Coats joins the global effort to tackle PPE shortage

Leading industrial thread company Coats has joined the Gerber PPE Task Force as a coalition partner, to help increase global production of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Coats has an extensive network of apparel manufacturers and sector players which the company describes as meaning it is "uniquely positioned to provide an industry matchmaker role to rapidly mobilise the work of the Task Force."

The company will provide high quality threads, trims, specialist products, technical support and services, as well as guidance on adhering to PPE regulation to manufacturers switching their operations. It will also introduce its raw material suppliers that produce materials for use in the production of PPE.

Rajiv Sharma, Group Chief Executive, Coats, said: "In unprecedented times we can be most effective by working together in partnerships for the greater good. By collaborating our innovation and expertise we can deliver an industry defining moment that is greater than the sum of its parts. Coats is proud to be joining the Gerber PPE Task Force and we are ready to help make a difference in keeping people safe during the pandemic."

The initial creation of the Gerber PPE Task Force was announced on 24 March in response to the global shortage of masks and other PPE needed to keep healthcare workers safe. To date, it has brought together more than 600 companies and industry associations to protect those that are protecting us.