18 July 2023, Mumbai

The global kids' apparel market is projected to grow from USD 198.80 billion in 2023 to USD 318.34 billion by 2030, driven by social media influence, demand for stylish clothing, and parental awareness.

Over the forecast period, the market is expected to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.96%. 

What all you need to know

Quick overview

Cotton remains the preferred fabric, and the market has shown resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of traditional and digital media on children's well-being should be carefully examined.

The casual clothing segment and the boys' segment are expected to dominate, while offline distribution channels remain significant.

Key players are implementing growth strategies to enhance their market presence. Asia Pacific and North America are the major growth regions, with India experiencing substantial growth due to changing demographics.

Invest in Stylish and High-Quality 

This expansion is primarily attributed to the increasing presence of children and tweens on social media platforms, influencing parents to invest in attractive, comfortable, and high-quality clothing for their kids.

However, it is important to recognize that there are also risks and potential drawbacks associated with these newer forms of media, which impact the well-being of children and teenagers.

Cotton Dominates

Cotton remains the preferred fabric for kids apparel, valued for its comfort, lightweight nature, ease of washing, and color retention. As parents prioritize these qualities, the popularity of kids clothing is set to soar, further fueling market growth.

COVID-19 & beyond

A comprehensive analysis of key market segments and recent trends is provided in the report, along with an examination of the driving and restraining factors that have shaped the market. 

Additionally, the report delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the negative effects of transport and travel restrictions on market growth. 

However, the industry has exhibited resilience through measures such as automation, sanitation protocols, and production adjustments, paving the way for recovery in the post-COVID-19 phase.

The Impact of Social Media and Changing Fashion Trends on Children's Apparel Industry

Growing Parental Awareness and Demand for Fashionable Children's Clothing

In today's digital era, the children's apparel industry has experienced significant transformations due to the influence of social media and evolving fashion trends. 

Parents are now more conscious of their children's clothing choices, resulting in an increased demand for trendy and stylish garments.

Examining the Effects of Traditional and Digital Media on Children and Adolescents

Over recent years, children and adolescents have become deeply immersed in a diverse range of media formats, encompassing both traditional and digital platforms. 

While earlier research has highlighted health concerns and negative consequences associated with traditional media like television, there has been a notable surge in the utilization of digital media, including interactive and social platforms.

Evaluating the Benefits and Risks of Digital and Social Media for Young Individuals

Evidence-based studies have shed light on numerous advantages associated with the use of digital and social media among young individuals. 

These benefits include opportunities for early learning, exposure to novel ideas and knowledge, heightened social interactions and support, and improved accessibility to information. 

Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that these newer forms of media also entail risks and potential drawbacks that can impact the well-being of children and teenagers. 

Casualisation

The casual clothing segment is expected to dominate the market, owing to its high comfort and lightweight nature. 

In terms of end-users, the boys segment is projected to lead, driven by the rising birth rate of newborn boys. 

Furthermore, kids aged above 10 years are displaying a preference for stylish and trendy apparel, contributing to the market growth in this segment. 

Offline distribution channels are anticipated to hold a significant market share, as offline stores expand to meet the growing demand for kids' apparel.

Snapshot

Prominent players in the market, such as Nike, Burberry, and Carter's, are implementing various growth strategies, including store launches, partnerships, and business expansions, to enhance their market presence. 

For instance, Children's Place introduced Sugar & Jade, a new tween apparel, accessories, and footwear brand, featuring five apparel and accessory collections in November 2021.

Helicopter view

Growing Kids Apparel Market to Reach USD 318.34 Billion by 2030, Fueled by Social Media Influence and Comfort-driven Demand. 

Asia Pacific is poised to dominate the market, propelled by increased consumer spending on children's clothing, growing disposable income, improved childcare services, and a high standard of living. 

The North American market is also expected to experience strong growth due to parents' escalating concerns about their children's health and safety.

The market for Indian kidswear (0-14 years) was valued at US$ 16.4 billion in 2020, and it is expected to increase at a CAGR of 14.5 percent between 2021 and 2026. 

According to a survey by IMARC Group, the industry is largely driven by India's growing number of nuclear and dual-income homes.

Latest Textile News

14 July  2023, Mumbai

However, the introduction of standardized sizing systems in the 1940s led to a shift towards ready-to-wear clothing, with the fashion industry producing mass-produced garments in a range of sizes.

What all you need to know

Prologue

1940s standardized sizes caused a move to personalized clothing, considering sustainability. Luxury and affordable brands fuel the custom market.

Indian startups drive the trend, while technology transforms it.

The Shift from Custom-Made to Ready-to-Wear Clothing; The concept of custom-made clothing may seem exclusive to the wealthy and those with access to couture ateliers, but not too long ago, it was the standard way of buying clothes for many people. 

Response to Environmental and Ethical Concerns

While this standardized approach made fashion more accessible and affordable, it also resulted in environmental issues and unethical labor practices associated with fast fashion.

As a result, consumers are now becoming more aware of the environmental impact of their fashion choices and are embracing made-to-measure clothing as a sustainable alternative.

Redefining Style 

According to research and analysis firm Proficient Market Insights, the custom clothing market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 9.56% between 2022 and 2027.

This growth is driven by both luxury brands and affordable retailers recognizing the demand for custom-made clothing. 

While traditional luxury labels like Ermenegildo Zegna and Ralph Lauren have long been associated with custom clothing, more accessible brands like H&M, Massimo Dutti, Mango, Zara, and Guess have also entered the market.

Market Growth; Europe currently holds the largest market share for custom clothing, followed by North America and China. 

Coats are the most popular product category, and both physical stores and online platforms are significant distribution channels.

Shift towards bespoke
The rise of bespoke fashion exemplifies the shifting perspectives on style and the growing demand for individuality and sustainability.

With an increasing awareness of the detrimental effects of fast fashion on the environment and workers, consumers are actively seeking alternatives that align with their values.
Embracing Personalized Fashion
Distinguishing itself from its made-to-measure counterpart, bespoke fashion involves the meticulous skills of pattern makers, seamstresses, and other custom clothing experts.

These knowledgeable artisans produce clothing samples that are then examined, refined, and approved by fashion designers, ensuring the highest level of quality and personalization.

The Custom Clothing Market in India

In India, custom-made clothing has always been a part of the culture, with individuals preferring tailored garments over ready-to-wear options. 

The rise of fashion startups in India has further fueled the demand for custom clothing, with these companies focusing on creating memorable shopping experiences and leveraging technology to offer personalized services. 

The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital solutions, such as virtual fitting rooms and augmented reality, to enhance the customer experience and enable contact-free shopping.

Custom Clothing Sector

While the demand for formal shirts and ties may decline, the market for well-made tailored suits and separates is expected to continue growing. 

The pandemic has led to a shift towards casual attire, but there is still a demand for tailored suits for special occasions. 

Designers are also introducing innovative styles and silhouettes, including anti-fit designs and sporty layering, to cater to changing fashion preferences.

The Impact of Technology

The use of technology, such as 3D modeling and AI-powered data analytics, is revolutionizing the custom clothing sector. Companies are leveraging these tools to accurately estimate customer demand, provide virtual try-on experiences, and create personalized garments based on individual measurements and style preferences. 

The Role of Technology; Digital marketplaces are also emerging, connecting buyers with designers, tailors, and manufacturers to offer a wide range of customization options.

The Global Trend Towards Custom-Made Clothing and Its Future Outlook

The demand for custom-made clothing is on the rise globally, driven by factors such as sustainability, individuality, and the desire for a better fit. 

Fashion brands are embracing new technologies to offer personalized experiences, and the market is expected to continue growing in the coming years for "Tailored Suits and Innovative Styles".

Custom Clothing Market on the Rise as Consumers Embrace Personalized, Environmentally-Friendly Apparel.

Pioneering Sustainable Luxury
In this realm, brands like Careste have successfully integrated sustainability with the essence of luxury bespoke fashion.

By combining the finest materials and employing skilled craftsmen, Careste embodies a commitment to both eco-consciousness and exceptional craftsmanship.

Bespoke fashion, characterized by its handmade craftsmanship and thoughtfully sourced sustainable materials, has emerged as a favored choice.

Sustainable, unique, and well-fitting custom fashion thrives globally.

Latest Textile Events

11 July 2023, Mumbai

China's spandex exports witnessed a significant drop of approximately 30% or 6,758 tons on an annual basis to 17kt in the first quarter of 2023, as per China customs data. The export unit price also decreased by $3.999/kg to US$5.193/kg compared to the previous year.

The global textile industry faces a challenge as spandex prices drop significantly, impacting both manufacturers and consumers. Adaptation becomes crucial. 

Spandex Industry's Response to Evolving Textile Market

The textile industry is currently encountering various obstacles, including a decline in new orders and inflation. However, the spandex sector is rising to these challenges by implementing sustainable practices and introducing innovative solutions.

As indicated by Wood Mackenzie, there are three significant challenges that will impact the spandex industry in 2020. 

The first challenge arises from the disruptive effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, which have caused growth patterns to reverse. This has necessitated the spandex industry to reassess its strategies and adapt to the changing market conditions.

The third challenge revolves around the growing demand for sustainable textiles and apparel. 

Exports Witness Drop 

However, monthly spandex exports showed a slow recovery, with noticeable growth in March after being affected by the Spring Festival celebrations in January and February. Despite the recovery, spandex exports in Q1 2023 remained considerably lower than in the same period in the past two years and were similar to Q1 2019 levels.

View on China exports

Turkey, Vietnam, South Korea, and Egypt were the primary destinations for China's spandex exports, accounting for 48.2% of the total. However, Turkey's imports from China witnessed a substantial decline of 64% in Q1 2023, while Vietnam's imports increased by 89.1%.

Datapoints; On the other hand, spandex imports to China experienced a remarkable surge of 86.2% on an annual basis, reaching 9,010 tons in Q1 2023. The import unit price declined significantly by $5.602/kg to US$5.784/kg compared to the previous year. 

Vietnam, Singapore, and South Korea were the major import origins, with Vietnam's imports alone increasing by 5,350 tons in Q1 2023, driving spandex imports to a five-year high.

Driving Atmanirbhar Bharat:

The government has implemented numerous significant reforms and taken proactive policy measures to transform Atmanirbhar Bharat into a tangible reality and establish India as a highly competitive global manufacturer.

It has recently announced the removal of antidumping duty on a wide range of man-made fibers and their raw materials, including PTA, MEG, PSF, VSF, acrylic fibers, and now elastomeric filament yarn.

The global textile industry faces challenges

Globally, the textile and apparel industries faced challenges, including a decrease in new export orders since Q4 2022 due to factors like high inflation outside China and interest rate hikes, which also impacted Vietnam. 

Consequently, Vietnamese fabric mills experienced a sharp decline in orders, leading to a decrease in textile and apparel exports.

In Vietnam, local consumption of spandex also declined, resulting in some being exported to China. 

The Vietnam Textiles and Clothing Association reported that textile and clothing exports reached US$3.298 billion in March 2023, indicating an 18.11% increase from the previous month but a 12.91% decrease compared to the same period last year.

Declining spandex consumption

The industry is expected to face difficulties in the second quarter due to a significant decline in purchasing power in markets such as the US and the EU, resulting in a lack of new orders in April. China's spandex exports have already shown a decline in the first two months of 2023, according to China customs data.

During the Jan-Feb period, the total spandex exports amounted to 10.5kt, reflecting a decline of 36.4% or 5,993 tons compared to the same period last year. 

The export unit price also decreased by $4.162/kg on an annual basis, reaching $5.182/kg. In January 2023, spandex exports reached 4,831 tons, showing an 8.2% monthly increase but a significant 42.8% decrease compared to the same month in the previous year.

Declining purchasing power

The export unit price in Jan-Feb was $5.244/kg, slightly up by $0.006/kg compared to the previous month. In February, the total amount of spandex exports increased to 5,645 tons, representing a 16.9% rise from the previous month but a 29.7% YoY decline. The export unit price in February was $5.128/kg, showing a monthly decrease of $0.116/kg.

Although spandex was exported to 85 nations or regions in Jan-Feb, marking an increase of 8 compared to the same period last year, the top four nations, namely Turkey, South Korea, Vietnam, and Egypt, still accounted for 47.3% of the total exports. 

Exports to Pakistan, Taiwan (China), Mexico, Italy, and South Korea declined, while exports to Uzbekistan, Malaysia, and the Netherlands increased by 100-200 tons.

Reflecting the global economic slowdown

Diminishing global trade; The decline in spandex exports can be attributed to the global economic slowdown and diminishing global trade, which have affected the textile and apparel industry in emerging markets like India and Vietnam. In early 2023, several large shoe factories in Vietnam downsized due to inadequate orders. 

Earthquakes and falling demand from Europe and the US also led to a 66.3% decline in spandex exports to Turkey, amounting to 4,868 tons in Jan-Feb 2023, which was the second-lowest export rate in the past five years, surpassing only Jan-Feb 2020. The foreign exchange shortage in Pakistan has also impacted spandex exports to the country.

Versatility is key to category growth

Chinese exporters shifted their focus to neighboring Bangladesh due to payment problems in Pakistan, resulting in a rebound in exports to Bangladesh since February. 

Moreover, exports to India witnessed medium-digit growth YoY. Persistence Market Research predicts that the global spandex market will reach $9,100.0 million by 2023, with a steady growth rate of 8.3%. By 2033, the market is expected to soar to $20,198.8 million. 

Spandex or elastane has gained popularity due to its exceptional stretch and recovery properties, finding applications in clothing, sportswear, swimwear, and more.

Spandex Industry Confronts Challenges and Embraces Sustainability and Innovation

The industry faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and environmental concerns. 

The Asia Pacific region leads the spandex market, followed by North America and Europe. The industry trends include adopting sustainable practices, developing smart textiles, customization, and technological innovations.

Recent developments in the industry focus on sustainable fibers, enhanced products, and collaborations to provide innovative solutions.

Lack of innovations

Another challenge stems from a lack of yarn innovation, which poses a potential risk of commoditization. As spandex transitions away from its specialized niche, the industry needs to prioritize innovation in order to maintain its competitive edge and prevent becoming a commodity.

Sustainability is no longer an option

Consumers are increasingly seeking environmentally-friendly options, and this trend extends to the textile industry as well. 

In response, the spandex sector is actively embracing sustainable practices, such as incorporating recycled materials and implementing eco-friendly production processes.

By addressing these challenges head-on and adopting sustainable practices and innovative solutions, the spandex industry is poised to overcome the obstacles and thrive in the evolving textile market.

Latest Textile Events

17 July  2023, Mumbai

Social shopping isn’t exactly new as an e-commerce technology that uses a shared social network of friends and contacts.

It replicates an individual’s shopping experience of being with friends or those who influence their choices – suggestions, recommendations, validations – all real-world influences, now online.

What all you need to know

Preview

Social shopping revolutionizes e-commerce by creating a shared network of friends and influencers that replicate real-world shopping experiences, now online. It empowers fashion retail through metrics and engages users on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

This shift blurs the line between online and offline shopping, catering to evolving consumer expectations and enabling informed decision-making.

Digital adoption; Collaboration, technology adoption, and personalized touchpoints enhance the online-offline experience, while social commerce drives engagement, seamless shopping, and trend influence. It's a paradigm shift for fashion retail, making shopping exploratory, bespoke, and enjoyable. 

Technology is an enabler

For fashion retail, this technology has been very empowering as these come with metrics required to capture impressions, engagements, reach, and sales, all at a go.

Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, and Pinterest among others continue to engage users with relatable content, making them spend hours scrolling through their feeds. 

The Emergence of Social Media

And as the just released ‘The State of Fashion 2023’ McKinsey & Company and The Business of Fashion report suggest, this network of social platforms is where fashion retail can directly engage in a personal way, even more than their physical stores. 

In a joint survey conducted by Magento and Hootsuite, almost 6 in 10 consumers claimed that one-quarter of their online shopping is influenced by Facebook and YouTube.

The report highlights, nearly 90 percent of APAC’s population surfing through mobile commerce, brands, and retailers jumped into what is now called Social Commerce. 

According to eMarketer, the US social e-commerce market skyrocketed by almost 38 percent to $26.77 billion in 2020 and is expected to surpass $50 billion annually by 2023. Fashion retail couldn’t have found a better platform.

Instagram emerges best social commerce platform for fashion retail

Instagram is indeed the ideal platform for fashion retail’s social commerce. This visual-rich app ticks all the right visual boxes which is why 70 percent of online shoppers globally rely on Instagram for product discovery and it helps that Instagram has over a billion active users. 

Instagram Live Shopping launched in 2020 leverages influencers recommending products live and in real time.

Living in a digital era

All-time favorite Facebook had 3.45 billion active monthly users as per statistics at the end of 2021. Launched in 2020, Facebook Shops actually helped small and medium size businesses to relocate from brick-and-mortar to online shop fronts for greater outreach and traffic. 

This fully-customizable feature has been a boon to many small fashion retailers.

Relatively new player Tik Tok was initially met with a certain amount of disdain from fashion retail, as they felt this was not their image platform. 

Well, that’s history now as more and more brands are jumping into the Tik Tik bandwagon. 

TikTok generation

The catchphrase “Tik Tok made me buy it” sealed the deal for brands, particularly those in fashion retail. TikTok’s USP lies in making unknown entities that include brands go viral overnight. 

Quick to seize the day, Tik Tok started offering shoppable posts, live-stream shopping capabilities, and opportunities for influencer marketing. Brands also have the option to build a shoppable storefront within TikTok through the Shopping tab. 

TikTok users can now add the shopping tab to their business profiles, where they can sync their static product catalog and allow customers to make purchases straight from the app. 

Experiential; Augmented-reality filters popularly known as catalog-powered shopping lenses introduced by Snapchat make for an extremely up-close and personal shopping experience online.

Boosting Collaboration

The Power of Cross-Channel Functionality in Fashion E-commerce

In today's rapidly evolving retail landscape, enabling cross-channel functionalities is crucial for boosting collaboration and enhancing the customer experience.

Basic actions, such as informing customers about omni-channel support options or facilitating in-store assistance through staff members, can make a significant difference.

Actionable Insights

From online reservations to in-person pickups, providing customers with seamless options is essential. 

Experts reveal that digital information already influences the majority of in-store sales, with the percentage continually rising.

Deloitte research shows that 84% of customers reach for their smartphones before or during store visits, underscoring the growing importance of digital engagement.

The Universe of eCommerce

As the lines between online and offline blur, it's crucial to consider scenarios like in-store ordering for out-of-stock items or leveraging smartphones for price comparisons and online purchases.

Retailers must adapt to an increasingly fragmented landscape, fostering collaboration and efficiency among employees.

Evolved Consumer Expectations

Today's always-connected consumers seek personalized experiences and expect brick-and-mortar stores to cater to their individual needs. Store employees serve as the frontline support for e-commerce, bridging the gap between online and offline.

Informed Decision-Making

Seamless access to customer data empowers representatives to provide tailored support. Whether online or in-store, customers anticipate personalized encounters based on their history, interests, and preferences.

Keys to Enhancing the Online-Offline Experience

To deliver exceptional customer experiences, retailers should incorporate physical and digital elements into their in-store personalization touchpoints. Effective communication and training are vital to overcome stumbling blocks and ensure that staff members can provide seamless support.

The Skill-Set and Technology Adoption

Equipping retail staff with the necessary technology and knowledge is key to their effectiveness on the sales floor.

When armed with the right tools, sales associates can access vast customer data, pricing information, and inventory details, enabling them to provide informed and timely advice.

In this era of cross-channel commerce, harnessing the power of collaboration, leveraging data insights, and embracing technology is essential for fashion e-commerce to thrive and meet the ever-evolving expectations of the modern consumer.

A paradigm shift for fashion retail

Forget carefully designed physical stores with their real-world limitations – fashion is now truly exploratory through the help of social commerce.

In fact such is the power of social commerce that engagements with consumers and influencers are beginning to influence collections and trends for the next collections. 

What is revolutionizing social commerce is its power to provide bespoke engagement, make shopping seamless, and of course, have loads of fun.

Latest Textile Events

13 July  2023, Mumbai

Introduction:

The global lingerie market is undergoing significant changes, influenced by the active role played by working women in propelling its growth.

Working women propel lingerie market growth, but challenges persist. The report offers industry insights, profiles major players, and analyzes regional dynamics for strategic advantage.

What all you need to know

This comprehensive market report provides valuable insights into the industry, profiling major players such as Hansbrands Inc., L Brands Inc., PVH Corp., Triumph International, Jockey International, Wacoal Holdings, and Zivame. 

Diversity; With diverse product lines and operations in various regions, these industry leaders are continuously striving to gain a competitive edge. 

The report employs a robust research methodology, combining primary and secondary research to provide a bottom-up analysis and determine the market size.

Bird's eye view
The lingerie industry has experienced substantial growth in recent years and is projected to continue expanding in the coming years.

According to a study conducted by Mordor Intelligence, the lingerie market is currently valued at USD 82.28 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 121.01 billion by 2028.

This growth represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.02% during the forecast period of 2023 to 2028. Additionally, a report by Grand View Research reveals that the global lingerie market reached a value of USD 85.96 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2022 to 2030.

Working Women as Growth Catalysts:

The report emphasizes the increasing number of working women worldwide as a driving force behind the market's expansion. 

As women actively participate in the business sector, spurred by education and economic growth, their improved disposable income fuels the demand for comfortable and fashionable lingerie. 

Furthermore, their modern lifestyle choices, including fitness activities and social events, contribute to the rising popularity of sports bras, shapewear, and other lingerie products.

Challenges from the Unorganized Sector:

While the market presents immense growth opportunities, the report highlights the presence of an unorganized sector as a significant restraint. 

Local suppliers dominate this segment, offering affordable and customizable lingerie options that pose a challenge to established companies. 

Pricing is about knowing your customer; These local players capture a substantial market share by catering to price-sensitive consumers. 

Moreover, the emergence of new entrants and the rise of direct-to-consumer sales through cross-border e-commerce platforms intensify competition, hindering the growth of established fashion brands and retailers.

Insights into Regional Variations:

To navigate regional variations and effectively leverage market opportunities, decision-makers can rely on the report's insightful analysis of key trends and market dynamics across different geographies. 

Know your customer; The report provides a comprehensive understanding of the lingerie market in various regions, enabling companies to tailor their strategies accordingly. 

It delves into factors such as consumer preferences, cultural nuances, regulatory frameworks, and distribution channels, providing valuable guidance to industry players seeking expansion or consolidation.

Research Methodology:

The report's research methodology encompasses primary and secondary research. Primary research includes interviews, surveys, and expert opinions, which validate the findings derived from secondary research. 

The latter involves an exhaustive analysis of press announcements, annual reports, government websites, and market research reports. 

By combining these research approaches, the report ensures a robust and reliable analysis of the market, enabling decision-makers to make informed strategic choices.

Bottomline:

Working women drive lingerie market growth, but challenges arise from the unorganized sector and intensified competition. Strategic insights help navigate opportunities and maintain a competitive edge.

Emerging paradigm; As the global lingerie market experiences shifting dynamics, working women are emerging as the key drivers of growth. 

Their increasing presence in the business sector, coupled with rising disposable incomes and modern lifestyle choices, fuels the demand for comfortable and fashionable lingerie. 

Challenges galore; However, challenges from the unorganized sector and intensified competition from new entrants pose hurdles to established companies. 

By leveraging the insights provided in this report, industry players can navigate regional variations, capitalize on market opportunities, and develop effective strategies to stay ahead in this highly competitive market.

Latest Textile Events

10 July 2023, Mumbai

To be honest, the notion that Indian consumers are flocking to retail outlets to make purchases may not be entirely accurate. 

Despite the optimism expressed by analysts and retail experts regarding the resurgence of physical retail, many brands are not experiencing the expected increase in customer footfall. So, what is the true situation for India's growing retail spaces?

India's retail industry is projected to recover and grow at nearly 10% CAGR, reaching $2 trillion in the next decade, despite challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped consumption patterns, highlighting the complex reality of India's retail growth.

Slowing Discretionary Spends 

A recent report by PwC, published in early April 2023, sheds light on why discretionary spending has not met expectations this year. The report revealed that 74 percent of surveyed individuals felt the need to curtail non-essential spending due to uncertain financial situations. 

Financial Concerns; Ravi Kapoor, Partner, and Leader of Retail & Consumer at PwC India, explains that the survey underscores the ongoing financial stress experienced by consumers, with 74 percent expressing deep concerns about their financial situation. 

This sentiment is likely to have a restraining effect on spending in highly discretionary categories such as electronics and luxury goods.

Retail Leasing Soars 

Despite the decline in consumer spending, retail leasing is expected to reach 5.5-6 million square feet in 2023, the highest level since the peak of 6.8 million square feet in 2019, according to a report by CBRE. The primary driver of retail space demand in 2023 is expected to be leasing in newly completed malls.

Signaling Confidence

Economists have been predicting a more financially stable consumer base as India's GDP growth remains strong and is projected to solidify further by the end of 2023, providing stability for businesses and salaried workers. 

It is anticipated that the financial uncertainty felt by many Indians will be replaced by a more confident approach in 2024. Although not guaranteed, this projection is pushing retailers to prepare for the return of discretionary spending in 2024.

Attractive Deals

Attractive discounts and deals are currently being offered in high-street commercial spaces, making them a sought-after investment for both investors and retail businesses. With favorable leasing contracts and malls providing multiple-benefit deals, 

Quick Serve Restaurants (QSRs) and fashion brands, in particular, are seizing the opportunity to invest and prepare for a surge in spending next year. Malls are also creating new sections to attract customers with innovative and creative approaches. 

Among all regions in India, the Delhi-NCR region seems to be the most favored by brands for expansion.

Leading Brands Push Forward

Leading retail players such as Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail, with brands like Shopper's Stop and Trends, are displaying signs of bullish physical retail expansion. 

Jubilant Foodworks, the Indian franchisee of Domino's Pizza and Popeyes, Restaurant Brand Asia, the local franchisee for Burger King, and Westlife Foodworld, the master franchisee for McDonald's, are also not holding back despite a weak performance in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year 2022-23. 

According to rating agency ICRA, the top five QSR brands in India are planning to add 2,300 stores between the fiscal year 2023-24 and fiscal year 2024-25, with an estimated capital expenditure of Rs. 5,800 crores.

Growth is the way forward

Fashion brands are following a similar expansion trajectory, with growth seen across apparel, accessories, footwear, and kids' wear. 

For instance, Tata's Zudio plans to add another 130 outlets by the end of fiscal year 2023-24. Shopper's Stop will expand its department store model by 24 stores and add more beauty stores during the same period, while Westside aims to have a total of 214 outlets by then. 

Retailers across India are planning to accelerate their expansion plans, expecting fewer disruptions from a potential third COVID-19 wave. Many top retailers, including Reliance Retail, Shoppers Stop, and Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail, have reported better-than-expected sales before COVID-19 during the October-December quarter of this fiscal year. Reliance Retail and Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail recorded their highest-ever quarterly revenue and profit.

Gain Momentum

The growth in sales can be observed across all channels, with both physical stores and e-commerce experiencing increased revenues due to the surge in online sales during the pandemic. Reliance Industries, for example, witnessed footfall levels reaching around 95 percent of pre-COVID levels in its stores, indicating a complete recovery of its retail business. 

The company saw rising demand across various consumption categories, including consumer electronics, apparel, footwear, and grocery. 

Similarly, Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail reported a 55 percent growth in sales, while Bata India's sales surpassed pre-COVID levels. Titan, known for its jewelry business, saw a 36 percent increase in revenue, with other segments also surpassing pre-COVID sales.

Retailers Adapt; Retailers in India experienced a boost in-store footfall during the Diwali season as COVID-19 infections declined and restrictions eased. This positive trend led to a decrease in discounts and a reduction in the number of sale events held.

Expansions Fuel Growth

Encouraged by the growth, retailers are ramping up their expansion plans. Shoppers Stop, for instance, announced its intention to expand its store network to Tier II markets, which offer significant growth opportunities. 

The department store chain plans to open 8-10 stores in fiscal year and another 10 in fiscal year 2023. Reliance Retail also aims to accelerate its growth momentum and expand operations as the situation normalizes. 

The company opened 1,700 stores between April and December 2021 and plans to continue rolling out new stores at a faster pace. 

Apparel brands are also strategizing expansion of their brick-and-mortar businesses in the third quarter. 

Shoppers Stop, for example, plans to increase its private-label offerings and open 20 department stores and 20 beauty stores over the next six months and two years, respectively. The focus is on deepening its presence in smaller towns with smaller-sized stores to improve efficiency.

Sales Flourish Across Channels

The positive growth trajectory has led to increased optimism and aggressive expansion plans among retailers. 

Reliance Retail, Tata-owned Trent, Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail, and Shoppers Stop, among others, have all seen sales surpass pre-COVID levels during the festive season. 

This boom has prompted them to announce new expansion plans, including store expansions, the launch of new store formats, and the addition of new product categories.

Anticipating a Confident Future

Positive Trends; the Indian retail sector is experiencing a mixed scenario. While discretionary spending has not met expectations, there is still significant retail leasing activity and optimistic projections for future consumer spending. 

Retailers adapt by offering attractive discounts, exploring new strategies, and expanding their physical store presence. 

The growth in sales across various channels, particularly during festive seasons, has further fueled expansion plans. 

With improving economic conditions and increased consumer confidence expected in the future, retailers are gearing up for a potential surge in spending. They are investing in the necessary infrastructure to capture the market's potential.

Latest Textile Events

15 July  2023, Mumbai

Textile companies are addressing the growing issue of clothes piling up in landfills by adopting a circular fashion model.

Upcycling companies are pioneering groundbreaking fiber-recycling technology that separates and extracts materials from old clothing, which are then re-spun into new yarns.

What all you need to know

Closing the Loop: From Linear to Circular Fashion

The innovative textile-to-textile, chemical-recycling technology aims to demonstrate the commercial viability of circular recycling.

By converting reclaimed raw materials into yarn, creating new fabric, and fashioning garments, these tests provide an effective solution for recycling clothes and textiles in a circular manner. 

This process not only offers an eco-friendlier means of sourcing raw materials but also addresses the challenge of separating blended fiber clothes and removing dyes from polyester and cellulose.

Environmental Consciousness in Action

Textile companies are becoming increasingly environmentally conscious and working towards reducing waste in the industry. 

This shift has the potential to revolutionize the way fashion is made, reducing the need for extracting virgin resources from the planet. 

With climate change impacting major wool-producing countries, such as New Zealand and Australia, there is a renewed global interest in recycling wool.

From Economic Opportunity to Environmental Demand

Historically, wool recycling has been driven by economic opportunity and necessity. 

However, environmental concerns are now spurring the demand for recycled wool as consumers seek out clothes made from reused natural fibers instead of synthetic materials that require complex and costly recycling processes. 

This shift towards recycled wool helps address sustainability concerns and reduces reliance on chemical-intensive recycling methods.

Circular Fashion: Revitalizing Textile Waste for Sustainability and Prosperity

In the dynamic realm of circular fashion, a profound transformation occurs as textile waste is rejuvenated, propelling us toward the realization of sustainability objectives.

Upcycling

Through state-of-the-art recycling and upcycling methodologies, discarded textiles, which would have otherwise languished in landfills, are given new life, easing the environmental strain and diminishing the necessity for virgin resource extraction.

Emerging landscape

This paradigm shift towards circularity not only addresses the urgent ecological concerns associated with textile waste but also unveils promising economic opportunities for stakeholders in the fashion industry.

By embracing circular fashion practices, such as inventive material recycling and repurposing, businesses can achieve heightened resource efficiency, concurrently contributing to a more sustainable future.

By adopting circular fashion, the industry can effectively close the loop, converting textile waste into valuable resources.

Mitigate the ecological footprint

Through reimagining and repurposing materials, the fashion sector can curtail its ecological footprint, mitigating the harmful consequences of excessive waste generation. Furthermore, the integration of circular fashion models presents a chance for enterprises to tap into the surging market demand for ethical and sustainable apparel.

By assimilating circular fashion practices, the industry actively contributes to the reduction of textile waste, alleviating the strain on landfills and fostering a circular economy.

Recycling and upcycling textiles not only conserve precious resources but also help mitigate the greenhouse gas emissions associated with virgin material production.

Innovation-led future

Moreover, circular fashion fosters innovation, driving the advancement of novel technologies and processes that optimize resource utilization. By reconceptualizing the complete lifecycle of garments, from design to disposal, fashion companies can implement closed-loop systems that minimize waste and maximize product longevity.

The economic advantages of circular fashion are equally compelling. By harnessing the potential of recycled materials, businesses can reduce production costs, fortify supply chain resilience, and tap into emerging market segments.

Collaboration is the way forward

Circular fashion models also cultivate collaboration among stakeholders, engendering new opportunities for partnerships and industry-wide transformation.

Ultimately, embracing circular fashion is an imperative strategy for the fashion industry, enabling it to thrive sustainably and remain resilient in the face of evolving demands.

By rejuvenating textile waste through innovative recycling and upcycling approaches, businesses can minimize their environmental impact while simultaneously unlocking economic prospects and meeting the rising consumer appetite for sustainable fashion choices.

Hardwiring the existing

In the realm of circular fashion, the metamorphosis of textile waste symbolizes more than just a passing trend—it signifies a profound shift toward a more sustainable and accountable fashion ecosystem.

By wholeheartedly embracing this transformative approach, the industry can lead the way towards a brighter and truly circular future, where waste is minimized, resources are conserved, and fashion stands synonymous with sustainability.

Manteco SpA: A Wool Recycling Model for Circular Fashion

Manteco SpA, an Italian fabric manufacturer, stands as an example of successful wool recycling. Their factory in Prato, Tuscany employs a straightforward process: garments are manually stripped, scraps are mechanically shredded, fibers are blended with color, and a carding machine untangles and aligns the fibers before spinning them into yarn. 

Prato, home to numerous clothing and textile companies, plays a major role in wool recycling.

Striking the Balance: Recycled Wool's Quality and Environmental Benefits

The quality of old wool determines the amount of virgin fleece wool required to create strong yarn for textile manufacturing. Manteco adheres to best practices, incorporating recycled wool, virgin wool, or virgin nylon to achieve high-quality woolen fabrics. 

Technological advancements have reduced manual labor, energy costs, and emissions in Manteco's processes, resulting in recycled wool with a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to virgin wool and other textiles.

Making an Impact: Comparing Carbon Footprints

According to Manteco's life-cycle assessment study, producing a kilogram of their recycled wool generates 0.62 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e), while shearing the same amount of fleece from a sheep creates 75.8 kilograms of CO2e. 

In comparison, cotton and polyester generate 4.69 kilograms and 4.31 kilograms of CO2e, respectively. While wool recycling has limitations due to decreasing fiber length, the addition of virgin wool or nylon extends the lifespan of existing materials, although new fibers are still needed.

Recycling Initiatives around the Globe

Sri Lanka has made significant progress in recycling waste, with 30% being transformed into fabric and brushes. 

Trischel Fabric, a subsidiary of MAS Holdings, has produced fabric using yarn made from waste plastic bottles, including those collected from Sri Lanka's beaches. MAS Holdings aims to eliminate the use of virgin polyester raw materials by 2025, leading the way in sustainable practices.

Innovative Fiber-Laying Technology for Sustainable Footwear

Coats, an industrial threads manufacturer, has introduced Lattice Lite Eco, a revolutionary fiber-laying technology. This eco-friendly approach precisely positions yarns to create footwear composite materials with the required thickness, flexibility, torsion, and rigidity. 

Lattice Lite Eco eliminates the need for additional resin steps, reducing material wastage and utilizing recycled carbon, recycled nylon, and natural resources such as basalt and flax. 

It enables the production of lightweight and durable components, elevating performance and comfort in footwear.

Recycling Challenges in Bangladesh

Bangladesh faces a shortage of waste cotton and textile scraps as a significant portion is exported due to higher global demand for recycled yarns and fabrics. The country has a vast volume of cotton textile scraps that often end up in landfills, get burned, or are recycled into low-quality fabrics. 

This missed opportunity to produce recycled yarn reflects the challenges faced in the local market, driven by pricing considerations.

Recycling as a Global Solution

Imported recycled yarns are sometimes made from waste and scrap fabrics exported from Bangladesh, further highlighting the demand for recycling. 

To combat textile waste and meet increasing global demand, better communication between clothing designers, apparel brands, and supply chains is crucial. 

Identifying the best materials for the environment requires considering the impacts of processes and supply chains, including recyclability. 

For example, wool can be mechanically recycled, but the methane emissions from sheep contribute to greenhouse gases, while synthetic materials shed microplastics during washing.

Revolutionizing Textile Recycling

The textile industry has a tremendous opportunity to make a significant impact on waste reduction and sustainability by embracing sustainable yarn recycling practices. 

Each type of fiber requires specific recycling methods, such as compressing fibers for textile filling, like those found in mattresses, rather than transforming them into yarns. 

Polyester garments can undergo shredding and granulation processes to create polyester chips for further applications. 

A multitude of companies specializes in recycling cotton to produce 100% recycled yarns, fabrics, and ready-made garments, promoting environmental friendliness by utilizing materials that would otherwise go to waste. 

Sustainable Yarn Practices to Reduce Waste and Promote Sustainability

Additionally, sustainable yarns and fibers are gaining prominence in the market. Notably, ECONYL, a synthetic yarn widely used in sustainable flooring and fashion, stands out for its complete reliance on recycled materials, without the need for raw petroleum resources. 

By embracing these sustainable practices, the textile industry can pave the way for waste reduction and sustainability in a groundbreaking manner.

Fashion Industry Innovates Circular Model: Prototyping Sustainable Clothing Recycling with Donation Bins and Online Retail App.

Cost-Efficiency and Sustainable Practices

Producing polyester fabrics solely from recycled PET bottles proves to be more cost-efficient, requiring less energy and heating. This practice aligns with sustainable textile supply chains, and circular economy principles, and effectively addresses plastic bottle waste.

Recycling: Crucial for Preserving the Earth

Textile Industry Embraces Circular Fashion: Transforming Clothing Waste

Recycling plays a crucial role in preserving the Earth for future generations. 

By transforming old and useless items into new ones, recycling actively benefits the environment and helps establish a more sustainable future.

India possesses a distinct advantage in utilizing its current infrastructure and resources to establish itself as a frontrunner in waste management. 

By implementing advanced sorting and recycling technologies, the country can effectively capture and repurpose textile waste, consequently reentering the global market as a prominent circular sourcing region. 

This strategic move would solidify India's position as a leader in sustainable practices and resource utilization.

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12 July 2023, Mumbai

Traditionally, global textile manufacturing has been dominated by China, the US, and the European Union (EU) countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Portugal, along with India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam. 

However, a new wave of countries within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is emerging as strong players in textile manufacturing. 

What all you need to know

ASEAN's Dominance in Textile Manufacturing Continues to Grow

The ASEAN countries have established their dominance in the textile manufacturing sector, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. The textiles and clothing industry in the ASEAN region is experiencing steady growth, evident from the import of textile machinery into the region and the strong resource base for value-added product manufacturing. 

ASEAN's integration in the textile and clothing industry is comprehensive, encompassing all aspects of the supply chain across multiple ASEAN members. This includes fiber production, yarn spinning, fabric knitting or weaving, as well as the cutting and sewing of finished apparel.

ASEAN's Sustainable Manufacturing Efforts Gain EU's Favor, Boosting Credibility.

Rise of ASEAN Nations in Textile Manufacturing

A similar situation can be observed in India, where inflation has become rampant, leading to higher input costs and increased prices for finished goods. 

As a result, many manufacturers have relocated their units from India and China back to the US, or they have sought out other more affordable manufacturing destinations. 

Consequently, India is no longer a preferred outsourcing destination.

Labor Costs Drive ASEAN's Textile Manufacturing Boom

The ASEAN nations are currently leveraging trade, migrant labor, and transferable capital to promote prosperity in Southeast Asia. Specifically, the international garment industry within ASEAN is facilitating regional investment integration, skill transfer, job creation, and economic growth.

US Obstacles Drive Manufacturing Boom; China's concerns over increasing labor costs, sluggish demand from the West, and the US's interference in its financial journey have created an opportunity for ASEAN nations to capitalize on.

Poses Strong Competition to India and China

ASEAN countries are gradually gaining market share in the global textile market. Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, and the Philippines have strong potential in the textile sector and are making significant advancements in their development. 

Upswing; Textile product exports from these countries are continuously increasing, posing tough competition for India and China. India's Inflation Woes Diminish its Appeal. They have a fair chance of dominating the global textile market in the foreseeable future.

Alfred Tan, the deputy chairman of the Cambodian AFTEX member Textile, Apparel, Footwear, and Travel Goods Association in Cambodia (TAFTAC), emphasizes the pivotal role of textile-related industries in ASEAN economies and their competitive presence in the market. 

He notes that the region has successfully captured a larger global market share, serving as an alternative supply source to China and other key countries. 

Tan also highlights the narrowing gap between production costs (including raw materials, labor, logistics, and compliance) and FOB and retail pricing over the past decade, expecting this trend to continue into the next decade. 

Growing appreciation; ASEAN governments recognize the sector's future potential in terms of domestic job opportunities and foreign exchange generation, providing tax incentives to manufacturing units and collaborating with the sector to attract local, regional, and international direct investments.

Region's Appeal for Outsourcing Increases as Manufacturers Seek Cheaper Destinations

Moreover, ASEAN's cooperation on environmental issues is guided by the ASCC Vision 2025, which aims to promote balanced social development and a sustainable environment. 

These efforts align well, particularly with the EU's focus on greener manufacturing methods, enhancing ASEAN's credibility in the global market.

ASEAN's Garment Industry Thrives

Towards stronger vertical integration, the ASEAN Federation of Textile Industries (AFTEX) has launched the Source ASEAN Full Service Alliance (SAFSA). SAFSA aims to establish a virtual vertical supply chain by connecting ASEAN apparel factories, buyers, textile mills, and apparel factories. 

This enables businesses to offer comprehensive service packages to international buyers. 

SAFSA currently has 45 members, including 27 buyers, with annual apparel sales exceeding US$50 billion. Major brands like Benetton Group, Colombia Sportswear Company, Debenhams, Guess, Marks & Spencer, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Hermes-OTTO are among SAFSA's customers.

A View on Vietnam:

In April 2023, Vietnam's textile industry experienced a mix of positive and negative trends. Robust growth was observed in cotton imports, with a significant increase of 27.9% Year over Year (YoY) and 29.9% Month over Month (MoM), indicating strong demand. 

However, yarn imports faced a temporary slowdown, declining by 16.4% MoM, despite a slight 0.8% YoY increase.

Vietnam's Textile Industry Faces Mixed Trends 

Yarn exports also witnessed a decline, with a 4.7% MoM and 1.4% YoY drop. China, South Korea, and the United States remained the primary export destinations for yarns. The net export of yarns decreased by 4.3% YoY, but there was a promising increase of 18.8% MoM.

Furthermore, imports of grey fabrics and finished textiles decreased by 9.6% MoM and 20.7% YoY. The textile and garment exports faced challenges, declining by 3.3% MoM and 19.4% YoY.

These trends highlight the challenges faced by Vietnam's textile industry, including global macro risks and weakening demand in key markets. 

To adapt to changing market dynamics, Vietnam's textile industry needs to navigate these obstacles and develop sustainable growth strategies.

Vietnam's Foreign Trade Performance Update

Tran Thanh Hai, the deputy general director of the Agency of Foreign Trade, reported double-digit growth in Vietnam's exports and imports during the first quarter of 2022, reaching $176 billion, a 14.4% year-on-year increase. Export growth accounted for 12.9% of this growth. 

Hai attributed the increase to the favorable impact of new-generation free trade agreements (FTAs) and regional trade agreements. 

Vietnam has established several FTAs, including those with Japan, Chile, Korea, the Eurasian Economic Union, as well as agreements within ASEAN and with India, Australia, and New Zealand.

Textile and Apparel Exports Contribute to 46.9% of Total Trade in RCEP Countries

According to recent data, textile, and apparel exports (T&C) from countries in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) accounted for $374.6 billion, representing 46.9% of global trade. 

In contrast, imports amounted to $138.5 billion, making up 15.9% of global trade. Major exporting countries include Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and various ASEAN regions, while China, Singapore, Brunei, the Philippines, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand were net importers.

Trade dynamics

China is actively investing in Vietnam to diversify and enhance the value of its exports. Meanwhile, Bangladesh, with its low labor costs, continues to compete in the market. 

Raihan Mahmud, the marketing director of Bangladesh's Tex Garment Zone, expressed that if exporters in Bangladesh can diversify their products and the government secures new free trade agreements, the country has a better chance of catching up.

Emerging paradigm

Both the apparel sectors in Bangladesh and Vietnam are poised to benefit from the "China plus one" strategy adopted by many garment sourcing companies, thanks to their diverse capabilities and advantages. 

According to WTO data, Vietnam is projected to surpass Bangladesh as the world's second-largest garment exporter in 2020.

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08 July  2023, Mumbai

The EU Commission has introduced regulations to promote sustainability and circularity in the textile sector.

These regulations align with the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles, holding producers accountable for their products' entire lifecycle and encouraging sustainable management of textile waste throughout the EU.

What all you need to know

Waste reduction

The main objective of the proposal is to transform the industry by accelerating the separate collection, sorting, reuse, and recycling of textiles. This will increase the availability of used textiles, create local jobs, reduce consumer costs, and mitigate environmental impacts. 

A crucial element of the proposal is the mandatory and harmonized Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes for textiles in all EU Member States.

Under these schemes, producers will bear the costs of textile waste management, incentivizing waste reduction and the design of circular products based on their environmental performance. 

The proposal includes common EU rules for extended producer responsibility, intending to facilitate separate textile collection by 2025. 

Green financing

The funds generated by producer contributions will be used to invest in infrastructure for collection, sorting, reuse, and recycling, with an emphasis on efficient sorting for reuse and prioritizing recycling for non-reusable items. 

Social enterprises engaged in textile treatment will benefit from expanded business opportunities and a larger second-hand market.

Disruptive innovations

The proposal also promotes research and development in innovative technologies like fiber-to-fiber recycling to enhance circularity.

In addition, measures are being taken to address illegal textile waste exports by clarifying waste and reusable textile definitions and ensuring environmentally sound waste management during exports through forthcoming waste shipment regulations.

The revision of the Waste Framework Directive will separately address food waste. The proposal will undergo a review by the European Parliament and Council through the legislative procedure.

Conservation of resources

The European Commission is determined to enforce regulations for sustainable fashion by 2028 to address its environmental impact. Textile consumption ranks as the fourth-highest contributor to environmental and climate effects, following food, housing, and transport. 

Major fast fashion companies like Inditex and H&M are actively seeking ways to reduce water and energy usage and increase the use of recycled textiles. 

The Commission plans to introduce 16 legislations that will hold fashion companies accountable for their environmental consequences. 

These measures will pose challenges for fast fashion brands, as they will require waste collection or financial contributions. 

The Role of Recycling 

The EU aims for durable garments that prioritize reuse and easy recycling by 2030. Currently, the EU discards 5.8 million tonnes of textiles annually, equivalent to 11 kg per person, contributing to rapid landfill and incineration rates worldwide.

To address deceptive eco-labels, the Commission will implement regulations effective next year. 

Furthermore, EU governments have agreed to ban the destruction of unsold textiles, promoting their reuse and recycling. The ban's implementation is expected to take around six months. 

Apparel industry experts in Bangladesh believe that the country is fully equipped to cope with the European Union's decision to end fast fashion by 2030.

Growing Greenwashing concerns

The EU has recently expanded its eco-design rules for textile products and urged major companies to disclose the volume of unsold inventory they hold. The new rules mandate companies to refurbish their clothing designs to meet specific criteria, including disclosing information on the garment's shelf life and the amount of recycled materials used. 

Each reviewed garment will be provided with a digital product passport to verify its recyclability and prevent greenwashing. The rules also prohibit the destruction of unsold or returned goods.

Coordinated policy framework

To ensure conformity, Bangladesh is collaborating with brands like H&M, M&S, and G-Star. Ziaur Rahman, Regional Country Manager for H&M-Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Africa, expresses support for the European Commission's efforts to establish a coordinated policy framework and a level playing field. 

Rahman emphasizes the importance of collaboration between local authorities and brands to enable the transformation of the entire industry.

BGMEA vision 

Bangladesh apparel manufacturers have renewed their vision to align with international strategies. 

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) unveiled their renewed vision, which includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030, increasing the use of sustainable materials by at least 50%, and reducing the blue water footprint by 50%. 

The sector also aims to reduce energy consumption by 30% and use at least 20% renewable energy. Additionally, apparel manufacturers plan to invest $1 billion in sustainable communities, ensure complete sustainability in data reporting, increase the number of green factories by 80%, and improve production efficiency by 60%. 

The BGMEA is working with the European Commission and the Circular Fashion Partnership (CPF) initiative, funded by P4G, to achieve a long-term transition to a circular fashion.

Circularity

The recent decision by the European Parliament to ban the destruction of usable surplus stock and returned goods, combat aggressive and false advertising, and introduce reduction targets for material and consumption footprints aligns with the European Commission's Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles. Stakeholders commend the parliament's actions and urge the European Commission to develop a robust plan for managing and reducing clothing waste in the EU. 

Companies are encouraged to take responsibility for their textile waste, including supporting waste management efforts in countries like Ghana and Kenya that receive excessive amounts of second-hand clothes from Europe. 

Experts emphasize the importance of the textile industry adhering to social and environmental rights and call for a swift ban on destructive practices across all product categories. 

They urge the European Commission to embrace the parliament's ambition by establishing binding reduction targets for the EU's material and consumption footprints.

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