02 March 2022, Mumbai:

Kitex Garments, India's largest infant apparel maker and exporter, is once again under fire after a study claimed that the firm abuses its employees like "bonded laborers."

Notably, the study also calls for a probe into the company's suspected ties to law enforcement and labor agency authorities. According to the six-member fact-finding team's report on the violent fight between Kitex Garments migrant workers and the police in Kizhakkambalam on Christmas Eve, this is true.

The study, on the other hand, has been dubbed a politically driven witch hunt by the export behemoth. It's worth noting that the squad was formed following a tragic event at the firm during the Christmas season, in which five police officers were injured and 150 Kitex Garments employees were detained.

A scuffle is said to have erupted between sections of Kitex employees, who are mostly from West Bengal, Jharkhand, and the North East. According to local locals, the company's management maintains a parallel government, and anyone who questions it is accused of fabricating evidence.

ALSO READ: Kitex Garments: Reports Q3 FY22 results

It's unthinkable that a corporation could operate in Kerala in flagrant violation of labor and environmental rules, and the government would turn a blind eye to it.

According to media reports, the business's MD, Sabu M. Jacob, dismissed the study as part of a politically driven witch-hunt against the company that has been ongoing for the past eight months.

Workers were not constrained in any way, he maintained, save for Covid limits. Kitex Garments collaborates with a number of well-known brands and stores, including Carter's and Walmart.

The 15-page study, which was compiled mostly by human rights organizations, stated that the employees were locked up in their camps under the watchful eye of security personnel and that even their movements were restricted.

Nandita Shivakumar, campaigns and communications coordinator of the Asia Floor Wage Alliance (AFWA), was mentioned in Western media as claiming that there are several tales of labor breaches in Kitex Garments.

She found none of the complaints of migrant worker maltreatment particularly shocking, and she has stated that, aside from mobility and language barriers, migrant workers are often afraid to speak.

The American Fashion Workers Association (AFWA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting decent wages in the garment industry.

RELATED ARTICLE: Kitex Apparel Parks Limited is a new subsidiary of Kitex Garments, an Indian company

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*CREDITS: newsbreak.com & Apparel Resources.

26 February 2022, Mumbai:

Texport Industries

It is in the business of manufacturing and export of woven and knitted apparel and knitted fabric.

The company is based in India and has offices in Bangalore and Mumbai and sourcing offices in Salem and Tirupur, apart from manufacturing operations in the States of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

Sircilla Apparel park, Telangana

The Telangana government developed an apparel park over 64.49 acres of land on the outskirts of Poddur village in Sircilla.

Texport Industries Pvt Ltd chooses to set up a garment manufacturing facility at the Sircilla Apparel park.

ALSO READ: Telangana has urged the Union Government to help the state's textile industry

*The facility will be set up on a plug-and-play mode in the built-to-suit (BTS) unit that will be set up by the Telangana government over 7.41 acres at the park. Texport will be installing 800 machines and creating 1,600 jobs in the first phase.

In the second phase, the facility will be expanded to 1,000 machines and will step up the job creation to 2,000 over a three-year period. Texport managing director Narendra D Goenka said the company decided to set up shop in Sircilla due to the availability of skilled workers and the industrial friendly policies of the Telangana government.

Texport also inked a memorandum of understanding with the Telangana government here on Friday in the presence of Telangana industries minister KT Rama Rao.

RELATED ARTICLE: Netaji Apparels of Tamil Nadu is interested in establishing a textile park in Andhra Pradesh's East Godavari

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*Figures mentioned in the above article have been sourced from TOI article.

03 March 2022, Mumbai:

Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd. (a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited) has acquired controlling ownership in Abraham & Thakore Exports, an indigenous designer brand.

The deal's value isn't revealed. In 1992, David Abraham and Rakesh Thakore founded the company, which was later joined by Kevin Niggli.

Together, they unleashed the potential and power of Indian handlooms by infusing them with modernity and purpose via unusual, even non-conformist weaving and design interventions. It's worth noting that the design team of David Abraham, Rakesh Thakore, and Kevin Niggli will continue to steer the brand's creative path.

"Reliance Retail Venture seeks to leverage its subsidiary Reliance Brands Ltd.'s deep understanding of the affluent Indian customer and their heft across digital, retail operations, marketing, and supply chain platforms to build brand Abraham & Thakore's global appeal in the fashion and lifestyle category," according to a statement from Reliance Retail.

RRVL is a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Ltd. It serves as the holding company for the Group's retail businesses.

For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2021, it had a combined turnover of Rs. 1,57,629 crore. Apart from investments in designer Manish Malhotra, Reliance Retail formed a collaboration with Indian couturier, Anamika Khanna, last year.

ALSO READ: Reliance Retail takes over Future Group stores

Isha Ambani, Director, Reliance Retail Ventures Limited, said, "Abraham & Thakore's innovative use of material and creative take on conventional textile methods have established a highly distinctive design trademark for the brand."

There is a wider awareness of Abraham & Thakore's timeless design as a result of a generational shift in Indian luxury clientele, and we are happy to partner with the brand to bring its distinctive depiction of Indian workmanship to consumers all over the world."

The partnership, according to David Abraham, would increase the brand's awareness and bring together fashion and lifestyle sectors such as home furnishings and leisurewear.

RELATED ARTICLE: Reliance Retail, The fashion and lifestyle division: Achieves its greatest quarterly revenue ever

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*CREDITS: Apparel Reources.

02 March 2022, Mumbai:

On February 21, 2022, Japanese sewing technology pioneer JUKI introduced the AC-172N-1790AN, a computer-controlled buttonholing indexer for buttonholing top center plaits.

The sewing machine, according to JUKI, automatically sews continuous buttonholes, such as those found on men's shirts. The indexer also sews buttonholes at predetermined intervals and is equipped with a stacking device that arranges the completed materials automatically.

"When compared to single buttonholing machines, the AC-172N-1790AN guarantees greater buttonholing position precision as well as increased production," JUKI says. The "operation panel" on the new AC-172N-1790 AN improves operability for establishing sewing patterns such as buttonhole sewing method, number of buttonholes, buttonhole interval, and so on.

ALSO READ: PEGASUS and JUKI enter into a fundamental transaction and cooperative sales agreement

The whole operating panel has been replaced with a color LCD display that allows touch controls, rather than the traditional button-operated kind where settings are made using the up and down buttons and numeric keypad. 

Furthermore, thanks to the hierarchical organization of the functions, it is now able to quickly pick sewing patterns and complete different parameters such as stitch size and density.

The main body of the sewing machine has also been modernized with the installation of the LBH-1790AN digital sewing machine/high-speed lockstitch buttonhole sewing system.

"As a consequence," JUKI writes in a newsletter, "easier maintenance and quieter performance during operation are obtained."

RELATED ARTICLE:JUKI takes a step closer to digitization with the launch of the ShuHaRi and E-learning platforms

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*CREDITS: juki.co.jp & Apparel Resources

26 February 2022, Mumbai:

Traditional Jharkhand weaves are being reimagined as unisex streetwear by clothing designer Johargram, which has commenced distribution in the UK with multi-brand store Loom And Things. Johargram began as a streetwear company in 2020, collaborating with Mehar community weavers in Jharkhand to preserve traditional handloom processes.

The firm intends to continue to grow its network of weavers in order to further assist local artisans and diversify its product offerings.

The company is noted for its androgynous look, loose pieces, and more structured outerwear. Traditional Jharkhand clothing such as the Betra Luga, Biru Gamcha, and Kukhna Shawl are reimagined as modern garments in the brand's new 'Latehar bunkar' line. Through new cooperation with Loom.

ALSO READ: With The Simpsons, Levi's debuts a streetwear-inspired line

And Things, a multi-brand e-commerce site that specializes in transporting Indian designer items to the UK, Johargram's new collection is now available to consumers in the United Kingdom.

Loom And Things said on Facebook that the business's "gender-neutral range of bomber jackets and co-ord sets has brought to the fore crafts that were in the danger of extinction," as it launched the brand on its website.

Although well known for its streetwear, the company has gained a following among politicians. Johargarm's distinctive style Biru Bomber Jacket, woven by Mehar Simdega traditional handloom weavers, was recently worn by Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren at an important occasion in the state, according to the brand's Facebook page. 

RELATED ARTICLE: Capsul, a multi-brand streetwear platform opens a new store in Bengaluru 

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*Figures mentioned in the above article have been sourced from Fashion Network article.

02 March 2022, Mumbai:

Telangana has been a leader in attracting investment in the textile and garment manufacturing industries, and the state is now creating a strategy to attract even more investors.

In a meeting with Textiles Commissioner Shailaja Ramaiyer and Venkat Narasimha Reddy, MD, TSIIC, KT Rama Rao, the state's Handlooms Minister, recommended the preparation of a roadmap for the state's textiles sector's continued growth and strengthening.

It's worth noting that textile exporting behemoths like Kitex Garments, Texport Industries, and a few others have made significant investments in the state.

ALSO READ: Telangana will be home to Texport Industries (India)

The Minister stated that the State Government's programs and strategies for the welfare and development of weavers had yielded positive outcomes over the previous seven years.

He outlined the government's creative programs and initiatives for the welfare of weavers and the growth of the textiles industry.

"The Telangana government has given top attention to the growth of the textiles sector, which employs the most people in the country after agriculture."

The focus is also on giving all amenities to support the sector," Rama Rao said, noting that the country's largest textile park, Kakatiya Textile Park, was established in Telangana as part of this endeavor.

RELATED ARTICLE: Telangana has urged the Union Government to help the state's textile industry

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*CREDITS: invest.telangana & Apparel Resources.

02 March 2022, Mumbai:

Damensch Apparel, the parent company of the luxury men's innerwear brand DaMENSCH, has secured $16.4 million (Rs. 122.5 crores) in a Series B investment round headed by A91 Partners. Matrix Partners India, Saama Capital, Whiteboard Venture Partners, and venture debt firm Alteria have previously invested US $6.7 million (Rs.50 crore) in the company.

Existing investors Saama Capital, Matrix Partners, and Whiteboard Capital participated in the investment round, according to DaMENSCH.

The new funds will be used to assist the company to expand and diversifying its product offering, as well as enhancing its technology. It also intends to employ additional product experts.

ALSO READ: GII raises funds for 1-India Family Mart

The brand plans to triple its revenue in the coming fiscal year by expanding its product line, market, and distribution channels. Anurag Saboo and Gaurav Pushkar, both IIT-Delhi grads who formerly worked at Nykaa and Snapdeal, founded the innerwear firm in 2018. 

"Our items are tackling a large white area in the modern man's wardrobe," Anurag Saboo stated. On the strength of our excellent customer offering, we have achieved an Rs. 100 crore accounting rate of return (ARR) in 2021, making us the quickest D2C clothing brand to reach this milestone."

According to Gaurav, the firm would expand its footprint in the areas of innerwear, loungewear, sleepwear, and everyday wear.

RELATED ARTICLE: Bazar India, Retail Chain in ‘Series-A funding’ raises funds

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*CREDITS: Business Line & Apparel Resources

26 February 2022, Mumbai:

For all the right reasons, the prospective industrial sector in India's North-East states is attracting attention right now.

The region possesses vast natural resources, a cheap and hardworking labor force, well-developed transportation, and cross-border connections with nations in Southeast Asia.

Tripura's Chief Minister, Biplab Kumar Deb, has stepped forth to welcome Bangladeshi garment makers to invest in the state, recognizing the potential of the state's manufacturing industry.

"Bangladesh is a behemoth in the apparel business," Deb said. I'd want to invite business magnates to come and build up manufacturing plants at Sabroom, which is barely 72 kilometers from Chittagong's port.

We're establishing a logistics center, a Special Economic Zone, where Bangladeshi investors would be eligible for incentives.

ALSO READ: Bangladesh the top denim apparel exporter to the USA: Second straight year

" If the made clothing is exported, according to Deb, the factories must pay customs taxes. "However, if a garment is created in Tripura, the Indian government would provide subsidies to the manufacturing units," Deb explained, adding, "Both the Prime Ministers (of India and Bangladesh) have elevated the long-standing friendship between the two countries to new heights."

Whenever I requested the assistance of Bangladesh's Prime Minister for a project, she did not deny it. Tripura received everything she had."

It's worth emphasizing that in Tripura, projects worth several thousand crores are already in the implementation stage, and Bangladesh might gain if it chooses to invest in the state. "Bangladesh is a cement and steel exporter. Infrastructure development projects of Rs. 3,500 crore are now underway in Tripura, including railroads.

Bangladesh can also benefit from it. When the North East's commerce passes via Chittagong port, Bangladesh's economy would benefit as well," Deb said.

RELATED ARTICLE: The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Faruque Hassan: Bangladesh’s garment export to India will continue to grow

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*Figures mentioned in the above article have been sourced from aninews.com & Apparel Resources article.

02 March 2022, Mumbai:

Shima Seiki, a prominent Japanese flat knitting technology behemoth, recorded a year-over-year gain of 41.40 percent in the third quarter of the current fiscal year.

The firm recently announced its financial results for Q3 '21, stating that worldwide sales of its technologies such as flat knitting machines, design systems, gloves, and sock knitting machines generated 22,506 million yen in revenue.

Flat knitting machines accounted for around 65 percent of total sales and generated 14,713 million yen in revenue, up 55 percent year on year; design systems contributed 2,113 million yen (9.38 percent of total value; and up 21.70 percent year on year); and glove and sock knitting machines accounted for 1,931 million yen in sales, up 33.10 percent year on year.

Shima Seiki's other technologies accounted for 3,748 million yen in income, representing a 15.80% yearly increase. Shima Seiki also said that Asia remained the leading market for its products in Q3 '21, bringing in 8,792 million yen in revenue, up 30.10 percent year on year.

ALSO READ: Groz-Beckert to conduct Elements of a sewing machine needle 'Webinar' for leather products

Europe was the company's second-largest market, with imports of 6,390 million yen from Shima Seiki totaling 6,390 million yen in Q3 '21, up 96.70 percent on a year-over-year basis.

Shima Seiki's sales revenues in Japan and the Middle East were 5,214 million yen (up 27.10 percent) and 967 million yen (up 13 percent), respectively, after Asian and European markets. Shima Seiki received roughly 1,142 million yen in sales income from the rest of the globe, up 20.60 percent year over year.

The firm also provided a prediction for FY '21, which runs from March 31, 2022, and stated that it expects to complete the year with sales revenues of 29,500 million yen, up 20.50 percent year over year.

RELATED ARTICLE: The webinar "the relevance of the sewing machine needle when processing clothing" by Groz-Beckert will take place on September 14, 21

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*Figures mentioned in the above article have been sourced from Shima Seiki & Apparel Resources.

01 March 2022, Mumbai:

A fresh influx of money is desperately needed to revitalize MSMEs and return them to regular operation.

Apparel exporters in Tirupur have asked the Finance Minister to establish a new plan similar to ECLGS that would allow MSMEs to take out extra credit of 10% to 20% of their present ceiling, which is urgently needed to get them out of the crisis.

Tirupur Exporters' Association (TEA) President Raja M. Shanmugham and Vice President E. Palanisamy met with Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister of Finance and Minister of Corporate Affairs, in Chennai and handed over a representation requesting that issues to support MSMEs in this time of crisis be addressed, as well as the condition imposed in the Union Budget 2022-2023 while importing accessories be removed.

They also pointed out that exporting firms that were buying 1kg cotton yarn for Rs. 300 15 months ago could now only buy 1⁄2 kg cotton yarn for the same price, putting MSMEs in serious financial difficulty. 

ALSO READ: Ludhiana MSME Association: Apparel Sector seeks tech upgrade from the next Punjab government

It's worth noting that Tirupur Knitwear exports in the current financial year 2021-22 totaled Rs. 26,030 crore in the first ten months (April-January) and are on track to surpass Rs. 32,000 crore. The business is concerned that Russia's recent invasion of Ukraine and the worldwide fallout might disrupt supplies to the EU and UK markets.

Raja M. Shanmugham, TEA also mentioned that in the Union Budget, a Condition No. 9 has been imposed in the amended Notification No. 02/2022-Customs, and as a result of this condition, knitwear exporting units are required to visit the Customs Preventive Unit in Coimbatore for the import of items on each occasion, posing additional practical difficulties as well as wasting a significant amount of time due to various reasons.

Aside from the needless delay, there are other costs associated with getting things done. The TEA has pointed out that this issue has arisen at a time when the government is promoting commercial ease.

The TEA has also requested that the Interest Equalisation Scheme (IES) be extended for another two years with retroactive effect. The IES on Pre- and Post-Shipment Rupee Export Credit, which was set to expire on September 30, 2021, was not renewed.

RELATED ARTICLE Ministry of Textiles: To provide subsidy support to Textile industry incling MSMEs through ATUFS & Powertex India

BGMEA Vice President Miran Ali and Directors Asif Ashraf, Tanvir Ahmed and Abdullah Hil Rakib were also present on the occasion.

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*Credits: Textile Today

25 February 2022, Mumbai:

Upendra Prasad Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles has said that the Indian apparel industry must focus on vertical integration to increase its scale and size and to benefit from the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.

Speaking at the 44th Foundation Day of Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) today , Shri Singh said, “sapparel and garmenting is not very investment centric but it is very important from an employment point of view. Perhaps, there is a need for backward integration and more of you can get into integrated value-chain like spinning and weaving.”

ALSO READ: Upendra Singh, Textile Secretary: Sustainable Solutions growth driver for Indian textile industry

Virtually addressing the Foundation Day, the Textiles Secretary said that along with the PLI scheme, the government is committed to make the Prime Minister Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) scheme a success. Idea is not to just have a world class infrastructure but also a thriving industry there, he said.

Stating that textile has always been among the top priorities of the government, the Secretary said, “There are a lot of big opportunities. The demand continues to be robust and the China plus one sourcing strategy by the west is certainly a great opportunity for us.”

Shri Singh said that it all depended on how good, efficient and integrated the Indian apparel industry is and how it increases its size and scale. “AEPC has a big role to play. Let us not get into just the macro figure, let us get into the micro level.

Let us go product by product and country by country,” he added. “We should be in a position to breach $20 billion apparel exports by next fiscal or the year after that,” Shri Singh said, adding that the country’s textile exports can increase from the current $40 billion to $100 billion in the next five years.

AEPC Chairman, Shri Narendra Goenka shared the journey of the AEPC since its establishment in 1978 from a quota monitoring and export promotion body to the Council that today offers services ranging from skilling, assessment, market intelligence, advocacy, capacity building programs on financial risks, compliance management, IPR issues, AI and technology driven production innovations, lean and six sigma, circularity, sustainability, among others.

Goenka listed down the key priorities for the apparel sector namely leverage policy support for improving scales, product diversification, leverage the upcoming FTAs, create new USPs based on sustainability and responsible business, use technology and AI for leaner supply chain, and better branding.

AEPC Vice Chairman Shri Sudhir Sekhri spoke about the initiatives taken by AEPC for the holistic growth of the apparel sector. AEPC is the official body of apparel exporters in India, under the aegis of Ministry of Textiles, which provides invaluable assistance to Indian exporters as well as importers/ international buyers.

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*Figures mentioned in the above article have been sourced from PIB article.