Fiber & Yarn Products Inc. (F&YP), Hickory, N.C., and Next Fiber Technology (NFT), Frederick, Md., have formed a strategic alliance through which they will combine and strengthen their intellectual properties, patents pending and manufacturing trade secrets; and introduce NFT’s CuTEC™ and NanoGLIDE® technologies and innovations into other synthetic fibers, spun yarns, and staple products.
CuTec copper fiber technology permanently binds copper to the fiber matrix of polyester, nylon, or recycled polyester fibers. Fibers featuring the technology can be combined with cotton and wool; and used in a range of knitted and woven apparel to provide antibacterial, antifungal, anti-odor and hygienic protection, as well as
restore skin cells, according to NFT.
NanoGlide polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) fiber wicks sweat, dries quickly and reduces friction. The technology is applied mainly to performance apparel and socks, and will not wash off or wear out of the product, according to NFT.
Polyester and nylon yarn producer O’Mara Inc., Rutherford College, N.C. — formerly the exclusive manufacturer of CuTec and NanoGlide products — assisted F&YP and NFT in forming the partnership. Under the new agreement, NFT has reassigned specific licensed usage rights for the two brands and related technologies from O’Mara to F&YP in North and South America, Australia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, to enable O’Mara to focus on its core markets and unique brands.
NFT and F&YP will expand their sport/outdoor/shapewear/recreation portfolio in addition to focusing on new medical field investments.
July/August 2014
