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As long as COVID-19 variants continue to progress through the Greek alphabet, there will be a continued critical need for effective protective masks. One fledgling North Carolina firm has been producing disposable PPE masks for healthcare providers and the general public since the early months of the pandemic.

Mount Airy-based United Sewing Automation’s (USA) original plan was to produce apparel. That scheme changed quickly when a fire destroyed a building the company was renovating for a production facility.

LOOKING UP

Many companies report growth, even as pandemic, labor, supply chain issues rage

A number of textile and apparel producers and their suppliers responding to our survey reported a good to strong 2022, while others described business levels as average or moderate as the COVID-19 pandemic raged on and labor shortages, inflation and other issues continued to stifle growth. Numerous challenges will continue this year, but reshoring, nearshoring and back-shoring are becoming viable options as supply chain issues shine a bright light on America’s massive import levels and the problems they produce, some respondents noted. Read their reports.

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1941-2022

GEORGE ‘TERRIFIC’

Ageless giant, gentleman, gem – George Abbott left indelible mark on industry, friends

George Abbott, a friend to many who spent 54 years in the textile industry before his retirement in 2018, died unexpectedly on Monday, January 3.

Abbott, whose passion for the industry and the Southern Textile Association is unmatched, made a lasting impact on those who knew him. To Abbott, every day was a full day – full of positivity, fervor and adventure. If you asked him how he was doing, he answered only one way – regardless the kind of day he may be having. “I’m terrific!” he would answer … every single time.

GEORGE ON OUR MIND

Remembering ‘Mr. STA’ and many special moments

Based on the sentiments of support, condolences and memories that have poured in since George Abbott’s unexpected passing on January 3, you understand how much he was well liked, respected and loved.

Anyone who knew him has enjoyed many special moments with George.

Those who shared their thoughts about him on this page are spot on in their remembrances of this legend of the textile industry and the Southern Textile Association (STA). I’d like to call out a submission from Past STA President Todd Wemyss of Glen Raven, Inc. that succinctly describes him: “He impacted us all from the moment we met him until the last time we saw him – with exuberance.” (Read tribute page.)

amec amtex Q&A

Spanish textile OEM suppliers offer innovative, customization solutions

eTC recently caught up with our industry partner in Spain, amec amtex, the Spanish Textile Technology organization whose members comprise manufacturers of textile and garment-making machinery in the country. Following is a Q&A with Alejandro Gallego, the group’s business unit director, Industrial and Textile Technology, who extols the virtues of the Spanish sector, its relationship with U.S. companies, its progression through COVID-19 and more.