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Industry Associations
IFAI Selects Advanced Textiles Association as New Name
The Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) became the Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) effective June 1. The name change was approved in April with 85.6 percent of association members casting their votes to do so. Association bylaws require the approval of two-thirds of those returning ballots. The results were audited by Clifton Larson Allen.
“This is an exciting time for our great association,” said IFAI Chairman Amy Bircher. “President and CEO Steve Schiffman and his staff have worked hard to meet the needs of our members in finding a name that reflects the vision for our future while still honoring the past and recognizing the importance of our history.”
The new name, Advanced Textiles Association, reflects the evolving textile industry and is designed to position the association to meet the needs of its members and the industry as a whole. IFAI’s Board of Directors, staff, and industry partners researched the IFAI brand for more than a year, with the goal of ensuring the association is well-positioned for the future.
“There has been discussion about a name change for several years at the Board of Directors level,” said and CEO Steve Schiffman. “We wanted a name that is more inclusive, easier to remember, and reflects advances in and the future of all the industries we currently serve and will serve in the future.”
That market research and discussion with members found the need for a new brand. After more than 40 years as IFAI, the updated name not only speaks to those core markets but also reflects the fact that members are working in markets that may not be readily identified as “industrial fabrics.” The rebranding that matches the new name will be introduced to the industry soon.
The new Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) website URL became become Textiles.org on June 1, however, ifai.com will continue to be accessible during the transition President to www.Textiles.org.
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