April 8, 2026
Barbara Connett, who has worked on the Marine Fabricators Conference for the past several years, was promoted to Advanced Textiles Expo show director, beginning with the 2026 show. “Barbara is the right person at the right time to give Expo the focus it deserves. Her experience at ATA and strong understanding of the needs of …
April 1, 2026
Last summer, performing arts circus school Circus Juventas in St. Paul, Minn., looked into improving its building’s efficiency, including better insulation to reduce energy use and to address condensation concerns. Although the building’s “big top,” a tensioned dome roof constructed with Shelter-Rite® fabric membrane, continued to perform well, the organization decided to replace it at …
April 1, 2026
In the Valley of the Sun, there’s no shortage of companies selling awnings. That’s why Amy Huette wasn’t quite sure how to respond when about 25 years ago in Colorado, her father proposed a new business venture in Phoenix, Ariz. “He asked, ‘Do you want to sell shade in the desert?”’ says Huette, owner and …
April 1, 2026
For businesses of all sizes, expanding into service-based revenue streams can unlock new income, deepen customer loyalty and even spark spinoff companies. Added services for a shade business can include offering awning cleaning, maintenance and storage. For a supplier, having cutting services passes savings (both in time and labor) to customers while requiring little overhead. …
April 1, 2026
The 2026 International Achievement Awards (IAAs) are now accepting entries. Exclusive to Advanced Textile Association (ATA) members, this competition—now in its 79th year—celebrates the best projects in the specialty fabrics industry. With a reduced entry fee of just $25, it’s easy to enter. Showcase your technical skills and gain industry-wide recognition by entering your best …
April 1, 2026
Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) Japan, a member group of ATA, held its New Year Forum and Networking Reception Jan. 22 at Shin-Osaka Washington Hotel Plaza in Osaka, Japan. The forum brought together ATA Japan members, guests and partners. An update on the ATA Annual Meeting was provided, in addition to reports on Advanced Textiles Expo …
April 1, 2026
Note: The author serves as ATA’s code consultant and attends building code development meetings. One of the services provided to members of the Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) is advocacy. For the member groups involved with permanent awnings and structures, temporary tents and sometimes even inflatables, that includes having representation at building code development meetings. The …
March 1, 2026
Large frame awnings and fabric structures are what most of us in the industry want, or at least a few of them per year. They usually take substantial labor hours and material, and as such, can be very profitable and keep your staff busy. For the customer they solve big problems, or allow previously unusable …
March 1, 2026
2026 marks 85 years of business for SugarHouse Industries in Midvale, Utah. The fabrication shop specializes in awnings and custom-made products in the marine, military and aerospace industries. “Overall I just feel incredibly proud and grateful for the legacy my grandpa and father built for SugarHouse long before I stepped into this role,” says Mike Peterson, …
March 1, 2026
To expand beyond their core business, some awning companies may offer ancillary services. A painting service, either powder coating or electrostatic painting (ESP), is one option. Two Advanced Textiles Association member companies offer their insights on why they chose the technology and how the ability to protect metal framing and metal awnings for their projects—and …
April 1, 2026
Last summer, performing arts circus school Circus Juventas in St. Paul, Minn., looked into improving its building’s efficiency, including better insulation to reduce energy use and to address condensation concerns. Although the building’s “big top,” a tensioned dome roof constructed with Shelter-Rite® fabric membrane, continued to perform well, the organization decided to replace it at …
February 1, 2026
Taiwanese architect Cheng-Tsung FENG took inspiration from traditional oil-paper umbrellas to create an airy park pavilion that has a pocket garden and benches for people to gather and relax inside. The structure takes an umbrella’s design and turns it on its head—well, more literally on its side. The shape appears as if three giant umbrellas …
February 1, 2026
“The Organic Tree” was created to make a fan experience at the Australian Open more comfortable. VDM Group and Pattons implemented a detailed breakdown of the design, engineering, fabrication and installation process and spent the first week planning. Although this used up a week of its 12-week timeline, it resulted in thorough project management. They …
January 1, 2026
Fabritecture was tasked with improving the aesthetics and functionality of the existing parking garage at the Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. The architect’s concept included replacing the existing rectangular facade panels with a more geometrical design and layout. Fabritecture carefully refined the transformation, ensuring not only structural integrity but also a seamless integration with the existing …
December 1, 2025
The Miami Carnaval project comprises six zones, known as bays, divided into over 120 panels, and spans a total area of 8,420 square meters. The project involved the installation of more than 31,000 screws and approximately 6,000 linear meters of a sophisticated clamping system. The selected material, PTFE B18039 Versaideg, was chosen for its exceptional …
November 1, 2025
When a major credit union moved its corporate headquarters to the center of downtown Jacksonville, Fla., it wisely made a commitment to renovate several buildings along the primary pedestrian throughway that fronts its new property. VyStar Credit Union serves more than 825,000 military service members across the country, and as one of the largest financial …
October 1, 2025
On the wind-swept plains of Aurora, Colo., a monumental tensile structure gives the appearance of a giant winged bird alighting atop a performance stage. The site is part of a planned development for multiple parks for Aurora Highlands east of the Rockies of western Colorado. Measuring approximately 50 by 120 feet, this venue is a …
September 1, 2025
Although when grouped around a central building, the 12 freestanding structures may appear massive, the delicacy and transparency of the mesh fabric that encloses all 12 dramatically reduces the overall visual weightiness. Located in León, Mexico, the Environmental Education Center is inspired by the wings of a dragonfly, its rhomboid-like geometry clad with mesh fabric …
August 1, 2025
It appears as if it is unfinished, but the design goal for this multifunctional building is to be as flexible as possible to contain and support “diverse human activities [that] can be deployed under the cloud, which can be expanded as needed,” according to PFEIFER Spatial Structures, the engineering and fabrication company responsible for the …
July 1, 2025
A most unlikely location of placemaking can be found spanning a busy transit corridor in Redmond, Wash., with 20 lanes of freeway and two tracks of light rail speeding beneath a bridge. The Redmond Technology Station Bridge, designed by Silman’s Lightweight Structures Group of TYLin (formerly FTL), stretches 1,100 feet, connecting two Microsoft campuses. “Microsoft and …
May 1, 2025
Advanced Textiles Association® (ATA) is excited to announce that registration is now open for Advanced Textiles Expo® 2025, taking place November 5–7 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Ind. As the industry’s leading trade show for specialty fabrics, advanced textiles, and shade and weather protection, the Expo draws thousands of professionals for three days …
March 11, 2025
We are pleased to announce that Site & Stay has been selected as the official housing partner for Advanced Textiles Expo® 2025, taking place Nov. 5–7 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Ind. Hotel booking is now open, offering attendees and exhibitors exclusive access to discounted rates at our official host hotels—all conveniently located …
February 1, 2025
Advanced Textiles Association invites industry leaders, innovators and experts to present at Advanced Textiles Expo® 2025 and Emerging Technologies Conference (ETC). Advanced Textiles Expo and the ETC allow textile industry participants to showcase their knowledge and innovations, inspire other industry professionals, and engage with peers and thought leaders in a dynamic, collaborative environment. Presentation applications …
October 17, 2024
Advanced Textiles Expo® 2024, the largest event of Advanced Textiles Association® (ATA), concluded with resounding success Sept. 24–26 at the Anaheim Convention Center. Once again held in conjunction with Sun Shading Expo North America—organized by Messe Stuttgart, founders of R + T and the world’s largest trade fair for roller shutters, doors/gates and sun shading …
August 14, 2024
The Advanced Textiles Association® (ATA) has renegotiated its General Services Contractor contract for the 2025–2027 Advanced Textiles Expo® shows. By selecting Freeman through a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) process, we have secured rates that significantly lower the cost burden on our exhibitors. RFP process Key achievements This successful negotiation translates directly to cost savings for …
December 20, 2021
The Industrial Fabrics Association International is now accepting proposals for presentations at IFAI Expo 2022. IFAI Expo will take place Oct. 12-14, 2022, at the Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, N.C., with education Oct. 11-14. IFAI is accepting proposals for 50-minute classroom sessions in several categories: Advanced Textiles Shade & Weather Protection Specialty Fabrics Marine …
July 6, 2021
Messe Stuttgart announced that its new U.S.-based show Sun Shading Expo North America will not be held in 2021 as a separate trade show but will instead contribute its expertise in internal and external sun shading systems at IFAI Expo 2021 in the form of expert talks, open discussions and more. IFAI Expo 2021 will still take place …
May 10, 2021
Registration is open for IFAI Expo 2021. IFAI Expo celebrates the 100th anniversary of the show this November, and you won’t want to miss it! After a long hiatus of in-person events, this year’s show is the perfect place to reconnect with your industry. Register now to get the Early Bird rate! Early Bird rates end …
December 1, 2020
With today’s digital printing options, there’s no reason for an awning client to be limited to colors and patterns in a book or traditional customization methods, according to Andrew Medley, regional sales manager for Trivantage. “Digital printing offers unlimited capabilities, and it is a solution to providing the customer exactly what they want—personalized messaging, the …
December 1, 2020
During IFAI Virtual Expo 2020, Jeff Sponseller, executive vice president of sales and marketing at Miller Weldmaster, led a campfire session titled “How to Select the Correct Welding Technology for Your Business.” “Essentially a good weld means that the fabric will tear before the weld does,” says Sponseller. Many types of different materials can be …
April 1, 2026
Last summer, performing arts circus school Circus Juventas in St. Paul, Minn., looked into improving its building’s efficiency, including better insulation to reduce energy use and to address condensation concerns. Although the building’s “big top,” a tensioned dome roof constructed with Shelter-Rite® fabric membrane, continued to perform well, the organization decided to replace it at …
April 1, 2026
In the Valley of the Sun, there’s no shortage of companies selling awnings. That’s why Amy Huette wasn’t quite sure how to respond when about 25 years ago in Colorado, her father proposed a new business venture in Phoenix, Ariz. “He asked, ‘Do you want to sell shade in the desert?”’ says Huette, owner and …
April 1, 2026
For businesses of all sizes, expanding into service-based revenue streams can unlock new income, deepen customer loyalty and even spark spinoff companies. Added services for a shade business can include offering awning cleaning, maintenance and storage. For a supplier, having cutting services passes savings (both in time and labor) to customers while requiring little overhead. …
March 1, 2026
Large frame awnings and fabric structures are what most of us in the industry want, or at least a few of them per year. They usually take substantial labor hours and material, and as such, can be very profitable and keep your staff busy. For the customer they solve big problems, or allow previously unusable …
March 1, 2026
2026 marks 85 years of business for SugarHouse Industries in Midvale, Utah. The fabrication shop specializes in awnings and custom-made products in the marine, military and aerospace industries. “Overall I just feel incredibly proud and grateful for the legacy my grandpa and father built for SugarHouse long before I stepped into this role,” says Mike Peterson, …
March 1, 2026
To expand beyond their core business, some awning companies may offer ancillary services. A painting service, either powder coating or electrostatic painting (ESP), is one option. Two Advanced Textiles Association member companies offer their insights on why they chose the technology and how the ability to protect metal framing and metal awnings for their projects—and …
February 1, 2026
Taiwanese architect Cheng-Tsung FENG took inspiration from traditional oil-paper umbrellas to create an airy park pavilion that has a pocket garden and benches for people to gather and relax inside. The structure takes an umbrella’s design and turns it on its head—well, more literally on its side. The shape appears as if three giant umbrellas …
February 1, 2026
For Craig Zola, stepping into the role of board chair felt like the natural next step of a decades-long career dedicated to textiles and association leadership. Inspired by his father, J. Richard (Dick) Zola, an Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) Honored Life Member with a distinguished career in industrial textile manufacturing, Craig followed his father’s career …
February 1, 2026
“The Organic Tree” was created to make a fan experience at the Australian Open more comfortable. VDM Group and Pattons implemented a detailed breakdown of the design, engineering, fabrication and installation process and spent the first week planning. Although this used up a week of its 12-week timeline, it resulted in thorough project management. They …
January 1, 2026
Fabritecture was tasked with improving the aesthetics and functionality of the existing parking garage at the Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. The architect’s concept included replacing the existing rectangular facade panels with a more geometrical design and layout. Fabritecture carefully refined the transformation, ensuring not only structural integrity but also a seamless integration with the existing …
January 29, 2026
Renson, based in Carrollton, Texas, has announced the appointment of Michael Ackelbein as president of Renson and Corradi North America. Ackelbein brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in architectural products, building materials and multi-channel distribution. He most recently served as vice president of sales and distribution at Fräsch/Catalyst Acoustic Group. At Renson, Ackelbein …
January 15, 2026
The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) has announced the speakers who will present at the 2026 AATCC Coloration Conference, Feb. 24–25 at the StateView Hotel in Raleigh, N.C. This event will bring together professionals from across the textile and color industries to explore the latest trends and technologies in coloration. Conference presentations …
January 13, 2026
Michelin has announced two acquisitions, including Tex-Tech Industries and Cooley Group. Arlington Capital Partners, a private investment firm focused on government-regulated industries, has entered into a definitive agreement to sell Tex-Tech Industries to Michelin. As part of the transaction, FMI Industries Inc., which includes two Tex-Tech divisions—Fiber Materials Inc., acquired from Spirit AeroSystems, and the Engineered Composites …
January 9, 2026
Fifteen U.S. state attorneys general have submitted comments to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), expressing their opposition to a proposed revision to PFAS reporting policy under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The comments were submitted Dec. 22 by attorneys general of Connecticut, Illinois, California, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, …
January 8, 2026
Several U.S. state laws related to the use of PFAS in products, such as bans and warning label mandates, went into effect Jan. 1. These states include Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota and Vermont. Visit Advanced Textile Association’s PFAS Resource Center for information and updates about other state PFAS laws and regulations. Connecticut Most products (including …
August 13, 2025
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Aug. 11 that the tariff on Chinese imports will remain at the same rate—30%—for an additional 90 days. China’s 10% tariff on American imports will also remain unchanged. The announcement was made shortly before the U.S. tariff on Chinese imports was set to increase to 145%. This increase was …
July 29, 2025
The European Union (EU) and the U.S. announced a trade agreement July 27 that sets a 15% tariff on most EU goods, effective Aug. 1. The 15% tariff applies to all EU exports currently subject to reciprocal tariffs, including automobiles and automobile parts, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors. It does not apply to the U.S. tariff on …
June 2, 2025
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal District granted the Donald Trump administration’s request to put a temporary hold on the New York-based U.S. Court of International Trade’s May 28 judgment. The judgement ruled in favor of six American-based companies, ruling that President Trump overstepped his authority when he invoked the 1977 International Emergency …
February 27, 2025
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is now accepting public comments on foreign trade practices and the Section 301 sanctions on China. The deadline to submit comments on foreign trade practices is March 11. The deadline to submit comments on Section 301 sanctions is March 24. USTR will hold a public hearing …
February 12, 2025
Herculite Products Inc. announced the establishment of the Herculite Charitable Foundation Fund, a corporate charitable foundation dedicated to addressing critical social challenges and making a meaningful difference in the communities it serves. Herculite said in a press release that this initiative represents the company’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility and its mission to foster …
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