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HOW LOCAL PRODUCTION EMPOWERS CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT As a third-generation business, technical textiles developer and distributor Cotswold Industries has a robust understanding of what it takes to produce high-quality fabrics. But more importantly, the vertically integrated manufacturer knows today’s consumer demands dictate that sustainability can’t be sacrificed for quality—both must coexist. Whether it is innovating via its pivot to PPE during the Covid-19 pandemic or the rollout of the RFID-blocking SilverGuard collection, or simply producing new versions of apparel staples for healthcare workers and military members, the manufacturer is keeping its eye on the environmental responsibility it carries. In an interview with Sourcing Journal, James McKinnon, CEO of Cotswold Industries, shares insights into the familyowned textile company’s localized designed and production capabilities, as well as its role in alliances like the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. Sourcing Journal: What role do you feel your company plays in the sustainability conversation in 2022? James McKinnon: Our primary role is continuous improvement in sustainable process and fiber integration into our supply chains. We locally produce in every free trade market and that allows for us to have direct carbon savings on transport while also contributing to the local economy. With more than 50 percent of Cotswold’s manufacturing taking place in the U.S., how does that improve the company’s ability to be sustainable, as well as that of its clients? J.M.: While our business is global, our U.S. footprints are where we drive sustainable innovation. From energy to fiber, we are in a continuous process of evaluation and improvement. This happens best close to home. And while Cotswold fosters innovation and collaboration in the workplace, it also promotes career and learning development, as well as recognition programs for their staff. Social responsibility transcends our manufacturing plants into the local and global communities by supporting nonprofit agencies and providing education opportunities and charitable donations. How has the current sustainability landscape shaped the priorities/goals you have for this year? J.M.: It’s a process. With Higg/SAC and others leading the compliance and execution charge, we follow along closely and adhere to all their primary recommendations.
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What are some of the latest sustainable fabric developments and applications from the Cotswold team? J.M.: Our MAX REPREVE line of 100-percent recycled polyester pocketing is gaining traction in several important markets. Our waterless finishing products are also beginning to take root. If every jean made each year in the world used REPREVE fiber for their pocketing alone, we could upcycle over 1 billion plastic bottles each year.
While our business is global, our U.S. footprints are where we drive sustainable innovation.” How do alliances like the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol help Cotswold stay on track in responsibly producing textiles? J.M.: Alliances like USCTP are critical to the industry and to our customers. Being able to calculate carbon savings and improvements over time is what drives the value of the Protocol. Over the past 35 years, through environmental stewardship efforts, U.S. cotton production has made dramatic improvements. Water waste decreased by 79 percent, and energy consumption dropped 54 percent, resulting in a 40 percent reduction in greenhouse emissions.