Investors are putting starch in the stocks of uniform providers as more Americans go back to work.

While economists argue over what economic indicators mean, investors aren't wasting any time as they target uniform giants such as Cintas, G&K Services and UniFirst. Shares of these companies, which provide uniforms for primarily blue-collar jobs, are beating the already impressive gain by the stock market this year as investors try to get ahead of hiring.

"Naysayers question" U.S. employment data, says Andrew Wittmann at Robert W. Baird. But "the numbers from the uniform industry suggest the trends are pretty good."

Companies in the uniform rental industry are catching attention because they are:

•Topping the stock market in an impressive six-month run. Shares of Cintas G&K Services and UniFirst are up 33.3%, 29.4% and 33.1% respectively in the past six months, topping the Standard & Poor's 500's 21% gain during the same time period. Investors started piling into the stocks late last year as the job data started showing signs of life, says Joe Box, analyst at KeyBanc Capital.  More..

Looking for the latest in performance apparel? Need NFPA-compliant or hi-viz garments? Anti-microbial wear for your medical industry customers? In the market for durable footwear or gloves? Want to find the right software solution for your retail store?

You'll find it all at the NAUMD exhibit, the leading trade show for the uniform and image apparel products industry. NAUMD allows attendees to see, feel, touch and find the products that best fit their business and marketing model – all in one place, helping you reach your business goals quickly and cost-effectively. No other show can say that.

Why come? Exhibitions are one of the most effective ways for establishing and maintaining customer relations. In an age where much is done online, trade shows are the only place where buyer, seller and product physically come together – a potent force for business. Attendees can question, challenge and debate. Exhibitors can give and seek information. Business is conducted face2face.

The 2012 NAUMD Exhibition will be held March 10-11, at the Rio All Suites, Las Vegas, during the association's annual convention. Here's a look at some of the exhibitors:

5.11 Tactical – Creates innovative, must-have products that enhance the safety, speed and performance of law enforcement, public safety, and the military worldwide.

Anchor Uniform Mfg. – If you're in the law enforcement market, you're sure to know their quality outerwear, hi-viz garments and Class A blouse coats and trousers.

Boston Leather - For quality, US-made goods, uniformed professionals need to look no further than Boston Leather – a manufacturer of fine leather accessories since 1938.

Cobmex Apparel - Cobmex manufactures corporate, career wear and public safety sweaters. Products are NAFTA certified; its factories are certified by STR and Intertek.

Danalco – Its many products include waterproof socks and Hanz® gloves, made of custom-spun yarns of Nomex® for flame resistance and 2% Lycra® spandex for a snug, comfortable fit.

Davey Textile Solutions - Canadian-based textile company specializing in fabric distribution as well as authorized distributors of 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Materials and Amann Embroidery Threads and Accessories.

Eurotex – Maker of reflective tapes, heat transfers and trims for all markets within the uniform industry, with a focus on FR and electric applications. Brand names include Kolorlite™ and Firelite™, all compliant with relevant standards.

Fechheimer – Leading supplier to North America's public safety, transportation, military and postal markets. Brands include the famed Flying Cross and Vertx, public safety apparel for the operational athlete.

Fiberlok – A flock heat transfer specialty manufacturer and source for Lextra® brand graphics products. Creator of ObiKnit, a digital technology that combines the rich texture of embroidery with fine design detail and image reproduction.

New! - George C. Moore Company - Maker of narrow elastic fabric and rigid webbing. Its flame resistant narrow elastic will self-extinguish and will not melt or drip.

New! Gerber Outerwear – Certified to NFPA 1999, 2008 Edition Standard, Gerber police and fire garments protect the wearer from contracting blood-borne pathogens such as Hepatitis and HIV.

Gildan Activewear – From moisture wicking Dryblend™ t-shirts to durable sports shirts and fleece products, Gildan provides top quality uniform options with great value and style.

I. Spiewak & Sons – With over 100 years' experience, Spiewak is the name many turn to for their outwear needs. Items in its product line include high viz garments, ANSI-compliant apparel, and Weathertech™, windproof and waterproof breathable outerwear.

Landway - A leader in the corporate identity and resort apparel industry, the Landway© brand includes a wide variety of knit shirts, jackets and fleece with performance and comfort in mind.

Liberty Uniform Mfg. Company – The heart of this company's product line includes shirts, trousers and outerwear geared toward public safety professionals and private security.

Lion Apparel – Offers a comprehensive range of turnouts, helmets, uniforms, boots and firefighter accessories. Brands include Lion Janesville® turnout gear, Lion Paul Conway Helmets®, Lion StationWear®, Lion Technical Footwear® and Lion Protective Gloves®.

Manzella – Leading glove manufacturer of products that keep your hands warm and dry under the most challenging conditions.

Merchant Technologies - Merchant Technologies utilizes state-of-the-art technology to provide the retailer with up business solutions to all aspects of their operation.

Pro Feet, Inc. – From the battle field to the playing field, Pro Feet provides socks that perform to military and government standards and the needs of all athletes.

PVH – Corporate outfitters PVH produce such well known brands as Arrow, Van Heusen and Calvin Klein for both men and women.

Rocky Brands – Rocky designs, develops, manufactures and markets premium quality outdoor, work, western, duty and military footwear as well as work apparel and accessories. Brands include Rocky, Georgia Boot, Durango and Lehigh.

New! – San Mar - Supplier of 14 retail, private label and mill brands. SanMar is the exclusive distributor of Nike Golf, OGIO® and New Era®. Other retail brands include Columbia® Sportswear, Gildan®, Jerzees®, Hanes®.

Smith and Warren – Proudly manufacturing police, fire, EMS, sheriff and security badges and other public safety rank insignia since 1925. Orders are produced within 3 weeks in state-of-the-art New York facility.

Thermopatch dba Deco-Print – Developer of heat seal machines, labels, direct imprint equipment, mending material and other related supplies for the laundry, dry clean and garment manufacturing industries. Also offers a complete range of heat-seal products to enhance your corporate image.

Timberland Pro – Maker of boots, shoes, clothes and gear that are comfortable enough to wear all day and rugged enough for all year. Timberland markets products under the Timberland®, Timberland PRO®, Mountain Athletics®, Timberland Boot Company® and howies® brands.

VF Imagewear - Whether a customer wants customized polos for a sales team golf outing, a comprehensive uniform program or anything in between, VF Imagewear delivers the goods you need to succeed. VF Imagewear® brands include Red Kap®, Chef Designs, Bulwark®, Horace Small®, Lee® and Wrangler Hero®.

Warson Brands – Known for its Converse and Rockport duty uniform footwear, Warson is one of the largest players in the occupational footwear category and one of the top five in the duty uniform category.

Waterbury Button Co. – The largest array of standard and custom finishes of metal button in the world. From the career uniform to the military, Waterbury adds luster and shine to any program.

Weinbrenner Shoe Co. - A leading manufacturer and a pioneering force in the American footwear industry since beginning operations in 1892, Weinbrenner initiated many of the safety and job-fitted design elements that are common today.

It's not too late to exhibit. To reserve your booth, click here.

Those interested in sharpening their marketing, leadership, and sales skills within their particular business segment are encouraged to attend the NAUMD's professional education program being offered during the Las Vegas Convention.

Available to full convention registrants only, the program is an accelerated, three-day series focusing on sales, lead generation, customer service, and business management. Also included are important industry-specific updates on fabrication, trends and product sourcing.

The professional education program is the second tier of new development training offered through the NAUMD. The first series was held in May, 2011, during the association's convention in Orlando, Fl.

From the store owner to the front-line sales rep to the marketing manager and president of global sales, the NAUMD education program will give participants the tools to develop their capabilities and increase the reach of their company. Going beyond the abstract, the program will provide practical, detailed, hands-on advice that attendees can implement right away, as soon as they return to their stores or businesses.

The education program will also distinguish you from the competition: upon completion, participants will receive credits toward their certification in one of the following areas: Public Safety, Image Apparel, or Sales. And while certification itself can't guarantee increased sales, is does demonstrate a commitment to – and compliance with – the highest industry standards, which could open the door to new local or global markets.

Free Offer for Dealers

Dealers who register early for the NAUMD convention will receive an additional free registration for a key sales rep. That means that your top sales pro – who might have stayed home due to budget constraints, can attend with you – at no additional registration cost - getting the chance to see the latest products at the exhibit, further their training during the education sessions, and network at the various evening events throughout the convention.

"Continued economic uncertainty has forced many to tighten their belts, and for some, that has meant putting on hold the training that is so vital to a business' growth and profitability," says NAUMD President Richard Lerman. "With this offer, now they don't have to."

Only the first 75 dealer or distributor registrants who register for the full convention are eligible for this offer. The additional registrant must be a key sales professional employed by the company. To register click here.

After the exhibits and training sessions – and before you hit the slots – be sure to attend both the Image of the Year and Best Dressed Public Safety Awards banquets. They're a great way to catch up on the latest trends, and to meet and mingle with colleagues in a relaxed, informal setting.

If you're unfamiliar with either award, here's a recap:

The Image of the Year Awards honor North-America's top designers, suppliers and wearers of corporate identity apparel. Given out each year at the convention, the Image of the Year is the standard by which all programs are judged. Awards are highly coveted, and the program has enjoyed tremendous success throughout its three-decade existence, including extensive media exposure for honorees. Click here to enter your customers in the 2012 Image of the Year Competition.

For over 30 years, the Best Dressed Public Safety Competition has been the media's darling, with both departments and suppliers grabbing the attention of newspapers and television stations across the nation. The competition stresses the important role uniforms play in public safety work, and the contributions of those who make or sell such products. Click here to enter your customers in the 2012 Best Dressed Public Safety Competition.

Diverse Entertainment

To make the evenings more memorable, we've added a bit of fun to these events – we are in Vegas, after all.

On Saturday, come hear Tierney Elizabeth, the woman who has been billed as Lady Gaga's more talented twin. She'll perform during Saturday's Image of the Year Awards Banquet. Get a preview of her act by clicking here.

Not a little monster (what Lady Gaga calls her fans)? No worries – there's something for everyone at the 2012 convention. You can relive the folk years with a trio of performers known as Gathering Time – one member even has a connection to the uniform industry. We can't tell you how – you'll have to see for yourself. Gathering Time will provide the entertainment during the Best Dressed Public Safety Awards.

Not yet registered for the convention? You can do so by clicking here.

Last month, the U.S. Justice Department (USJD) released a study on the recession's impact on law enforcement. Issued through the USJD's office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), the study paints a somber picture on the state of public safety services in cities and towns across the country, a situation that will continue to influence the way American police agencies operate in the years to come.

The report, "The Impact of the Economic Downturn on American Police Agencies," draws on research done by National League of Cities and other organizations to show an erosion in police forces and response over the last few years. To date, it is the first federal analysis that examines the impact the economy has had on the law enforcement community.

While the effects of constricting budgets should come as little surprise, the statistics cited by the COPS report are no less disturbing:

•By the end of the year, it's expected that nearly 12,000 police officers and sheriff's deputies will have been laid off.

•Approximately 30,000 law enforcement jobs are unfilled.

•An estimated 28,000 officers and deputies have faced week-long furloughs in 2010.

•An estimated 53 percent of counties are working with fewer staff today than just one

year ago.

First Decrease in 25 Years

And it could get worse – a more comprehensive study is due out at year's end that will likely reveal the first ever decrease in national, state, local, and tribal law enforcement personnel since 1986. All this at time when the population continues to grow and police officers have to take on new responsibilities related to homeland security, cybercrime, and modern criminal activities.

The effects of such staffing reductions are likely to influence the capacity of law enforcement agencies to provide the same services, in the same ways, as they have in the past. Nearly a quarter of American cities have made cuts to public safety budgets, according to the COPS study, which also cites the following:

• Eight percent of departments surveyed are no longer responding to all motor vehicle thefts.

• Nine percent of departments are no longer responding to all burglar alarms.

• Fourteen percent of departments are no longer responding to all non-injury motor vehicle accidents

• Agencies have also reported decreases in investigation of property crimes, fugitive tracking, a variety of white collar crimes, and even low-level narcotics cases.

• Training opportunities for officers have been reduced.

• Investments in technology and communications systems are being slashed.

"We're seeing a new reality in American policing developing," said respondents to a 2011 survey of police chiefs conducted by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP).

That new reality includes the shifting by police departments of some of the duties typically reserved for sworn staff to civilian employees as a means of cost savings, whose average cost is about one-third to one-half that of a sworn officer, and a greater reliance on volunteers to assist with community policing.

A more drastic change that is being seen as a result of the economic downturn is the increase in the number of agencies combining efforts and resources through consolidation, shared services, and regionalization.

As the fiscal conditions worsen and costs continue to escalate, law enforcement agencies struggle to do things differently, to do more with less, like the rest of us, and use the resources that are available in the most efficient and effective ways possible.

Effects on Uniform Industry

As police, fire, EMS and transportation agencies struggle to fund critical needs uniform purchasing activities have been impacted as well. From program adjustments to extending the period between contracts and/or allowances, agencies are taking steps to do more with less.

"This downturn is indeed worrisome, and we are concerned mainly for our independent dealer base who is dealing with these difficult dynamics on a daily basis," says Perfection Uniforms Steve Gilkeson. "Until a true sustained recovery occurs, tax revenues and agency budgets/timely payments will remain a challenge."

Perfection has been fortunate this year to have seen growth in other market segments, balancing the weakness of the law enforcement market. But like everyone else, they haven't given up on the sector. They continue to pursue market share gains in law enforcement through new innovations that create better, truer value.

Giving agencies the best value for their dollar – and educating them about what that means - has been the tactic used by law enforcement manufacturer Elbeco, whose sales representatives and dealer partners are proactively engaging agencies in conversations about the subject.

'We are providing decision-makers with tools and information that allow them to compare offers based on factors including quality, durability, garment life and overall value - not just initial pricing," says David Lurio, president, Elbeco. This has proven to decrease the number of purchases needed over time, according to Lurio, without compromising performance - something that can deliver real value in these uncertain economic times.

Additionally, Elbeco has introduced to its dealer partners a series of operational efficiencies- including a streamlined order entry process, automatic electronic order and shipment confirmations to greener packaging to ensure that orders placed are sized and specified accurately, reducing back-end costs, and decreasing the amount of agency staff time required. They've also partnered with authorized dealers to implement inventory control processes which can minimize a departments' handling and management costs. "These processes include assuming the management of the quartermaster, inventory and distribution of the agency's uniform program," adds Lurio.

To be sure, there are many others who are helping their customers survive these challenging times. If you're in the public safety business, we'd like to hear from you. How has the downturn affected your business? How helped your customers, be it dealers or the end user, use the resources that are available in the most effective ways possible?

Do these challenges change the way you deliver your product, or the type of product you produce? Send us an email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  and let us tell your story.

You can read the full COPS report here: http://cops.usdoj.gov/Default.asp?Item=2602  .

NAUMD's 79th annual convention will be held March 9-12, 2012, at the Rio All Suites Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas. Much has changed since that first convention seven decades ago, including the NAUMD show itself - the format has been updated and expanded to better reflect 21st century marketplace realities – but the convention still remains the best place to network, source products, learn about the latest trends, and gain practical, take-home knowledge, making it THE GO-TO Place for Face2Face Marketing in the Uniform & Image Apparel Industries.

But don't just take our word for it. Here's a glance at the highlights:

Exhibits: More Hours, More Face2Face Time

Whether exhibiting or just attending, the two-day trade show at NAUMD offers one of the best ways to get in front of a lot of customers, prospects and vendors in a relatively short amount of time. And in 2012, exhibit hours have been expanded, giving you more time to find precisely what you need.

If you're wondering why you should make an investment of time and money when you can read and learn about anything these days at home on the internet, keep this in mind: you still have to have some idea what you're looking for in order to find it. The NAUMD show is your chance to find that "shiny new thing" you didn't even know you should be looking for: a new technology, design, option – something that could potentially help your business in a way you hadn't even thought about. In these competitive times, NAUMD could give you the edge you've been looking for.

This holds true for the exhibitor as well. The NAUMD show gives you the opportunity to not only show your product or describe your service, but also create that all important first impression. Of course, you don't always have the opportunity to go into as much detail in your presentation as you would like, but exhibiting opens the door for future communications -- a door that sometimes is very difficult to get your foot into.

If you've exhibited in the past and are on the fence about 2012, think about what that might say to your current customers who expect to see you there. And your competition might use your absence to their advantage.

You will never meet more people interested in your company and what it does than you will at the NAUMD trade show, and this is true for both the exhibitor and attendee. Show hours for the 2012 convention are:

• Saturday, March 10, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

• Sunday, March 11, 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Expanded Business Education & Certification: A Higher Standard

What began at last year's convention will be expanded in 2012. The NAUMD Certificate Education Program will provide uniform industry executives of member companies with a challenging and highly rewarding sequence of educational sessions designed to maximize their effectiveness and professionalism.

Taken at the convention or during the mid-year conference, participants will accrue course points towards the achievement of a "Bachelor Certification" in several specialties: Image Apparel, Public Safety, Sales and the Military; graduates will be recognized throughout the uniform industry as outstanding practitioners in their areas of specialty.

Each session will be taught by industry insiders, academics and leaders throughout the business community. The extensive curriculum includes the following:

• Customer engagement: drive business success by driving customer and employee trust

• Making the list: Building sales with GSA and other government entities

• It's a hit: winning ecommerce and social media strategies to position your business for growth

• Tales from the back room: inventory management best practices

• Understanding today's manufacturing process: from the supply chain to the factory to fabric selection to the store, what it takes to fulfill a uniform order

• Building a winning bid: the do's and don'ts to success

• Converting leads into sales – finding new customers; keeping old ones

• Sale Force Management – getting the most from your sales team

Plus, they'll be market forecasts and current industry statistics for both the public safety and image apparel segments.

Nowhere else will you find so many sessions specific to your business in one place at one time, suitable for management, store owners, executives, sales managers and other industry personnel.

Nor will you find this level of professionalism at any other trade show seminar. To ensure a quality experience, NAUMD has contracted with the Center for Executive Development (CED), an organization dedicated to the effective use of executive education in the training of senior executives in corporations across all industries and size ranges. CED provides a resource for the development of executive programs, as well as a platform for the healthy exchange of ideas among all participants.

Why Get Certified? Is this a gimmick? NAUMD Certificate Education Program is an important business development strategy for those looking to gain an edge in a hyper-competitive environment. Certification demonstrates a commitment to, and compliance with, the highest industry standards and may open the door to new markets. Certification lays the groundwork for your becoming a world-class resource to your customers, colleagues, and company. It's a validation of your skills, and demonstrates your expertise and proficiency in the latest technology and solutions.

More than just your run-of-the-mill convention seminar, NAUMD Certificate Education Program is a value-added service – for you, your company and your customers.

So skip the pool, and join us for this truly innovative program.

Networking Opportunities Galore: Sure, you can connect with colleagues via email or social media, but why not establish yourself through some good old-fashioned networking?

You'll find plenty of opportunities at the 2012 convention. From group meals to the education sessions to the new opening reception on the Exhibit floor, you're guaranteed to make the contacts you want to meet. There's ample time throughout the schedule for circulating and schmoozing. And don't forget to speak to as many people as you can while waiting in buffet or bathroom lines - you never know who will turn out to be a great contact!

Look for more information on the 2012 convention in future editions of NAUMD Industry News. To register, click here; to exhibit, click here. Learn more about the NAUMD and its activities by visiting www.naumd.com .

To say that Stan Herman is a legend is to state the obvious. Lauded by both the fashion world and the uniform industry for his innovative style, this pioneering designer will join the esteemed list of those who have already agreed to judge NAUMD's 2012 Image of the Year Awards.

"I am pleased to participate," said Herman in response to the invitation. "Better design makes for a better industry."

Herman pioneered the designer uniform, injecting fashion into garments that, while functional, were undeniably staid. His list of corporate clients includes many of the world's leading corporations – the likes of FedEx, United Airlines, TWA, McDonald's, Amtrak, JetBlue, Avis, and Humana, along with Las Vegas hotels such as the MGM Grand, Monte Carlo and Mandalay Bay – have all worn or wear an outfit designed by Herman. "Stan Herman's uniforms arguably cover more bodies than any other single designer," says NAUMD President Richard Lerman.

Just as Herman raised the bar on uniform design, his participation is certain to heighten interest in the 2012 Image of the Year Awards. "His presence ensures that the judging process is conducted at the highest level, and that winners are absolutely the best of the best," continues Lerman.

It is in the fashion industry where Herman is perhaps best known and where his work has garnered much praise. The three-time Coty award-winning designer was the founder and original president of 7th on Sixth, New York's Fashion Week tents in Bryant Park – an event for designers to show their upcoming collections. In 2006, he received the Council of Fashion Designers of America highest honor – the Lifetime Achievement Award. And of course, many know him through television, where his fashion-forward collection of robes and loungewear has made him one of the best-selling designers on the QVC Network.

Entry Materials Available Soon

The Image of the Year Awards is the image apparel industry highest honor – the awards celebrate the best apparel programs worn throughout North America and the designers, manufacturers and distributors who implement them. More than just a fashion contest, the awards underscore the important role clothing plays in shaping public perception and building company brands.

"People are affected by your appearance, whether or not they realize it, and whether or not they think appearance is important," notes NAUMD President Richard Lerman. "In short, your visual presentation has consequences – since employees are an extension of a company's brand, it is therefore vital to project a cohesive, professional image to further a positive public response and to reinforce brand awareness."

Winners of the 2012 Image of the Year Awards will be honored on Saturday, March 10, at an awards dinner held in conjunction with the NAUMD's annual Convention & Exposition, at the Rio All Suites Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, NV.

Entry materials for the 2012 Image of the Year Awards will soon be available on the association's website www.naumd.com . You can also email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  for further information and tips on creating a winning entry.

Social Media

Google+ Pages Now Open for Businesses: Will It Replace Facebook?

Google is now allowing businesses and brands to participate in its Google+ social network. Google+ Pages officially launched earlier this week.

Businesses have wanted to be part of Google+ from the start. Although Google+ was initially set up to cater to individuals, many businesses and brands made use of regular Google+ accounts as a way to participate on the service despite their non-human status.

In July, Google terminated any business accounts, including one from Sesame Street, and promised that formal business pages would soon be available — and that they'd be worth the wait.

Now Google is making good on its promise.

So, what is Google+ and why should you care about it?

Simple – it's a new social media site that is directly tied into the most widely-used search engine on the planet, with looming search engine optimization (SEO) implications. Instead of being an aggregator or a channel to find blog posts about your firm, G+ will instead be both the platform and means of distribution for content.

It is similar to Facebook in that you can share content (such as text, photos, video, etc.) to a network of contacts. Your contacts can respond and rate your shared content in turn. You can add contacts, block them, connect to other services like Twitter, and much more. Versus Facebook, however, Google+ has better privacy settings and an improved privacy management system—both of which are a big plus for businesses. To see how the two services compare and why Google+ is a strong competitor to Facebook:

http://www.pcworld.com/article/234859/google_vs_facebook_see_how_they_compare.html

NAUMD's Director of Marketing Miranda Brock is creating a Google+ page to assure the association – and its members – are represented on the site. Look for updates from her and NAUMD Industry News on how this new tool could change the way you do business.

In the meantime, you can check out Google+ for yourself:

http://searchengineland.com/google-pages-now-open-for-businesses-brands-places-more-100217

Products:

Nano-Tex Introduces Fortify DP Wrinkle Free Technology

Nano-Tex, a leading fabric innovation company providing Nanotechnology-based textile enhancements, announced recently a new wrinkle free technology that provides a high level of wrinkle resistance while preserving fabric strength and integrity.

Wrinkle free textiles are highly desirable due to the neat appearance and convenience they provide today's time-pressed consumers. But there is a downside... the chemistry and processing methods used greatly reduce a fabric's tear and tensile strength. This means there are certain fabrics and garments that are not candidates for wrinkle free technology, such as lightweight fabrics or slim fitting garments.

Alternatively, a fabric may need to be over-engineered or "beefed up" only so it can withstand the fiber degradation caused by traditional wrinkle-free solutions.

Either way, current technologies either do not work on all fabrics OR the brand/retailer has to incur additional expense just to accommodate the destructive properties of wrinkle-free chemistry.

Nano-Tex's new Fortify DP technology seeks to change that. The company says it can achieve a higher level of wrinkle free performance because the nano-scale molecular structure can penetrate more deeply in the fiber resulting in improved wrinkle-free performance.

Additionally, Fortify DP uses a longer and more flexible cross-linking chain which reduces fiber stress under tension, thus reducing the significant strength loss associated with traditional wrinkle-free chemistry.

Learn more by visiting www.nanotex.com

GE And Burlington Collaborate on New Air Permeable Fabrics for European Workwear Market

GE announced recently an alliance with Burlington Worldwide to bring air permeable and bi-component waterproof fabrics to the European workwear market.

The alliance will allow customer brands to use a wide range of Burlington substrates combined with GE membranes to create unique apparel, footwear and accessories for the workwear market, which includes the construction, railway and postal industries. Each new top-of-the-line fabric is designed to meet EN471, the European technical standard for high-visibility warning clothing, as well as EN343, the technical standard for waterproofness and breathability in clothing.

The collaboration is part of GE's strategy for its eVent® fabrics waterproof breathable product line, which gives customers the flexibility to pair proven GE membranes with a range of laminates and fabrics.

Burlington is well-known in the workwear industry for expertise in creating fabrics suitable for many personal protective equipment (PPE) applications. Combined with GE's technical innovations in membranes and textiles, the fabrics developed by the two companies will bring new options to the workwear space.

Anti-Ballistic Product Offers Police Units, Soldiers Extra Protection

Teijin Aramid recently rolled out its latest unidirectional laminate fabric, Twaron UD41, a product specifically developed for bulletproof vests to provide extra protection from different types of attack, for groups such as soldiers or police units - even private citizens, who require such protection.

The new fabric – which is based on the high performance Twaron para-aramid fiber – makes it possible to produce hybrid protective vests that are not only able to withstand bullets and bullet fragments, but also other forms of assault, such as stabbing. The new product means that bulletproof vests are lighter in weight and offer greater flexibility and comfort than standard bulletproof vests without any concessions in terms of quality, protection or performance.

Twaron UD41 is Teijin Aramid's response to the demand for lightweight ballistic protection, which itself is the result of the increasing threat of violence in society. Currents trends are towards lightweight and comfortable vests that comply with strict safety regulations. In addition, the large number of new or amended safety restrictions, which involve combined protection against bullets and stabbing, require advanced hybrid solutions. Twaron UD41 has been tested in accordance with NIJ 01.01.06 requirements.

Learn more by visiting www.teijinaramid.com

Sourcing

Western Hemisphere Souring Receives New Attention

Apparel sourcing in the Western Hemisphere has suddenly become a hot topic, earning a special — and well-attended — focus at the 2011 MAGIC show and bringing renewed attention to several trade preference programs, both existing and proposed, designed to help foster such activity.

How important is this development, and what does it mean for the future of the industry?

To find out, read this entire article, which appears in the October 26th online edition of Apparel Magazine.

Changes

Manzella Worldwide Changes Company Name to Worldwide Glove & Supply

Manzella Worldwide recently announced its new company name, Worldwide Glove & Supply (WGS). The name change took place to better reflect the company's comprehensive portfolio of products and operational capabilities beyond its dominant position in the promotional, military, industrial glove and hand safety market.

Worldwide Glove & Supply also plans to add many Made In the USA and eco-friendly products to its stable of offerings, and is launching a new website www.wwg.com which goes live beginning November 15.

The company's management and ownership remains unchanged.

For more information about Worldwide Glove & Supply, contact Kerry Schimelfenig or any of its professionally trained staff at 877-678-4568 or www.wwg.com.

Patrick Miner Named President of Weinbrenner Shoe Company

On October 1, Patrick Miner assumed the role of president at Weinbrenner Shoe Company. With the company since 2002, Miner was most recently the senior VP of Sales and Marketing, and was previously a vice president in the company's Work & Industrial and Uniform and Fire units. His long career also includes positions with Leegin Leather, Nocona Boot Company, Acme Boot Company and Wolverine World Wide.

"I consider myself to be the head coach of a great team effort," said Miner, a reference to the fact that Weinbrenner has been employee-owned since 2000. The company manufactures lifestyle and occupational footwear in its Merrill and Marshfield, Wisconsin facilities, and recently celebrated its 120-year anniversary.

Weinbrenner Shoe Company, is an ISO 9001 company marketing its own footwear brands under the Thorogood Uniform, Hellfire, Thorogood Work, Work One Industrial and ShoeIn Overshoe Labels.

For more information, call 1-800-826-0002 or www.weinbrennerusa.com .

Professional Education

NAUMD Engages Center for Executive Development to Manage Education Certification Programs

As reported in the convention article that appears in this issue, NAUMD has engaged the Center for Executive Development (CED) to manage the next phase of the association's professional education certification programs.

First begun with sessions presented during the 2011 NAUMD convention & exposition in Orlando, the association's education certification program goals are to offer Bachelor Degree Certifications in three (3) disciplines: Public Safety, Image Apparel & Sales & Sales Management. Members of the association will, through participation in executive education sessions, receive credits towards their formal Bachelor Certification designation. Members achieving Bachelor Certification will be encouraged to use these designations on their business cards, email and other signatures to promote their educational achievement in their field.

NAUMD will be producing a full promotion and advertising program to both explain and promote the new Bachelor Certification to the industry and to all industry media outlets.

The program will be administered by Eric Hertz, president of the Center for Executive Development. Hertz previously served as director of executive education with the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), and has also served as executive director of the Fashion Association. Mr. Hertz holds an MBA from Yale. CED clients include Brooks Brothers, FIT and many other organizations. Mr. Hertz will be working with the leadership of the NAUMD Image Apparel Institute, the NAUMD Public Safety Committee and the newly created NAUMD Sales & Marketing Committee to develop extensive curriculum to provide the latest information, statistics, tactics and processes so that members may excel in their positions and careers.

"We truly believe that focused, direct industry education is the key to maintaining success in the new economy. It is our hope that with the Center for Executive Development on our team, we will significantly upgrade our education certification program and make it truly beneficial for all members who participate in it," said NAUMD President Richard Lerman.

You can read more about the education certification program by clicking here.

NAUMD announced the engagement of the Center for Executive Development (CED) to manage the next phase of the association’s professional education certification programs.

First begun with sessions presented during the 2011 NAUMD convention & exposition in Orlando, the association’s education certification program goals are to offer Bachelor Degree Certifications in three (3) disciplines: Public Safety, Image Apparel & Sales & Sales Management. Members of the association will, through participation in executive education sessions, receive credits towards their formal Bachelor Certification designation. Members achieving Bachelor Certification will be encouraged to use these designations on their business cards, email and other signatures to promote their educational achievement in their field.

NAUMD will be producing a full promotion and advertising program to both explain and promote the new Bachelor Certification to the industry and to all industry media outlets.

The program will be administered by Eric Hertz, president of the Center for Executive Development. Hertz previously served as director of executive education with the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), and has also served as executive director of the Fashion Association. Mr. Hertz holds an MBA from Yale. CED clients include Brooks Brothers, FIT and many other organizations. Mr. Hertz will be working with the leadership of the NAUMD Image Apparel Institute, The NAUMD Public Safety Committee and the newly created NAUMD Sales & Marketing Committee to develop extensive curriculum to provide the latest information, statistics, tactics and processes so that members may excel in their positions and careers.

“We truly believe that focused, direct industry education is the key to maintaining success in the new economy. It is our hope that with the Center for Executive Development on our team, we will significantly upgrade our education certification program and make it truly beneficial for all members who participate in it,” said NAUMD President Richard Lerman.

About the NAUMD 2012 Education Certification Tracks

NAUMD Education Certification Tracks will be presented during the NAUMD 2012 “Back to the Future” Convention & Exposition, March 9-12 at the Rio All Suites Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, NV and will be open to all “Full Registration” attendees. Attendees will pre-register for each of the sessions to confirm their credits for qualification towards their Bachelors Certification in three possible areas: Public Safety, Image Apparel or Sales. An outline of the entire program and process to achieve certification will appear in both the NAUMD Industry News and the NAUMD Official Guide.

About the NAUMD 2012 Bachelor Certification - Public Safety Education Track

Tentative topics being considered for presentation during these sessions include:

• Using GSA/FedBizOps to build new sales • Inventory Management • eCommerce • Social Networking • High Performance Product Education • Fabric/Manufacturing 101• Public Safety Sales: • Financial Management 101: • Mastering the Bidding Process

About the NAUMD 2012 Bachelor Certification - Image Apparel Education Track

Tentative topics being considered for presentation during these sessions include:

*Color Coordination and process *Lead Generation and Lead Closure *Fabric Specification

*Development of Design Boards (or Power Point Presentation)*Image Apparel Program development and components *Garment Program Merchandising *High Performance Fabric enhancement Implementation in Programs and their benefits *Financial Management - Building the elements and projecting a profit margin

*Sales - sessions dedicated to focused sales processes for the Image Apparel sector *Choosing accessories -

*How and why to win an NAUMD Image of the Year Award

About the NAUMD 2012 Bachelor Certification - Sales Education Track

Tentative topics being considered for presentation during these sessions include:

*Sales Lead Generation, * Qualifying Target Accounts. * Time Management. * Credit and profitability * Effective Sales Closure * Maximizing the Client Sales * Expansion of Products & Product Mix

To Register for the NAUMD 2012 Convention & Exposition and enjoy the programs and benefits of the Association by becoming a member please visit www.naumd.com , or call the office at 516.393.5838.

The North American Association of Uniform Manufacturers & Distributors (NAUMD)

has served as the voice of the uniform and image apparel industries since 1933. Its 500+ members include manufacturers, designers, producers, and retailers of uniforms, as well as those who produce products and services for the industry at large.

The NAUMD works to protect the interests of its members through a series of advocacy, education, and public relations campaigns intended to arm members with the tools needed to retain and capture business in a global economy. The association has authored a number of position papers and has an extensive library of information from which members can further their understanding of the uniform marketplace. NAUMD also conducts a series of professional development seminars both in the United States and Canada, and hosts an annual convention and trade show where attendees can source products, learn about the latest trends, and gain practical, take-home knowledge to better run their business.

You can take advantage of NAUMD’s programs and benefits by becoming a member. Learn more by visiting www.naumd.com , or by calling 516.393.5838.

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