Exploring the Fabric Industry w/ Guy Milinazzo (EP. 08)

Thread Talks Episode #08 with Guy Milinazzo.

In today’s episode, we are thrilled to welcome Guy Milinazzo, the Executive Vice President of Gladson Ltd., the custom fabric division of HMS International. Guy shares fascinating insights into his close friendship and professional partnership with Mickey Solomon, the CEO of HMS International Fabrics Corp.

As the conversation unfolds, Guy highlights the significance of Huddersfield Fine Worsteds in the fabric industry. He also provides an insightful overview of Vitale Barberis Canonico (VBC), one of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious mills. Listeners are treated to an exclusive tour of the VBC mill, where advanced technology and modern equipment have streamlined operations, reducing the workforce while maintaining the highest fabric quality standards.

Additionally, Guy shares insights on pairing different fabric compositions and discusses the concept of yarn printing. He also sheds light on the timeline required to create a fabric collection and offers a sneak peek into the exciting collections for the upcoming season.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[01:23] Meet our guest, Guy Milinazzo, and discover his friendship and partnership with Mickey Solomon, CEO of HMS Int'l Fabrics Corp.

[03:38] What does Gladson New York deal with?

[04:52] Why Huddersfield Fine Worsteds is a huge deal in the fabric industry

[07:16] A brief overview of Vitale Barberis Canonico

[11:17] What makes Vitale Barberis Canonico unique?

[13:59] A tour inside the Vitale Barberis Canonico (VBC) mill

[16:51] Is there a general rule of thumb for pairing different fabric compositions? 

[19:38] The Voyager Collection and Flex Sport Collection

[22:54] What is “Yarn Printing”? 

[24:28] How much advance time is needed to make a collection?

[26:49] Are today’s consumers more educated than in the past?

[29:26] Exciting fabric collections for the upcoming season

[35:11] What Vitale Barberis Canonico has in store for the upcoming season

Key Takeaways:  

• Many Italian mills have reinvested in equipment and technology over the years, resulting in fewer people working. [13:59]

• Water plays a significant role in finishing fabrics. [15:44]

• Fabrics have various qualities that make them suitable for wearing in different seasons of the year. [17:08]

• Fabrics typically take 90 to 105 days to produce. [24:33]

Keep In Touch with Guy Milinazzo:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gaetano.milinazzo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guy-milinazzo-0708889/

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