01 July  2023, Mumbai

The wedding clothing industry is witnessing a significant decline in sales as a result of both an economic downturn and evolving fashion preferences. A recent survey conducted by the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) revealed that sales of wedding clothes have drastically decreased.

The garment sector expected to expand

Among the 110 wedding clothing manufacturers surveyed, approximately 77 percent reported average to poor sales during the May-June 2022 wedding season.

The weak performance was attributed to various factors, with over 60 percent of respondents citing the general economic slowdown and 14 percent pointing to high prices.

Additionally, 13 percent believed that a decrease in auspicious days compared to the previous season contributed to the drop in sales. The current market slowdown, driven by overall inflationary conditions, is expected to persist throughout the first quarter of the financial year.

This slowdown is affecting both the value and upper segments of consumers, according to CMAI President Rajesh Masand.

Youth Influenced by ‘Western Culture’

Compared to the previous year, a significant majority (83 percent) of respondents reported no growth in wedding clothing sales this season. Approximately 40 percent indicated a decline of 10 to 25 percent in sales compared to the previous year.

The survey also highlighted changing consumer preferences, with economically priced products outperforming their more expensive counterparts. Lighter embroidery and pastel colors were in high demand.

The influence of Western culture and the accessibility of social media content are gradually shifting the fashion choices of the youth, particularly in the women's wear segment, where traditional clothing is being replaced by Western styles.

Men return to traditional clothing

On the other hand, a resurgence of traditional attire among men during festivals and weddings is being observed.

Rising costs and Price-Led Growth challenge sales volume

The garment sector has been expanding at an annual pace of 8-10 percent, driven by the return of consumers to physical stores, rising costs of raw materials and production have posed challenges.

Despite an estimated overall industry expansion of 15-20 percent between 2022 and 2023, volume growth is projected to be 3-5 percent lower than the previous year, primarily driven by price-led growth

Fashion Landscape

The increasing demand for economically priced products, with lighter embroidery and pastel colors being favored.

The influence of Western culture and the accessibility of social media content have gradually shifted the fashion choices of the youth, particularly in the women's wear segment, where traditional clothing is being replaced by Western styles.

Interestingly, there has been a resurgence of traditional attire among men during festivals and weddings. This observation suggests a growing preference for cultural heritage and traditions in certain segments of the market.

While the garment sector is expected to expand at an annual pace of 8-10 percent, rising costs of raw materials and production pose challenges. 

Resurgence

However, the wedding industry as a whole is experiencing a significant rebound after two years of pandemic-induced restrictions. The ethnic wear market is thriving, driven by the approximately 9.5 to 10 million weddings that take place in India each year.

As the concept of multi-day and multi-event wedding celebrations gains popularity, there is an increasing demand for occasion-specific clothes. The ready-to-wear boutique stores are replacing traditional tailor shops, offering a wide range of Indo-western wear and an expanded product portfolio for men, women, and children.

In this market, Vedant Fashions Limited (VFL) has emerged as a leader, with its Manyavar brand being a bestseller. With celebrity brand endorsements and a strong retail presence, VFL has achieved remarkable success in the wedding and festive wear segment. The company's business strategy focuses on pan-India.

Latest Textile Events

14 June 2023, Mumbai

In the face of unprecedented global economic turmoil, the Bangladesh apparel industry is navigating through a turbulent time, grappling with rising production costs, idle capacity, and uncertain business forecasts.

Turbulent Times

Despite these challenges, the industry achieved a turnover of $43 billion and anticipates notable growth in the current fiscal year.

Targeting $100 Billion Apparel Export by 2030

With resilience, experience, and optimism, industry players strive to stay on course toward their vision of reaching $100 billion in apparel exports by 2030. However, achieving this ambitious goal requires a focus on industry capability enhancement, including vertical integration, innovation, diversification, and technological upgrades, while also adapting to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) requirements.

Inflation Challenges in Global Trade and Outsourcing

One of the top-rated challenges in global trade and outsourcing is inflation, affecting retail businesses and forcing regulators to withdraw interest rate caps to control inflation.

Government Initiatives Offer Support

Vision for the Future; To support export-oriented companies affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, the government has introduced initiatives such as the "pre-shipment credit refinancing scheme" and the "Export Facilitation Fund."

These schemes provide support in the form of reduced interest rates and increased access to working capital and raw material financing.

These measures offer some relief to the industry, aiding in meeting working capital needs and securing funds for raw material sourcing at a lower cost.

CREDITS: BGMEA Press Release.

Latest Textile Events

20 June 2023, Mumbai

In Hyderabad, Taneira, the esteemed ethnic-wear brand under the TATA group, strengthens its footprint with the opening of its fourth store.

A Haven for Ethnic Wear

The city, known for its love of sarees and rich textile legacy, warmly embraces Taneira, reinforcing its influence in the fashion realm.

Taneira's Fourth Store

Spanning an impressive 4000 sq. ft. and three floors, the new store at Punjagutta, adjacent to Hyderabad Central, was inaugurated in the presence of Taneira's Retail Head, Mr. Anirban Banerjee, and Regional Business Head, Mr. Sharad R. Taneira Panjagutta embodies the brand's commitment to showcasing India's diverse weaves and crafts, with a remarkable collection of regional signatures and iconic marvels.

Taneira Offers Exclusive Gold Coin Promotion

The store also offers ready-to-wear kurta sets and blouses, providing an elevated style experience. To commemorate the launch, Taneira presents an exclusive Gold Coin Offer for customers, adding a touch of luxury to their shopping journey.

Latest Textile Events

09 June 2023, Mumbai

Kiran to lead marketing initiatives; Underdog Athletics appoints Surya Kiran as the marketing head for Under Armour's expansion in India.

Kiran's decade of experience adds value

Kiran's strategic vision aims to leverage the brand's appeal to performance-driven athletes, building on its existing cult following in the country. With extensive experience in the e-commerce, tech, and FMCG sectors, Kiran brings a diverse skill set to the role.

He expresses enthusiasm for the opportunity to unite his passions for storytelling and athletic performance, as he joins forces with Under Armour.

Under Armour captivates the Indian market

The brand's strategic market position and existing retail and e-commerce channels provide a strong foundation for growth.

As Underdog Athletics, the exclusive distributor and licensee continues to propel Under Armour's presence in India, Kiran's appointment reflects a commitment to taking the brand to new heights.  

Latest Textile Events

29 June 2023, Mumbai

Miniklub, renowned for its meticulously crafted baby apparel and care products, is excited to announce the inauguration of its third store in Delhi. Located in Paschim Vihar, the spacious new establishment provides a wide selection of safe and comfortable clothing and non-apparel items for newborns to 8-year-olds.

Unveiling a world of comfort

One stop shop; Expanding on the success of its stores in DLF Promenade and Pitampura, the Paschim Vihar store caters to parents' needs with the latest newborn essentials, baby clothing, footwear, toys, branded travel items, and a variety of baby care products, all conveniently available under one roof.

Since joining the esteemed First Steps Babywear family in 2013, Miniklub has flourished as an omnichannel brand.

Where quality meets comfort

With a presence in over 450 multi-brand outlets, leading e-retailers, and exclusive brand stores online and offline, Miniklub now boasts 55 exclusive brand stores across 28 cities.

Their commitment to capturing the essence of childhood spirit while prioritizing comfort and safety is evident in their sustainably manufactured, high-quality products.

Latest Textile Events

Salesfloor, the leading customer engagement platform, joins forces with PUMA India to revolutionize the online and in-store experience. PUMA's partnership with Salesfloor aims to provide a unique personalized shopping service, integrating immersive virtual shopping, clienteling, and conversational AI.

Seamless Shopping Guidance

Through the Salesfloor widget on Puma website, customers gain instant access to store associates and style consultants for personalized shopping guidance. The platform offers sizing advice, styling tips, and product recommendations through seamless online chats, video interactions, and personalized outreach.

India serves as the first market for this innovative solution, with 80 PUMA stores already implementing the Salesfloor solution. Positive responses and increased customer adoption have fueled plans for further expansion in 2023.

Growth Through Personalization

With a global presence across four continents, Salesfloor continues to provide unrivaled personalized experiences for retailers, supporting their growth and success in the highly competitive retail industry.

05 June  2023, Mumbai

India's sports textiles industry is poised for remarkable growth, driven by key government initiatives and substantial prospects, according to Smt Darshana Vikram Jardosh, Hon'ble Minister of State for Textiles & Railways.

What all you need to know

Initiatives like Khelo India, Fit India Movement, and Target Olympic Podium Scheme will significantly boost the adoption of sports textiles nationwide.

Policy interventions

To strengthen the industry further, the government has introduced flagship interventions such as the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM), the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, and the PM Mitra Park initiative. These initiatives aim to expand the scale, size, and integration of textiles and technical textiles in India. PM Mitra provides a unique opportunity for technical textiles companies to establish plug-and-play manufacturing plants.

Sportech sector 

Smt Darshana Vikram Jardosh emphasized the importance of developing the sportech sector to meet domestic demands with high-quality, locally produced products. Collaboration among stakeholders in the sportech sector is crucial for fostering synergy and creating a concrete roadmap for future growth.

The recent National Conclave on Sportech, organized by the Ministry of Textiles in partnership with ITTA and WRA, showcased market size, consumer expectations, innovations, and research in sports textiles and accessories. The event witnessed participation from over 300 industry leaders, experts, and government representatives, underscoring the growing interest in the sector.

Re-prioritising

With dedicated efforts from the Indian government, rising health consciousness, and the hosting of major sports events, India is well-positioned to harness the immense potential of the sports textiles market.

By prioritizing research, product development, innovation, and sustainability, the industry can establish India as a global hub for technical textiles.

Latest Textile Events

26 June 2023, Mumbai

Luxury brand Saundh has expanded its physical presence by opening its inaugural store in Chennai, a bustling city in southern India.

Saundh Establishes its Presence

Located at Express Avenue Mall, the store spans an area of 820 sq ft and offers a wide selection of exquisite garments, including kurta sets, tunics, dresses, sarees, lehengas, and more.

Unveiling the S/S 23 Collection

The brand has also unveiled its spring summer 2023 collection, featuring a range of light and breezy silhouettes such as skirts, tops, dresses, jumpsuits, and easy tunic sets, along with elegant floral sarees.

Recognizing the city's rich heritage in weaving and textiles, he emphasized its unique blend of rooted traditions and global appeal, which aligns with Saundh's philosophy.

Elevating Luxury Fashion

With the new store in Chennai, Saundh now boasts a total of 57 points of sale, including 26 exclusive retail stores across 19 cities, in addition to its e-commerce website.

Latest Textile Events

Celio X Emiway Bantai presents an extraordinary digital experience that introduces users to the Metaverse while offering an exclusive collection for shopping. This fusion of music and fashion in one virtual space brings streetwear and urban style together.

The collection features trendy designs and unique graphics inspired by the brand's signature aesthetic and Emiway's artistic vision. From stylish tees to shirts and bottom wear, fans can tangibly connect with Emiway's music through fashionable pieces.

An Innovative Metaverse Journey

Emiway Bantai expresses excitement about the collaboration, highlighting the synergy between the collection and his street-style personality.

With the launch of this distinctive merchandise line, Celio India embraces the potential and growing popularity of the virtual realm.

Seamless Integration of Art, Fashion, and Technology

The partnership between Celio, Emiway Bantai, and Layer-E's metaverse technology creates a world where art, fashion, and digital experiences seamlessly converge. This collaboration unlocks endless opportunities for brands and artists to deeply engage with their fans through immersive interactions.

Through Celioverse, Celio India and Emiway embark on an exhilarating adventure that redefines the retail experience, offering a seamless blend of fashion, music, and virtual reality.