Next Gen, Big Moves: What You Missed at Innovation Forum USA

On June 24, Canopy’s North America Hub Strategist, Joshua Katcher, joined the panel Revolutionizing Textiles: What Counts as Next-Gen Materials, and Can We Take the Leap? at the Innovation Forum’s USA Sustainable Apparel & Textiles Conference.

The conversation, led by Dana Davis (Brand Strategist & Consultant), with Ajay Chadha (REI) and Malvina Hoxha (Hyosung), explored how we scale Next Gen alternatives—and fast. Joshua brought Canopy’s definition into focus: low-impact, forest-free alternatives made from agricultural residues, recycled textiles, and select purpose-grown crops. He highlighted key momentum building in the sector, including:

• The launch of Circulose Forward
• Circ’s new facility underway in France
• Four MMCF mills emerging in China (Yibin Grace, Bailu Group, Jilin Chemical Fiber, and Tangshan Sanyou)
• A forthcoming Canopy guide to help innovators overcome price premiums

As always, Canopy played the role of connector—spotlighting solutions, bridging sectors, and accelerating progress. A big thanks to Innovation Forum for hosting such a forward-looking, collaborative space for industry changemakers.

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