old. Meanwhile, our team is embarking on year two of managing this prodigious association...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Frontier Distributors
SPESA Speaks
February 3, 2020
SPESA members represent the very foundation of our industry, right down to the furniture you need to support your equipment and your workers. That's why this month we are recognizing Frontier Distributors—makers of quality sewing machine tables since 1984...
read moreMaybe You're Not as Unique as You Think
SPESA Speaks
January 15, 2020
Registration went live today for the 2020 Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Conference. While most of our events provide vital industry information for our members, this one is a little different. This one is all about getting information from SPESA members...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: FKgroup
SPESA Speaks
January 13, 2020
Our first member spotlight for 2020 is FKgroup - a company focused on analysis, planning, and automation for the cutting room for more than 55 years. From its headquarters in Dalmine, Bergamo – the heart of "Made in Italy" textile production – to Asia and South America, FKgroup has upheld its high standards with the most eminent international brands in textile production in all its segments...
read moreLook Who's Heading South for the Winter
SPESA Speaks
January 10, 2020
Happy New Year! Or perhaps we should say: ¡Feliz Año Nuevo! For a while now, SPESA has started off the beginning of every new year with a trip to Medellin for Colombiatex de las Américas. This year, we will be sharing our booth with a few SPESA members showcasing their exceptional products and services to the Latin American market...
read moreHappy Holidays from SPESA!
SPESA Speaks
December 20, 2019
Well, we made it a year. Our team officially took over management of SPESA in January of this year and it has been one of the greatest years yet for all of us...
read moreShimmy into the Digital Future with AI-Supported Training for Textile Workers
SPESA In The News
December 16, 2019 - What They Think
At the recent SPESA Executive Conference, Cary Sherburne had the pleasure of meeting Sarah Krasley of Shimmy, a company that provides training for garment workers using gamification (to make it more engaging) and artificial intelligence for localization, among other things. With automation increasingly expected to eliminate jobs in the textiles and other industries, upskilling of these workers is a critical investment in our future—and theirs...
read moreCan the "Last Mile" of Manufacturing — Sewing — Be More Automated? Frank Henderson Says Yes
SPESA In The News
December 16, 2019 - What They Think
A third-generation family-owned company in business for 50 years, Henderson Sewing Machine Company has changed with the times, according to CEO Frank Henderson. With sewing — the "last mile" in textile manufacturing automation — still requiring significant manual labor, Henderson talks about the challenges of automating textile sewn products and the progress that is being made...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Magnal Solutions
SPESA Speaks
December 16, 2019
Our December spotlight goes to one of our newer members: Magnal Solutions. The Canadian-based software specialist and industrial engineering consulting service provider focuses on Shop Floor Control and piecework payroll for the garment industry...
read moreAttracting New Talent to Textile Manufacturing Starts with 8th Graders at the Manufacturing Solutions Center
SPESA In The News
December 12, 2019 - What They Think
Dan St. Louis describes the work being done over the last 30 years at the Manufacturing Solutions Center to help create and maintain jobs. As part of the Catawba Community College, the group, among other things, hosts tours of its facility and selected manufacturing plants for 8th graders to encourage them to seek jobs in the industry...
read moreEarly Bird Registration has Opened for Techtextil North America and Texprocess Americas 2020
SPESA Press Releases
December 11, 2019
Techtextil North America and Texprocess Americas will return to the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia May 12-14, 2020. With the all-new, tiered pricing structure, those who register prior to February 18, 2020 will have the opportunity for substantial cost savings on exhibit hall, symposium and special event purchases...
read moreThe Story Behind the Chairs
SPESA Speaks
December 10, 2019
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been talking a lot about the 2019 SPESA Executive Conference, but there is one story we haven’t yet told...
read moreSPESA Members Collect Knowledge, Connections, Memories in N’Awlins
SPESA In The News
December 5, 2019 - eTextileCommunications
Members and guests of SPESA on hand for its annual Executive Conference here recently came away with new knowledge, connections, and plenty of memories of the Big Easy scene...
read moreU.S. Department of Commerce Sees Textiles as a Good Case Study for Reshoring Manufacturing
SPESA In The News
December 2, 2019 - What They Think
Lloyd Wood, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Textiles, Consumer Goods and Materials, U.S. Department of Commerce, was a speaker at the recent SPESA Executive Conference and took time to share his thoughts about what the Department of Commerce is doing to help the textiles and apparel industry be more competitive...
read moreWhat You Missed in New Orleans - Conference Recap
SPESA Speaks
November 20, 2019
It is hard to believe it has been three weeks since the 2019 SPESA Executive Conference in New Orleans. As we catch up on sleep and catch our breath before diving in to the next big project, we wanted to share a few insights from the conference for anyone who was not able to attend...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Gerber Technology
SPESA Speaks
November 11, 2019
Gerber Technology holds a special place in the SPESA family. Former Board Chairman, Sam Simpson, represented Gerber Technology on the SPESA Board for nearly two decades, and Vice President of product management and marketing for Automation Systems at Gerber Technology, Lenny Marano, was recently voted in as the newest SPESA Board member...
read moreSPESA Hosts 90 Industry Professionals at Two-Day Executive Conference in New Orleans
SPESA Press Releases
November 8, 2019
SPESA (Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas) hosted its 2019 Executive Conference last Tuesday, October 29 and Wednesday, October 30, in New Orleans, touching on major topics impacting the sewn products industry today. The event attracted 90 attendees from 19 states (including the District of Columbia) and 5 countries...
read moreSPESA Executive Conference Looks at the State of the Sewn Products Industry
SPESA In The News
November 4, 2019 - What They Think
Last week, Senior Editor Cary Sherburne had the pleasure of attending the Executive Conference sponsored by the Sewn Products Equipment and Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA) in New Orleans. This was the first major event planned by the new staff, led by Michael McDonald, President, and by all accounts, it was a huge success...
read moreSPESA Executive Conference Addresses Issues Affecting the Sewn Products Industry: Trade, Workforce, and More
SPESA In The News
October 31, 2019 - What They Think
Michael McDonald, President of SPESA, the Sewn Products Equipment Suppliers of the Americas, discusses the challenges facing the Sewn Products industry, including misconceptions about employment in manufacturing that can be a barrier to attracting new talent. He discusses the role of the organization's Executive Conference, explains what attendees learned, and noted that James Carville, known as the Ragin' Cajun and a native of New Orleans, where the conference was held, was the keynote speaker...
read moreSmall Business Administration Targets Textiles and Sewn Products as Biz Dev Case Study
SPESA In The News
October 30, 2019 - What They Think
Interview conducted at the 2019 SPESA Executive Conference - Chris Pilkerton, Acting Administrator of the United States Small Business Administration, talks about his experiences with companies in the textiles and sewn products industries...
read moreSPESA’s New Leadership Team Committed to Carrying on Legacy
SPESA In The News
October 25, 2019 - eTextileCommunications
Following is a Q&A with the SPESA leadership team that took over operations at the beginning of the year. Michael McDonald is President; Maggie McDonald is Vice President of Communications; and Marie D'Avignon is Vice President of Operations...
read moreGuest Post: Join Exenta at the 2019 SPESA Executive Conference
SPESA Speaks
October 16, 2019
Continuing professional development is an essential component to being a leader in your space. Taking the time to network with others in the industry, to learn about coming trends and changes, and to hear new perspectives is vital to remaining agile and crucial to the ability to adapt and grow as an organization. At Exenta, we strive to make professional development a priority, and that’s why we’ll be at the 2019 SPESA Executive Conference...
read moreMiscellaneous Tariff Bill Update for SPESA Members
SPESA Speaks
October 15, 2019
The U.S. International Trade Commission is now accepting petitions seeking temporary duty suspensions and reductions in accordance with the American Manufacturing Competitiveness Act of 2016. The act allows companies importing products that are not being made in the United States to submit a petition to receive reduced or suspended tariffs on those products when they are imported into the United States...
read moreChina Tariff Update for SPESA Members
SPESA Speaks
October 15, 2019
According to President Donald Trump, the United States and China have reached a tentative and partial trade deal and paused the tariff increase that was set to take effect today on imports on the Section 301 Tariff List 3. Instead of increasing to 30%, tariffs on List 3 imports will remain at the 25% rate implemented in May of this year...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Morgan Tecnica
SPESA Speaks
October 7, 2019
In 2008, the Giachetti family of Italy launched a bold new endeavor with Morgan Tecnica. At the height of world economic chaos, they saw a need to improve the cutting room floor and had the passion and drive to make it a reality. Fast forward ten years and Morgan Tecnica is now a powerhouse when it comes to groundbreaking, innovative cutting technologies in the textile industry...
read moreAn Invitation from SPESA Chairman Nina McCormack
SPESA Speaks
October 1, 2019
SPESA Members - Whether you’re in pursuit of professional development, looking to meet a new customer, or simply seeking a fun getaway, I strongly encourage you to join me in New Orleans for the upcoming 2019 SPESA Executive Conference...
New SPESA Member: Mitsubishi Electric Industrial Sewing Machines
SPESA Speaks
September 26, 2019
SPESA is proud to introduce another new member! Mitsubishi Electric Industrial Sewing Machines (ISM) is an industry leader in manufacturing and supplying industrial sewing equipment. This includes a wide range of programmable sewing machines, flatbed lockstitch machines, industrial sewing machine motor kits, clamping solutions for its programmable machines, and genuine sewing machine parts...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Alvanon
SPESA Speaks
September 9, 2019
Alvanon's story is one of endurance and evolution. Its founder was a garment manufacturer who failed at selling apparel online. So, he began looking at other ways he could “fit” in to the industry. He created mannequins based on real human anatomy and an understanding of pattern making and garment production...
read moreNew SPESA Member: Atlanta Attachment Company
SPESA Speaks
August 20, 2019
Atlanta Attachment Company is based out of Lawrenceville, Georgia, and employs more than 130 highly specialized and dedicated professionals in its headquarters alone. AAC produces automated systems, custom engineering, facility layout systems, and plant management software, as well as manual and automated sewing equipment and workstations, attachments, labor saving devices, and expendable replacement parts...
read moreNew SPESA Member: Automatex
SPESA Speaks
August 20, 2019
SPESA is thrilled to welcome Automatex as our newest member! Automatex is a Canadian company founded in 1992. Its 45,000 square foot plant is based in Terrebonne, Quebec, with more than 55 specialized employees...
read moreWhy it’s a Good Time to Take Another Look at Sourcing in Central America (Yes, Again)
SPESA In The News
August 15, 2019 - Sourcing Journal
Whenever the apparel supply chain is staring down some sort of upheaval—whether it’s the Tranche 4 tariffs, fires in Bangladesh or China wage hikes—many decide that it’s a good time to take another look at sourcing in Central America...
read moreGet to Know SPESA's Summer Intern
SPESA Speaks
August 13, 2019
We have really enjoyed getting to know our summer intern, Mitchell Hurd, as he helps us out with social media, industry research, marketing, and setting up the new SPESA office, and we think you should know him too...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Autometrix
SPESA Speaks
August 12, 2019
August’s Monday Member Spotlight goes out to Autometrix, Inc – a family-owned company specializing in pattern development software for the industrial fabrics industry and low-ply precision cutting machines. With bases in California and Ohio, Autometrix has produced innovative technology for textiles manufacturing since 1979...
read moreThe Changing Dynamics of Manufacturing Across the Americas
SPESA In The News
August 7, 2019 - Sourcing Journal
In 2017, Nidhi Kapur, jumped feet first into a brand new bold endeavor by launching a direct-to-consumer furniture brand called Maiden Home. Like many millennial consumers, Kapur was tired of mass-produced furnishings that came with a hefty price tag and low quality materials. She craved the lost art of craftsmanship, and sought to change the trajectory of how furniture was manufactured by going straight to the original source: North Carolina...
read moreSPESA to Host James Carville as Keynote Speaker for 2019 Executive Conference this October in New Orleans, Louisiana
SPESA Press Releases
August 5, 2019
SPESA (Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas) today announced that famed democratic political commentator, and media personality James Carville will serve as the keynote speaker for its annual Executive Conference in New Orleans, October 29 & 30...
read moreOp-Ed: The US Sewn Products Industry Faces Sizable Labor Shortage
SPESA In The News
July 9, 2019 - Sourcing Journal
The sewn products sector is struggling where labor is concerned. As evidence of this fact, there’s a man in Texas who is alleged to be the only person within a 200-mile radius with the skills needed to repair sewn product manufacturing equipment. Just by listening to a machine, he’s able to identify the problem and offer a solution, and he can be at your factory sometime between next Tuesday and two months from now. He is a regional prodigy. He also represents the decline in local resources and a need for skilled labor...
read moreNew SPESA Member: Magnal Solutions
SPESA Speaks
July 8, 2019
We are excited to welcome Magnal Solutions as the newest member of the SPESA family. This Canadian based Shop Floor Control Software Specialist and Industrial Engineering Consulting Service Provider is unique in being entirely focused on Shop Floor Control (SFC) and piecework payroll for the garment industry...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: YKK USA
SPESA Speaks
July 1, 2019
Our 1st SPESA member spotlight of the summer goes out to YKK USA - manufacturer of a wide range of zippers & fasteners produced right here in the good ol' U.S. of A. YKK's products are used in apparel, footwear, personal protective, tactical equipment, and medical industries. In addition to being a leader in product performance and longevity, YKK focuses on the Cycle of Goodness...
read moreWhy We Go to Trade Shows
SPESA Speaks
June 21, 2019
SPESA is traveling to Barcelona this week for ITMA 2019. It's one of many shows SPESA attends and we want to talk a little bit about why...
read moreRegister Now for the 2019 SPESA Executive Conference
SPESA Speaks
June 4, 2019
We're excited to announce that registration for the 2019 SPESA Executive Conference is officially open! Taking place October 29 and 30 in New Orleans, the event is open to SPESA members, their customers, and anyone interested in learning more about the future of the sewn products industry…
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: American & Efird
SPESA Speaks
June 3, 2019
For June, we are featuring a different kind of sewn products supplier: American & Efird. One of the world’s foremost manufacturers of sewing thread, embroidery thread, and technical textiles, A&E’s global presence extends from Asia to Europe to the Americas...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Lectra
SPESA Speaks
May 6, 2019
This month, we are shining the spotlight on Lectra, an international leader in integrated technology solutions specifically designed for industries using textiles, leather, industrial fabrics, & composites...
read moreSPESA’s 2019 Advancements In Manufacturing Conference
SPESA In The News
April 16, 2019 - Textile World
SPESA’s 9th Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Conference attracted 90 industry leaders in Raleigh, N.C…
read moreSPESA President Explains Association’s Value to the Sewn Products Industry
SPESA In The News
April 15, 2019 - What They Think
Are you a supplier to the sewn products industry? If so, are you a member of SPESA? And if you are not, this article from Senior Editor Cary Sherburne lays out why you should be. SPESA’s President Michael McDonald shares his thoughts on the association’s role in promoting and supporting the sewn products industry from the supplier’s perspective...
read moreMonday Member Spotlight: Henderson Sewing Machine Co.
SPESA Speaks
April 1, 2019
SPESA members: Oh how we love thee. As a token of our appreciation and a celebration of your great work, we’re launching today a monthly member spotlight. The first one goes to Henderson Sewing Machine Co., which celebrated 50 years in the industry in 2018...
read moreSewn Products: Hurdles & Opportunities
SPESA In The News
March 25, 2019 - Textile World
The Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA) recently collocated its 9th Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Conference with Techtextil North America held at the Raleigh Convention Center in Raleigh, N.C. More than 90 registered attendees came together to discuss issues facing the sewn products industry. The conference focused on the current and future state of innovations in the sewn products industry related to microfactories, on-demand manufacturing, software connectivity and automation...
read moreMicrofactories, Automation, Talent, Investment: Deconstructing the Reality of Made-in-the- USA Manufacturing
SPESA In The News
March 11, 2019 - Apparel Magazine
When you’re talking about automating the apparel industry, and where we’re headed in the future, it’s helpful to understand where the industry has been, why it changed, and what’s sparking the changes that it will need to accommodate going forward…
read moreSPESA Brings Together Top Industry Leaders for Discussion on Technology Advancements in Sewn Products Manufacturing
SPESA Press Releases
March 6, 2019
The Sewn Products Equipment and Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA) hosted its 9th Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Conference last Wednesday, February 27, bringing together a group of leaders on the frontline of manufacturing to discuss the current and future state of innovations in the sewn products industry. Held in conjunction with Techtextil North America 2019 in Raleigh, North Carolina, the event attracted more than 90 registered attendees from 18 states (including the District of Columbia) and five countries…
read moreSPESA: Meet The New President Michael McDonald
SPESA In The News
February 20, 2019 - Textile World
In February of 2018, The Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA) Board of Directors named Michael McDonald SPESA executive director. McDonald worked alongside then president, Benton Gardner, and managing director, Dave Gardner, until their retirement at the end of last year. McDonald then assumed full management of SPESA at the beginning of January 2019 as president...
read moreSPESA President Addresses Membership in Inaugural State of the Union
SPESA Speaks
February 5, 2019
At the beginning of last year, I opened an email from the SPESA Board that would change my career and my life. Having dedicated years to the textile and apparel industries — from studying work-force development to translating academia to real-world application — the offer to serve as your SPESA President was one I was honored to accept and one that I knew came with much responsibility…
read moreSPESA President Michael McDonald Talks Industry with NCSU Students
SPESA Speaks
February 4, 2019
A group of undergraduate students from the North Carolina State University Wilson College of Textiles stopped by the SPESA office last week to speak with SPESA President Michael McDonald about trade associations and trade shows…
read moreSPESA To Host Advancements In Manufacturing Technologies Conference In Conjunction With Techtextil North America
SPESA In The News
December 17, 2018 - Textile World
Techtextil North America announced today that SPESA (Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas) will hold its Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Conference at the Raleigh Convention Center in Raleigh, N.C., on Wednesday, February 27, in conjunction with the show’s 2019 edition...
read moreSPESA Announces New Executive Director
SPESA Press Releases
April 2, 2018
The SPESA Board of Directors met on February 7, 2018, and approved the hiring of Michael McDonald as the new SPESA Executive Director to work alongside current president, Benton Gardner, and managing director, Dave Gardner, until their retirement at the end of 2018. McDonald will take over full management of the organization in January 2019...
read more