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How Technology is Shaping the Future of Fashion

12 September 2023, Mumbai

Technology is transforming the fashion industry, with new innovations emerging all the time. Three key trends that are driving this change are AI-generated fashion, immersive fashion, and wearable robotics.

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AI-generated fashion uses artificial intelligence to create new designs. AI algorithms can analyze large amounts of data on fashion trends, historical styles, and customer preferences to generate original ideas. 

This allows human designers to collaborate with AI to create even more innovative and creative designs.

Emerging-tech

Immersive fashion uses virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to create new ways for consumers to experience fashion. VR allows users to enter a digital world where they can interact with clothing and accessories in a realistic way. 

AR allows users to overlay digital clothing on their own bodies to see how it would look. Immersive fashion makes shopping more convenient and fun, and it can also help consumers make more informed purchase decisions.

Wearables

Wearable robotics are garments that incorporate robotic technology. These garments can provide support, enhance performance, or offer health benefits. For example, robotic clothing could be used to improve posture, reduce pain, or even help people with disabilities. 

Wearable robotics has the potential to revolutionize the fashion industry, making clothing more functional and beneficial to wearers.

These are just a few of the ways that technology is shaping the future of fashion. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative and creative ways to use technology in fashion.

Here are some additional thoughts on how technology is shaping the future of fashion:

  • Blockchain technology is being used to create more sustainable and transparent supply chains. This will help to reduce waste and ensure that fashion products are made ethically.
  • 3D printing is making it possible to create custom-made clothing at a lower cost. This will make fashion more accessible to everyone.
  • Internet of Things (IoT) is connecting clothing to the internet, allowing it to collect data and interact with other devices. This could lead to clothing that can adapt to its environment or provide health monitoring.

Way forward; The future of fashion is full of possibilities, and technology is playing a major role in shaping it. We can expect to see even more innovative and exciting ways to use technology in fashion in the years to come.

Gist

Technology is revolutionizing the fashion industry, and the possibilities are endless. Emerging tech like AI-generated fashion, immersive fashion, and wearable robotics are changing the game.

AI-generated fashion uses artificial intelligence to create new designs by analyzing data on fashion trends, historical styles, and customer preferences. 

This allows human designers to collaborate with AI to create even more innovative and creative designs. Immersive fashion, on the other hand, uses virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to create new ways for consumers to experience fashion.

VR allows users to enter a digital world where they can interact with clothing and accessories, while AR allows users to overlay digital clothing on their own bodies to see how it would look.

This makes shopping more convenient and fun, and it can also help consumers make more informed purchase decisions.

Wearable robotics is another emerging tech that's making waves in the fashion industry. 

Garments that incorporate robotic technology can provide support, enhance performance, or offer health benefits. For example, robotic clothing could be used to improve posture, reduce pain, or even help people with disabilities. This has the potential to revolutionize the fashion industry, making clothing more functional and beneficial to wearers.

But that's not all. Blockchain technology is being used to create more sustainable and transparent supply chains, helping to reduce waste and ensure that fashion products are made ethically. 3D printing makes it possible to create custom-made clothing at a lower cost, making fashion more accessible to everyone.

And the Internet of Things (IoT) connects clothing to the internet, allowing it to collect data and interact with other devices. 

This could lead to clothing that can adapt to its environment or provide health monitoring.

The future of fashion is bright, and technology is playing a major role in shaping it. We can expect to see even more innovative and exciting ways to use technology in fashion in the years to come.

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Textile Recycling Market: An In-Depth Analysis

09 September 2023, Mumbai

The textile recycling industry is on a trajectory to witness remarkable growth, with projections indicating a market value of US$ 4.8 billion in 2023 and an expected surge to US$ 6.6 billion by 2033, driven by a compelling CAGR of 3.2% during the 2023-2033 forecast period. 

Growing environmental concerns and innovative recycling technologies are driving the growth of the textile recycling market.

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Key Market Trends and Highlights

Environmental concerns surrounding textile waste generation and heightened social awareness about textile recycling are set to propel market expansion. Government agencies and private enterprises are increasingly turning to textile recycling to address mounting textile waste management issues.

Notably, discarded textiles contribute significantly to the waste stream in the United States, prompting the government's initiative to achieve zero waste by 2037 through the Council for Textile Recycling (CTR).

Textile Recycling Market Key Drivers

Innovative recycling technologies, spanning mechanical, chemical, and enzymatic processes, are evolving to more efficiently process diverse textile materials. 

This advancement enables superior fiber separation, dye removal, and the production of high-quality recycled textiles. 

The concept of a circular economy is gaining traction, with brands and manufacturers integrating circular principles into their business models, driving demand for recycled yarn. Textile-to-textile recycling, where textiles are transformed into fibers for new fabrics, is on the rise, aided by AI-based automation and grading technologies

The surge of startups dedicated to textile recycling reflects the growing sector interest and investment, often introducing cutting-edge technology to address long-standing challenges. Furthermore, industry groups are launching campaigns to educate both consumers and businesses about the advantages of textile recycling, influencing behavior and fostering a sustainability culture.

Challenges in the Textile Recycling Market

Textile recycling presents unique challenges due to its composition of fibers, blends, dyes, and finished products, necessitating specific handling methods. 

The absence of standardized identification or labeling systems for textiles could pose growth impediments in the coming decade. Quality control also remains an issue, with contamination by non-recyclable items like buttons and zippers diminishing the value of recycled materials.

Comparative View of Adjacent Markets

In a comparative analysis, the textile recycling market is positioned to dominate among textile staples and air-laid textile markets during the 2023-2033 forecast period. Growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products and sustainability awareness opens opportunities for horizontal expansion among vendors.

Sustainable Practices Among Manufacturers Driving United States Market

The United States is expected to reach a market value of US$ 1.2 billion by 2033, boasting a CAGR of 3.1%. 

This surge in the textile recycling market stems from heightened awareness of textile waste's environmental impact and the growing imperative to divert textiles from landfills. As the world's top consumer of clothing and textiles, the United States generates significant textile waste, making recycling a crucial element of waste reduction strategies.

The market is experiencing rapid technological advancements, including improved sorting methods, chemical recycling processes, and the introduction of new recycled textile materials. Nonprofit organizations are actively promoting textile recycling and raising awareness among businesses and communities.

The United Kingdom Spearheads Circular Fashion in Europe

In the United Kingdom, textile recycling is gaining momentum, with a projected CAGR of 2.9% from 2023 to 2033, reaching a market size of US$ 247 million by the end of the forecast period. To address the fashion industry's substantial carbon footprint, the UK government has implemented measures to hold fashion businesses accountable for recycling costs and encourage sustainable design and labeling.

Leading initiatives such as the Sustainable Clothing Action Plan and Textile 2030 aim to reduce the environmental impact of the textile sector through science-based targets, driving the adoption of circular fashion practices.

Competitive Landscape

The global textile recycling market boasts a diverse mix of large and small-scale players, each employing various strategies to achieve growth. These strategies encompass technology development, expansion, mergers, and acquisitions to enhance market share, reach, and revenue.

In April 2023, Circ partnered with Zara to launch a women's clothing collection crafted from recycled lyocell and polyester extracted from mixed textile waste. 

Meanwhile, Lenzing Group introduced LENZINGTM ECOVERO with REFIBRATM technology in 2023, furthering its commitment to a circular economy in the textile and fashion industry. 

Birla Cellulose joined forces with TextileGenesisTM in May 2023, offering traceability and transparency solutions for the fibers and garments industry, emphasizing collaboration with brands and supply chain partners to scale its circular business model.

CREDITS: Future Market Insights report 

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The Future of Luxury Retail in India

07 September 2023, Mumbai

Sabyasachi's New Flagship Store in Mumbai

  • Sabyasachi Mukherjee, a renowned Indian fashion designer, has opened a new flagship store in Mumbai.
  • The store is located in a restored early 1900s building in the city's financial district.
  • The store is a sign of the growing luxury market in India.

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The Growth of the Indian Luxury Market

  • The Indian luxury market is growing rapidly.
  • By 2027, it is expected to be worth $100 billion.
  • This growth is being driven by a number of factors, including:
    • The rise of a wealthy middle-class
    • The increasing popularity of international brands
    • The government's efforts to promote tourism

Sabyasachi's Store

  • The Sabyasachi store is located in a Grade IIA heritage status building.
  • The building was originally built in 1913 and housed the British Bank of the Middle East.
  • The store has been restored to its former glory and features neoclassical design elements.
  • The store sells a variety of Sabyasachi's designs, including wedding attire, jewelry, and home decor.

The Future of Luxury Retail in India

  • The opening of the Sabyasachi store is a sign of the growing importance of luxury retail in India.
  • Other luxury brands, such as Dior and Hermès, have opened stores in Mumbai recently.
  • The Indian luxury market is expected to grow in the coming years, and more luxury brands are likely to enter the market.

Long & short

The opening of Sabyasachi's new flagship store is a significant event in the Indian luxury market. 

The store is a sign of the growing wealth and sophistication of India's middle class, and it is likely to attract even more luxury brands to the country in the years to come.

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Vietnam's manufacturing sector poised for recovery

04 September 2023, Mumbai

Vietnam's exports: Challenges and opportunities

Vietnam's exports have faced a number of challenges in recent years, including high inventory levels in key export destinations, weakened global demand, and underutilized manufacturing capacity. 

However, there are also a number of opportunities for Vietnam's exports, such as the normalization of US inventories, the relocation of manufacturing from China, and a surge in FDI interest in Vietnam.

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Challenges

High inventory levels: One of the main challenges facing Vietnam's exports is the high inventory levels in key export destinations, such as the United States. 

This is due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused disruptions to supply chains and led to businesses overstocking. As a result, there is less demand for imports from Vietnam.

Weakened global demand: Another challenge facing Vietnam's exports is the weakened global demand for key export items, such as electronics and textiles. This is due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the rising inflation, which is reducing consumer spending.

Underutilized manufacturing capacity: 

A third challenge facing Vietnam's exports is the underutilized manufacturing capacity. 

This is because a significant portion of the manufacturing capacity in Vietnam is still under construction, due to recent waves of investment.

Opportunities

Normalization of US inventories: One of the main opportunities for Vietnam's exports is the normalization of US inventories. 

This means that businesses in the United States are starting to reduce their inventories, which will create demand for imports from Vietnam.

Relocation of manufacturing from China: Another opportunity for Vietnam's exports is the relocation of manufacturing from China. 

This is due to the rising labor costs in China and the increasing trade tensions between China and the United States. 

Vietnam is seen as an attractive alternative to China for manufacturing, due to its lower labor costs and its strategic location.

A surge in FDI interest in Vietnam: There is also a surge in FDI interest in Vietnam. 

This is due to the country's favorable investment climate, such as its low taxes and its open trade policies. FDI can help to boost Vietnam's exports by bringing in new investment and technology.

Outlook

Overall, the outlook for Vietnam's exports is positive. The challenges facing Vietnam's exports are expected to ease in the coming months, and the opportunities are expected to outweigh the challenges. 

However, there are some risks to the recovery, such as a global economic downturn or rising protectionism.

Short Message

Vietnam's exports face a number of challenges, but there are also a number of opportunities. The outlook for Vietnam's exports is positive, but there are some risks to the recovery.

 

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Vietnam's manufacturing sector poised for recovery

Bangladesh: Least expensive, But challenges remain

08 September 2023, Mumbai

A recent survey by the United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) found that Bangladesh remains the least expensive apparel sourcing nation. 

However, the survey also found that Bangladesh faces challenges in terms of speed to market, sourcing flexibility and agility, and environmental compliance.

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Survey

The survey, which was conducted among 30 US-based fashion brands, found that Bangladesh scored 4.5 out of 5 in terms of sourcing cost, followed by Indonesia at 4 points. 

However, Bangladesh scored the lowest among Asian competitors in terms of speed to market, with a mere 2 points. China led in this category with a score of 3.5.

In terms of sourcing flexibility and agility, China and Vietnam were rated the most competitive, while Bangladesh was ranked the lowest. 

This is due to the fact that Bangladesh has been slow to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, and has experienced supply chain disruptions.

Outcomes

Finally, Bangladesh scored 2.5 out of 5 in terms of environmental compliance, sharing the bottom spot with India, Vietnam, and China. 

This is due to the fact that Bangladesh has been criticized for its poor labor practices and environmental record.

Despite these challenges, Bangladesh remains a popular apparel-sourcing destination for US brands. 

This is because Bangladesh has a large and skilled workforce, and offers competitive production costs. 

However, Bangladesh will need to address its challenges in order to remain competitive in the long term.

Commentary:

The USFIA survey highlights the challenges that Bangladesh faces as an apparel-sourcing nation. However, it also shows that Bangladesh remains a competitive option for US brands. If Bangladesh can address its challenges, it could continue to grow its apparel exports in the years to come.

Here are some specific steps that Bangladesh could take to address its challenges:

Improve its speed to market by investing in infrastructure and logistics.

Increase its sourcing flexibility and agility by reducing bureaucracy and improving the ease of doing business.

Improve its environmental compliance by implementing stricter regulations and enforcement.

By taking these steps, Bangladesh can position itself as a sustainable and ethical apparel sourcing destination for US brands.

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Bangladesh: Least expensive, But challenges remain

Global cotton candy machines market-A study

05 September 2023, Mumbai

Market Overview

  • The global cotton candy machines market is expected to be worth US$ 108.4 billion in 2023.
  • The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.62% between 2023 and 2033, anticipated to be valued at around US$ 170.4 billion by 2033.
  • Key drivers of market growth include rising demand for sugar-free candies, increasing number of new product developments, and growing popularity of cotton candy machines in emerging markets.

Key Trends

  • Manufacturers are focusing on designing cost-effective and technologically advanced machines.
  • There is a growing demand for portable and easy-to-use cotton candy machines.
  • Companies are increasingly launching sugar-free and organic candies to meet the growing health consciousness of consumers.

Regional Analysis

  • North America is the largest market for cotton candy machines, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific.
  • The Asia Pacific region is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the increasing popularity of chocolate-based confectionery goods and the growing population in the region.

Challenges

  • High maintenance costs and complex installation procedures are some of the challenges that could hinder the growth of the market.
  • The market is also facing competition from other confectionery products, such as lollipops and ice cream.

Short Message

Overall, the global cotton candy machines market is expected to grow steadily in the coming years. 

The market is being driven by the increasing demand for sugar-free candies, the growing popularity of cotton candy machines in emerging markets, and the rising number of new product developments.

The global cotton candy machines market is expected to grow at 4.62% CAGR to reach $170.4 billion by 2033, driven by rising demand for sugar-free candies and increasing popularity in emerging markets.

CREDITS: Future Market Insights report

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Retail sales in India firms up

02 September 2023, Mumbai

Retail sales in India have grown 9% YoY, as reported by the Retailers Association of India (RAI). QSRs, food, grocery, jewelry, and sports goods were the main drivers of growth, while apparel sales grew 8%. The report also indicates a rise in online-to-offline shopping.

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Data points

South India saw the highest growth at 12%, followed by West India at 9%.

Apparel sales grew 8%, whereas End-of-season sales boosted sales in July. Retailers saw an uptick in business activity in the final week of July. 

This was largely attributed to the commencement of their end-of-season sales. 

End-of-season sales boost sales in July

Retailers saw an uptick in business activity in the final week of July, largely attributed to the commencement of their end-of-season sales. 

This is in line with the global trend, as apparel retail sales have surged in the US and other countries.

Online-to-offline shopping becoming common

As consumer routines return to normalcy, a pattern of online-to-offline shopping is emerging. Customers are exploring products online but making purchases in physical stores. 

This is a positive sign for the retail industry, as it suggests that consumers are still willing to shop in person.

Apparel retail surges globally

2022 has been a good year for fashion retailers across the globe. Sales revenues of apparel retail in the US increased 36.37% over 2020. Growth continues in 2022 with apparel retail sales surging 13.76% from January to April ’22 to $81 billion. 

This is due to a number of factors, including the return of social events, the increasing popularity of athleisure, and the growing demand for sustainable clothing.

Retailers in India hope for a good festive season

This year’s festive season is expected to be different from the last two years as there are no COVID-19 restrictions. 

Footfalls at both standalone retail outlets and shopping malls are expected to increase steadily. Retailers are optimistic about the upcoming season and are gearing up to meet the demand.

Prognosis

Early indications suggest that the upcoming festive season will be a busy one for retailers

Online-to-offline shopping becoming common

Phydigital 

As consumer routines return to normalcy, a pattern of online-to-offline shopping is emerging. Customers are exploring products online but making purchases in physical stores. Brands are actively working to create a favorable shopping environment for customers as confidence keeps improving by the day given pre-festive season sales.

Conclusion

The Indian retail industry is in a good position to capitalize on the upcoming festive season. With no drastic curbs required, shopping malls can anticipate big crowds and retailers can look forward to a good season by adhering to all COVID-19-related norms.

Let's hope Diwali will come early this time!

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Mega textile hubs: A catalyst for growth

08 September 2023, Mumbai

An overview

  • The Indian textile industry has a long and rich history.
  • It is one of the largest and most diverse textile industries in the world.
  • The industry has been growing rapidly in recent years.
  • Mega textile hubs are playing a crucial role in the growth of the Indian textile industry.

Textile hubs ignite economic growth

  • Mega textile hubs are large industrial parks that bring together all the elements of the textile value chain under one roof.
  • This includes raw material suppliers, manufacturers, exporters, and retailers.
  • By bringing together all these players in one place, mega textile hubs create economies of scale and boost efficiency.
  • They also make it easier for businesses to collaborate and innovate.

Innovation: The key to success

  • The textile industry is constantly evolving, and innovation is essential for success.
  • Mega textile hubs provide a conducive environment for innovation by bringing together businesses, researchers, and designers.
  • This collaborative ecosystem helps to develop new products and processes that meet the needs of consumers.

Employment and investment opportunities

  • Mega textile hubs create significant employment opportunities, especially in rural areas.
  • They also attract foreign investment, which brings capital and technology into the country.
  • This helps to boost economic growth and create jobs.

Sustainability: A top priority

  • The textile industry is a major polluter, so sustainability is a top priority.
  • Mega textile hubs can lead the way by adopting sustainable practices such as recycling and water conservation.
  • This will help to protect the environment and ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry.

Policy support: The way forward

  • The Indian government plays a crucial role in supporting the development of mega textile hubs.
  • The government can provide financial assistance, create a favorable regulatory environment, and promote public-private partnerships.
  • By taking these steps, the government can help to make India a global leader in the textile industry.

Wrap up

Mega textile hubs are a key driver of growth in the Indian textile industry. They offer a number of advantages, including economies of scale, innovation, employment opportunities, and investment. 

The Indian government can play a crucial role in supporting the development of mega textile hubs.

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The textile and apparel industry is in crisis

04 September 2023, Mumbai

The Indian textile and apparel industry is grappling with a decline in exports and a significant loss of jobs. 

Exports of textiles and apparel fell by 13.55% from April to July 2023, amounting to $10,154.83 million. This has led to the loss of millions of jobs in the sector.

Indian textile and apparel industry facing a decline in exports, government considering fiscal incentives.

Government response

The Indian government is considering providing fiscal incentives to the industry by the end of the year. 

These incentives could be channeled through the production-linked incentive (PLI) program, which has been designed to inject financial support into various manufacturing sectors.

PLI program

The PLI program offers incentives to companies that invest in and produce goods in specific sectors. In the case of the textile and apparel industry, the PLI program could be used to incentivize companies to set up new factories or expand existing ones. This would create jobs and help to boost exports.

Industry request

The industry has requested that the government provide incentives specifically aimed at smaller manufacturers. They have also asked the government to reconsider the 11% import duty on certain varieties of cotton. This duty makes it more expensive for Indian manufacturers to produce textiles, which makes them less competitive in the global market.

Concerns

The industry is concerned about potential job losses and is urging the government to take comprehensive measures to support the sector. They are also concerned about the impact of the decline in exports on the overall economy.

The textile and apparel industry is a major employer in India, providing jobs to millions of people. The decline in the industry is having a significant impact on the economy and the livelihood of many people. 

The government needs to take urgent steps to support the industry and prevent further job losses.

In addition to the fiscal incentives and the PLI program, the government could also take other measures to support the textile and apparel industry. 

These measures could include:

  • Providing infrastructure support, such as roads, ports, and power, to make it easier for companies to operate in the sector.
  • Facilitating access to credit for small and medium-sized enterprises.
  • Promoting research and development in the sector.
  • Investing in skills training for workers.

By taking these measures, the government can help to revive the textile and apparel industry and create jobs for millions of people.

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The custom t-shirt printing market: A bird's eye view

01 September 2023, Mumbai

The custom t-shirt printing market is estimated to be worth $3.88 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $9.88 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 9.7% from 2023 to 2033.

Key Drivers

The growth of the custom t-shirt printing market is being driven by a number of factors, including:

The rising preference for customized, fashionable, and unique clothing.

The increasing disposable income of young people.

The growing popularity of outdoor sports and other industries.

The use of custom-printed t-shirts to raise social awareness, voice one's opinion, and support a cause.

The growing popularity of e-commerce and the expansion of the apparel industry.

Key Trends

Some of the key trends in the custom t-shirt printing market include:

The increasing use of digital printing techniques.

The growing popularity of pre-printed custom t-shirts.

The expanding demand for unisex t-shirts.

The growing popularity of online sales.

Key Regions

The North American region is the largest market for custom t-shirt printing, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. The market growth in these regions is being driven by the factors mentioned above.

Key Players

Some of the key players in the custom t-shirt printing market include:

Spreadshirt

CustomInk

Printful

Teespring

Redbubble

CustomCat

Short Message

The custom t-shirt printing market is expected to grow in the coming years, driven by the abovementioned factors. The market is expected to be more competitive in the coming years, as new players enter the market and existing players expand their offerings.

CREDITS: Future Market Insights (FMI) report

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