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India Poised for Textile Leadership

21 December 2023, Mumbai

New ITMF Chief Sees Opportunity and Challenges

K.V. Srinivasan, freshly appointed president of the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF), paints a promising picture for India's textile industry on the global stage. 

China Exit Boosts India; He sees a golden opportunity as international buyers seek alternatives to China, yet acknowledges hurdles like subdued global demand and inflationary pressures.

Speaking at a virtual event organized by the Southern India Mills’ Association (SIMA), Srinivasan, recently acclaimed by SIMA, pointed to a surprising trend: even during festive periods, domestic textile demand in India remains disappointingly low. 

This, he asserts, highlights the urgent need for the Indian industry to boost its competitiveness.

Schindler Urges India to Embrace Change

ITMF Director General Christian P. Schindler added to the discussion, outlining global industry trends and emphasizing the vital role of innovation and sustainability in navigating the current landscape.

Golden Gateway Opens for India

Srinivasan's optimism stems from the growing international demand for textiles outside China. 

This presents a significant opening for India's robust textile sector, already well-positioned with its established infrastructure and skilled workforce. 

Double-Edged Sword; However, he also cautions against underestimating the challenges. 

Weakening global demand and inflation add complexity to the equation, and domestic factors like sluggish internal demand require immediate attention.

ITMF President Outlines Global Trends

Srinivasan's leadership at ITMF marks a pivotal moment for India's textile industry. His call for enhanced competitiveness and a focus on innovation resonates with the need to harness the current opportunity and solidify India's position as a leading force in the global textile market.

Key Takeaways: Optimism and Caution for India's Textile Sector

  • India has a strong potential to gain from shifting global textile demands.
  • Domestic competitiveness and internal demand require improvement.
  • ITMF offers a platform for India to voice its concerns and share best practices.
  • Innovation and sustainability are crucial for long-term success.

 Latest Textile Events

IndianTextiles

AI Revolutionizes Fashion: From Industry 5.0 to Indian Growth

20 December 2023, Mumbai

Meet Frontier

Revolutionizing Fashion with AI: From Industry 5.0 to Digital Frontiers

The fashion and textile landscape is hurtling towards a new era, with AI poised to lead the charge. 

Forget mere evolution; AI is redefining how we work, succeed, and even experience fashion. 

This isn't just about cutting-edge technology; it's about seizing opportunity and reshaping the future of a vibrant industry.

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A Global Stage Awaits

Let's zoom out. The global fashion market is racing towards Industry 5.0, where AI and automation dominate. 

By 2025, AI is projected to unlock a staggering $275 billion in operational benefits—a testament to its transformative power. 

This shift isn't optional; it's the key to staying competitive and thriving in a rapidly changing world.

India's Fashion Renaissance

Closer to home, India's textile and apparel market is poised for phenomenal growth, forecast to reach a staggering $190 billion by 2026.

E-commerce plays a key role in this surge, with online fashion exceeding all other segments in its growth trajectory. 

As demand explodes, AI becomes an indispensable partner in navigating this exciting yet complex landscape.

Obstacles and Opportunities

Yet, challenges abound. The textile industry faces cost pressures across labor, production, machinery, and shipping. 

This is where AI steps in, not as a competitor but as a powerful ally in overcoming these hurdles.

Bridging the Gap: Introducing Frontier

But a significant gap exists between the current state of the industry and the emerging AI-driven future. 

This chasm presents both a challenge and an opportunity—a fertile ground for innovation and growth. 

Enter Frontier, our initiative designed to bridge this gap. We aim to leverage the power of AI to unlock a more effective and creative future for fashion, focusing on three key areas:

  • Digital product creation: Streamline design, development, and production with AI-powered tools.
  • On-demand e-commerce: Personalize customer experiences and optimize inventory management through data-driven insights.
  • Sustainable products: Develop eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes using AI-powered research and analysis.

5 Insights:

  1. AI Revolution: Fashion rewired for creativity & efficiency.
  2. Digital Design: Streamline product creation, from sketch to shelf.
  3. Personal E-commerce: Data-driven experiences, no two carts alike.
  4. Sustainable Future: AI tackles waste, designs eco-friendly threads.
  5. Bridging the Gap: Frontier paves the path to fashion's AI era.

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ArtificialIntelligence

India's E-commerce Boom: Growth, Challenges, and Future

18 December 2023, Mumbai

Market Surge

As per a recent Bain-Flipkart report, India's e-commerce market is expected to soar from $57–$60 billion in 2023 to over $160 billion by 2028, fueled by pandemic-driven online shopping surge.

Video Insights
Steady Climb

Online retail has added $8–$12 billion a year since 2020, with 17–20% projected growth in 2023 (down from 25–30% prior).
Inflationary Slowdown

High inflation dampens demand for non-essentials, impacting growth, according to the Bain & Flipkart report.
Global Shift

COVID-19 accelerates global e-retail adoption, with India experiencing a significant jump in penetration.
Lagging Behind

E-commerce remains at 5-6% of total retail spending in India, compared to 23-24% in the US and 35%+ in China.
Investing for the Future

Major players like Amazon, Flipkart, and Ajio pump up investments to tap India's immense potential (e.g., Amazon's $15 billion additional commitment).
Growing Consumer Base

120 million new online shoppers from 2019 to 2022, doubling e-retail spending per customer, with increased activity and frequency on digital platforms.

5 key insights

 

  • Market Surge: E-commerce rockets ($57B > $160B by 2028), pandemic fuels online boom.
  • Steady Climb: Annual +$8B-$12B growth, 2023 slower but still strong.
  • Inflationary Slowdown: High prices hurt non-essentials, impacting growth.
  • Global Shift: COVID-19 boosts worldwide e-commerce, India jumps in.
  • Lagging Behind: India (5-6% e-commerce share) trails US & China.

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E-Commerce

India's E-Commerce Boom: A Glimpse into the Future

15 December 2023, Mumbai

From Pandemic Surge to $160 Billion Market: 

The Rise of Online Shopping in India

Video Insights

Key Points:

  • The pandemic has propelled India's online shopping, adding $8-$12 billion annually to its e-commerce market growth (2020-2028).
  • The "How India Shops Online 2023" report by Bain & Co. predicts a surge from $60 billion in 2023 to a staggering $160 billion by 2028.
  • 2023 will see a 17-20% growth, slightly lower than the anticipated 25-30% due to inflationary pressures.
  • Big players like Amazon, Flipkart, and Reliance Retail's Ajio are ramping up investments to capitalize on this potential.
  • India's online shopper base has grown remarkably, doubling its size between 2019 and 2022 with increased spending.
  • Smaller cities (Tier II & III) and low-income/middle-income groups contribute significantly to the growth.
  • Driven by new shoppers and increased fashion spending, the e-commerce sector is set for further evolution.
  • The booming market is expanding the seller base, with over 10 million sellers expected by 2025.

Critical Insights:

  • Social-commerce platforms are gaining traction, especially reseller-led models targeting first-time online shoppers.
  • Quick-commerce and hyper-value commerce models are emerging, catering to convenience and affordability.
  • Mobile internet penetration and improved logistics infrastructure are fueling the growth.
  • The government's focus on digital initiatives like Digital India and e-commerce policy is also playing a crucial role.

Future Outlook:

  • India's e-commerce market is poised for significant expansion, driven by a growing middle class, increasing disposable income, and smartphone penetration.
  • Innovation and personalization will be key for brands to succeed in this dynamic landscape.
  • Sustainability and ethical practices will gain importance as consumers become more conscious.

Overall, India's e-commerce market presents a promising future, offering immense opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.

5 Key Insights :

  1. Pandemic Boost: Online shopping surges, adding $8-$12 billion yearly to India's e-commerce growth (2020-2028).
  2. Market Explosion: From $60 billion in 2023 to a predicted $160 billion by 2028, fueled by new shoppers and mobile adoption.
  3. Tier II & Beyond: Smaller cities and lower-income groups join the online shopping wave, driving significant growth.
  4. Micro Trends: Social commerce, quick-commerce, and hyper-value models cater to convenience and affordability, shaping the future.
  5. Sustainable Future: Innovation, personalization, and ethical practices will be key for brands in this dynamic and promising market.

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EconomicGrowth

The last four decades belonged to China: The next three belong to India

20 December 2023, Mumbai

WHY India 

Unveiling the Fabric of India: Beyond the Runway at the BRICS+ Fashion Summit

Scene: A Kaleidoscope of Vibrant India

Beyond the catwalk, Zaryadye Park explodes with color. Shimmering sarees dance amidst clinking champagne flutes, while electrifying chatter fills the air. The BRICS+ Fashion Summit is in full bloom, and India's sartorial splendor takes center stage.

Beyond the Surface: Unveiling Fashion Secrets

But this catwalk holds more than fleeting trends. Behind the dazzling runway lies a hidden treasure trove of insights waiting to be unraveled. One session, "Reverse Pitch: Country Expert Session. India," promises an illuminating deep dive into the vibrant heart of Indian fashion. 

Forget dusty panels and predictable presentations; this is a journey to unlock the secrets that make India's style scene tick.

Passion Stitched into Garments:

Dr. Gulbash Duggal, a fashion education guru, holds the key. She unravels a simple truth: "India is a nation woven with love." This isn't just a sentimental notion; it's the very thread that binds Indian fashion. 

Here, clothes transcend mere trends, becoming vessels for deep emotional connections, cherished for their enduring allure. "We fall in love with garments," Dr. Duggal confesses, revealing a market driven by passion, not fleeting fads.

Opening the Market Door:

Akashdeep Singh, the strategist, shifts the spotlight. He shines a light on e-commerce giants like Choupette as gateways to the vast Indian market. 

His message is clear: "Entering India isn't a question of 'if,' but of 'what legacy will you leave behind?'" He replaces doubt with an irresistible call to action, beckoning fashion pioneers to be part of India's burgeoning story.

Collaboration: A Tapestry of Strength

But Sameep Shastri, the visionary, paints a grander picture. He envisions a future where BRICS+ nations stand united, their unique skills and industries intertwined into a vibrant tapestry.

 "Together," he proclaims, "we can create sustainable products, built to last." This vision transcends fashion, becoming a blueprint for collaboration, a future forged in unity, not competition.

A Witty Spark Ignites Action:

Moderated by the witty Sanjay Chawla, editor and publisher of DFU Publications, the session crackled with energy. As it concludes, his final words echo: "The past four decades belonged to China. The next three belong to India." This isn't just a prediction; it's a clarion call, an invitation to witness and contribute to the rise of Indian fashion as a global force.

Key Insights

  1. Passion: Clothes as emotional connections, not trends.
  2. Commerce: E-commerce giants unlock the vast Indian market.
  3. Collaboration: BRICS+ nations weave a sustainable future together.
  4. Legacy: Build your mark on India's fashion evolution.
  5. Rise: The next fashion powerhouse: India's three decades.

Latest Textile Events

 

BRICS+Fashion Summit2023

Ethnic Wear Embarks on a Global Fashion Odyssey

16 December 2023, Mumbai

Prepare for a vibrant sartorial saga! Ethnic wear, a kaleidoscope of cultural stories woven into garments, is set to take the fashion world by storm. 

Allied Market Research predicts a dazzling 7.2% annual ascent from 2022 to 2031, culminating in a majestic $177.2 billion by 2031.

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India's Enchanting Canvas Leads the Charge:

Indian ethnic wear, with its mesmerizing medley of fabrics, motifs, and traditions, has captivated not only the Indian diaspora but also fashion enthusiasts across the globe, from Singapore to Australia and Cambodia.

This cross-cultural allure is fueled by two potent forces:

  • Diaspora's Pride: Indian communities proudly flaunt their cultural heritage, donning stunning ensembles that resonate with international audiences.
  • Bollywood's Dazzling Spotlight: From the elegant drape of sarees to the opulent creations that grace the silver screen, Bollywood has ignited a global fascination with Indian ethnic wear.

Beyond Borders: Globalization Stitches Cultures Together

Social media, effortless travel, and the fashion industry hungry for novelty have paved the way for a global celebration of diverse cultures, with ethnic wear as its vibrant ambassador. It's more than clothing; it's a dialogue, a language of tradition that transcends borders.

Fusion Finesse: Adaptability Breeds Inclusivity

Indian ethnic wear's strength lies not just in its diversity but also in its adaptability. Rich fabrics, intricate patterns, and sustainable techniques from various regions of India inspire "Fusion Finesse" styles that appeal to a wider audience. Global festivals like Navratri and Diwali showcase this charm, further amplifying its reach.

Brand Building: Navigating the Global Fashion Safari

This surge presents exciting opportunities for ethnic wear brands, but also challenges. To navigate the global fashion safari, brands must:

  • Craft a Strategic Vision: A clear roadmap for international expansion.
  • Embrace Local Palates: Adapt designs and marketing to resonate with local preferences.
  • Build a Robust Brand Identity: Stand out from the crowd with a strong presence.
  • Ensure Efficient Distribution: Reach global customers seamlessly.
  • Tell the Brand Story: Effectively communicate your unique offerings.
  • Embrace Customer Feedback: Continuously adapt to customer preferences.
  • Forge Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with local players for credibility.

Corporate Conundrum: Breaking the Office Barrier

While vibrant colors and intricate patterns are a street-style celebration, they might face hurdles in corporate settings, where subdued attire often reigns. 

However, exceptions exist in creative and digital domains, offering potential for future expansion.

E-commerce Revolution: Walls Crumble, Brands Rise

The rise of e-commerce has been a game-changer. Platforms like KBV report a surging trend in ethnic wear, driven by:

  • Emerging Designers: Infusion of contemporary flair into ethnic styles by a new wave of fashionistas.
  • Millennial Magic: A generation embracing individuality and cultural expression through fashion.

Social media fuels this fire, connecting brands directly with global audiences, breaking down traditional walls, and paving the way for a future where ethnic wear is not just for special occasions but a vibrant and versatile staple of everyday life.

Get swept away by the ethnic wear wave! This colorful tapestry of tradition and innovation is poised to redefine the global fashion landscape. So, embrace the vibrant hues and intricate patterns, and celebrate the beauty of diverse cultures, one garment at a time!

5 Key Insights :

1. Cultural Couture Soars: Ethnic wear climbs 7.2% yearly, reaching $177 billion by 2031.

2. India's Dazzling Threads: Bollywood and diaspora ignite global love for Indian styles.

3. Beyond Borders, Beyond Occasions: Social media stitches cultures, making ethnic wear everyday.

4. Fusion Finesse Wins Hearts: Adaptable styles bridge tradition and modern trends.

5. E-commerce Weaves Success: Emerging designers and millennials fuel online ethnic wear boom.

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GlobaFashion

Knitwear: From Cozy Basics to Fashion Icon

15 December 2023, Mumbai

From humble beginnings as comfy innerwear, knitwear has knitted its way to the top of the fashion heap, captivating both buyers and designers with its unexpected versatility. This isn't just your grandma's sweater anymore. Designers are pushing boundaries, experimenting with textures, cuts, and styles, creating everything from chic dresses to statement jackets. Emerging fashion talents particularly adore its malleable nature, allowing them to break the mold and express their creativity.

The global lockdowns of 2021 and 2022 were a turning point for knitwear. As people craved comfort and adaptability in their wardrobes, knitwear rose to the occasion. Its ability to stretch, breathe, and move with you made it the perfect companion for working from home, lounging around, and everything in between. In a surprising twist, knitwear seems poised to dethrone its long-standing rival, woven fabric, as the go-to choice for both comfort and style.

This surge in popularity isn't just a fleeting fad. Maximize Market Research Private Limited (MMR) predicts a massive global knitwear market boom, reaching $156.8 billion by 2030, fueled by a steady 5.8% annual growth rate. And it's not just sweaters leading the charge. Men's knitwear is expected to dominate, with a whopping 6.7% growth, cementing its position as the largest segment.

E-commerce plays a starring role in this knitwear revolution. Online sales have skyrocketed, making it easier than ever to discover and purchase the latest knitwear trends. This is especially true in emerging economies like Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS), where online knitwear sales are experiencing explosive growth.

Speaking of powerhouse players, China reigns supreme as the world's top knitwear producer and exporter. Bangladesh, India, and Vietnam follow closely behind, showcasing the global reach of this versatile fabric. In Europe, Germany and Italy hold the reins, producing and exporting knitwear on a grand scale.

Sum & Substance: Knitwear's popularity is no passing fancy. Its inherent charm, amplified by online accessibility and designer innovation, has secured its place as a fashion force to be reckoned with.

So, grab your favorite knitwear piece and embrace the cozy revolution!

5 Key Insights :

  1. Cozy Couture: From innerwear to runway star, knitwear captivates with unexpected versatility.
  2. Design Revolution: Pushing boundaries with textures, cuts, and styles, beyond grandma's sweaters.
  3. Comfort Reigns: Lockdowns fueled knitwear's rise, its adaptability dethroning woven fabric.
  4. Market Boom: $156.8 billion by 2030, led by men's wear and e-commerce surge.
  5. Global Powerhouses: China leads production, with BRICS driving online sales.

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Knitswear

Retail Mall Boom in India: Growth, Rentals, and Consumer Trends

18 December 2023, Mumbai

Expansion Plans

ICRA reports, “India's top six cities are set for a mall space surge! Currently, at 105 million square feet, it's expected to reach 116–118 million by March 2025. 

Delhi NCR leads the charge with 30% of new space, followed by Bengaluru (20%), Mumbai (17%), Pune (14%), Hyderabad (13%), and Chennai (6%)”.

Rental Revenue on the Rise

Expect mall operators to enjoy increasing rental income, projected to grow 9–10% in FY2024 and 8–9% in FY2025. 

The key drivers are high occupancy rates, rising trading values, and rent escalations.

Footfall and Spending Uptickicra

Mall traffic and spending are rebounding strongly. ICRA reports an 8.4% YoY growth in rental income in H1 FY2024, indicating a robust recovery. Trading values are forecast to surge 14–15% in FY2024 and 10-12% in FY2025, thanks to premiumization and robust urban consumption.

Thriving Segments

Certain segments, like jewelry, electronics, premium apparel, beauty products, and entertainment, are witnessing higher consumption growth. This trend is expected to continue due to strong consumer demand.

Consumer Confidence Boost

India's private final consumption expenditure is rising, fueled by higher household spending. Optimistic consumer sentiment suggests this trend will persist, supporting mall retail sales.

Vacancy Puzzle Despite High Absorption

Despite a strong net absorption of 3.2 million square feet in H1 FY2024, vacancy levels increased slightly. This could be due to the timing of new mall openings or changes in tenant preferences.

This rewritten version summarizes the key takeaways of the original text and adds subtitles for improved readability and understanding.

5 Key Insights:

  1. Mall Boom: Square footage soars 15 million by 2025, Delhi leads expansion.
  2. Rents Rising: Operators see 9-10% growth, fueled by high occupancy & spending.
  3. Shoppers Return: Footfall and spending rebound, premium segments thrive.
  4. Confidence Boost: Rising household spending supports mall retail sales.
  5. Vacancy Puzzle: Slight vacancy increase despite strong absorption.

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Retail Mall Boom in India: Growth, Rentals, and Consumer Trends

China Shuffles Supply Chains

16 December 2023, Mumbai

  1. China Pivots: Embracing Domestic Might Amid Shifting Global Supply Chains

  2. Facing a recalibrating world, China orchestrates a strategic shift in its supply chains, aiming for self-reliance in the face of global currents. Recent leadership meetings in Beijing grappled with vulnerabilities exposed by foreign shipping dependence and a rising exodus of US businesses.

     

    Video Insights

    Beijing Navigates Uncharted Seas:

    • Domestic Engine Revved: Recognizing its diminishing role in global car parts supply, China seeks to reignite domestic car production, leveraging its massive internal market as a catalyst.
    • Diversifying Trade Routes: Capitalizing on shifting alliances, China expands its trade partnerships, with rail cargo to Azerbaijan skyrocketing 47% as it navigates beyond Western shipping lanes.
    • Fortifying the Supply Lifeline: Leaders prioritize bolstering domestic supply chains, minimizing reliance on foreign shipping companies like those in India and Mexico.

    Headwinds in the Forecast:

    • US Exodus: 61% of American textile and apparel businesses are seeking production alternatives outside China, driven by rising costs and geopolitical tensions.
    • Belt and Road Jitters: Italy's retreat from the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative injects uncertainty into China's global outreach.

    Analysis: Strategic Adaptation, Not Retreat

    China's proactive approach to reshaping its supply chains is not a reactive retreat, but rather a strategic adaptation to a changing global landscape. While challenges remain, its massive domestic market and emerging trade partnerships offer avenues to navigate the shifting winds and propel continued growth.

    5 Key Insights :

    1. Domestic Drive: Car production revs up to counter global parts decline.

    2. Trade Tracks Shift: Rail to Azerbaijan soars, diversifying beyond Western lanes.

    3. Supply Line Secure: Minimizing reliance on foreign shipping companies.

    4. US Exodus Grows: 61% of American textile businesses seek alternatives.

    5. Belt and Road Wobbles

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CHINA

Reebok Leaps into the Future of Fashion with AI & Metaverse Partnership

15 December 2023, Mumbai

Reebok and Futureverse

Forget just wearing kicks; get ready to wear the future. Iconic sportswear brand Reebok has partnered with AI and metaverse pioneers Futureverse to unleash a digital fashion revolution.

Video Insights

Think beyond sneakers and tees—we're talking cutting-edge experiences powered by AI, web3, blockchain gaming, and metaverse tech. Brace yourself for a whole new way to interact with Reebok.

Leaping into the Metaverse

2024 marks the arrival of Reebok Impact, a mind-bending digital shoe experience that will immerse everyone in the world of AI and virtual wearables.

This isn't just a sneaker drop; it's Reebok stepping off the athletic field and sprinting toward reshaping digital fashion.

But this isn't just about fancy shoes. This partnership is about changing how we see and engage with digital fashion. AI, Web3, gaming, and metaverse technologies are the game changers, blurring the lines between physical and virtual. It's time to make your online presence as powerful as your real-life self.

Remember Reebok's "life is not a spectator sport" mantra? Futureverse's play-to-learn approach takes it to the next level. Get ready to be inspired to live life to the fullest, both online and offline.

The launch of Reebok Impact is just the first step in this groundbreaking partnership.

More features, integrations, and experiences are on the horizon, ready to push the boundaries of innovation.

Short Message

This isn't a one-off collab; it's the dawn of a new era in digital fashion, and Reebok and Futureverse are leading the charge.

So, are you ready to step into the future?

Lace-up your digital sneakers and get ready to experience Reebok like never before.

5 Key Insights :

  1. Fashion Forward: Reebok & Futureverse team up for AI-powered digital fashion revolution.
  2. Metaverse Shoes: "Reebok Impact" drops in 2024, blurring lines between physical & virtual wearables.
  3. Beyond Kicks: AI, Web3, gaming, and metaverse tech redefine how we interact with fashion.
  4. Live Life Digitally: Play-to-learn approach empowers you to be your best online and offline.
  5. Future Unlaced: This partnership is just the beginning, pushing the boundaries of innovation.

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