Trivantage ® and Sunbrella ® launch new product line extensions.
GRA recognizes colleague for his constant drive to improve.
Industry’s first customer membership program launches its third year.
In our last issue of Connections, we shared that 142 weaving machines were back up and running at the Burnsville Plant as of February 1. This was a remarkable testament to the hard work and tireless dedication of our teams at our Burnsville and Anderson plants who have been laser focused on a go-forward plan centered on recovery and rebuilding. Less than a month later, the news continues to improve.
As you may have read in the latest issue of Furniture Today, which has covered the furniture industry for more than 50 years, Glen Raven is back to full operations in Burnsville, and this milestone was reached less than 100 days after Hurricane Helene devastated both our plant and the surrounding community. The water metrics alone put the damage in context: The Burnsville Plant was submerged in nearly 3 feet of water, resulting in more than 3 million gallons of water being pumped out of the facility. It’s hard to imagine initial recovery efforts against this backdrop.
Through it all, our teams never wavered. Following the September 2024 storm, they quickly mobilized to shift our major product lines, including Sunbrella ®, GlenGuard ® and Sur Last ® fabrics, to the Anderson Plant, all while attending to the needs of their families and communities. Today, production is back in Burnsville with all looms running, though the community remains challenged and will need our support and critical resources for the foreseeable future.
As we mark the six-month anniversary of the storm this month, I am reminded that we live in a time characterized by significant volatility and uncertainty. Whether it’s a thousand-year flood and its aftermath or global economic conditions that can change direction in an instant, we must remain focused on those things we can control, adapt our plans as needed and achieve great execution in everything we do. If we are successful, our current and prospective customers will continue to reward us with their trust.
Our Burnsville associates have set a great example for the rest of us in terms of taking the long view. My challenge to each of you is to never lose sight of what’s important — both personally and professionally. Lead by example and get after it every day in your quest to move forward.
Leib Oehmig, CEO
Gao Zhen Guo is a maintenance technician in the weaving workshop at Glen Raven Asia, primarily responsible for daily maintenance and ensuring the normal operation of the weaving machines. In his drive to improve at GRA, he adheres to the philosophy of “prevention first” and ensures low equipment failure rates and high operational efficiency through meticulous equipment care. For instance, he modified the manual valve of the air tube on the air-jet loom to an electronic valve and raised the button height to 1.5 meters, reducing safety risks. He also changed the external lighting of the sizing machine to an internal light bulb, effectively reducing costs and risks.
In terms of technology, Gao Zhen Guo has a deep understanding of the maintenance and upkeep of four different types of looms, continuously accumulating valuable experience. He is keen to learn new technologies and, when faced with challenges, always proactively communicates with colleagues to solve problems collaboratively while striving for excellence to ensure that equipment remains in optimal condition. Through these efforts, he has effectively reduced the cost of equipment parts. In 2024, he proposed and implemented several innovative improvement measures, including replacing two sets of weft cam bearings and five sets of crossbeam arm bearings, saving around 50,000 RMB (US$7,000) in spare parts costs. Additionally, by reasonably adding control switches for lighting, he successfully saved two-thirds of electricity costs,
showcasing his profound understanding of energysaving and efficiency and his excellent execution.
Gao Zhen Guo excels not only in technical skills but also in teamwork. He maintains strong relationships with his colleagues, is always willing to help and actively shares his experience, fostering collective growth within the team. As a former soldier, he integrates military discipline into his work, exhibiting integrity, courage and responsibility, always putting the team’s needs above his own. He is both a role model and a pillar of support for his team, and when social responsibility is needed, he is always the first to step forward and take responsibility.
“With solid technical expertise, outstanding teamwork and selfless dedication, Gao Zhen Guo has earned the respect of his colleagues and the high recognition of his leaders.”
“With solid technical expertise, outstanding teamwork and selfless dedication, Gao Zhen Guo has earned the respect of his colleagues and the high recognition of his leaders,” said Hua (Wally) Li. “He is not only an indispensable and outstanding employee in the workshop but also a model for all employees to follow. His story and constant drive to improve fully demonstrate the qualities of a skilled, dedicated and helpful employee, inspiring each worker to continue improving, innovating and striving for excellence.”
Randy Blackston, vice president of operations for Glen Raven, received the Southern Textile Association’s David Clark Award at the STA board of governors meeting in February. Evans Tindal, plant manager at the Anderson Plant in South Carolina and current president of STA, presented Blackston with the award.
Named after the founder of STA, the award honors past presidents who have demonstrated leadership and service to the association and the broader textile industry for at least 10 years following their
time as president. Blackston served as STA president from 2011 to 2012.
Blackston is a graduate of Clemson University and Tri-County Technical College in South Carolina. He has 38 years of industrial experience, including five years of co-oping while attending Clemson and Tri-County Technical and 33 years at Glen Raven. He also spent 10 years teaching quality engineering, design and motion, and time study at Tri-County Technical.
Sunbrella ® has expanded its Sunbrella Plus ® marine shade offering to include 17 vibrant, fade-resistant color selections. Sunbrella Plus features the benefits all Sunbrella fabrics are known for, including superior UV protection, weather-resistance and durability, while delivering enhanced water repellency thanks to its high-performing undercoating. The result is a highly versatile fabric that’s suitable for a variety of marine shade applications, including bimini tops, dodgers, protective covers and more. Sunbrella Plus is available from Trivantage ®
“This line expansion more than doubles options for our fabricators whose customers are looking for marine shade and cover solutions,” said Keith Purves, business development and product training manager at Trivantage. “With new and improved pricing, Sunbrella Plus has never been more accessible.”
Built for use in open waters, Sunbrella Plus (on the cover) and its advanced design take performance to the next level. A unique polyurethane and acrylic undercoating gives the fabric enhanced water repellency. Other features include:
+ UV protection and fade resistance
+ Resistance to mold, mildew and stains
+ Easy maintenance and cleaning
+ PFAS-free materials and compliance with state regulations
+ Industry-leading 5-year warranty
The collection now features a range of neutrals, earth tones, blues and eye-catching reds.
Meteorological spring, or the time of year in the U.S. when weather formally transitions from cold to warm, began March 1, setting off a three-month period of unpredictable and active weather, including precipitation. For Trivantage customers, a new lightweight marine cover fabric offers trusted protection against the weather at a great value.
Launched in February, Hydrofend ® CVR is a durable, gel-coatfriendly cover fabric ideal for use on boats, furniture, grills and other outdoor storage needs. A glossy gel coating is used on the underside of the fabric to prevent surface scratches, a key benefit for boat owners.
The product also fabricates easily, resisting frays and puckering; resists cold crack, mold and mildew; and resists wind-whipping while towing. With Hydrofend CVR, colors stay vibrant season after season, and the fabric is covered by a comprehensive fiveyear limited warranty.
Trivantage has expanded its color offerings for Soltis ® Proof 502 shade fabric from Serge Ferrari. Known around the world for its visually stunning designs, Serge Ferrari is a leading choice among fabricators for fixed-frame awnings, retractable awnings, outdoor canopies, tents, light tensile structures, shade structures, patio pergolas and shade sails.
“Soltis Proof 502 is an ideal choice for year-round enjoyment, providing protection from heat and inclement weather,” said Keith Purves, business development and product training manager at Trivantage. “And now, with an even wider variety of colorfast options, you have the opportunity to give every awning project an elevated look.”
Now available in 33 colors, satin-finish Soltis Proof 502 provides long-lasting comfort with excellent UV resistance. The fabric is made from 100% high-tenacity recycled polyester yarns, maintaining Serge Ferrari’s high-quality standards while helping reduce the carbon footprint. Other properties include:
+ Waterproof and mildew-resistant
+ Heat-sealable
+ Tear- and stretch-resistant
+ Glare-controlling
+ Easy to clean
+ Backed by a 10-year warranty
Glen Raven Consumer Solutions Group launched the new Sunbrella ® Marine Clean™ Multi-Purpose Boat Wash at the Miami International Boat Show in February. Themed “Discover Boating” to help people explore life on the water, the South Florida boat show is the largest in the world.
Marine Clean is an all-in-one solution for keeping your boat looking shipshape. It comes in premeasured packets of concentrate for convenient, leak-free storage on board and activates with just water. Marine Clean safely lifts and cleans dirt, grime and stains from marine surfaces with one easy solution. It’s safe to use on various marine surfaces, including fabric, vinyl, fiberglass, metal, glass, plexiglass, painted, varnished and wood surfaces. With its non-PFAS formula, Sunbrella Marine Clean Multi-Purpose Boat Wash is biodegradable and safe to use on and off the water.
In addition to Marine Clean, the Sunbrella lifestyle team launched three additional cleaning products this spring:
+ Sunbrella ® Renew™ Mold & Mildew Stain Remover
+ Sunbrella ® Erase™ Stain & Spot Remover
+ Sunbrella ® Mold & Mildew Stain Remover Kit
The full line of cleaning products is available on sunbrella.com .
March marks National Nutrition Month, making it the ideal time to highlight an often-overlooked aspect of health: gut wellness. A wellbalanced gut plays a vital role in digestion, immunity and mental well-being, allowing the body to function more efficiently and leading to stronger overall wellness. Achieving balanced gut health involves a combination of lifestyle choices, including a well-rounded diet, hydration, stress management and sufficient sleep. Two essential components that support gut wellness are probiotics and prebiotics. Understanding their functions and learning how to integrate them into your diet can lead to meaningful improvements in overall health.
Probiotics vs. Prebiotics: What’s the Difference?
While the terms sound similar, probiotics and prebiotics serve distinct roles in gut health. Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance in your gut microbiome. They aid digestion, support immune function and may even enhance mood and cognitive function. Probiotics are commonly found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir (fermented milk), kimchi, sauerkraut, sourdough bread, miso and tempeh.
Prebiotics are a type of fiber that feeds the good bacteria present in your gut. They help probiotics thrive, ensuring a well-functioning digestive system. Prebiotics can be found in foods that naturally contain fiber, including most fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Some of the foods that are highest in prebiotic content include bananas, garlic, onions, asparagus, oats and legumes.
“When we have a good balance of probiotics and prebiotics in our diet, our gut allows for good digestion and improved nutrient absorption,” said Christie Griffin, registered dietitian for Glen Raven in Anderson, South Carolina. “Research has also shown that a healthy gut leads to a healthy mind, positive mood and higher energy levels. Always consult a physician or registered dietitian before taking supplements or making drastic changes to your diet. Remember that ‘more’ isn’t always better, and it is important to gradually add these foods into your diet to prevent GI upset.”
Maintaining a healthy gut requires building sustainable habits that support digestion, immunity and mental health. Trillions of beneficial microbes in the stomach and intestines play a crucial role in breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, regulating weight and stabilizing blood sugar. By making intentional lifestyle choices, you can create a balanced gut environment that enhances your overall health. Here are some practical steps to help you achieve and maintain optimal gut wellness:
• Limit Processed Foods and Sugar: Excessive sugar and highly processed foods can disrupt gut bacteria and cause inflammation.
• Manage Stress: Chronic stress negatively affects gut health. Engage in relaxation techniques like meditation, exercise and deep breathing.
• Get Enough Sleep: A well-rested body promotes a healthier gut microbiome.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports digestion and maintains gut balance.
“Being proactive rather than reactive is always better for your health,” said Jamie Martin, registered dietitian for Glen Raven’s North Carolina locations. “We all know about things we should eat and drink in moderation, so making changes before health issues arise is a great way to improve overall well-being. Try starting with one thing you can add to your day to improve your health and begin to make it a habit.”
Trivantage ® is bolstering its commitment to customer satisfaction and success by adding new benefits to its customer membership program, Trivantage Plus™. Albany Foam and Shade Sail University are the newest industry partners to join nine other brands in offering exclusive discounts to Trivantage Plus members.
Members now receive 10% off upholstery and marine foam products from Albany Foam, a wholesale supplier of custom foam, pillows and cushions. Shade Sail University, an educational initiative by Wholesale Shade, offers 10% off training products and services to members seeking continued education in the shade sail business.
Since launching the industry’s first customer membership program in 2023, Trivantage has multiplied its roster of benefits for members.
Albany Foam and Shade Sail University add to the current lineup of Trivantage Plus partners, which include industry leaders AP Consulting and Technical Services, Autometrix, Awning Composer ® from Trivantage, Consew, Fabric Tattoo, Miller Weldmaster, MPanel and TagTime USA.
Laura Frances, a Trivantage Plus member and owner of L. Frances Custom Canvas, recently shared how the program benefits her business and, ultimately, her customers.
“I have transferred all of my business to Trivantage because of the Trivantage Plus Membership Program,” Frances said. “The flat-rate shipping creates savings for my company. I’ve saved hundreds of dollars, so it’s made a huge difference.”
Customers can choose between two membership levels: premium and platinum.
Key benefits of the program include:
• Discounts on select Trivantage products
• Complimentary memo samples with free shipping
• Exclusive access to virtual educational product and business seminars, including “Shop Talk”
• Flat-rate, same-day shipping
• Reduced restocking fees
“Since launching Trivantage Plus in 2023, we’ve doubled down on our commitment to customer satisfaction and success,” said Lindsay Shakarjian, marketing director. “These new program benefits enhance the toolkit we’ve built to help customers grow their businesses.”
Plan B, a FIRST® Tech Challenge robotics team made up of nine Alamance County students and sponsored by Glen Raven, recently won first place in the Salem Academy FTC state qualifier in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The team was coached by Donovan Edmundson, applications technical manager for Glen Raven.
The robotics team consists of students from Western Alamance Middle School, Western Alamance High School and AlamanceBurlington Early College at Alamance Community College. They won First Place/ Winning Alliance Captain, as well as the Control Award, given to the team that demonstrates innovative thinking to solve game challenges such as autonomous operation, improving mechanical systems with intelligent control or using sensors to achieve better results. The goal
of the team — so named because, if Plan A doesn’t work, there is always a Plan B — is to learn, and have fun doing so, with various STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) activities.
The FIRST Tech Challenge program is designed to teach elementary through high school students about STEM subjects in a setting marked by “gracious professionalism.” This approach is defined by implementation activities that encourage highquality work, emphasize the value of others, and respect individuals and the community.
The program enables students to learn from each other, gaining leadership skills and a sense of community among their peers.
