1888 Mills, a leading home textile manufacturer based in Griffin, Georgia, has been honored with the Champion of Cotton Award by Cotton Incorporated, recognizing the company’s long-standing commitment to cotton and its leadership in fiber transparency and innovation. The award was presented during a ceremony held in New York, attended by executives from Cotton Incorporated, 1888 Mills’ leadership team, and industry stakeholders.
Recognizing Long-Standing Leadership in Cotton
Cotton Incorporated highlighted 1888 Mills’ consistent dedication to cotton across its product portfolio, particularly through the company’s use of the Seal of Cotton trademark on its 100% Cotton Bath and Bedding Collection, launched in 2025.
“The Champion of Cotton Award recognizes brands leading by example,” said William Kimbrell, President and CEO of Cotton Incorporated. “1888 Mills demonstrates long-standing leadership in the home market—from sourcing and manufacturing to clearly communicating fiber choice through the Seal of Cotton trademark. Their marketing highlights cotton’s durability, breathability, long-lasting softness and microplastic-free benefits, showing how cotton-forward decisions can be implemented at scale.”
The Seal of Cotton as a Strategic Choice
For 1888 Mills, the Seal of Cotton plays a central role in reinforcing its brand positioning and commitment to natural fibers.
“Cotton has always played an important role in our products because of how it performs and what it brings to everyday essentials like towels and sheets,” said Lexi Schladenhauffen, Chief Merchandising Officer at 1888 Mills. “The Seal of Cotton felt like a natural extension of that commitment. It clearly communicates fiber content and reinforces the value of choosing cotton.”
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She added that customer response to the cotton-focused strategy has been highly positive, particularly following recent market presentations.
Industry Recognition
The award was received on behalf of 1888 Mills by Timi Majek, Vice President of Marketing and Visual Merchandising; Cheryl Leisenring, Senior Director of Product Development; Harry Kartus, Senior Vice President of Retail and Consumer Goods; and Lexi Schladenhauffen, Chief Merchandising Officer.
By receiving the Champion of Cotton Award, 1888 Mills sets a benchmark for fiber choice in the home textiles sector, underscoring the growing industry emphasis on natural, transparent, and sustainable material sourcing.
