Americas Apparel Producers Network

Kaltex America has rejoined the Americas Apparel Producers Network! We’re thrilled to welcome back a longtime friend and industry powerhouse – Kaltex America – to our membership. Kaltex America is a key player in the textile and apparel industry, known for its vertical integration, innovative capabilities, and deep commitment to quality and sustainability. As the U.S. arm of Grupo Kaltex – one of the largest textile manufacturers in the Western Hemisphere – Kaltex America offers a comprehensive range of services, from yarn spinning to fabric development to finished garments. With a strong presence across North and Central America, the company plays a vital role in regional supply chains and continues to be a trusted partner for some of the world’s most respected brands. #AmericasTextiles #AmericasApparel #Yarns #Fibers #Fabric #Fashion #Knitting #Weaving #Apparel #ApparelIQ #Sustainability #Sourcing #SupplyChain #CutAndSew #Textiles #USMCA #CAFTADR #WesternHemisphere #Innovation #Reshoring #Nearshoring #Canada #Mexico #CentralAmerica

Brands take immersive journey on the Americas Apparel Producers Network (AAPN) seventh Carolina Mill Tour The Americas Apparel Producers’ Network (AAPN) hosted its seventh 2025 Carolina Mill Tour last week, taking executives from 12 leading apparel brands, including Academy Sports + Outdoors, Carters Inc., Dillard's Inc., Fanatics, Fechheimer, ILNA Inc., Momentec Brands, TegraGlobal and Under Armour as well as newcomers Johnny Was, LUCCINI and TRUEWERK. Read more: https://lnkd.in/e-ZtZFbv #ILoveThisIndustry #AmericanTextiles #WeMakeAmazing #Yarns #Fibers #Fabric #Fashion #Knitting #Weaving #Nonwovens #Apparel#Sustainability #Sourcing #SupplyChain #CutAndSew #Textiles #USMCA #CAFTADR #WesternHemisphere #MadeInUSA #MadeInAmerica#Innovation #Reshoring #Nearshoring

Among many Americas Apparel Producers Network (AAPN) members attending the Functional Fabrics Fair in #Portland this week are (L-R) Amy Bircher Bruyn of MMI Textiles; Devin Steele of eTextileCommunications.com, Cheryl Smyre of Parkdale Mills, Inc. Advanced Materials and Jim C. of Cascade Management Consulting. #ILoveThisIndustry #AmericanTextiles #WeMakeAmazing #Yarns #Fibers #Fabric #Fashion #Knitting #Weaving #Nonwovens #Apparel #Sustainability #Sourcing #SupplyChain #CutAndSew #Textiles #USMCA #CAFTADR #WesternHemisphere #MadeInUSA #MadeInAmerica #Innovation #Reshoring #Nearshoring

The seventh Carolina Mill Tour, organized by the Americas Apparel Producers Network’ (AAPN), took place Tuesday through Friday. On the tour were 22 attendees from 12 brands, including Academy Sports + Outdoors, Carters Inc., Dillard's Inc., Fanatics, Fechheimer, ILNA Inc., Johnny Was, LUCCINI, Momentec Brands, TegraGlobal, TRUEWERK and Under Armour. The tour gave attendees the chance to learn more about the complexities of textile manufacturing and to expand their networks. The event is showcasing to the brands what is made in the Americas through each link of the supply chain.   They traveled to knitter Contempora Fabrics in Lumberton, N.C., weaver HAMRICK MILLS and yarn spinner Parkdale Mills, Inc., both in Gaffney, S.C., Color Solutions International in Charlotte, N.C., and thread maker American & Efird in Mount Holly, N.C. Unifi Manufacturing, Inc. (makers of REPREVE® ), Inc., a major supplier to Contempora Fabrics, was also on hand in Lumberton to discuss their yarns and capabilities. See full photo album: https://lnkd.in/e82WAQK5 #ProAmericas #AmericasTextiles #WesternHemisphere #ILoveThisIndustry #Fibers #Yarns #Fabrics #SewnProducts #Apparel #Fashion #Knitting #Weaving #Sustainability #ApparelIQ #SupplyChain #Reshoring #Nearshoring #CAFTADR #USMCA

Speaker Spotlight: Dr. Juan Jose Daboub A., Ph.D. Fireside Chat – Investment in the Americas: What’s Next? We are honored to welcome Dr. Juan José Daboub, President of the HUGE (Honduras, USA, Guatemala, El Salvador) Business and Investment Council, to Americas Apparel Producers Network (AAPN) 2025 pro:Americas Annual Conference.   With a distinguished career spanning government, academia, global finance and private enterprise, Dr. Daboub brings unmatched insight into investment and economic development across the Western Hemisphere. A former Managing Director of the World Bank and former Minister of Finance and Chief of Staff to the President of El Salvador, he played a pivotal role in ushering El Salvador to investment grade and implementing landmark economic reforms – including the country’s dollarization. In this session, Dr. Daboub will share his unique perspective on: • The future of foreign direct investment in the Americas • Regional opportunities driven by nearshoring and trade incentives • The critical role of public-private partnerships in accelerating economic growth Don’t miss this powerhouse conversation on unlocking investment potential in the Americas. The full agenda is now live on our website – complete with confirmed speakers and timely topics ranging from AI and nearshoring to trade, investment, and sustainability. Agenda: https://lnkd.in/e-cRqWU9 AAPN 2025 pro:Americas Annual Conference 🗓️ May 12 – 14, 2025 📍 Marriott Harbor Beach I Ft. Lauderdale, FL ✏️ Register today! https://lnkd.in/e8cFuZuu   And don’t forget to book your stay – Our hotel room block closes April 21st: Click here to book your hotel: https://lnkd.in/e_6p-k_z   We can’t wait to welcome you to Fort Lauderdale for three days of bold ideas, real conversations and unmatched industry connection.   #ProAmericas #AmericasTextiles #WesternHemisphere #ILoveThisIndustry #Fibers #Yarns #Fabrics #SewnProducts #Apparel #Fashion #Knitting #Weaving #Sustainability #ApparelIQ #SupplyChain #Reshoring #Nearshoring #CAFTADR #USMCA

We’re thrilled to announce that Matthew Swartz of Patagonia will speak at the 2025 AAPN pro:Americas Annual Conference as part of our Tech Panel: Digital Product Creation – The Future of Design & Development. With over 15 years of industry experience, Matt has been a driving force at Patagonia since 2015, where he currently leads the color department. His background in color operations, innovation, and quality commercialization – combined with a B.S. in Polymer and Color Chemistry from NC State Wilson College of Textiles – makes him a standout voice in how Digital Product Creation is reshaping our industry. Matt will join Luis Velazquez of Fabletics, with Pam Peale of DeSL moderating, to discuss how DPC is increasing speed to market, lowering development costs, and enabling more sustainable development processes from design through commercialization. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most forward-thinking leaders in the space.   The full agenda is now live on our website – complete with confirmed speakers and timely topics ranging from AI and nearshoring to trade, investment, and sustainability. Agenda: https://lnkd.in/e-cRqWU9 AAPN 2025 pro:Americas Annual Conference   🗓️ May 12 – 14, 2025 📍 Marriott Harbor Beach I Ft. Lauderdale, FL ✏️ Register today! https://lnkd.in/e8cFuZuu   And don’t forget to book your stay – Our hotel room block closes April 21st: Click here to book your hotel: https://lnkd.in/e_6p-k_z   We can’t wait to welcome you to Fort Lauderdale for three days of bold ideas, real conversations and unmatched industry connection.   #ProAmericas #AmericasTextiles #WesternHemisphere #ILoveThisIndustry #Fibers #Yarns #Fabrics #SewnProducts #Apparel #Fashion #Knitting #Weaving #Sustainability #ApparelIQ #SupplyChain #Reshoring #Nearshoring #CAFTADR #USMCA

We’re thrilled to welcome Vickie Rotante of Janie and Jack and Hatch Collection to the Americas Apparel Producers Network (AAPN) 2025 pro:Americas Annual Conference! With her incredible industry experience and strategic insight, Vickie will be sharing her perspective on new business models, emerging brands and the latest sourcing trends shaping the future of our industry. As part of the Go Global Retail team, she brings unique insights that simply can’t be missed – Vickie is truly a can’t-miss speaker for anyone looking to stay ahead in the evolving world of retail and sourcing. Rotante is the Head of Product Development and Sourcing for Janie and Jack and Hatch Collection, a $250M portfolio of omnichannel brands specializing in childrenswear, maternity apparel, accessories, home, and beauty. Prior to Janie and Jack, her career has spanned over 30 years, where she has served as the SVP/VP for top U.S. retailers, including Sundance Catalog, QVC, URBN, Dick’s Sporting Goods, New York & Company and Cygne Design. Known for her strategic leadership and operational expertise, Rotante has been instrumental in building sourcing playbooks and driving value across global supply chains. With a renewed focus on Western Hemisphere sourcing, she is committed to creating a global supply chain matrix that optimizes both agility and margin while incorporating sustainable sourcing practices and ethical compliance standards. A native New Yorker and graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, Vickie now resides in San Francisco. AAPN 2025 pro:Americas Annual Conference   🗓️ May 12 – 14, 2025 📍 Marriott Harbor Beach I Ft. Lauderdale, FL ✏️ Register today! https://lnkd.in/e8cFuZuu   And don’t forget to book your stay – Our hotel room block closes April 21st: Click here to book your hotel: https://lnkd.in/e_6p-k_z   We can’t wait to welcome you to Fort Lauderdale for three days of bold ideas, real conversations and unmatched industry connection.   #ProAmericas #AmericasTextiles #WesternHemisphere #ILoveThisIndustry #Fibers #Yarns #Fabrics #SewnProducts #Apparel #Fashion #Knitting #Weaving #Sustainability #ApparelIQ #SupplyChain #Reshoring #Nearshoring #CAFTADR 

The seventh Carolina Mill Tour, organized by the Americas Apparel Producers Network (AAPN), began Tuesday with a visit to knitter Contempora Fabrics in #Lumberton, N.C., a major supplier of fabrics to fashion, athletic and performance markets. On the tour were 22 attendees from 12 brands, including Academy Sports + Outdoors, Carters Inc., Dillard's Inc., Fanatics, Fechheimer, ILNA Inc., Johnny Was, LUCCINI, Momentec Brands, TegraGlobal, TRUEWERK and Under Armour. The tour gave attendees the chance to learn more about the complexities of textile manufacturing and to expand their networks. The event showcased to the brands what is made in the Americas through each link of the supply chain. Unifi Manufacturing, Inc. (makers of REPREVE® ), a major supplier to Contempora Fabrics, was also on hand in Lumberton to discuss their yarns and capabilities. Employee-owned Contempora Fabrics, founded in 1972, operates 200 knitting machines in a 150,000-square-foot facility on 29 acres. The company employs 111 people. The bus also traveled to weaver HAMRICK MILLS and yarn spinner Parkdale Mills, Inc., both in Gaffney, S.C., Color Solutions International in Charlotte, N.C., and thread maker American & Efird in Mount Holly, N.C. #ProAmericas #AmericasTextiles #WesternHemisphere #ILoveThisIndustry #Fibers #Yarns #Fabrics #SewnProducts #Apparel #Fashion#Knitting #Weaving #Sustainability #ApparelIQ #SupplyChain #Reshoring #Nearshoring #CAFTADR #USMCA

The seventh Carolina Mill Tour, organized by the Americas Apparel Producers Network (AAPN), began Tuesday with a visit to knitter Contempora Fabrics in #Lumberton, N.C., a major supplier of fabrics to fashion, athletic and performance markets. On the tour were 22 attendees from 12 brands, including Academy Sports + Outdoors, Carters Inc., Dillard's Inc., Fanatics, Fechheimer, ILNA Inc., Johnny Was, LUCCINI, Momentec Brands, TegraGlobal, TRUEWERK and Under Armour. The tour gave attendees the chance to learn more about the complexities of textile manufacturing and to expand their networks. The event showcased to the brands what is made in the Americas through each link of the supply chain. Unifi Manufacturing, Inc. (makers of REPREVE® ), a major supplier to Contempora Fabrics, was also on hand in Lumberton to discuss their yarns and capabilities. Employee-owned Contempora Fabrics, founded in 1972, operates 200 knitting machines in a 150,000-square-foot facility on 29 acres. The company employs 111 people. The bus also traveled to weaver HAMRICK MILLS and yarn spinner Parkdale Mills, Inc. Mills, both in Gaffney, S.C., Color Solutions International in Charlotte, N.C., and thread maker American & Efird in Mount Holly, N.C. #ProAmericas #AmericasTextiles #WesternHemisphere #ILoveThisIndustry #Fibers #Yarns #Fabrics #SewnProducts #Apparel #Fashion#Knitting #Weaving #Sustainability #ApparelIQ #SupplyChain #Reshoring #Nearshoring #CAFTADR #USMCA

We’re excited to announce that Luis Velazquez, Senior Vice President of Product Development and Sourcing at Fabletics, will be speaking at the 2025 pro:Americas Annual Conference, taking place May 12–14 at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale, FL.   Luis brings deep expertise in driving operational excellence and innovation across multiple global brands. At Fabletics, he oversees fabric R&D, product development, sample room operations, and sourcing for four brands. He leads the creation and management of the product and brand launch strategy, and builds/ implements the global sourcing strategy to support rapid growth.  Luis also guides key technology investments that enable scale and growth, while focusing on coaching and developing the next generation of industry leaders.    In our panel, Digital Product Creation: The Future of Design and Development, Luis will share real-world insight into how digital tools are reshaping design and development—from speed-to-market and sustainability to team structure and innovation.   AAPN 2025 pro:Americas Annual Conference   🗓️ May 12 – 14, 2025 📍 Marriott Harbor Beach I Ft. Lauderdale, FL ✏️ Register today! https://lnkd.in/e8cFuZuu   And don’t forget to book your stay – Our hotel room block closes April 21st: Click here to book your hotel: https://lnkd.in/e_6p-k_z   We can’t wait to welcome you to Fort Lauderdale for three days of bold ideas, real conversations and unmatched industry connection.   #ProAmericas #AmericasTextiles #WesternHemisphere #ILoveThisIndustry #Fibers #Yarns #Fabrics #SewnProducts #Apparel #Fashion#Knitting #Weaving #Sustainability #ApparelIQ #SupplyChain #Reshoring #Nearshoring #CAFTADR #USMCA #Economics #Trade #Tariffs