TEXTalk: Transition to the Materials Matter System
Transition to the Materials Matter System
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
1:00 pm – 2:00 p.m. ET
Sponsored by
Join Textile Exchange for a session on the Materials Matter Standard, a voluntary sustainability standard for the production and primary processing of raw materials used in the textile and apparel industry. The session will introduce why the Materials Matter Standard was developed, how it brings together and replaces elements of the current standards system, and what this transition means for home textile suppliers and retailers.
Participants will receive a high-level overview of key transition timelines, milestones, and available tools and guidance to support preparation and engagement. The session will conclude with live Q&A.
About the Host:
Jo
dy Folino is a senior executive with a background in retail, sales and manufacturing. Jody is highly skilled in developing merchandising, marketing and omni channel business strategies. Jody provides effective results in all aspects of management with impressive communication and leadership skills. Priding herself in solid core values of honesty, integrity and commitment to excellence. Jody Folino is currently the Chief Marketing Officer for Blue Ridge Home Fashions.
About the Moderator:
Walter Bridgham, Sr. Business Development Mgr. Lenzing Fibers – TENCEL™ brand
Walter is the Sr. Business Development Manager at the Lenzing Group where he educates and inspires the home and interior industries on the benefits of TENCEL™ and LENZING™ ECOVERO™ branded fibers. Previously, Walter led the domestic and international teams at WestPoint Home in developing innovative bed and bath textiles as the Director of Product Innovation/Development. Walter has over 35 years in retail experience overseeing several home categories as Director of Product Development for Private Brands at Macy’s. In his early career he was a home categories buyer at Burdines nameplate before moving to Macy’s in 2004 as home textiles buyer.
About the Panelists:
Callie Weldon, Sr. Manager of Standards Engagement
Callie Weldon is Sr. Manager of Standards Engagement at Textile Exchange, where she leads industry engagement on the standards system, working with brands, suppliers, and materials producers to advance verification at the raw material level. With over a decade of experience in the textile and apparel sector, she brings a systems-level, mission-driven approach to translating complex standards into practical pathways for industry action. She is based in Boulder, Colorado.
Christian Smith, Director of Industry Engagement and Partnerships, Textile Exchange
Christian Smith, Director of Industry Engagement and Partnerships at Textile Exchange, leads global collaboration with brands, suppliers, and organizations to advance responsible fiber and materials production through convening, learning, and data-driven insights. With more than 15 years of experience in sustainable fashion, he has held senior roles at Zalando and Fair Wear Foundation and worked internationally with ASOS and PVH, building strong relationships across the supply chain.
